October 15, 2009
Posted: October 15th, 2009 11:49 AM ET

From
Poll: Hillary Clinton more popular than Barack Obama.
Poll: Hillary Clinton more popular than Barack Obama.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – She lost to him in last year's battle for the Democratic presidential nomination, but a new national poll suggests that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is now more popular than her boss, President Barack Obama.

A Gallup survey released Thursday indicates that 62 percent of Americans hold a favorable view of Clinton, 6 points higher than the 56 percent who view Obama favorably.

According to the poll, the president's favorable rating has dropped 22 points from its inaugural-month level in January. The survey indicates that Clinton's favorable rating has only edged down 3 points since the beginning of the year.

Nine in 10 Democrats questioned in the poll view both Obama and Clinton favorably, with independents split. Fewer than one in five Republicans hold a favorable opinion of the president, while 35 percent see Clinton in a positive light. According to the survey, Obama has dropped 23 points with independents and 41 points with Republicans since January, while Clinton has dropped just 6 points among independents and stayed even among Republicans since the start of 2009.


"This is a common pattern in recent polling," says CNN Polling Director Keating Holland. "Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice consistently had higher favorable ratings than George W. Bush. Madeleine Albright was more popular than Bill Clinton. Secretaries of State don't get blamed for economic problems or unpopular domestic policies, and they often don't get the same share of the blame as the commander-in-Chief for international slip-ups either."

The Gallup telephone poll of 1,013 adults was conducted October 1-4, before the president was named winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize. The survey's sampling error is plus or minus 4 percentage points.

Filed under: Hillary Clinton • Poll • Popular Posts • President Obama


Neil Goslin   October 15th, 2009 3:05 pm ET

At least Hillary likes America. If Obama likes America you would think he would focus more on our economy instead of sending 7 billion to pakistan.

Jeff in Virginia   October 15th, 2009 3:03 pm ET

Hillary Clinton isn't the target of mass media disinformation, and doesn't have to make hard decisions.

Why is this news?

Ren from Baltimore   October 15th, 2009 2:59 pm ET

We are vindicated!

It would have been a great feat for the country, and the world, as was Barack Obama's victory. All politicians deserve our support and feedback in these diifcult and shifting times. Fortunately for us, today's technology allows us to follow through on these behaviors, and let our elected officials-of all parties-know our positions and reasons for them. They can't work for us if we can't tell them what we want and why!!

Dan, TX   October 15th, 2009 2:47 pm ET

Who cares.. Both are left-wing radicals who do not know how to govern. Go away.

Joyce Becker   October 15th, 2009 2:47 pm ET

Well she is prettier also.

mark b - Atlanta   October 15th, 2009 2:46 pm ET

I hope Hillary challenges BO in 2012... thats the only chance the Dems have of winning the Prez.. I was a lifelong Dem, but not a socialist like this guy. one and done!!! I'll vote Rebublican again if needed and just hold my nose I guess.

Roger in CA   October 15th, 2009 2:44 pm ET

It is NOT NEWS that a President's approval rating drops during the first year in office, as the realities of politics and government inevitably frustrate and disappoint some of the population, whereas someone relatively out of direct view like a Sec'y of State (who is only implementing the President's policies) will be relatively unscathed.

It is a minor miracle that Obama still has a distinctly positive rating, given the number of incendiary issues he is handling and the absolutely ruthless and hate-filled attacks he is taking from the right.

Jt   October 15th, 2009 2:43 pm ET

This story does not employ anyone. This story does not provide health coverage for anyone. This story does not provide unemployment benefits to anyone. What an asinine story. The effort continues to divide America by the MSM. Ridiculous on you CNN.

ch   October 15th, 2009 2:39 pm ET

Barack Obama is great but there is NOBODY better than Hillary!

Democrats are lucky to have SUPERSTARS like Obama and Bill / Hillary Clinton!

While the GOP has NOBODY ......except dim witted dysfunctional Sarah with her 42% approval rating and an IQ to match!

Fair is Fair   October 15th, 2009 2:31 pm ET

Poison ivy is more popular than Obama.

