articleThe Brief Over 50% of Americans think homelessness and poverty is a growing problem nationwide. A new poll finds that most Americans think personal choices are a major factor of poverty and homelessness. Most Republicans, 77%, say personal choices are a "major factor" in why people remain in poverty, compared with 56% of independents and 49% of Democrats. Moreover, 45% of respondents believe a lack of government support is a major factor in why people are homeless. Americans are also more likely to believe federal and state governments play a key role in fighting homelessness and poverty, compared with charities or wealthy individuals.