According to a recent survey for the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), of 2000 likely voters in the 2012 elections, 73 percent of owner and renter respondents believe the government should provide tax incentives to encourage home ownership.  Over seven of ten voters oppose eliminating the mortgage interest deduction (MID), and 63 percent oppose lowering it.  A majority oppose discarding the deduction for interest on home equity loans.  Fifty-seven percent said they would not vote for a candidate who favors discontinuing the MID, and 65 percent of respondents opposed eliminating the MID even if it would help reduce the federal budget.