The Daily Background

Okay, so on Friday, Newsweek published the results of its latest poll which said that Obama enjoyed 51% support as compared to McCain’s 36%. The Illinois’ senator’s lead was considered too implausibly large by most pundits however, and the poll was dismissed as an outlier.

Well, now the Lost Angeles Times/Bloomberg has a new poll out with similar numbers: Obama at 49% and McCain at 37% (McCain’s support drops to 33% with Barr and Nader added to the choices; Obama’s level of support stays about the same).

That’s certainly the headline, but here are two other overlooked bits of data from the poll: first, Bush has slipped to just 23% approval, confirming earlier AP-Ipsos and Gallup polling and cementing his place as the most unpopular president as measured by polling in American history– even less popular than Nixon when he left office.

Second, the LAT/Bloomberg asked respondents whether they were “enthusiastic” about the two presidential campaigns.

45% were “enthusiastic” about John McCain’s candidacy.

81% of Americans were “enthusiastic” about Barack Obama’s candidacy.

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