Most voters nationwide expect a recession in 2013 regardless of whether a deal is reached to avoid the so-called “fiscal cliff.” If a deal is reached and the December 31 fiscal cliff of big tax hikes and automatic across-the-board spending cuts is avoided, 54% of voters believe a recession is likely next year.

If no deal is reached, a new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that 70% think a recession is likely.

These figures include 26% who believe a recession is Very Likely with a deal and 42% who believe it is Very Likely without one.