December 31, 2008
Posted: 04:00 PM ET

From
A new poll shows that President-elect Barack Obama is viewed as a strong, confident leader.
A new poll shows that President-elect Barack Obama is viewed as a strong, confident leader.

WASHINGTON (CNN) — A national poll suggests that three-quarters of the public thinks President-elect Barack Obama is a strong and decisive leader, the highest marks for a president-elect on that characteristic in nearly three decades.

Seventy-six percent of Americans questioned in a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey released Wednesday said Obama is a strong and decisive leader.

"That's the best number an incoming president has gotten on that dimension since Ronald Reagan took office in 1981," CNN Polling Director Keating Holland said. "The public's rating of his leadership skills is already as high as George W. Bush's was after 9/11 and easily beats the numbers that both Bush and Bill Clinton got at the start of their first terms in office."

Watch: See how President Bush fared in the latest CNN/ORC poll

Just six in 10 felt that Bush was a strong leader when he took office in 2001. After the attacks of September 11, that number rose to three in four. Sixty-seven percent thought Bill Clinton was a strong leader when he took office in January 1993.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • CNN poll


EZ   January 1st, 2009 8:05 am ET

Justin the republicans are not stupid, they are just taught not to think for themselves so that their Overlord can better control them.

Justin   December 31st, 2008 11:02 pm ET

Once again I ask? Why are Republicans so stupid??

GuyInVA   December 31st, 2008 9:04 pm ET

I believe President-elect Obama has shown fine leadership qualities. However, he isn't in office yet, so it remains to be seen what happens when his decisions will become policy. But floridajack, puh-leeze! You had to use some of those tired old media driven buzz words in your post. "Hope", "inspiration". You forgot "change". But at least you didn't forget the old liberal calling card: that veiled reference to racism. Everyone who voted for someone other than President-elect Obama must be a racist. Right?

Apples for sale   December 31st, 2008 9:02 pm ET

Obama could resign today and still would have done more than Bush did for us in eight years.Everthing Bush did,he did for the rich,not middle America, or the poor.

William A. Schaedler from St. Louis   December 31st, 2008 9:01 pm ET

It really sickens me that the voting public has been taken in by this character. He has done nothing. He offers nothing but a lot of empty talk. And still the people fawn all over him. If George W. Bush had performed better in office this guy would not be where he is today.

Ernie in LA   December 31st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

If Obama is so intellegent and great why, by his age, has he not been more than a community organizer and a new Senator? For someone who knows so many powerful people he surely has not done much. You would think he would have wanted to do more than vote "present".

Gary   December 31st, 2008 9:00 pm ET

I agree. What are these leadership qualities these poll speak of?

Seems like more biased figures to me.

Johnny the Boy   December 31st, 2008 8:46 pm ET

When is SNL gonna do their version of "Obama the Magic Negro"?

Carl Justus   December 31st, 2008 8:43 pm ET

lets us hope that we do not expect too much from Obama and be disappointed when he cannot walk on water.

He has been dealt the worst hand that any incoming president has been dealt since FDR.

It took FDR more time than we will give Obama to get the country moving so do not expect miracles. Expect some rocky bumps in the road and we all should do our share to help the economy to right itself.

Godluvr   December 31st, 2008 8:41 pm ET

PE Obama has already proven himself to be a superb leader by his successful work as a community organizer, a stalwart candidate for president, and his ability to exercise sound judgment. He will only get better as his administration evolves. Hate if you will, the man has got the big G on his side. He can not and will not fail! Power to the President!
***********************************************************************
To Lauren the designer in VA

Exactly what do you design? I'll wager it's port-a-potties. Keep your rudeness to yourself. Anyone who voted for President-Elect Obama is smart, savvy, and possesses the capacity to separate ideology from qualifications. The fact that you let Obamacrats in your home says more about you than them. They just needed a convenient place to stay. When they leave, you'll be forgotten. You, ontheotherhand, have to continue to wallow in your anger for eight whole years. WOW! I feel for you. Go Dems!

Andy   December 31st, 2008 8:40 pm ET

Obama Will be the POTUS. His success or failure will hurt or help everyone of us.

TrueIndependent   December 31st, 2008 8:33 pm ET

Amazing how the Republicans on this blog attack Obama on what he has not 'done', but keep quiet on all the devastation that Bush has 'done'.

These are the same people who voted Bush in for a train-wreck-second- term.

You have no credibility!

floridajack   December 31st, 2008 8:26 pm ET

for all of the whiner obama-haters out there –

first, pe obama has shown more leadership qualities than pres bush has. (as the article noted, bush squandered his preception of being a leader.)

second, some times, you don't have to be in a leadership position to show "leadership." pe obama has ignited hope and has provided the vision of a new direction for our country.

third, we are a long eay from a "third world country." pe obama will restore us to our place of honor in the world.

finally, you haters just can't get past the fact that "one of them" has been elected president. GET OVER IT (or leave – delta is ready when you are.)

Annie, Atlanta   December 31st, 2008 8:24 pm ET

Becky, I tend to agree with you. Though I am an Obama supporter, and would be no matter, as he will be my President, he hasn't been able to lead yet. However, if he runs his administration the way of his his campaign and the transition, I think he just may be able to get us out of this mess.

The rest is up to us. We need to replace every spineless DC politician afraid to do the right thing for fear of losing their next election. How about it my fellow Americans. Can we handle it?

Meka   December 31st, 2008 8:14 pm ET

IT APPEARS THAT, THERE'S A LOT OF ANGRY PEOPLE ON THIS POST! BE THANKFUL THAT YOU WERE ALLOWED TO SEE A NEW YEAR COME IN!

AND AS FOR PRESIDENT OBAMA . . . HE WILL DO THE VERY BEST THAT HE CAN, GIVEN THE FACT * * *

CONGRESS HAS BEEN IN POSITION TOO LONG- – -

DO SOMETHING FOR YOURSELVES . . . PETITION THAT CONGRESS HAS A 12 YEAR TERM LIMIT * * * WITH NO RETIREMENT ! ! !

$trugglespokesman   December 31st, 2008 8:14 pm ET

@Anti-Obamabot

whoever you have been speaking with obviously has a biased opinion based on prejudgement and stereotypical thoughts. Obama should be supported being that he is the president-elect. His accomplishment of becoming the president alone will go down in history. In a time of RECESSION being able to raise MULTI-MILLIONS, and create a big enough following to win by LANDSLIDE!! the man obviously is blessed with intelligence enough to lead a nation, some people are naturally made for there occupations of choice they don't NEED experience. Obama has accelerated learning abilities….ALL THIS EXPERIENCE EVERYBODY IS TALKING ABOUT….THE COUNTRY HAS BEEN GOING DOWNHILL UNDER THESE SO CALLED "EXPERIENCED LEADERS" since you don't know anybody who likes or respects obama, who would you put into office? Did you vote for the experienced idiot Mcain?, who played a big part in leading our country in a financial DITCH…some people should think before they talk most people on these bloqs probably voted for bush twice and now they justify how dumb they was by being more dumb and hating OBAMA. THINK BEFORE YOU TALK, WRITE, MOVE, OR ANYTHING…DUMMIES

Marie R   December 31st, 2008 8:13 pm ET

No Hillary =No Obama ,Welcome To Th Obama Show and Richrard Rohde ….All three of you equal nothing but sore losers .Since it's New Years Eve at the stroke of midnight I'll have a toast to you and all the Obama haters and thank God that we only have 19 more days left and will continue not to care what you think..Good night and good riddance

Linda32   December 31st, 2008 8:13 pm ET

It's so funny to read some of the comment that are upset that President-elect has such high rating. What they need to realize is that these polls were conducted for previous Presidents including Reagan, Clinton, Bush, and Bush. Get over it, we are pleased with the way the President -elect is handling business.

MK   December 31st, 2008 8:10 pm ET

I never approved of Bush, even after 9/11, at least after 9/11 I tried to respect the office more but the "man" I still have no respect for.

Mel of Alexandria, Virginia   December 31st, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Yes, he has displayed many qualities which go to make one a good, even great leader. However I am disturbed that so many are surprised that the"honeymoon" is holding up so long. Let us have the "marriage" before the "honeymoon". We cannot allow those right wingers to accuse us of supporting the consummation before the knot is tied.

Matthew   December 31st, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Bush NEVER deserved the same respect that Obama deserves.

