Serafin Power Poll: Slow the Spread of COVID-19 with Mask Fines

From quarantine orders, mask mandates and shuttered offices, it’s undeniable that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed almost every aspect of our daily lives. With no end to the pandemic in sight, we asked Serafin Power Poll members to consider the city’s ongoing response to the crisis. Read the results and be sure to check out member’s comments below.

On the heels of Governor JB Pritzker’s announcement that businesses, schools and childcare centers in Illinois could face hefty fines for refusing to follow state mask mandates, just over 41% of respondents said fining those who refuse to wear masks is the best way to help slow the spread of the coronavirus. 

22% said closing bars and restaurants was the best way to help bring the coronavirus under control with just slightly fewer, 20%, saying a return to shelter-in-place was the best path forward. 16% of our poll respondents said we won’t slow the spread so we should reopen the economy. 

August is typically a popular month for summer vacations, and it doesn’t seem like Power Poll members think Chicago’s Emergency Travel order will have people rethinking their plans. An overwhelming majority—89%—of respondents said people would not follow Chicago’s Emergency Travel Order, which requires individuals returning from states where COVID is surging to quarantine for 14 days. Only 11% said they thought people would follow the order. 

According to our poll, it appears there’s no hurry to return to office life. When asked how many employees at their businesses were now working on site, a clear majority—62%—said less than a quarter of the workforce. Only 18% said more than three quarters of employees at their businesses were back on-site.  

As the 2020 campaign heads into the homestretch, some are expressing doubt about an expanded vote by mail process. But our respondents aren’t concerned: more than 65% say they trust the vote by mail process in the November election, with 34% saying they don’t. 

Thanks to all who participated and those who added to the discussion by adding comments below!

^{A total of 890 Serafin Power Poll members were surveyed. The participation rate is 12.36%. The Power Poll is not a scientific poll. It is, however, a fascinating and non-partisan glimpse into the attitudes and opinions of the decision-makers and thought leaders in the Chicago region.}