Some see recession lasting two more years

04.05.09
By Nicholas Storie

Opinion polls across the country conducted by a number of organizations are mixed, leaving consumers to wonder when the economy will really turn around.

Without a straightforward answer from politicians - who many blame for the current status of the economy - some Americans believe the recession could linger two years or more.

According to a recent FOX News poll, 32 percent of respondents expect the recession to last two to three years, with 20 percent forecasting a recession until 2013.

Does this make you mad or fearful?

Respondents to the FOX News poll say it does. More people felt angry because of the current economic situation in March than in February.

With credit card companies raising interest rates, cutting credit limits and sometimes closing accounts with limited notice to help cover their own portfolio losses, it is unsurprising that consumers are expressing outrage.

However, another 35 percent of FOX News respondents say that the recession makes them feel fear instead of anger. This number is down from February.

"Americans are shifting from a fear of what's to come, to anger at those who they blame for getting the country into this mess," says Opinion Dynamics vice president Chris Anderson. "And the clearest targets for this anger are executives at companies taking taxpayer bailouts."

While assigning the blame helps some to relieve stress, others are just anxious to see solutions put in place and witness signs of economic improvement.

Over half of those polled by FOX News think President Obama and his team are up for the job, but a number of consumers think the government is "in over its head."

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