Blogs Focus on Obama Critics
Online, three storylines dominated a week spent in large part in assessing the president’s standing with the American public.
Most Mexicans See Better Life in U.S.
A survey of Mexico finds most dissatisfied with the direction of their country. Overwhelming numbers describe the economy, crime, drugs and corruption as very big problems. Many believe there is a better life in the U.S., would migrate if they had the chance, and would do so without authorization.
Little Evidence of Obama Overexposure
The number of Americans hearing “too much” about the president has not increased during his push for health care.
Public Support for Afghanistan War Wanes
While an overwhelming number of Americans say the Taliban regaining control of Afghanistan would represent a major threat to the U.S., just half support keeping troops in that country. Pluralities of Democrats, women and those with a high school education or less favor bringing troops home as soon as possible.
Race Captures Media Coverage
From early February through mid-September, Obama’s race was a significant factor in only 1% of the stories in which he was a lead newsmaker. Last week, his race was a significant element in fully 25% of the stories in which he was the prominent figure.
Obama Addresses More Popular U.N.
Opinion of the United Nations has grown more positive since 2007 in 12 of the 25 nations surveyed by the Pew Global Attitudes Project. And in no country have favorable ratings improved as much as in the United States.
Obama’s Image: Less Glittering But Still Positive
While ratings of Obama’s personal traits have fallen since post-inauguration highs, impressions of the president remain overwhelmingly positive. Post speech, the public is narrowly split over health care proposals.
Take this Job and Love It
The self-employed are far more satisfied with their jobs and more likely to work because they want to and not for a paycheck. But if you decide to strike out on your own, don’t count on financial security.
Giant Rat, GOP Outburst Online
The blogosphere’s attention was evenly split between the discovery of a new giant rat species and Rep. Joe Wilson.
Health Care Debate Seen as “Rude and Disrespectful”
Health care reform has been the dominant news story since late July, but it now has a 29-point advantage over the second most closely followed story. But most Americans say the tone of the debate has been negative.
