When you can’t get a majority of the population to agree that a government subsidy of their new kitchen upgrade is a good idea – when, in fact, you get just under half of the population saying that it’s a bad idea – well, perhaps we’re not quite as doomed as some might think.

Thirty-nine percent (39%) of Americans favor a “cash for clunkers”-like government program to give cash rebates to people who buy new, energy-efficient appliances, but 49% think it’s a bad idea, according to a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey.

Twelve percent (12%) aren’t sure what they think of the $300-million plan that will provide cash rebates up to $200 to Americans who buy energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and the like. Unlike the just-concluded “cash for clunkers” plan to encourage purchase of newer, more energy-efficient cars, no trade-ins are required.

First off, it’s not a $300-million plan. It’s a “$300-million, plus whatever else we pump into the program when it runs dry, which would probably be… by lunchtime” plan.  Second, given the differences in this program with Cash-For-Clunkers (no need for trade-ins, more eligible participants, much easier to scam the government) the 49% against is astounding.  Given that it’s as close to being free money as you can get without just cutting people a check, I would have guessed it’d be 65/35 the other way.

Apparently, we can be taught.

Moe Lane

Crossposted to Moe Lane.