Would Obama lose if he had Lower Favorability?

[milhouse24]

Many recent polls and models show that Romney should win in 2012 based on economic indicators. 

Is the primary reason Obama is still ahead in polls because of his own high Favorability ratings?  Are citizens unwilling to assign him blame for any economic troubles they are facing?  Perhaps citizens like his personality and are hesitant to blame the first black president for any failures due to racial guilt. 

If Obama had lower favorability ratings, would he he be almost guaranteed to lose the 2012 election?

[Vosem]

If Obama had lower favorability ratings, would he he be almost guaranteed to lose the 2012 election?

Yes. But if Obama had lower approval ratings or if the economy was doing worse (pick any economic indicator) he would also be losing -- favorability is by no means a unique factor.

[NHI]

He may have good favorability numbers, but I don't think it will save his reelection bid. The economy is driving the election, not whether or Barack Obama is a nice guy.

[Lincoln Republican]

The short answer is yes.

But with the favorabilities Obama has now he could well lose the election.