Chad   October 15th, 2009 2:29 pm ET

Obama is still in campaign mode, and really has no clue how to be President, make decisions, etc.. This poll is not surprising.

AJ   October 15th, 2009 2:27 pm ET

Not surprising at all. While the Obamazombies will defend him to the bitter end, the truth is that he has accomplished very little and has proven that he is all talk and very little action. I am a lifelong democrat who sat out the last elecation cycle after Obama became the democratic nominee and see no indications that I will be changing my mind in 2012. I'm hoping that he will actually do something that will change my mind but don't see much chance of that. In my mind, Obama is an arrogant gasbag.

LacrosseDad   October 15th, 2009 2:24 pm ET

she tells fewer lies

Brian from NJ   October 15th, 2009 2:22 pm ET

Obama ran as a moderate and then took a hard left turn and began breaking his campaign promises the day after his inauguration. This is why he has dropped by 23% with Independents and 41% with Republicans... and his administration's practice of attacking people who disagree with him and calling them names has not helped with his popularity much, either. And to the liberals in this country... this ignorant practice of blaming the Republicans every time things do not go his way is childish. Obama wanted this job and he should've realized that after the way Bush was treated, he was going to be given the exact same treatment... unfortunately that is the way things are today.

m jeff   October 15th, 2009 2:21 pm ET

What a stupid poll, comparing Apples to Oranges, she is Secretary of State, not President.

Four and The Door   October 15th, 2009 2:17 pm ET

In any event, both Obama and Clinton should make the most of their 15 minutes. It will be done in 2012.

Meh   October 15th, 2009 2:17 pm ET

This is a stupid poll. Apples and oranges, like someone already mentioned.
Sec of State has to work w. foreign policy, the President has to work w. ALL aspects of running the country. I think his job is a little tougher and since things aren't too hot right now, of course he's going to be polled lower. Duh?

unshrub   October 15th, 2009 2:16 pm ET

Of course she is, Obama has to make all the hard decisions.

yuri   October 15th, 2009 2:08 pm ET

OK, we guess her blatant and transparent prevarications are bein' conveniently forgotten, not to mention her temper tantrums. We still can hear a lot of people say she was a fibber, a dissembler, and perhaps a whopperer.

Tony   October 15th, 2009 2:07 pm ET

Obama's approval rating is actually sub-50%.

Regardless, this isn't surprising at all. Hillary had more votes in the primaries, therefore more people wanted her to be president. But that's what people get for voting Democrat; the party's nomination process is designed so that the party has ultimate say on who gets elected. There's only an illusion of choice with them. Despite the people's will, the DNC wanted to break the color barrier before they broke the gender barrier. I guess the DNC was deluded and thought that the race card still had some value in America today. Plus, the fact that the DNC is fiercely misogynist obviously played a role as well.

cal   October 15th, 2009 2:03 pm ET

I wonder who did these polls, Elmer Fudd? Don't get me wrong I like Hilary but President Obama is the most popular president EVER. He is the most admired and loved President world wide. So don't get it twisted, these polls are FLAT OUT WRONG!!!!!!!!

2010 can't get here fast enough   October 15th, 2009 2:02 pm ET

She was superior to this fraud who still votes present as he doesn't possess the stones for the job.

Hillary has the stones and that is why I respect her, may not agree with all her politics, but she was, is and always will be far, far, far, superior to this fraud.

She warned you progressives and she was right, but he was the flavor of the month, good job media, selected, elected and now protected.

J.C. - Independent & Insured   October 15th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

It takes different demands and qualifications for the president and a secretary of state. President Obama is doing a lot to better our country and it is hard to fight existing special interests. Naturally, he will make more enemies. You can't ha ha all the way around the White House.

TangledThorns   October 15th, 2009 1:58 pm ET

Hillary isn't the one bankrupting America so yeah, she is more popular. Plus she has more guts than Obama too!!

Vince in NC   October 15th, 2009 1:56 pm ET

If Hillary were elected President, she'd be trailing Obama in polls. Just part of the job.

RRRUSA   October 15th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

It is always the 'parent who is not home' that is the favorite when the other parent applies discipline......so it is in politics.

