WASHINGTON — Americans are increasingly critical of President Bush and dissatisfied with the Republicans who have controlled Congress for a decade, a USA TODAY/CNN/Gallup Poll finds. (Related: Complete poll results)
But congressional Democrats — while favored when it comes to the economy, the war in Iraq and even taxes — have problems, too. They get a rating only somewhat less negative than the GOP. (Related: Americans give Democrats an edge)
The public's sour outlook raises the prospect that the elections next year could be more problematic for incumbents than any since Republicans swept to control of Congress in 1994.
"If a year from now the public mood is similar to what it is now, Republicans will be in trouble," says political scientist Gary Jacobson of the University of California, San Diego. He calls predictions of a Democratic takeover of the House "a bit premature, but not crazy."
At the moment, Bush is in no position to boost Republicans. By 54%-39%, those polled say they are more likely to vote for a congressional candidate who opposes the president than one who supports him. (Related: Bush poll results)
Just 46% say most members of Congress deserve re-election, the lowest level of support since 1994. But 65% say their own representative deserves re-election. (Related: Congress poll results)
In the poll, taken Friday through Sunday:
• By 50%-49%, those surveyed say Bush doesn't have the personality and leadership qualities a president should have — the first time in his tenure a majority hasn't viewed him positively. His job approval is 42%, up from a historic low of 39% one week earlier.
• Support for Supreme Court nominee Harriet Miers has ebbed. By 43%-42%, those surveyed say the Senate shouldn't confirm her. That's the first time a plurality, albeit narrow, has opposed the confirmation of any high court nominee over the past two decades.
• Nearly four in 10 say they believe Bush aides broke the law in the leak of a CIA agent's name to reporters; another four in 10 say administration officials acted unethically but not illegally.
• Americans split 49%-49% on whether it was a mistake to invade Iraq; last month, they said it was a mistake by 59%-39%. But there isn't more optimism about the war's progress; 57% say it is going badly.
• If Bush were running for re-election this year, 55% say they would vote for an unnamed Democratic candidate; 40% for Bush. Last year, Bush beat Democrat John Kerry 51%-48%.
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