A survey of 472 Maine residents conducted last week showed 71 percent cited either the economy or unemployment as the primary issue facing the state today, according to the Critical Insights on Maine Tracking Survey.

The survey, which has a 3.8 percentage point margin of error, shows that the economy has catapulted to the forefront of concerns, with 59 percent of respondents saying its the primary issue facing the state. That was followed by unemployment at 12 percent.

Just a year ago, taxes took the top spot with 18 percent, followed by unemployment at 17 percent and the economy at 16 percent. Two years ago, taxes were cited by 34 percent of respondents as the top concern.

"This focus on economic well-being has superseded taxes, which have been a major concern," said MaryEllen FitzGerald, president of Critical Insights.