WHO thinks up all these INANE polls? Is 'pollster' a job that requires any sort of education?......let's compare Marge Simpson to Rush Limbaugh; let's compare beer's popularity to water; let's compare Al Queida vs the Taliban......

...at the end of the CNN post a quote says this is common...so WHY is this news??? Is today a slow day?

truthsayer   October 15th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

....."This is a common pattern in recent polling," says CNN Polling Director Keating Holland. "Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice consistently had higher favorable ratings than George W. Bush. Madeleine Albright was more popular than Bill Clinton. Secretaries of State don't get blamed for economic problems or unpopular domestic policies, and they often don't get the same share of the blame as the commander-in-Chief for international slip-ups either."

nuff said

Lois   October 15th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

I wish Hillary was President. Hillary has more knowledge regarding all the important decisions to be made along with being able to make those decisions.

Cindy   October 15th, 2009 1:55 pm ET

Whew! Good thing the election is not today!

Doesn't matter what the polls say today. Obama is President, Clinton is not. They are doing 2 different jobs, and they have different responsibilities.

Heck if we based everything on polls, Michelle Obama should've run, not her husband.

truthsayer   October 15th, 2009 1:53 pm ET

Another wasteful poll

C. Farrell, Houston, Tx   October 15th, 2009 1:51 pm ET

Makes no difference, Hillary is a Democrat. However, this should be embarrassing for Republicans, her polls are higher than theirs.

Perry   October 15th, 2009 1:48 pm ET

Don't drink that Koolaid too fast folks. THINK about what you are being told. Obama's wife has higher ratings than Obama. Probably most of his cabinet does too. Everyone who doesn't have to make a decision. That is part of the job. He is holding his own at above 50%. When people stop believing every lie that comes out it will increase.

Paul   October 15th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

No surprise here. People are finally waking up the fact Obama is all flash and no substance. He has crippled our domestic recovery and damaged our international reputation.

Debby   October 15th, 2009 1:46 pm ET

I am not surprised since it was Hillary who really put this healthcare plan in action while she was First Laday. Obama is just basking the glory of it because he has no accomplishments of his own.

R E Church   October 15th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

I knew that sooner or later the love affair (crush) with Obama would be over and people would come to their senses.
Hillary has been the better choice from the get-go and will continue to prove her merit while Obama continues to fade away.

Ron   October 15th, 2009 1:42 pm ET

I am Republican who voted for McCain, but respect Obama's victory. It's not a surprise, however, that Hillary is better liked. Eventually, the Democrats will regret having turned on Hillary. I think she was ready to be President, whereas, Obama is learning as he goes without much success yet. Unless you count the adoration of five judges who gave him the Peace Prize.

chenna_benna   October 15th, 2009 1:41 pm ET

Of course she is more popular. She is not president. Obama is in control making the hard decisions to try to put this country back on track. What the poll doesn't tell you is that Hillary more than likely would have made the same decisions that Obama has made thus far. Their policies during the campaign were 95% the same.

Jake   October 15th, 2009 1:39 pm ET

she had my vote over Obama, but I have embraced President Obama 100%

America is blessed to have her serving as Sec of State!

Bob in Pa   October 15th, 2009 1:37 pm ET

You betcha.
I'd rather have a shot and a beer with Hillary anytime over BO. At least she knows how to laugh and have a good time. Bo just tries to play too damm serious all the time.

JJ in Chula Vista, CA   October 15th, 2009 1:35 pm ET

Comparing the approval numbers of Secy Hillary Clinton and President Barack Obama only points to the fact that Mr. Obama has the harder job here, having to deal with major issues of the country, dealing with international issues as well, and having to deal with Republican negativity and their constant, irrational berating. If the roles were reversed, Republicans would be demonizing her.

Dave   October 15th, 2009 1:33 pm ET

and would have made a much better President

gt   October 15th, 2009 1:26 pm ET

of course ,, she should of been president,, its hard to compete with obama,, he has won the nobel award ,,, the hiesman trophy.. the medal of honor ,, the cy young award,,betty crocker baking cook off... but hillary still has our hearts,,,, ugh

mark   October 15th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

We can all agree that they are both lying politicians. obama has delivered zero of his campaign promises...

