Polling reveals most Americans support abortion access in almost every circumstance, even when they identify as "pro-life." Looking beneath surface-level survey questions shows that when people are asked about specific situations rather than abstract labels, 80% believe abortion should be legal, and even self-described pro-life voters support legal abortion in most medical circumstances or cases of criminal acts.

In this enlightening conversation with Lauren Goldstein from Change Research, Farrah takes aim at how political polling often misses the deeper values that drive voter opinion. Their discussion reveals how understanding "symbolic politics" — the emotional frameworks and values that shape political identity — can transform political communication and uncover surprising consensus on seemingly divisive issues.

Want to be a part of the future of Cross Tabs Podcast? Here are a few simple ways to get involved:

• Subscribe, rate, and review Cross Tabs Podcast on your favorite podcast app
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Resources

Lauren's essay on her substack, Mind the Gap: ‘Actually, Abortion Isn’t Polarizing’

Change Research

‘Where Do Americans Stand on Abortion?’

The American Voter

Symbolic politics theory research

Our Guest

Lauren Goldstein is the lead advocacy pollster for Change Research and holds a PhD from UCLA with ten years of experience as a public opinion researcher and social scientist. She has done extensive research and polling on issues related to racial justice (and injustice), criminal legal reform and police divestment, immigration, and reproductive rights.

Your Host

Farrah Bostic is the founder of The Difference Engine, a strategic research and innovation consultancy. Drawing on her extensive background in research and strategy, she examines how power dynamics and data patterns shape both democratic institutions and market environments, bringing a sharp analytical perspective to the intersection of politics, data, and business.

Her incisive questioning style and ability to connect political movements with business implications makes Cross Tabs essential listening for political analysts, business leaders, and engaged citizens seeking to understand the forces shaping our political and economic landscapes.

Learn more about Farrah’s experience helping B2B and B2C companies across various industries turn audience insights into effective strategies at thedifferenceengine.co, and be sure to connect with her on