Flemington, NJ, December 15, 2008 -- A new national study among 300 Americans revealed that the majority (86%) reported that Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich should step down from office immediately. However, only 33% of respondents believe that Blagojevich will step down on his own will.

The study was conducted by HCD Research during December 12-13 to obtain Americans' perceptions of a news segment outlining the allegations or corruption and potential bribery charges against Governor Blagojevich.

Although there are no allegations of wrong-doing against President-elect Barack Obama himself, 41% of Americans feel that Obama's aides might have had conversations and contact with Blagojevich and his office.

Among the Findings:

"Do you feel that Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich should step down from office?"

                         
"Do you feel that Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich will step down from office?"

                         
"Do you think President-elect Barack Obama or any of his aides had conversations with Governor Blagojevich or his office?"

While viewing the video, participants indicated their levels of believability by moving their mouse from left to right on a continuum. The responses were recorded in quarter-second intervals and reported in the form of curves. The participants were also post-viewing questions.

The Media Curves web site provides the media and general public with a venue to view Americans' perceptions of popular and controversial media events and advertisements.

Editors/Reporters: For more information on the study, or to speak with Glenn Kessler, president and CEO, HCD Research, please contact Vince McGourty, HCD Research, at (908) 483-9121 or (vince.mcgourty@hcdi.net).