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Dip in Bush's ratings

By Sridhar Krishnaswami

Washington Nov. 25. A new poll shows that 48 per cent of the American people are somewhat unlikely or very unlikely to re-elect the President, George W Bush; it also shows that only 47 per cent were somewhat likely or very likely to vote for him.

The poll by Time Magazine and CNN shows the overall approval rating of Mr. Bush standing at 52 per cent, or substantially down from the peak of 89 per cent in October 2001, just after the terrorist attacks on America.

His disapproval rating has reached a new high of 43 per cent, according to the latest survey.

The steady drop should come as a worrying phenomenon to the White House where aides routinely argue that Mr. Bush is not concerned with the day-to-day standing in the polls — rather he is very much focussed on policy.

Two of the hottest issues in the Presidential elections of 2004 are expected to be the economy and Iraq. Of some cheer for Mr. Bush's managers is the news that Mr. Bush will still be able to defeat any of his Democratic challengers vying for their party's nomination.

The person in the Democratic camp who will give the toughest challenge to Mr. Bush, according to the survey, is retired General Wesley Clark. But Mr. Bush will defeat Gen. Clark 49 per cent to 42 per cent. And he will also get the better of the former Governor of Vermont, Howard Dean, by a 59 per cent to 39 per cent margin.

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