A new ABC News/Washington Post poll shows divided support on three of the most prominent achievements — and three of the most salient planks for his nascent re-election campaign — from President Barack Obama’s first term.
The poll asked respondents for their opinion of the U.S. auto industry bailout, stronger regulation of the nation’s financial institutions and the economic stimulus program.
While all three issues drew comparable levels of support, the loans provided to the auto industry are the most popular, with 50 percent viewing them favorably compared to 43 percent who view the bailout unfavorably. With regard to increased regulation of the financial industry, 49 percent have a favorable view while 44 percent have a negative view. The economic stimulus — which Republicans have maligned as an unmitigated failure — is clearly the most polarizing, with 47 percent viewing it favorably and 48 percent unfavorably.
