Returning to the very short term, I think the problem is not that Obama isn't popular, it is that it doesn't translate very well into votes where it matters. The Republican core against him has nothing to lose by being completely in opposition for the next two years (the next election). It will make them feel embattled and noble, and allow them to regroup around their theological orthodoxy, etc. We have already seen that happen. It means that whatever Obama wants to do, he has to take every one of his own party with him, plus the extra Republicans he needs. EVERY SINGLE TIME. The polls don't really matter here, except in getting his own people in line.

yours,

Peter T.