Poll: Obama’s Disapproval Numbers Rising, But Approval Still Strong
A new Quinnipiac poll finds that President Obama’s approval rating remains stable at 57%, but his disapproval rating has shot up from 30% a month ago to 37% now, as more undecided voters shift into the disapproval category. From the pollster’s analysis: “He still has a ways to go before his coalition becomes politically unstable, but there are some groups and issues – especially the economy – where he needs to make sure this trend does not continue.”
Obama’s Day Ahead
President Obama will have a closed meeting with business leaders to discuss innovation and job creation, at 1:45 p.m. ET. At 2:20 p.m. ET, he will deliver public remarks about innovation and jobs. At 4:30 p.m. ET, he will depart from Fort McNair en route to Camp David.
NYT: Sotomayor’s Recusals Suggest Impartiality
The New York Times reports that Sonia Sotomayor’s record of recusing herself from cases — 141 times since becoming a judge in 1992 — suggests a record of impartiality. Her listed reasons for doing so included being friends with a lawyer, or the involvement of a former law clerk of hers, or she had previously represented a party when she was in private practice. In only one case did she claim personal knowledge regarding the claims themselves.
Poll: Only One In Eight Think Recovery Has Started
A new CNN poll has mixed news about Americans’ collective outlook on the economy. Almost half think the economy has stabilized, but only one in eight believe that a recovery has started, and the remaining four in ten say things are still getting worse.
Coleman Reportedly Sounding Out 2010 Gubernatorial Race
Former Sen. Norm Coleman (R-MN) is reportedly already looking to the future, and is widely seen as a frontrunner for the 2010 Minnesota gubernatorial race. “My understanding is that he is actively exploring with the Republican faithful what his prospects are,” said Tom Horner, a public relations executive who previously advised Coleman’s 1998 gubernatorial campaign, which was lost to Reform Party candidate and former pro-wrestler Jesse “The Body” Ventura.
Maloney Challenging Gillibrand In 2010 New York Senate Dem Primary
Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-NY) is officially running in the 2010 Democratic primary against appointed Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, with a strategist saying in a statement that Maloney believes the state needs a “strong, experienced and independent leader.” Maloney has previously received a phone call from Vice President Biden asking her not to run against Gillibrand, and the Obama White House was able to successfully discourage other potential challengers. But Maloney is in.
LAT: White House’s Rural Listening Tour Going To Swing Districts
The Los Angeles Times points out that the upcoming “listening tour” of rural areas by Obama Administration officials, seems to be well aimed at swing districts that were carried by John McCain but are represented in the House by Democrats. Examples include the seats of Rep. Kathy Dahlkemper (D-PA), Rep. Tom Perriello (D-VA) and Rep. Zack Space (D-OH)
