Nearly all respondents to a congressional candidate survey said public transit is an important part of a balanced transportation system and that current needs are not being met, according to the Center for Transportation Excellence (CTE). Ninety-percent of respondents indicated that states and localities should increase investments in public transportation as they receive federal transportation funding. The survey also indicated that the top benefit of transit was reduced traffic (87%), followed by decreased pollution (81%), reduced energy consumption (81%), economic development (81%) and offering mobility (80%). "Across the board, the candidates registered strong support for public transit. They clearly recognize the vital role transit plays...", said CTE Program Manager, Stephanie Vance. There were 143 respondents to the survey, 91 Democrats and 52 Republicans. Survey results are available at www.zoomerang.com/reports/public_report.zgi?ID=L223G24L6AWF