Sean   October 15th, 2009 1:25 pm ET

Obama maintaining a 56% approval rating in the face of the disgusting, unfounded bile that's hurled at him every single day by the bottom-feeders that are contemporary Republicans is pretty impressive if you ask me. If Hillary was President, they'd have far more ammo to use against her, and I think it's safe to assume her numbers would be lower than 56%.

And incidentally, I'm a registered independent and political centerist – I've just found myself more and more disgusted by Republicans every day. They should be ashamed of how vile they've been behaving, putting party before country time and time again. From cheering a huge loss of revenue for our country when the Olympics went to Brazil, to voting against a Democratic amendment that would deny government contracts to companies who ask employees to sign away the right to sue if they're raped while on the job. There's no excuse for this transparently selfish and disgusting behavior.

bellablue   October 15th, 2009 1:24 pm ET

I totally respect the excellent job Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, is doing. However, this "poll" has been generated at this particular time, simply because Hillary Clinton has blatantly said NO, to EVER running for Pesident again. So, the Pollister has chosen participants who would like to see her run once more! As usual, POLLS MEAN NOTHING!! They are a waste of time! The die hard supporters of Hillary Clinton will ALWAYS be looking for ways to keep her in the spotlight. And ONE of those supporters who is always plugging her is Andrea Mitchell, MSNBC news anchor.

Tom   October 15th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

How laughable to read all these comments that if Hillary runs in 2012 or 2016 you'll vote for her. No you won't – you'll vote for whomever CNN and Oprah tell you to vote for...just like you did with Obama. If you all had exercised some independent thought and took the time to truly consider the candidates, you wouldn't be in this mess today – you'd have President Clinton making decisions and creating real change.

Seriously, Left   October 15th, 2009 1:23 pm ET

This poll is not saying much because my dog would be more popular than this president.

Observant   October 15th, 2009 1:21 pm ET

Hillary should have been elected, but Americans internally believe that a man can do a better job than a woman. So much for equal rights for women.

Alice   October 15th, 2009 1:19 pm ET

Of course she is more popular – under the same principle that "unknwon" is always more popular than a real person making real decisions, which inevitable tillpiss off some segment of the public. Hillary is very seldom in the public eye these days; Obama is there every day.

Remember how Fred Thompson (Law and Order guy) was expected to cruise to victory – until he actually got into the race and saying things?

Obama worst president EVER   October 15th, 2009 1:19 pm ET

It ain't hard to be more popular than this idiot.

Jenn, Philadelphia   October 15th, 2009 1:18 pm ET

I believe it's called buyer's remorse.

LacrosseMom(stuck in moderation)   October 15th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

PS. GOP ONLY 21% of Americans actually consider themselves Republican! And 52% can't name the leader of your party.

If I were the GOP, I wouldn't gloat too much!

Tina   October 15th, 2009 1:15 pm ET

Hillary should have been president.....and Barack, forgotten about.

paksa   October 15th, 2009 1:14 pm ET

People who put such a premium on the idea that this president has enhanced America in the eyes of the rest of the world apparently have never lived in any other part of the world. Other countries are not so altruistic that they always have the best interest of the US in mind. They are much more comfortable with someone 'leading' the US who is naive, does not put America first .and responds to the accolades of the world. Showing deference to questionable regimes in other countries may illicit applause BUT does very little to stabilize the United States. Applause and respect are very, very different responses and should never be.considered the same.

Ummm...   October 15th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

'Cuz she's not the president!

Peter   October 15th, 2009 1:13 pm ET

She would be a bully if she was the president...remember she couldn't even have set the tone that Obama did, she was running george bush campaign of tough.

Also I don't still respect her out of not getting out of t he race when she was supposed to!!

ICARE   October 15th, 2009 1:12 pm ET

I was against it, but I gladly welcome a Nobel for Obama. He was a light in all the darkness around us. We were all so lost and there was a voice to ask us to believe.

ICARE   October 15th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

Well, that's great! But Obie is still KING. He wears the crown and Nobel Prize around his neck, at the current moment.

I'm just glad we picked a young President because we had so many issues when he came on board.

