Gallup: Economic Optimism Slips

[California Dreamer]

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 REPORT


I 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.

[angus]

I think you're exactly right.  If folks are fat and happy, Bush wins, if they're not, Kerry wins.  I'm glad to see that that Bush is struggling early.  Gives him a chance to retool.  I'd like to see it get just a bit gloomier for Bush before picking up.  Put some fear into the bastards.

[© tweed]

It's gone down 20% in 2 months?  why?

[angus]

Democratic primaries on everybody's tube day-in day-out reminding us of how we're a bunch of greedy sellouts gambling with our children's future, reminding us of how Clinton presided over boom times and Bush presided over a bust, reminding us of how we're willing to spend millions on Iraqi infrastructure while NYC is still experiencing blackouts, etc.  

Now the game begins in earnest.