CBS News and The New York Times released a new poll today that paints a darkening picture for President Obama’s re-election chances. There are still three and a half months until the election, an eternity in politics and world affairs during which anything can–and probably will—happen. We will see polls all over the place between now and then. But today’s poll contains ominous signs for Obama, particularly since this is the period during which many voters set their views in concrete.
Among the poll’s more significant findings:
Romney leads Obama by one point: “Forty-seven percent of registered voters nationwide who lean towards a candidate back Romney, while 46 percent support the president. Four percent are undecided.”
The economy dominates, and Romney has a decisive edge: “Fifty-four percent of registered voters cite the economy and jobs as “extremely” important in their presidential vote, more than any other issue. Here Romney has the edge: 49 percent of registered voters say he would do a better job handling the economy and jobs, while 41 percent cite Mr. Obama.”
Romney leads on the definitive issues of the race: “Romney is also seen as better on the federal budget deficit (50 percent to 36 percent), taxes (47 percent to 42 percent) and illegal immigration (46 percent to 38 percent). Mr. Obama as seen as better on foreign policy (47 percent to 40 percent) and social issues (48 percent to 37 percent).”
Mr. Hope n’ Change hasn’t delivered either: “Only 28 percent believe Mr. Obama has fulfilled his promise to deliver positive change for the country. Fifty-eight percent say he has not delivered change, while seven percent say he has delivered change that has been bad for the country.”
His job approval and approval on his handling of the economy stink: “Mr. Obama’s overall approval rating stands at 44 percent, with 46 percent disapproving. His approval rating on the economy is just 39 percent – 55 percent disapprove – and his approval rating on foreign policy is 41 percent. His approval rating on the economy has dropped five points since April.”
The fact that this poll sampled registered voters, instead of likely ones, means that Romney’s advantage is even stronger in reality. No wonder Team Obama is bashing Bain and demanding tax returns from 1972. Panic, thy name is the Chicago Headquarters of the Obama re-election effort.