National Mood a Drag on Obama's Re-Election Prospects

National Mood a Drag on Obama's Re-Election Prospects

U.S. satisfaction and economic ratings low compared with years incumbents won

by Lydia Saad

PRINCETON, NJ -- Some six months before voters head to the polls to choose the next president of the United States, Gallup finds several indicators of the economic and political climate holding steady at levels that could be troublesome for President Barack Obama. According to Gallup polling in early May, Obama's approval rating is below 50%, Americans' satisfaction with the direction of the country is barely above 20%, and the economy remains a dominant concern.