

(The Washington Post)

But the biggest differences between the two groups was over a highly politicized issue, rather than one that was primarily factual. The survey asked whether the “Buy American” provision of the stimulus — which required the bridges and roads built under the law to use U.S.-made steel and supplies — would have “a significant positive impact on US manufacturing employment.” Just 10 percent of economists surveyed agreed with the statement, as compared to 75 percent of the general public. Such overwhelming public support helps explain why both Republicans and Democrats have pushed for special breaks for manufacturing even when they don’t seem like the best economic policy.

(h/t Real Time Economics)