Mission:
To provide information about the issues, attitudes, and trends shaping America and the world by conducting public opinion polling and social science research, reporting news and analyzing news coverage, and holding forums and briefings.

Background:
In 2004, the Pew Charitable Trusts established the Pew Research Center to house all the major information projects it supports. The center collects and disseminates information to policy makers, journalists, academics, and advocates across the political spectrum. Its seven projects, including the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press, the Project for Excellence in Journalism, the Pew Global Attitudes Project, and Social & Demographic Trends work to inform the public about key issues and trends.

Outstanding Web Features:
The Election 2008 area of the Pew Center site features a variety of data and analysis, including a list of recent publications and special reports sorted by topic. An interactive map enables visitors to learn more about how other countries perceive the U.S. election. The center also provides 2008 campaign data and analysis via RSS feed, and makes mobile updates available via a Fast Election Facts widget, which supplies information to an iGoogle page. In addition, the center provides access to a frequently updated list of recent reports and statistical findings; lists of its currently popular publications as well as those added in the past thirty days; and the Daily Number, a statistic, updated every weekday and typically drawn from Pew project findings, that highlights an important trend.