Well, that didn’t take long!
Americans by 9 percentage points have a favorable view of the health care overhaul that President Obama signed into law Tuesday, a USA TODAY/Gallup Poll finds, a notable turnaround from surveys before the vote that showed a plurality against it.
By 49%-40% those surveyed say it was “a good thing” rather than a bad one that Congress passed the bill. Half describe their reaction in positive terms, as “enthusiastic” or “pleased,” while about four in 10 describe it in negative ways, as “disappointed” or “angry.”
The largest single group, 48%, calls the bill “a good first step” that should be followed by more action on health care. An additional 4% also have a favorable view, saying the bill makes the most important changes needed in the nation’s health care system.
Also interesting, Gallup now has Barack Obama’s job approval rating at +8 (51%-43%), the highest since late February. It will be interesting to track these numbers in coming days and weeks, but right now, it looks like the expression, “nothing succeeds like success,” is holding true in this case. So, how long until Republicans realize this and start dialing back their diehard opposition to a reform package that includes many popular elements (e.g., no more denial of coverage for “pre-existing conditions”)?
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