Cnn please post my comment! 1 love!   October 15th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

The Republican party is quickly on its way to extinction.....the Dems may be slow to react some times but trust me when they move America moves....there may be some dems who supported hillary in the primaries ...but make no mistake they would never ever vote for a Republican, period!!!

jls   October 15th, 2009 1:11 pm ET

Honestly, how can anyone not like Hillary Clinton? She's intelligent, well spoken and it's obvious she is a very caring person and only wants to do what it right for the USA and to make it a better place. She would make an awesome President and I was disappointed when she said this week in an interview that she would not run for President again, but I can't say that I don't blame her for not running considering how the media treated her during her first run for the office.

Wake Up   October 15th, 2009 1:10 pm ET

I thought I'd never say this...America would be better off with Hilary. Obama is a fraud. How did we get stuck with this guy

Hillary 2012   October 15th, 2009 1:06 pm ET

YEAH!!!!

Oblunder is out of touch with Americans. He promised 4 million jobs by the end of summer and has FAILED.

HILLARY 2012

Robert   October 15th, 2009 1:05 pm ET

Of course President Obama is slightly less popular - he has a much harder job and has to make tough, sometimes unpopular decisions about everything - domestic AND foreign policy! Clinton's job is just to be a diplomat, implementing Administration policy and helping to shape it. But the buck stops with Obama. He's the leader, she's the follower. It's easy for her to be "popular."

Franco   October 15th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

CNN: So now that you"ve taken the poll, what is your conclusion? Hard up for news, today?

Amber, Orlando   October 15th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

God, I love being able to say: I TOLD YOU SO!

Fitz in Texas   October 15th, 2009 1:03 pm ET

At this point anyone would be more popular than this President. Look how fast he is destroying this country.

stevetall   October 15th, 2009 1:02 pm ET

So what!

The Voice   October 15th, 2009 1:01 pm ET

Hillary was my girl the whole time. I think she had the experience, tenacity and brains to follow through with the mandate.

I still believe Obama edged Hillary due to his orator abilities, rhetoric, and charisma. But him as a VP would have been a great situation in 2016.

But I support Obama now, he is trying very hard and he will do much better than the disaster we had the last eight years. He must. We can now allow another Republican destroy progress in four or eight years. I just shouldn't happen.

W l Jones   October 15th, 2009 1:00 pm ET

If every CEO were poplar all the employee in a company would be laid off before he or she got their first check.

Sniffit   October 15th, 2009 12:59 pm ET

Poll: A device used by the media to determine whether a sufficient "controversy" can be fabricated to justify writing a "story" about it.

Barbara   October 15th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Good for Hillary! She is a smart, hard working Secretary of State and a good woman. We are fortunate to have her representing America. You can add my name to the list of admirers.

Padraig   October 15th, 2009 12:58 pm ET

Hillary would have been a better choice. I don't think she would of taken our country from 2 trillion in debt to 9 trillion in date in less than a year.

Home foreclosures are still escalating, medium and small banks going under, jobs still be lost at alarming rates. All President Obama has done is to ensure our large banks, auto industry (except Ford), and credit card companies to get richer.

Tammy   October 15th, 2009 12:55 pm ET

Would vote for her in 2012 but not Obama.

Everything she said about his inexperience has turned out to be true and America will pay the price.

Chut Pata   October 15th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

The polls always showed she was more popular than Obama.

First, all Republicans, under the instruction of their god Limbaugh, vote for Hillary.

Second, Obama supporters are highly educated techies who dont have primitive landline phones, just cell phones. Since the surveys are on landlines, Republican vote dominates.

However in real life, when voting is done, Obama is far more popular than any traditional leader.

mjm   October 15th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

Funny, today Gallup Poll has Obama at 52%, not 56%.

How are the Democrats doing in congress? 21% APPROVAL!

"The percentage of Americans who approve of the way Congress is handling its job fell to 21% in October, from 31% in late August, with the biggest decline coming among Democrats."

I cannot wait until 2010.

dan   October 15th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

Yes and if she had been elected instead of him, his numbers would be higher than hers, this is fluff non news designed to make its own news..good going cnn,,the corporate 3 card monte shell game horse race handicapping continues..