Bush – literally stole the election in 2000 (a COMPLETE recount in 2001 by two conservative Florida newspapers showed Gore won Florida) and 2004 (the Ohio irregularities).

Obama – actually won the popular vote and had an electoral landslide.

Bush – promised bi-partisanship and then practiced excessively divisive actions with the complicity of the Republican controlled Congress.

Obama – during his 6 years of EXPERIENCE in the Illinois State Legislature actually practiced bi-partisan politics and went against the Democratic leadership more than once.

Bush – lied about . . . well . . . everything! His military service, err, non-service, uhh, partial service? The need to go into Iraq because of their participation in 9/11. Iraqi al Queda support, WMDs in Iraq, won't lessen mercury pollution when he gets in office, etc., etc., etc. . . . (I could go on but you get the idea)

Obama – hasn't lied to us yet (misquoting or misrepresenting what he said and then saying he lied does NOT count)

Oh yeah, you shrubbies really know how to chose the people to respect. Disrespect for Obama for things you think he might do or did not do but think he did despite the facts is real mature and deserved. Bush actually DID and DOES deserve disrespect. I have NO respect for Bush for things he actually did but still respect the Office of President of the United States of America, not the current idiot who is there by thievery.

TheTruthHurts   December 31st, 2008 8:01 pm ET

No, Obama is not the messiah, he's just much better than the alternative and leaps and bounds above our currrent leadership (or lack thereof).

Haters will have plenty of ammunition as all presidents make mistakes. However, his leadership style will be a refreshing change for most Americans and certainly for almost everyone in the rest of thw world.

Nobody's perfect as Obama has already told us. He is not a savior — he's a man. He will do his best. His most important feature — in my opinion — is he's asked for our help in ways we've never experienced. Success or failiure is in OUR hands, not his.

pk49   December 31st, 2008 8:00 pm ET

Leadership????? He has not even been sworn in yet!!! Polls are premature.

TheTruthHurts   December 31st, 2008 7:54 pm ET

If we have a financial system when this is over and we are not at war, he's a success. With all the craziness going on that will be my bar for victory. Everything else is GRAVY.

Proud American   December 31st, 2008 7:54 pm ET

richard rohde you and Beckey are both Idiots. Sit back and watch real leadership.

Marie R   December 31st, 2008 7:51 pm ET

Richard Rohde are you still here because I thought you had crawled back under that rock.You speak of dignity and respect?Where were the republicans dignity during the bail out and while most of their high salary THUGS and I say THUGS becuase that seems to be a prominent word you use these days as part of your vocabulary.So just where was your dignity whlie those Thugs on Wall Street and Fannie May were stealing to stay wealthy while milions of americans were losing their homes,stocks,401 k's and jobs you ignorant fool…just how do you sleep at night only worrying about Richard Rohde

Irritated in Fl   December 31st, 2008 7:46 pm ET

The man couldn't lead a pack of rats to a block of cheese. Shortly, all those misguided fools who were tricked into blindly following him will see the light and it will just be too late. This country is in big trouble unless someone, somewhere…does something about it.

Susan   December 31st, 2008 7:37 pm ET

Where is our current President?

Greg, NH   December 31st, 2008 7:33 pm ET

Why should you rate this guy now? He has done nothing so far. Sorry.

Mike   December 31st, 2008 7:30 pm ET

What leadership? Obama is not yet the president, no longer a candidate, and is simply staffing.

CNN and the American public have decided to stay in Never-Never land.

I wonder how his "leadership' will be once he realized that Hezzebulah, Hamas, Iran, N. Korea, Venezuela, China and Russia never bought into his campaign and will test him like they did JFK.

soulstar   December 31st, 2008 7:29 pm ET

cnn needs to fix their blog…half of all my posts disappear when i submit them! not even the preliminary "your blog is awaiting moderation."

back to business…first off, people need to relax. this kind of polling has been conducted for previous other president-elects!! this polling is not anything new or special – duh, obama's been compared to clinton, bush i & ii, and reagan when they were all PEs. of course the man has made decisions…his cabinet choices and his input in into current events and issues. leadership is 90% appearance and 10% substace – believe that. and believe, obama appears more of a leader in todays current chaos than bush does – even though bush is the only one who can currently do anything about it.
god save the president (elect)!

Mike, Syracuse NY   December 31st, 2008 7:28 pm ET

Pretty easy to be popular when you haven't done squat yet. Decisive? I think not. It always takes him days or weeks to issue statements on anything, and then they are nonspecific crap.

aron   December 31st, 2008 7:19 pm ET

hopefully he can run a country as well as a campaign but… doubtful. decisive is not the word I would use as he has already flipped on Iraq withdrawal, campaign financing, capital gains taxes, higher income taxes and offshore drilling. the Obamabots have reason to be excited because they have won total control of the country while they already have possessed a good majority during the 2nd Bush term. the Dems found out that in a country that had voted in greater numbers for American Idol than their elections, you need a pretty American idol candidate with good catch phrases like Yes, We Can. Yes We Can as Americans, not mindless robots who have made Obama an icon, not a leader.

Kathy50   December 31st, 2008 7:17 pm ET

I'm not surprised! It should be more like 95% approval! Better days are coming! God Bless America!

Susan in NC   December 31st, 2008 7:17 pm ET

Yes, we can! Yes, we did! And, Yes, we will!

Happy, Happy New Year to All!

Albo58   December 31st, 2008 7:16 pm ET

Though I truly do hope that Obama does well for the country's sake, I strongly believe this CNN poll was conducted in a left-leaning crowd, as are all CNN polls. The FACTS (and I know how liberals hate these little road-blocks!) are that Mr. Obama has never really shown any leadership abilities other than beating an unpopular president and a nasty New York senator during an election. Furthermore, he has towed the Democrat Party line 90+% of the time in his very short career. This is the same party that has a Congressional majority with an approval rate of less than 10%! So, let's see how things go for say 6 months to a year, and then conduct your polls.

Lori   December 31st, 2008 7:14 pm ET

I know that Obama will be a great President. He is intelligent, wise and knows domestic and world affairs.

With stats so high the Republicans must be fuming. People around the world celebrated when Obama won (something that has never happened before for anyother President) and that scares the Republicans. Do your job well- the world is behind you 100% and Americans will gladly vote you in again in 2012!!!

Henry Miller, Cary, NC   December 31st, 2008 7:10 pm ET

What in the world has Obama ever led to justify any conclusion that he's "a strong and decisive leader?" People are obviously voting based on hope and preconception, not facts–there are no facts.

Scott   December 31st, 2008 7:10 pm ET

I think somebody beens eating the yellow snow. Obama doesn't know the meaning of true leadership, that's why he has the Clintons hanging around his neck.

Tunstall   December 31st, 2008 7:06 pm ET

I am directing my statement to Becky, Erica and John, You are RACIST
and it is eating you up. I think you need help. I really feel sorry for you. You are the type of people racist to the core of your being. The type that would die before receiving a black man's blood if needed. May God help you. I will pray for you.

lois   December 31st, 2008 7:04 pm ET

he will fix this country just like SOUTH SIDE CHICAGO…LOL…LOL…

proudliberal-independent   December 31st, 2008 7:03 pm ET

i'm sure he will be an ok president. but, if we fail it will be because he spent to much time looking for change, that aint there, in the 'center'. he should take a more progressive stand on issues ,because this may be our only chance for change. if he blows it, by trying to take the middle ground, i doubt much will change.

lois   December 31st, 2008 7:02 pm ET

free moey…free healthcare Old liberal trick people sucker…

Patrick   December 31st, 2008 7:02 pm ET

But he's not even President yet…

Allen in Hartwell, GA   December 31st, 2008 7:02 pm ET

Your comment is awaiting, and awaiting, and awaiting
Trying again**************
Let's hope that the new president will be all that we want him to be. I wasn't all that happy with Reagan, but I think that President Obama will be up to the challange that 8 years of Bush (2001-2009) and 10 years of a Republican led Congress (1997-2007) left him.
However, we have to give President Obama all the support we can, which means writing our representatives and senators to let them know what we think. It also means being good citizens and living as if our country depends on us…because it does.
For all the people who are proclaiming doom and gloom before President Obama even takes office…think how some of us must feel after having lived the last 8 years with Bush in the White House. We got through it, but our country has suffered greatly. Now you can follow the same advice that you freely gave us all those years.

