(The Center Square) – Money in the pockets of voters, no matter how phrased, remains the prevailing issue of importance for North Carolina voters, a poll released Thursday confirms.

Inflation and rising prices, the phrasing used by the Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service at Catawba College, was chosen by 78% as “very important” among issues. The economy and jobs was second at 77%, giving more weight to the decades-old quote – "It's the economy, stupid" – from political strategist James Carville for former President Bill Clinton’s White House bid in 1992.

Healthcare was third at 72%, followed by Social Security and Medicare (69%), taxes and federal spending (65%), protecting democracy (64%), voting rights (63%), division in the country (58%), election security (55%) and crime (54%).

The poll of Catawba College’s Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service, done in conjunction with YouGov, was conducted Sept. 4-15, weighting 1,000 adults online. There is a +/- 3.68% margin of error.

Among other topics in the poll, political violence, threats and harassment were overwhelmingly condemned; on perception about the American political climate, 45% said there is low unity and a perceived deep divide; and 47% said after the November election they expected that climate to continue.

“This survey points to both a source of hope and a source of concern,” said Dr. Michael Bitzer, director of the Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service and professor of politics and history. “North Carolinians recognize the risks posed by a deeply divided political environment, but they also share a clear expectation that elections must be conducted without threats, intimidation, or violence. The challenge for candidates, party leaders, and citizens alike is to make those common principles visible in how they speak, campaign, and respond to election results.”

The Center for North Carolina Politics & Public Service at Catawba College bills itself as “dedicated to enriching civic dialogue, deepening understanding, and fostering engagement through non-partisan initiatives. The Center promotes the ideals of public service, civic character and engagement, and informed citizenship across the state.”