Hercon Poll Finds Political Discontent, Economic Crisis and Strong Demand for Elections in Venezuela

Three-quarters of Venezuelans surveyed by Hercon believe the country is moving in the wrong direction, while a large majority say they would vote if presidential elections were held soon.

The national poll, conducted from Aug. 1 to Aug. 28 among 1,200 adults registered with the National Electoral Council, found that 75% saw the country on the wrong path. Only 12.1% said it was moving in the right direction.

Economic pressure dominates the answers. Some 72.6% said their household's situation had become worse or much worse over the past year, compared with 13.9% who said it had improved. The economy and inflation ranked as the main direct problem for 60.1% of households, followed by food costs at 30.2%. Employment registered 6.3%.

The responses also point to difficulty meeting basic needs. While 55.1% said they eat three meals a day, 22.3% reported eating two and 20.1% said they eat only one. Across the country, the cost of living and inflation ranked as the most serious problem at 33%, followed by insufficient wages and income at 16.5%. Public services reached 14%, while the political situation and lack of agreements accounted for 12.3%.

Despite distrust in institutions, 70.2% said they were certain they would vote if the election took place the following Sunday. Another 8.1% said they probably would, producing an estimated participation intention of 78.3%. The poll put nonparticipation at 11.4%, with 6.8% undecided.

The demand for an electoral route also led priorities for negotiations between opposition and government representatives. A total of 70.2% said the talks should center on setting a presidential election date, rising to 80% when respondents were asked whether elections should be the priority. Only 16.5% disagreed. María Corina Machado led the political figures tested, with 73% saying her leadership inspired the most confidence to guide the country, compared with 13.3% for Delcy Rodríguez.