DE   December 31st, 2008 6:58 pm ET

And 70% of Obama voters think republicans control Congress. Never in the history of the U.S. have we elected such an empty suit as President. This man has accomplished zero as an elected official. The biggest question is how many joints and tokes will it take for him to make a decision?

Change - Yeah Left!   December 31st, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Says WHO? What has he done beyond get elected?

I'd love to know how CNN manufactures these rankings.

I sure as heck don't consider him a good leader – a great shyster – yep – a good leader – NO!!!

Larry   December 31st, 2008 6:50 pm ET

People are optimistic by nature,Obama has been "SOLD TO US" by the media,he has promised voters he will deliver whatever they have asked for,even though all we have ended up with so far is a new Clinton administration.Reality will start setting in for everybody in about 6 months,and then the Obama diehards will have to defend the fact he has NO EXPERIENCE and that will be the excuse why things aren't going well, "give him time ",they will say.We do not have that luxury,we need to CUT SPENDING IN THE GOVERNMENT NOW,Bush and the idiots in Congress have blown all our money,we are broke,our grandchildren are going to be paying the bills we have already racked up.Government is not the solution, it is the problem !!We NEED to use COMMON SINCE.

timothy   December 31st, 2008 6:49 pm ET

OK….lets not give each other hand jobs just yet. The man has accomplished nothing in office. He is, in fact, a political newbie. I hope he does well, I really do. I do hate the fact that he will not come out fighting on anything tough. He always takes the stance that there is still a sitting president……yet he makes stances on other things like the economy. he is NOT consistent.

William Wirt   December 31st, 2008 6:47 pm ET

I hope he enjoys a long life and severs us all well.

We need real leadership. Hopefulling he not sell off limited existing manufacting as the previous four adminstration have. We been completely out sourced to the poor house.

We need to regain a strong industrial base again.

We are becoming Barters to exists — Sad, indeed.

blair   December 31st, 2008 6:44 pm ET

You are joking right!! He has leadership in what? the Some of you obamabots that have had the wool pulled over your eyes will come crying to the 25% of us that see him for what he has always been. Just do not look for me to wipe your tears when he shafts you.
If they have the inauguration Most just want to see if he puts his hand on the Bible and swears to God. and the others just want a party hardy time. Would not matter who was up there.

Annna   December 31st, 2008 6:41 pm ET

It is a new year eve. I am canadian, but I love your president elect.
I would like my son go the same path like president Obama.
I told my son work hard and some day you will be somebody.
Like Mr. Obama said – It is not important haw many times people put you down. It is important how fast you get up. I love this smart men.
You Americans are lackey- he is smart ,very smart.You can not buy
the intelligence , you are born with it. Happy new year for all of you.

Clinton Fringer   December 31st, 2008 6:39 pm ET

He hasn't led anything yet…………

Cynthia - Arkansas   December 31st, 2008 6:35 pm ET

Obama has shown more leadership before he's even President, than Bush has shown in 8 years. God bless him and his beautiful family.

Linda   December 31st, 2008 6:33 pm ET

He has not done anything yet to be rated this way.–you people have lost all objectivity, if you ever had any. If you "Obamabots" know of anything that he has accomplished yet–please post it. I challenge you to this–you CAN'T. I think that when he can't do everything that he promised–a lot of you will be shocked. Your talk of what a mess he is inheriting is stupid. He BEGGED for this mess for 2 years and now he has it–let him prove what he can do for our nation, Bill Clinton has had a big hand in making the mess that we are dealing with now. George Bush made some mistakes, as all Presidents do, but at least he is a moral man.

happy new year   December 31st, 2008 6:32 pm ET

obama has brought hope back to america, we don't know what lies ahead, but we have this amazing hope that things will change for the better, God bless america.

Rozzie   December 31st, 2008 6:30 pm ET

You will never be happy no matter what. You seem to find something negative in every here question that is ask about our NEW PRESIDENT. Accept it and move on. Sorry, that McSane and Palin didn't win get over it!!

Barack rocks!!!!!!

Barack and his family will be moving in the white house soon enough and I 'mpretty sure you "haters" wil have something else stupid to type.

The watcher   December 31st, 2008 6:30 pm ET

Bull!

Linda from Minnesota   December 31st, 2008 6:29 pm ET

Saw this coming in 2004 when he gave the keynote address at the DNC. I said then that I hoped to live long enough to vote for him for president.

Rozzie   December 31st, 2008 6:27 pm ET

You will never be happy no matter what. You find something negative in here questions that is ask about our NEW PRESIDENT. Accept it and move on. Sorry, that McSane and Palin didn't win get over it!!

Barack rocks!!!!!!

Barack and his family will be moving in the white house soon enough and I 'mpretty sure you "haters" wil have something else stupid to type.

Alan   December 31st, 2008 6:26 pm ET

Leadership?? So far the only two things that he has stood for is killing babies and marrying queers. Yeah, I'd say he's a great leader!

Griff   December 31st, 2008 6:20 pm ET

It does not matter what you think now! Your stuck with him.. So you have to tell the World this Guy is A Black Contender… But it's just Garbage to me…. I know this world… I've been around this world..
You??? I am even suprised myself how much of this World I know today… As a young Guy? I was as wise as a 11yr old… But that last 50yrs, I have never forgotten those days… Travel?
Rift Vally in Kenya when I was nearly killed in a Car Crash… Police Car belive it or not…Since then I know this world better than most,….

Andrea/ CA   December 31st, 2008 6:20 pm ET

@Becky, You make me sick. Happy New year anyway. Give the man a chance.

JK Ashburn, VA   December 31st, 2008 6:16 pm ET

Great commentary on the respondents: These folks think a few vague words and intimation by Obama about a bunch of issues are equivalent to decisive action? No wonder this country is so screwed up.

60 year old blue collar American   December 31st, 2008 6:16 pm ET

THE MOST INTERESTING TRAIT THAT PRESIDENT-elect

BARACK OBAMA HAS IS, AS JOE THE VP SAID, IA STEEL SPINE.

NO MATTER HOW TOUGH THINGS GOT DURING THE CAMPAIGN,

HE NEVER WAVERED. HE CONDUCTED HIS BUSINESS WITH

THE SAME CARE. HE MEASURES TWICE & CUTS ONCE.

HE IS THE FIRST DEMOCRAT I VOTED FOR & NO DOUBT WILL

VOTE FOR HIM AGAIN.

allisongayle   December 31st, 2008 6:14 pm ET

Although I didn't vote for Obama, I do support him simply because he is our president-elect. These positive early polling numbers clearly give Obama lots of political capital to spend. His ability to spend this political capital wisely and successfully will be the true mark of his leadership, not a poll taken before he is even sworn in.

Dave in Chicago   December 31st, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Becky, Midwest

Wow… relax. Being a leader during his campaign… while senator… during the various different crisis-like situations that have gone on with our economy and everything… giving us hope and strength are all qualities of a great leader. His leadership while picking his cabinet and his inclusiveness by choosing Republicans for his cabinet. His words when he says "some of you I have yet to earn your respect" and all the things he said at his acceptance speech. He wants us to unite and get together to fix the problems.. he is being a wonderful leader right now Becky. Have some faith, cmon and be happy. It's a new year and like you said.. we don't know yet.. but there is hope.. and Yes We Can! Together! :) I could worry and be scared but I have faith in America and it's leaders. Let's do this! 2009!! YAY!

welches, oregon   December 31st, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Hey folks – it's not just Obama who will make the difference – we all have to pitch in and do our part. And possibly for the first time in our lives, trust our leadership. There's nothing to suggest Obama will not continue on the same successful, strong and intelligent path he's be on from the start.

Ken   December 31st, 2008 6:12 pm ET

Of course his number are so high! Because he's done…..absolutely nothing!!!

It's so funny to hear people talk about the "25% who will never come around no matter what he does", does that mean the 100% of the Obamamaniacs will always agree with everything he does, no matter if it's wrong. Apparently so.

Gonna be a loooooooooooooooooooong 4 years. I only hope we can repair the damage he is going to do.

