According to new Gallup Poll the country is close to evenly split between optimists and pessimists on the direction of the economy. (QUESTION: Right now, do you think that economic conditions in the country as a whole are getting better or getting worse? )
The pessimists now outnumber the optimists (47% to 44%). In January optimists outnumbered pessimists.
In addition, only a third of Americans think the economy is good or excellent.
The worst numbers are in the midwest.
CLICK HERE FOR FULL REPORTI still think that these are the numbers more than any that will drive the election. Bush needs the good/excellent and the 'Getting better" numbers closer to 50%. I still dont think terrorism or gay marraige will trump these issues in the swing states.