Question about polling....since I've never been polled in my life.

[Avalux]

When a pollster calls either a landline or a cell phone, I'm assuming it's an 800 number? And how is the number identified (named)? I'm just wondering how it works, since I would probably not answer an unidentified 800 number. And if you don't answer, do they leave a message so you can call back?

Please don't make fun of me, I really have no clue!

[Windy]

1. It is usually an 800/866 or out of state area code number

I've only picked up one poll call this summer and it was on accident. I don't pick up my phone unless I know who it is. Makes me wonder who is polled. Usually only seniors and people that can't afford caller id pick up in my opinion. If thats the case, the polls are good news for obama, again, in my opinion.

[Avalux]

2. Thanks. Yes good news if that's the case...

but then how can polls be truly representative of the US population? It just seems like voodoo to me.

[montanacowboy]

3. I got polled from a 202 area code

Washington DC