September 22, 2011
9/22: Voters Divide About Obama’s Handling of the War in Afghanistan
President Barack Obama’s approval rating has hit a new low, and voters remain dissatisfied with his handling of the economy. And, now, there is also increased dissatisfaction with how the president is handling the war in Afghanistan.
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Click Here for Complete September 22, 2011 USA Marist Poll Release and Tables
According to this Marist Poll, 48% of registered voters nationally disapprove of how the president is dealing with the situation in Afghanistan while 44% approve. Seven percent are unsure.
When Marist last reported this question in June, a majority of registered voters — 53% — approved of how Mr. Obama was handling the conflict while 39% disapproved. Eight percent, at the time, were unsure.
The change has occurred among Republican and independent voters.
By party:
- Nearly two-thirds of Republican voters — 65% — and a majority of independents — 56% — disapprove of the way the president is dealing with the war in Afghanistan. In June, those proportions were 53%, and 41%, respectively.
- Among Democratic voters, 67% approve of how the President Obama is handling the situation while a similar proportion — 70% — did so a few months ago.
Voters also divide about how the President is handling the situation in Libya. 42% approve of the way he is dealing with it, and 42% disapprove. 16% are unsure. In June, 44% applauded the president on the issue while 40% thought his approach was flawed. 16% were unsure.
Table: President Obama Handling the War in Afghanistan