Scott Rasmussen Departs for New Venture

In the US, Republican pollster Scott Rasmussen has left the company bearing his name, following 'disagreements' over its business strategy. He has since set up a new venture called Rasmussen Media Group, to develop and invest in digital media opportunities.

Rasmussen (pictured) established American polling and media company 'The Rasmussen Reports' in 2003 to collect, publish and distribute public opinion polling information and track the political world. The firm conducts nightly national tracking polls, and provides commentary and political analysis through a daily e-mail newsletter. Last year, Rasmussen signed up to host a nationally syndicated TV show called 'What America Thinks', drawing on the company's data on the latest political, economic, business and lifestyle issues.

In an official statement, The Rasmussen Reports emphasized that Rasmussen's polling methodologies and protocols will continue to guide and inform the company's public opinion survey techniques. Until a replacement is named, COO Mike Boniello will assume a broader leadership role.

Earlier in his career, Rasmussen co-founded sports network ESPN, started a polling company called GrassRoots Research in 1995, and after re-branding it as Rasmussen Research, sold it to TownPagesNet.com in 1999.

His new firm's mission is to 'refine, enlarge, and empower the voice of mainstream America'. Commenting on his decision to step down from his previous role, Rasmussen said: 'Moving from one venture to another is always a mix of excitement and sadness. We have a tremendous staff at Rasmussen Reports and I will miss them daily.'

Web sites: www.rasmussenreports.com and www.rasmussenmediagroup.com .