Fifty-six percent (56%) of Americans believe that most members of Congress are willing to sell their vote for either cash or a campaign contribution. That view is held by 60% of Republicans, 49% of Democrats, and 59% of those not affiliated with either major party. From a generational perspective, those over 65 are a bit more trusting than younger adults, but even 41% of the nation’s senior citizens believe most Congressman are willing to sell their vote.

The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that just 16% believe most Congressional votes are not for sale. A recent Rasmussen Reports survey found that 49% of voters would consider voting for a third-party Congressional candidate. An ongoing tracking study has found that the number of people identifying with either the Republican Party or the Democratic Party is declining.

Twenty-three percent (23%) of Americans believe a campaign contribution of $10,000 or less is needed to influence a Congressman or a Governor. Another 23% say it would take a $50,000 contribution. Twenty-one percent (21%) say $100,000 or more while 33% are not sure.

Perhaps because it’s not much of a surprise, just 45% of Americans are following news about the indictment of Congressman William Jefferson somewhat or very closely. Fifty-two percent (52%) are not.

Not surprisingly, 66% of Americans continue to favor term limits for Members of Congress. Just 19% are opposed. This reform remains popular among all demographic groups except elected officials and their staff.

By a narrow 39% to 34% margin, Americans believe that used-car salesmen are more trustworthy than Members of Congress. Democrats, by a 36% to 31% margin, say Members of Congress are more trustworthy. Republicans, by a 44% to 36% margin, place more faith in used-car salesman. As for those not affiliated with either major party, 42% say used-car salesmen are more trustworthy while 30% would rather trust a Member of Congress.

Other surveys have shown that 58% of voters believe that it would be good for the United States to have a truly competitive Third Party. Twenty-seven percent (27%) say they would be at least somewhat likely to vote for Michael Bloomberg if he runs for President as an independent candidate.

Public disenchantment with politicians is nothing new, but the recent debate over immigration showed an unusually wide gap between the views of the voters and the views on Capitol Hill.

Rasmussen Reports provides regular updates on public attitudes on current events and other topics. The latest updates can be found on the Rasmussen Reports home page.

Rasmussen Reports also regularly tracks attitudes about the War on Terror and Congress. The President’s Job Approval is updated daily and the Generic Congressional Ballot is updated monthly.

Election 2008 coverage includes a weekly update of the Democratic and Republican Presidential nominating contests and continuous updates on general election match-ups, favorability ratings, and ideological perceptions for all Democratic and Republican candidates. Rasmussen Reports also provides continuously updated ratings for Members of Congress, Other Political Figures, and Journalists.

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