I think people's faith in government is somewhat wishful thinking. |
In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, it's surprising to find that nearly half of Californians believe that state, local and federal government are prepared for a major disaster. Let's hope they're right. |
Remember when George Bush (Senior) went through a checkout line and was unfamiliar with how scanners work at the supermarket? |
So there's a base for the president's program -- but it's among Democrats, independents and a portion of the Republican Party. The president is on the side of public opinion and clearly in step with the mainstream of California -- but perhaps out of step with the conservative portion of his base. |
There was clearly some sort of burst of optimism that occurred late last year. Gas prices were falling and it appeared there might be a democratic government formed in Iraq. It appears those hopes have been dashed. |
To the extent that he has moved back to the middle, Democrats, independents, liberals, moderates, like that better, that's why his numbers went up. The downside for him is that conservatives and Republicans like it less. |