Gordon Shumway   December 31st, 2008 6:11 pm ET

That 's a pretty high rating for not having to have demonstrated any kind of real leadership yet. Hope he hasn't blown the entire wad.

maurice   December 31st, 2008 6:10 pm ET

BUSH BEGONE AND NOW 75% OF AMERICANS AGREE, FINALLY! December 31st, 2008 4:23 pm ET

"three-quarters of the public thinks President-elect Barack Obama is a strong and decisive leader, the highest marks for a president-elect on that characteristic in nearly three decades."

Some of us "Obamabots" saw it before others, but welcome aboard and the other 25% will never come around no matter what he does.

And yet folks still wonder why 2-4 million people want to attend the inauguration……………………………………………………i`ll get back to you in 2 years. right now all obama has done is get his cabinet together. i just hope he does a better job as the prez than he did as a senator…..as most presidents elected that are senators have high ratings, but do a poor job as a president

Puss for Brains   December 31st, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Ugh! Now that the media has made him a golden child, they can start the tearing down and smears that will generate flurry and profits.
and the race card always is good for ratings. what fun it will be.
and change? He has re-cylced all of the old clinton folks.
Also, what deal did he strike with hilary "give me back my money I invested in my campaign" clinton.?
The dems are souless hypocrites. I am glad I voted for nader – at least I wont go to hell.

Allen in Hartwell, GA   December 31st, 2008 6:10 pm ET

Let's hope that the new president will be all that we want him to be. I wasn't all that happy with Reagan, but I think that President Obama will be up to the challange that 8 years of Bush (2001-2009) and 10 years of a Republican led Congress (1997-2007) left him.
However, we have to give President Obama all the support we can, which means writing our representatives and senators to let them know what we think. It also means being good citizens and living as if our country depends on us…because it does.
For all the people who are proclaiming doom and gloom before President Obama even takes office…think how some of us must feel after having lived the last 8 years with Bush in the White House. We got through it, but our country has suffered greatly. Now you can follow the same advice that you freely gave us all those years.

welches, oregon   December 31st, 2008 6:08 pm ET

Well, here's one thing we all have to admit. If there is something that can get us out of the mess we're in, it's Obama's team. Yes We Can! I challenge anyone to name a better choice.

Axl , Boulder, CO   December 31st, 2008 6:08 pm ET

These polls were taken scientifically when Reagan, Clinton and Bush took office. George HW Bush was a sitting VP and ex-CIA director so he was a more proven quantity coming into office. There is nothing wrong with taking a similar poll of Obama and comparing the results.

a southern bell   December 31st, 2008 6:06 pm ET

IF ANYONE UNDERESTIMATES OUR NEW PRESIDENT

WILL DO SO AT THEIR EXPENSE. MAN IS OUT TO WIN.

MAN IS OUT TO HAVE HIS DAUGHTERS WIN. MAN IS OUT

TO HAVE HIS NATION WIN. ALL OF US WITH HIS LEADERSHIP

OUR HARD WORK & GOD'S HELP WILL DO JUST THAT, WIN.

Former Republican   December 31st, 2008 6:01 pm ET

PRESIDENT-elect OBAMA'S OWN LIFE IS A GOOD INDICATION

OF WHO HE IS AS AN INDIVIDUAL. THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF

THOUSANDS OF AMERICANS WHO HAD A BETTER CHANCE

AT HIS SUCCESS THAN HE DID. LOOK AT HOW HE CONDUCTED

HIS CAMPAIGN. HE GOT TOUGH BUT NEVER DIVISIVE OR SLEAZY.

HE SET THE RULES FOR HIS CAMPAIGN HIMSELF, NOT HIS

MANAGERS OR HIS ADVISERS.THE BUCK STOPS WITH THE BOSS.

EVERYONE UNDERESTIMATED HIM TO THEIR DETRIMENT &

ANYONE THAT UNDERESTIMATES HIM AS OUR LEADER WILL

DO SO AT THEIR OWN DETRIMENT.

Jeff   December 31st, 2008 5:59 pm ET

The expectations are being so highly set, it is near impossible for him to reach.

Thanks national media, you are setting him up to fail, just as you set Bush up to be everyone's fall guy.

I am Republican but I do respect Obama as the new President and I want him to succeed. It just seems that the media is doing thier best to make sure he fails, just so they can turn around and drill him near the end of his Presidency.

Ken   December 31st, 2008 5:57 pm ET

Exactly who did CNN poll for this information? Anyone who lives in Illinois? A politically corrupt state I might add. And exactly what did Obama "lead" to make him a decisive leader. Nothing that I am aware of! The results of your poll is very misleading.

In Houston, TX   December 31st, 2008 5:56 pm ET

He hasn't done anything yet…Do I need to go back to the POLL OF POLLS thing again? Ya know, the postings that need to be read out loud in a pompous british accent in order to highlight the point that YOUR POLLS MEAN NOTHING!!!
We have hope, But we must remain rooted in reality, our statements must be based in fact. Keep our minds in the moment while preparing for the future. And always remember, we are in this together.
I have said this in the beginning when Hillary was fighting Obama, There is only one thing that I am concerned about, and that's the future. And believe me, the only way that we are going to get there, is together.
Can we overcome those issues that divide us and concentrate on the things we all need and the issues that bring us together? Can we change the world?
(The response, that will now, and forever more sum up the spirit of the American people)
YES WE CAN!

nylady   December 31st, 2008 5:55 pm ET

Becky, Midwest, calm down, 8 question marks and 3 exclamation marks, chill. Cnn did this poll, I thought that was obvious from the title, as they did with other former president elects to see how popular they are and how people view their individual characterics. And what does asinine mean? Cheers ta.

Viet Vet   December 31st, 2008 5:52 pm ET

Uh, did I miss something, like an inaugeration? The guy is the President elect- -He will become President Obama on January 20th, 2009. Lets wait a few days after that and have a poll- -Polls that I'm sick of, don't mean squat and should be banned.

sandee in Portland   December 31st, 2008 5:50 pm ET

I, for one, agree wholeheartly with the 76%. Think its about time we had a leader who could actually lead and was intelligent instead of just a personality winner.

@Sherman…lol, we have been on the road to becoming a third world country for about 5 years now, and if the only jobs we keep creating are service industry jobs, we will definitely achieve that goal.

Sue Ellen Stamp   December 31st, 2008 5:49 pm ET

I believe Obama deserves the enthusiasm and loyalty he's enjoying. He ran a historic campaign and won the minds and hearts of the majority of Americans. He began working on the day following his win, and has just only stopped for a 12 day Christmas vacation. After a two year gruelling campaign, he had the strength to put together his team, and surrounded himself with the brightest and smartest in the country, just as he had promised to do throughout his campaign. He has a daunting job ahead of him, but if he can't straighten out the economy, nobody can! Keep the faith, and to the naysayers, take a look at what the options were – frightening!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

dr.mimi de la cuz   December 31st, 2008 5:49 pm ET

I DON'T THINK ITS JUST ABOUT GEORGE BUSH OR

THE CRIPPLED ECONOMY. IT NOT ABOUT WHERE WE

HAVE BEEN AS MUCH AS ABOUT WHERE WE HOPE TO GO.

WE LIKE THAT "LEADERSHIP" ROLE. IT'S HOW WE SEE

OURSELVES. IT IS OUR VISION OF OURSELVES.IT'S WHO

WE ARE. IT'S WHO WE INTEND TO ALWAYS BE. IT'S IN OUR DNA.

WE HAVE ELECTED A LEADER THAT SHARES THAT VISION.

AT THE END OF THE DAY OR CENURY OR CENTURIES, WE

ARE THE EQUALIZER & IT'S A JOB WE HAVE DONE QUITE WELL.

Blue is my favourite colour   December 31st, 2008 5:49 pm ET

His cabinet choices indicate that he can make careful, thoughtful decisions on who is best to help him govern in this mess, so those poll numbers are reflective of that.

The real test will come on Jan. 21, after the party and he's moved in.
He has many good tools in his toolbox: He is not a swaggering, shoot-from-the-hip cowboy who's idea of governing is through dictatorship. He understands the constitution and knows that he must abide by it. He is also far more intelligent than Bush, speaks well, inspires people by his carefully chosen words and uses adult vocabulary–not elementary school vocabulary. Bush couldn't even get elementary school vocabulary right (nucular, for example). Obama is thoughtful, respectful and calm–and he REALLY LISTENS!! When you are negotiating with someone like that I believe you will always have good results.

WhoCares?   December 31st, 2008 5:47 pm ET

Little bitter eh Becky?

