BUSH RALLY, BUT NO FUNDAMENTAL CHANGE IN CONCERNS ABOUT IRAQ
The public holds more positive opinions of President Bush and the war in Iraq in response to the capture of Saddam Hussein. The president's job approval gain -- from 50% in November to 57% currently -- is on par with rallies experienced by Ronald Reagan following the invasion of Grenada and Bill Clinton after the Oklahoma City bombing.
But the latest Pew Research Center survey, conducted Dec. 15-17, finds no fundamental shift in attitudes about Iraq. While support for the war has risen, public concern over American casualties also has increased. More Americans have a positive view of the situation in Iraq, but just 28% say things are going very well.
Bush's job approval boost is mirrored in his improved reelection prospects. He now holds a 12-point lead in a test with an unnamed Democrat (49%-37%); two months ago, the race was even. Moreover, there has been a rise in satisfaction with national conditions -- to 44% from 38% in October.
The new Pew Research Center survey also finds Americans are supportive of the recently enacted prescription drug benefit, though most feel it will not go far enough in addressing seniors' drug costs. The public also is divided over the impact of NAFTA -- about as many say it has been a bad thing for the country as say it has been good.
After Hussein's Capture· Bush Rally, But No Fundamental Change in Concerns About Iraq <http://people-press.org/reports/display.php3?ReportID=199>View complete report
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