Monmouth University plans closure of polling institute by July 2025

Monmouth University has announced the closure of its Polling Institute, effective July 1, 2025, after 20 years of providing national and state survey data. President Patrick F. Leahy cited a year-long review indicating that the institute's public polling mission no longer aligns with the university's strategic goals, alongside the increasing difficulties and costs of operating polling organizations. The Polling Institute was recognized for its accuracy and transparency, often ranked among the top polling institutions by FiveThirtyEight. This decision follows a broader trend in the polling industry, highlighted by the recent shutdown of FiveThirtyEight due to budget cuts at its parent companies. The closure raises concerns about the future of public polling, especially with critical elections approaching in New Jersey. Resources from the Polling Institute will be redirected to initiatives that have a more direct impact on student outcomes.