Here's a small hint for you because apparently you don't understand one of the foundations of our Government :

Ready?

America has one President at a time. The President-Elect is not the President.

It's your hero (Bush) that is letting the country go down the tubes by continuating his lack of leadership he has excelled at for 8 years.

Nice try though…too bad you're not as intelligent as you are bitter.

Brenda C   December 31st, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Just one person: What has he done? I mean really What has obama accomplished thus far?

30-m-Democrat-voted-Clinton-McCain   December 31st, 2008 5:46 pm ET

There are a lot of stupid and brainwashed people out there. The American people never seize to amaze me. First they vote in Bush in 2000 and then again in 2004. Now they vote in another idiot in 2008. I would have thought after the first failed experiment (8 years of an unqualifed president) people would vote for someone who actually is qualifed for the job. Nope. Now we all have to suffer.

VALUES   December 31st, 2008 5:45 pm ET

Thing man is a born leader.

Carolyn White   December 31st, 2008 5:44 pm ET

2008 WILL BE REMEMBERED AS THE YEAR THAT AMERICANS VOTED FOR AN ILLEGAL ALIEN TO BE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 2008 WILL BE REMEMBERED AS THE YEAR THAT JOURNALISM AND THE MEDIA DIED. 2008 WILL BE REMEMBERED AS THE YEAR THAT CHICAGO PRODUCED THE MOST CORRUPTED POLITICIANS IN HISTORY, 2008 WILL BE REMEMBERED AS THE YEAR THAT AMERICANS VOTED FOR AN EMPTY SUIT AS PRESIDENT, AND HAD NO CLUE THAT THIS SNAKE OIL SALESMAN WAS JUST SELLING BULL SH-T, AND GOT AWAY WITH IT. 2008 WILL BE REMEMBERED AS THE YEAR ONE OF THE BIGGEST HOAX WAS PULLED OFF IN A PRESIDENT ELECTION IN 200 YEARS. Goodbye 2008, what will 2009 nine be, the year the United States come to an end. and you wonder Why one word and one name OBAMA.

Ken Godevenos   December 31st, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Having two daughters and two grand-daughters, I certainly believe in the equality of the sexes when it comes to leadership. I wonder how many people have noticed that with Obama's new cabinet, the protection of the United States (Homeland Security), what makes America work (Labor), and how America interacts with the rest of the world (Secretary of State) — all three departments are headed by women. Yes, there are more guys in his cabinet than women — but America, you're in your sisters' hands now!

Kim   December 31st, 2008 5:42 pm ET

You know, for the first time in how many presidencies, we have someone elected to office that *did not* come from money and privilege. A guy who had to work hard to get his degree, to make something of his life. Who better understands what it's like to work your way to your goals.

That alone is inspiring.

He's got a tough job ahead of him, but I believe he is up to the task and will do his best to help the country get back on track.

I look forward to the next four, hopefully eight years, and I pray that the entire country will get behind this man and show him their support.

Jon   December 31st, 2008 5:41 pm ET

He hasn't even done anything yet! Why don't they wait until he's been at his new job for a while before taking a poll?

Dave, Illinois   December 31st, 2008 5:41 pm ET

I'll reserve my opinion until he actually takes office and does something. The media actually is doing Obama more harm by raising expectations to an impossible level. I did not vote for Obama, but I am willing to give the guy a chance with reasonable goals. Its too bad that the Libs can't see beyond their hate and see the good that Bush did – no more attacks since 9/11, tax breaks that helped the economy to grow until the sub-prime mess, decline of AIDS in Africa, and the startup of a democracy in the Middle East.

obama08   December 31st, 2008 5:39 pm ET

This guy is going to do great things for our country. Let's all rally around him and pray for him to succeed.

jon   December 31st, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Strong, decisive? The man who took 3 DAYS to issue a statement about Gov B. You mean the messiah who couldn't speak on his own until his handlers told him the proper response and they had time to check the wind sock.

Get real, he hasn't done anything in his years of public office and is doubtful he will be truely effective in this one. The media who picked him and protected him will tell us he is, but the truth is he will be an average president in a difficult 1st term

Proud American   December 31st, 2008 5:36 pm ET

God Speed Mr. President the entire Country supports you. Becky, Midwest YOU LOST so GET OVER IT. Open your Idiot eyes and watch real leadership. Happy New Year

DeLong   December 31st, 2008 5:35 pm ET

Good for him, but let's see the 1st 100 days before any ratings are worth talking about…He's not President yet CNN..

Carl   December 31st, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Great leader?

Last time I checked, he has never led anything.

I'm not knocking the man, but let's look at the facts here.

Just just shows to me that 75% of america is sick of neo-cons.

Then again, if Ron Paul had more power and influence in Washington, Republicans would have a better name.

David Goldman   December 31st, 2008 5:33 pm ET

IT BETTER TO GET IT A LITTLE LATE THAN NEVER.

AMERICANS HAVE RISEN TO THE TASK SINCE

THERE WAS AN AMERICA.

THE SLEEPING GIANT WAKES UP YET AGAIN TO LEAD THE

WORLD TO THE NEXT STAGE OF OUR DEVELOPMENT.ONLY

AMERICA MAKES OBAMAS. & THAT'S HOW AMERICA STAYS ON TOP.

Fast Eddie   December 31st, 2008 5:33 pm ET

Leadership my foot!!! Tell me how does spending 174 days in the
US Senate make you a soon to be great leader! Oh that's right I
totally forgot that he also known as the "MESSIAH" and also known
as "THE CHOSEN ONE"!! It won't be long before the MSM will report
that he can ACTUALLY WALK ON WATER!!!!

Jan Illinois   December 31st, 2008 5:27 pm ET

Let's give credit where credit is due. So far Obama is not leading because he is not the leader yet. He'll do great things, that is our hope, but instead of putting pressure on Obama, why not ask why Bush is not leading instead of these reports on the new president, you must admit that they are "Just something to talk about not real news". Bush is riding off into the sun-set , totally unscathed, after what he has done to us, with a fist full of your dollars and we are not going to talk about that? What has our media been doing?

Truth   December 31st, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Disinformation. How can we believe that since he is not in office yet. Hey! guess what? I have 100% approval rating….the highest ever. Oh. Im not in office? Maybe I will be in 10 years. We the American Sheeple have been led blindly around long enough! Demand the Truth! Quit being timid little sheep!

Mari   December 31st, 2008 5:25 pm ET

Our family and friends, knew from the start that Barack Hussein Obama would and WILL be a GREAT President!

After eight long years of lies, mounting National debt, two wars……. RECORD DEFICIT…… etc., etc., we are facing the BIGGEST DISASTER in our Nation's history.

May God bless President-elect Obama with health, wisdom, a Nation's support and plenty of courage…… he will need it!

HOPE WON……. HOPE WON………… HOPE WON………HOPE WON……….!

J.L.   December 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

I'm sure Obama's leadership rating also is a testament to just how bad of a leader George Walker Bush has been for the past 8 years.

20 more days and the failed Presidency that is Bush and his flunkies will be finally over… then we can finally be the United States of America again, not the United States of Conservative Right-Wing Religious Science-Fearing Nutjobs…

Get Real   December 31st, 2008 5:23 pm ET

HE HAS NOT DONE ANYTHING YET????? THIS POLL IS MORONIC!!!!! I am waiting before I rate him. I can't wait to see all these peoples reactions if he does not deliver what he has promised.

Denise   December 31st, 2008 5:21 pm ET

It is nice his raings are so high, but bare in mind, he is PE. So far, Obama has not had to forge policies. Lets wait til he is in office. I do think that the GOP don't know who they are messing with.

Proud Military Wife   December 31st, 2008 5:20 pm ET

According to the article: "The CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey was conducted December 19-21, with 1,013 adult Americans questioned by telephone. The survey's sampling error is plus or minus 4.5 percentage points.
and
The December 26 poll was conducted December 19-21, with 1,013 adult Americans questioned by telephone. The survey's sampling error is plus or minus 3 percentage points. "

It seems that the CNN/Opinion Research Corporation cannot determine which standard deviation to use for their statistical data. If this is suspect, one wonders if this poll is valid and reliable?

Mikey   December 31st, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Hey Bush-Begone:

Stop drinking the cool-aid. The man hasn't done a frieking thing yet. He hasn't done anything in the Senate – the dude hasn't even led a boyscout troop. I don't see any leadership…we'll see what happens.

