Public opinion polls have long shaped the landscape of American elections, wielding the power to inform, influence, and even distort voter perceptions. The Smithsonian unpacks the complex history of polling, from its early days as a democratic tool to its evolution into a force capable of swaying outcomes. This captivating article reveals how polls reflect the pulse of a nation while highlighting the challenges and controversies they pose in shaping political narratives.

Read the full article at Smithsonian Magazine.