Bay Staters Wary Of Returning To Everyday Public Activities: Poll

A new poll of Massachusetts residents shows overwhelming support for Gov. Charlie Baker's handling of the coronavirus crisis and great apprehension about returning to everyday activities even when the state's restrictions are lifted.

The poll, made up of responses from 500 residents, was released Tuesday morning by The Boston Globe, Suffolk University and WGBH.

Eighty-four percent of respondents said they overall approve of how Baker has responded to the pandemic, with only 10 percent disapproving. Eighty-five percent supported Baker extending the stay-at-home advisory and nonessential business closure to May 18.

Responders seemed to agree with Baker that the road to normalcy will be a long one, even after the restrictions expire.

Well over half the respondents said they would not feel comfortable eating out, attending a sporting event, going to the movies, theater or concerts or going to the gym, while nearly 80 percent said they wouldn't feel comfortable riding public transportation.

More than half said they would be comfortable going back to the office or school and shopping, and more than two-thirds said they'd be comfortable seeing friends and family.

People got more and more comfortable when asked to consider how they would feel when effective treatment becomes available and a vaccine becomes available.

Only a quarter of respondents approved of the job President Trump was doing, while two-thirds disapproved.

You can see the full poll results here.

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