President Joe Biden’s popularity has improved substantially from its low point this summer, but concerns remain about his handling of the economy, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.
Support for Biden rebounded from a low of 36% in July to 45%, fueled in large part by a rebound in support from Democrats just two months before the November midterm elections. During a few bleak summer months, when gas prices peaked and lawmakers seemed deadlocked, Democrats faced the prospect of heavy losses against Republicans.
His outlook looks brighter after a series of legislative successes that have left more Americans ready to judge the president on their preferred terms: “Don’t compare me to the Almighty. Compare me with the alternative.”
The president’s approval rating remains underwater, with 53% of American adults disapproving, and the economy remains a weakness for Biden. Just 38% approve of his economic leadership as the country grapples with stubbornly high inflation and Republicans try to put family finances at the center of the next vote.
Still, the poll suggests that Biden and his fellow Democrats are gaining momentum just as building voter enthusiasm and turnout takes precedence.
Average gas prices have fallen 26% since June to $3.71 a gallon, taking some pressure off household budgets, even if inflation remains high. Congress also passed a pair of landmark bills last month that could reshape the economy and cut carbon emissions.
Republicans have also faced resistance since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade and his protections to abortion. And Biden is openly portraying former President Donald Trump as a fundamental threat to democracy, an accusation that gained resonance after an FBI search of Trump’s home in Florida turned up classified documents belonging to the US government.
Connect with the Voice of America! Subscribe to our channel Youtube and turn on notifications, or follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Add Comment