Stanley in NJ   December 31st, 2008 5:19 pm ET

At this point, it's just wishful thinking.

ea_iii   December 31st, 2008 5:18 pm ET

to Becky, Midwest… this was a CNN/Opinion Research Corp. survey. to you and the other 24%, remember, ReadingIsFundamental….

god bless america   December 31st, 2008 5:17 pm ET

it would appear as if Obama has become the new Reagan replacing the former Bush the 2 term Carter.

one thing is for sure, obama has more pressure on him being the first black president to make sure that history doesn't jot down him as not only being the first black president but also a mediocre president.

Dee   December 31st, 2008 5:16 pm ET

The good news: this is a great indicator of the strong hope that is ever-present in the American spirit.
The bad news: hope is not a method. No amount of "thinking" Obama is a strong and decisive leader actually makes him one. He ran a great campaign, for sure; I think history shows that "runs a great campaign" does not equal "makes a great president."

I do "hope" Obama becomes an effective president; but don't count me among those who already are convinced it's a done deal.

Terry   December 31st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Obama was not my first or even fourth choice among the Democratic primary candidates. I saw him as tied with Chris Dodd after Richardson, Clinton, Biden, and Edwards. However, I have been pleasantly surprised at his performance so far. I have hopes for a great presidency.

As a native Texan who had suffered through two Bush gubernatorial terms (and having voted against him twice), I knew his presidency would be a disaster. I misunderestimated him. He was worse than I thought.

Every American should hope for a successful presidency. Whether you voted for him or not, you owe it to the country to give him a chance. It is not the duty of the opposition party to undermine citizen confidence in their new president, nor is it their duty to try to make him fail. Hard core Republicans are doing just that, to the detriment of the nation.

Larry from Boston   December 31st, 2008 5:15 pm ET

HIgh marks for what? He hasn't done anything yet except appoint a bunch of long time Washington beauracrats. Let's all take a deep breath and revist the question in six months.

Nino   December 31st, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Why were Bush's so high after 911. If you look at history, he fooled us all!

Cristine C.   December 31st, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Hi People – Hey, let's all try to remember that Barack's future successes are good for ALL of America. So whether you like him or not, let's all root for him since it's best for our country as a whole! Happy New Year!

carol   December 31st, 2008 5:12 pm ET

Most of us thought that from day one, he has a long hard road to travel with the mess this country is in, but I have great faith in our new President and he will turn this country around.
Those who did not vote for him will be glad that he was the one that got elected once they see what a great President he will be for all the people of this country and not just the favoured few!!

John G   December 31st, 2008 5:11 pm ET

Can we please wait until he actually does something before we conduct these polls?

Al, California   December 31st, 2008 5:10 pm ET

That reminds me first that Bush is still not in prison, and second is that January 20 is soon and with Obama we have good chance to save the country after 8 years of destruction.

JoeBrown   December 31st, 2008 5:04 pm ET

After the past 8 years, people are desperate for a change of directions. I hope President Obama has the resolve to lead the way.

Barack Obama   December 31st, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Just think how high it would be if they actually knew me.

Ken   December 31st, 2008 5:02 pm ET

To those who voted for the current disaster-in-charge TWICE: we told you so, TWICE! There is really nothing we know now that we already didn't know about this failure-on-legs back in 2000 — when, by the way, all you 'smart' [R]s chose him over McCain to be your candidate….when you chose to be rightwing instead of conservative. The guy was a disaster-waiting-to-happen in 2000, and the disasters came on, one after the other, right through 2008.

Now, failures like Bush and his cronies are always going to be in the political forum. In a democracy, it is up to the people to ferret out these failed people and policies and keep them from power. In this case (2000,2004), the American people failed horribly. Whatever we may think of Bush, it ultimately comes down to the moronic choices made by the American public in 2000, and 2004….a stunning sign of low intelligence that leaves me and many others in fear for the longterm political health of this country. And that nearly 60,000,000 American lunkheads voted [R] this past election to continue the unquestionable abject failure of the past 8 years is beyond comprehension to sentient beings. There must be a genetic disorder involved, to be able to ignore so many of the facts, to unquestioningly accept party dogma, to flee reality and be so delusional as to actually choose to destroy your country in this way. There are way too many totally brainwashed neo-tards out there clamoring for the return to power of the rightwing underbelly of this nation. The situation is equivalent to the late 1920s/early 1930's in Germany…. after 8 years of sinking into that kind of national abyss, we Americans just took a giant step away from the abyss this past Nov., I just hope we can keep on the right track.

Salt & Pepper   December 31st, 2008 5:01 pm ET

I am S-O-O-O-O happy for the NEW America. It's about time we voted someone into the WH who understands what the average American is dealing with/going through, I just want to P my pants! So much for the "you're either with us or against us" crap. I'm glad the end is near for the "It's all about me" administration!

MK, Miramar, FL   December 31st, 2008 4:59 pm ET

We are in such a bad shape today that Obama is our only hope. The unemployment is high, consumer confidence is low, national debt is ever increasing and future of Social Security and other government programs is in jeopardy. Not to mention the war in Iraq as the state of economy has taken the spotlight.

In these difficult times, Obama is our only hope and we hope that he will turn things around magically and rather quickly. But make no mistake. This guy has no magic wand or a secret mantra to fix the economy. It's going to take time and if people do not see the results they are expecting from Obama, his ratings will dive.

gregg45   December 31st, 2008 4:58 pm ET

wow,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, wow,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, wow,,,,,,,,,,,,,, if i dont die b4 i faint,,,,,,,,,, it was my goal when i was born,,, to see this happen,,, i mean,, i cant say it,,, its , more than , space travel,, the industrial revolution,, omg,,, the american revolution,, this man,, oh no,, did i say man,, i am so sorry,,,,, forgive me,, this deity, the chosen,, and i was a democrat… i hope you all get what you deserve,,,,,,,,,,,,, no to the obama god

JOHN WHITE   December 31st, 2008 4:58 pm ET

DUH CNN YOUR ON THE LATE SHOW OBAMA WILL BE THE BEST PRESIDENT SINCE ABRAHAM LINCOLN mark my words!

redneck   December 31st, 2008 4:57 pm ET

He ain't really led anything yet so how can CNN judge?

MikeH   December 31st, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Becky, of the midwest, you are right, he has not yet done anything except select a very competent staff for his cabinet. But, by this action, and others leading up to his swearing in, like avoided taking cheap shots at moron Bush has, I believe, kept his approval ratings high, even in the face of the Blago disaster. But I suspect you are a bitter gun-hugging bible-thumper who is hasn't accepted that the Republicans and their moneybag enablers who drove America right into the ground, lost the election. Anything Obama does will be harshly criticized by you because you won't accept. We can't help you, so go live your miserable bitter life and cry in your vodka.

Crackhorn, you are aptly named. I think your tin foil hat is out of alignment, and is focusing too much negative waves into your mind.

Now, I hope people realize it's going to take over a year to stop the economic hemoraging, and there are going to be some hard economic choices to be made, to re-build the manufacturing economy. It's like WWII, so buck up America and lets all work on this together.

New Yorker   December 31st, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Becky is correct. I just hope when all the Obamabots realize where their "leader" is leading us (if they can ever see this for what it is) that they still won't continue to crow his praise. Hitler had a fantastic following and high approval rating for too long, also. Not saying he's just like Hitler but beware. No not fear mongering just a caution till you we see where we are being led to.

Kenneth M. of Flushing Queens   December 31st, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Obama does not have to do anything to be rated higher then W. Just the fact that we have not ignited means he is going a better job. Becky the vains in your head are popping.

Sherman in Atlanta   December 31st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

@Your right Jimmy,and the scumbags have just begun to turn us into a third world slave nation .Its not Obamas fault,he didnt know they would turn him in to a podperson too,like they did poor George.When they take out his chip he wont even know where hes been for eight years.lmao

Hey Mr. High Rating....   December 31st, 2008 4:55 pm ET

How about telling us who is hiding your illegal immigrant aunt and why she's not on the next boat to Kenya? Something funny going on here.

Pat M   December 31st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I am one of the 25% who believe No President can fix our issues without a Congress that is bipartisian. I agree with Beckly, I like to set my expectations low and then be suprised and happy if things work out good. But my overall view of politics is bad and no one man can fix it.

Rick   December 31st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I will give him the same courtesy that all you democrats gave Bush after his election………none.

New Yorker   December 31st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Becky is correct. I just hope when all the Obamabots realize where their "leader" is leading us (if they can ever see this for what it is) that they still won't continue to crow his praise. Hitler had a fantastic following and high approval rating for too long, also. Not saying he's just like Hitler but beware.

Aaron from Ohio   December 31st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Obama is rated so highly because he is trying to get ALL Americans to work together. We are facing dire circumstances and just one party or just one ideological group isn't going to make things better. By reaching out to all people and all groups he is trying to include everyone in trying to find a solution to the enormous problems we face. Obama has criticized the Iraq War for years and then asked Gates to be Secretary of Defense because Gates made enormous progress. He chose Hillary as Secretary of State because world leaders are familiar with the Clintons and respect them. He has chosen people for their ability to get things done regardless of whether they supported him or not. If he runs the country like he ran his campaign, I have hope for our future.

J in NJ   December 31st, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Who has he lead and what descisions has he made?

Question----   December 31st, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Don't you have to do something to get a high rating????

Let's see if he brings the economy out of recession, brings the troops home, stops terrorism, and improves the U.S. image abroad.
Then we'll see about high ratings. Right now it's all expectations which are worth nothing.

G.R.I.T.S - Girl Raised in the South   December 31st, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Becky in the Midwest: I'm sorry that the journalistic integrity of this article makes you sick, but I think your problems go a lot deeper than CNN's poll.

You are obviously in the mere 25% that does not believe P.E. Obama has what it takes to help this nation regain its place in the world. The rest of us believe he has the intelligence and leadership ability to make a difference. As far as what he has done – leading the Harvard Law Review requires leadership ability, above-average intelligence, and integrity. He has demonstrated his leadership abilities in the public and private sector, but it doesn't really matter because people like you refuse to acknowledge any of this man's achievements.

I did not vote for McCain, but I was able to point out his achievements. I feel sorry for people like you who can't give credit where credit is due. Now, I have to get a little nasty because your posting made me sick. Turn on Rush or Hannity and find out what you are supposed to think today. Oh yeah, what have YOU accomplished?

Wisconsin Vet   December 31st, 2008 4:50 pm ET

I voted for the man and I stand by that vote first of all.

Second he has not shown any party or presidental leadership…Yet.

I see in him carefully appointed smart men and women to positions. I see in him a watchful eye of money markets, war fronts & home economics values. Lending his voice only when needed and not oversteping his position of President – Elect.

So for the Haters and the Fan this poll is like a poot in the wind.

But if you think you hate or love him now Just wait till 1/20/09. Then you can start with the leadership polls. This is the man I am putting my money , hope and faith of leadership in as my US President. And if you cann't than you need to look at yourself.

Be critical of his actions, Give praise for his decisions. But Be AMERICAN First

Perusing-Through   December 31st, 2008 4:50 pm ET

THE VOTERS GOT IT RIGHT THIS TIME; JUST HOPE IT IS NOT TOO LATE.

Young man, your handling of the transition is more evidence that the voters finally got it right. Unfortunately for you Mr. Obama, your inbox will contain some of the following task:

1.) – Successfully end two wars (Iraq & Afghanistan),
2.) – Resolve Iran's nuclear weapons potentials,
3.) – Arbitrate peace between two nuclear armed nations (Pakistan & India),
4.) – Arbitrate peace between Palestinians and Israelis,
5.) – Resolve Castro/U.S. frozen relations,
6.) – Check Hugo Chavez nuclear ambitions and Putin's warships on Venezuelan coast,
7.) – Halt genocide and starvation of millions throughout the African Continent,
8.) – Fight drug wars, kidnappings, and killings spilling out of Mexico across U.S. borders,
9.) – Fix broken immigration policy while 20-million Illegals hide in the shadows,
10.) – Engage the U.S. in International efforts to slow Global warming,
11.) – Reverse national economic meltdown,
12.) – Help financial markets restore credit,
13.) – Help American auto-manufacturing with 'FINAL' bailout to successfully compete,
14.) – Reverse skyrocketing unemployment,
15.) – Replace/Overhaul Bush-Cheney disastrous energy policies,
16.) – Reverse record breaking home foreclosures,
17.) – Make health and drug coverage available & affordable,
18.) – Halt losses in pensions and retirement plans due to Wall Street abuses,
19.) – Reverse plummeting national debt,
20.) – Help make education affordable,
21.) – Restore the nation's credibility and admiration,
22.) – Strengthen inefficient fed agencies like FEMA, EPA, and CDC,
23.) – Stop the hemorrhaging of jobs to overseas slave labor markets.

Paul H   December 31st, 2008 4:49 pm ET

We're all just gushing. Look I hope and pray he does a wonderful job. But these kinds of polls are getting pretty cheesy.

Larry in Houston   December 31st, 2008 4:49 pm ET

This is to Becky in the midwest……George Washington did not have any experience at all….. I don't think those first few presidents of the U.S. had 4.0 averages & such, not to mention that they were not rocket scientists……..

Larry C.
Houston, Texas

EVERYMAN   December 31st, 2008 4:49 pm ET

"…a strong and decisive leader..?" BASED ON WHAT????

Bridgette-PA   December 31st, 2008 4:48 pm ET

"Becky, Midwest "- If you are angry at CNN's journalism, take it out on them. You seem so frustrated about these opinion polls. We all know that OBAMA hasn't taken office yet. Even if John McCain would have won, I wouldn't spew hate on his name because of "tasteless journalism". Grow up. A new year starts in 7 hrs and 13 minutes. A new, mature you, should start right now.

double standard   December 31st, 2008 4:47 pm ET

LOL it's a CNN poll…..duh what did you think the outcome would be??

Really   December 31st, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Hey media, your guy won. You can stop with the stories to try to build him up. He has not done anything yet because he is not President. The only thing this tells me is that the US is optimistic. Not unusual. The economy is down and people are hoping for a better year. I love how the media is trying to make him almost super human and they have already started making excuses for him. Lets just wait and see.

Danny   December 31st, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I do not believe Barack has any experience to lead our nation. He has to grow up. It looks like everybody is blind to give him any rating.He does not desrve any rating. Sorry.

white plains mark   December 31st, 2008 4:45 pm ET

hey, it's a no-brainer. we had a befuddled president asleep at the switch for the last 8 years. Howdy Doody would get better ratings than our outgoing Prez…

Kevin B   December 31st, 2008 4:45 pm ET

It is good to hear he has strong vote of confidence, however, it will take all Americans pulling together for the first time since 1940's (WWII) to really bring America out of the mess created by the destructive hyper-political partisianship of the past two decades or so.

As for PE Obama success as president as of 1/20/09, he will only be considered a success if we all are.

Either we all win or we all lose. Those are the stakes at hand. Get it.

As Warren Buffet put it "We are all accountable for the success of our nation"

Griff   December 31st, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Whatever??? Egypt must be two-faced. They are supplying Gaza with rockets and still playing the Good Guy… So long as there is one rocket in Gaza, Israel can Strike….

Franky   December 31st, 2008 4:44 pm ET

@Bush begone

You know, I guess people should have their time. It is no wonder that many millions of people wanna go. Me personally, I'm looking forward to what he's gonna do or not in the White House. I don't care what he hasn't done yet bexcause quite frankly, there's nothing to look for, just like Becky said, LOL!! He is young…

I'm being realistic, I'm gonna judge him for what he's gonna accomplish or not, I'm not gonna be a radical and criticize our President-elect, he hasn't even been sworn in. And not give out nouns to our elected members of Congress, calling them like "Marxists" or "socialists" or whatever, people should have repsect. Just because I haven't seen anything like this in my whole life doesn't mean I have a reason to call our elected members of Congress idiots or morons, that just ain't right. People are just upset because no one listens and they feel like they don't care. Then again, these are the same people that if Congress helps them out, guess who's gonna be nice to Congress…is actually a psychological term for it. In other words, our country is Jerry Jones…

Let em complain, we'll see when the bill gets blocked by the GOP, we'll see if they care by then…

Mike in NYC   December 31st, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Meaningless fluff. From where I'm sitting, he doesn't ooze strength, and his habit of speaking in soothing generalities is the opposite of what you'd expect from someone decisive. He's also not our leader yet, in case one forgets.

But all that's of no importance. He'll be portrayed by the MSM as a success no matter what happens. He can't be allowed to be seen as anything less — that would be a setback for racial justice and healing, you see. He's got to succeed where the White Man has failed. He's just GOT to. The fact that his important policymaking appointments are overwhelmingly White will hardly rate a footnote.

As for yours truly, I'll just sit back and laugh at the silly show.

Erika, KS   December 31st, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Some of you "Obamabots" didn't "see" anything before others. You are mindless drones willing to believe a junior Senator with zero accomplishments, and dubious friendships are going to save you.

I'm hopeful with Obama, but I'm not going to follow the man blindly. He hasn't done anything. It's stupid to hire a man with such little experience to lead our country, especially with the disaster that Bush is leaving.

You need to all take care of yourselves, Obama won't be able to deliver a fraction of what he has promised you, and what you so eagerly believe.

Time will tell.

WELCOME TO THE OBAMA SHOW!!!!!!!!!!!!   December 31st, 2008 4:42 pm ET

OBAMAS LEADERSHIP IS BASED ON WHAT??????

OH I KNOW IT'S HIS SPEECHES!!!!!!!!!!!

TangoDancer   December 31st, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Obama is a very intelligent man. People like the way he thoroughly analyzes a situation and reviews numerous perspectives before making a decision. He will also be criticized for this, but usually by the same people who will criticize him for anything-everything and/or simply being a Democrat.

The USA got burned with the Iraq fiasco. Lots of wasted money, lost lives and severed diplomatic relations were the result of poor planning and vision by the Bush administration. Obama's administration shows great promise to rectify these errors and bring a new sense of intellectual order to the White House.

richard rohde   December 31st, 2008 4:41 pm ET

You are right Becky, it is asinine, but soon he will be all have for a president. Lets hope we can give him the same dignity,respect and support that the democrats did Bush.

Dave from Colorado   December 31st, 2008 4:41 pm ET

If this survey is a sort of people's will, that only says that people have no clue to what they said. People are losing their hope so they are trying to grab a hope: Obama, to save themselves. That's it. They don't care about, or they don't know, if the hope is real or fake. People still don't know who Obama is. Period.

No Hillary = No Obama   December 31st, 2008 4:41 pm ET

He has done nothing but break his campaign promise to rely on public financing and in doing so, was able to rake in millions of dollars and advertise ad nauseam. He was favored by the media, ad nauseam. He had every advantage imaginable – money, media-hype and gender. There is only one way for Obama to go – off the pedestal he placed himself on.

Naive Americans   December 31st, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Say what you will about him, but decisive? The man has yet to commit with regard to anything. Pretty stupid populous to say he's "decisive." Very scary America!

Anti-Obamabot   December 31st, 2008 4:41 pm ET

In who's eyes? What's really bazaraar is? I have NEVER spoke to anyone who likes, admires or agrees with this jerk! I wouldn't attend this innauguration for anything and I mean anything!

Connie   December 31st, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Becky, You are just one of the "sour grapes" people. Get over it! McCain and the "you betcha" bimbo did not make the cut!. I would bet money that you are one of the people who put G.W. in office the second time. Give our new President a chance!

Mike, Syracuse NY   December 31st, 2008 4:38 pm ET

And we saw what happened with Bush didn't we. Now where to go but down.

Virginia Republican   December 31st, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Enjoy it while you can, Barack. The honeymoon will be over on 1/20/09 and reality will have to be reckoned with. Enjoy that high profile elite vacation while you can!

Becky, Midwest   December 31st, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Leadership? As what? In what capacity? When did that happen? Obama hasn't accomplished ANYTHING? Can we at least let him be president first, and give him time to actually DO something before these ridiculous polls start?

The only thing he's done is create his Obama fan club by smooth talking, and a gigantic push from the media and the back stabbing DNC. Let's let him actually "lead" first, shall we?

The sheep that follow this guy would surely follow him right over the cliff from the way they drool whenever their chosen one speaks.

s   December 31st, 2008 4:37 pm ET

We can't help it! WE like our president!!!

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! Good luck to us all in the U.S.!!

2009 would be good!!!

Gallimimus   December 31st, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Natural born leader. Calm, cool and collected. This is the guy that I want running the country. These types of people are few and far between. Reminds me of Colin Powells leadership style. This is good for the country. Somebody that we can stand behind.

Becky in the midwest.

Get a clue, he's not president yet. Also, leadership can come in many different ways. Loose the attitude!

Texas Teacher   December 31st, 2008 4:36 pm ET

GOOOOO OBAMA…. :) RAH RAH RAH!!! *lol*

the old texas teacher is a cheerleader…. Just picture that… and old Ind'n woman leaping into the air with pompoms…. *LOL*

fairness   December 31st, 2008 4:34 pm ET

he is not in the office yet, he cannot perform, what he does is still just a hope, promise…..so why this silly ratings?

Franky   December 31st, 2008 4:33 pm ET

@Becky

Hey, don't hate the man just because they love him, LOL!!! He's good and you're right, he didn't do nothing!! LOL!! Which makes him 100x as good!! LOL!!

Newport News, VA   December 31st, 2008 4:30 pm ET

There are differences between the polls. Bush rallied the country together after we were attacked. Let me remind you that we were attacked on his watch. He actually had my support for war then but how his aproval rating went up is beyond me. On the other hand, Obama is coming into the White House with a recession already embattling our country. So the difference is, one was already in power, and the other hasn't been in power.

Becky, Midwest   December 31st, 2008 4:25 pm ET

This kind of "journalism" makes me sick! Who is conducting these polls? And why? Leadership? Obama has leadership? As what? When? He hasn't done ANYTHING! As a junior Senator what did he lead? As President-elect, what has he done? NOTHING! Stop this asinine "reporting" until the man actually does do something! I'm tired of this crap. It's a non-story.

Jimmy Crackhorns   December 31st, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Sadly….he has no direction to go but down from here….2008 was the year the Luminati finally did one over on us….big time…banks…real estate…monetizing debt, the feds…we are now Marxists!!! Now they will force down mortgages on banks…I want to know…since I have paid my loan solidly for 8 years on a 15 year note if they are goinmg to "help" me by forcing the bank to "adjust" my miortgage down…or does it only apply to corporate carpet baggers and snake oil salesmen who have lied, cheated, and scammed this country into bankruptcy????

jaye   December 31st, 2008 4:24 pm ET

This man has the weight of the world on his shoulders…or will after his inauguration…the same as President Bush after 911.
President Bush dropped the ball, and it is now in Barack Obama's court. I have complete faith in Obama and will do everything I can as a citizen of this great country to help him in any way possible.
We need to unite and stand with him and work with him as a nation – and let the naysayers (Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Fox News,etc.) eat our dust.
God Bless Barack Obama and his team!
Happy New Year!!
P.S. KUDOS to CNN for staying ABOVE THE FRAY of the naysayers and the media idiots.

BUSH BEGONE AND NOW 75% OF AMERICANS AGREE, FINALLY!   December 31st, 2008 4:23 pm ET

"three-quarters of the public thinks President-elect Barack Obama is a strong and decisive leader, the highest marks for a president-elect on that characteristic in nearly three decades."

Some of us "Obamabots" saw it before others, but welcome aboard and the other 25% will never come around no matter what he does.

And yet folks still wonder why 2-4 million people want to attend the inauguration.

sandee in Portland   December 31st, 2008 4:22 pm ET

I agree wholeheartly with that 76%. Think it's about time we had a leader who could actually lead and was intelligent instead of just a personality contest winner.

Larry in Houston   December 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

Happy New Year to You & Your Family, Mr. Obama……I think you're going to do well as can be expected….(especially with what Bush left you) I voted for you…..originally was for Hillary, because of the way the world is today, you need experience, but, since you've surrounded yourself with all of those Generals / Lieutenants / you don't have anything to worry about……. If it were me, I would do the same thing as your doing……..Have all of my Generals & Lieutenants and everyone on my committees come to a concensus, before coming to a decision……So, that being said…..I think you will be a fine President of the U.S. of A.

Larry C.
Houston, Texas

Marilyn   December 31st, 2008 4:20 pm ET

What leadership??? He hasn't done anything yet — he's not even president yet!! This is just political correctness run amock.

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