AUSTIN,TX   October 15th, 2009 12:54 pm ET

how would any of you idiots know if things would be better if Hilary was POTUS...PREZ Obama is doing a fine job...Hilary don't have thugs on every corner trying to take her down like they are doing Prez Obama....So, it doesn't matter what any of your opinions are...he's the POTUS for 4 years.....4 years....4 years.....4 years.....4 years....4 years...

Unemployed in IOWA   October 15th, 2009 12:50 pm ET

thats because Obama is a JOKE and a LIER. Biggest loser of a president since Carter. The American People need to IMPEACH Obama for lies and misleadership.

What the Prez Sez   October 15th, 2009 12:47 pm ET

To think I respected CNN all last year throughout the chaos of campaigning and elctions only to now have that respect hanging by a thread. When did CNN get to be so anti-American? Remind me how you are in any way "better" than the Becks, Limbaugh's and Coulter's of this world? God I miss Tim Russert!

Brandon   October 15th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

of course her numbers are higher she doen't have to deal with the problems

Mark Ramsey MD, Milwaukee WI   October 15th, 2009 12:46 pm ET

Hillary Clinton would have made a wonderful president, and I hope she runs in 2016

cmitch, FW, TX   October 15th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

Why is she being polled? He's the President, it will take a long time to clean up 8 years of George W. Bush mess. Do not blame President Obama . Put the real blame where it should be: The GOP.

Ruth   October 15th, 2009 12:43 pm ET

Why are we comparing apples and oranges now?

RCasson   October 15th, 2009 12:41 pm ET

Of course she's more popular. She's NOT the President. This is a stupid article CNN.

mrkusn   October 15th, 2009 12:41 pm ET

Hillary does one thing that the current President doesn't: demonstrate a decisive demeanor. People want that right now. They don't want someone who is going to have meeting after meeting of reviewing policy and strategy. They want action at the helm. The President should have had the Afghanistan meetings much earlier. He should have led with his own healthcare bill. Hillary is a more decisive leader. President Obama has a lot going for him but with the opposition facing him, it is time that he take the gloves off. Make a decision on Afghanistan. Forget trying to work with the GOP. They won't budge. Snowe will fall back to her original camp.

Lisa   October 15th, 2009 12:40 pm ET

Hey, I think Hillary is cool too but yeah, c'mon...let's face it...they're not exactly doing the same line of work. It's completely unfair to pit them against each other in a poll for crying out loud.

vic nashville , Tn   October 15th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

Clinton mean Good politicians, Good leaders and understand us

We miss you Hillary

Clara   October 15th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

If Secretary Clinton run for President in 2016, she have my vote! One thing for sure, she wouldn't have a big mess to clean up. President Obama is coming to leave things in good order, just like her husband did.

Phat Elvis   October 15th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

she deserves the respect, but put this in context: if she had been president, her ratings would match Obama's–it just comes with the job.

now if everyone could get it through their pea-brains that they are a team working together, there wouldnt be so much grousing about what this stupid poll means, which is absolutely nothing

Objective Thinking   October 15th, 2009 12:39 pm ET

The difference, Keating Holland, is that Powell and Rice never ran against Bush for the presidential nomination, and Albright never ran against Bill Clinton for the presidential nomination. Hillary Clinton DID run against Obama for the presidential nomination, so this is not the same situation. This actually indicates remorse for choosing the wrong Democrat.

Caesar the Great   October 15th, 2009 12:38 pm ET

I never, ever thought I would say this but she should be our President right now. And I completely understand why she is more popular, she is actually less polarizing and seen as a stronger leader based on her role.

Michael in MO   October 15th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Hmmm, and why might that be???? Maybe because she's always been the most qualified?? I guess all the Obamabots that got their free ipods & concert tickets for stuffing the primary ballot boxes have gone on to something more hip these days. After all, talking about heath care and the economy just isn't kewl.

Dominican mama 4 Obama   October 15th, 2009 12:37 pm ET

Obama is NOT looking for popularity. As CNN keeps stating, he's no longer running for President. He is the President. You know, the one that people love to hate or love to love. The one that HAS to make all the tough and sometimes unpopular decisions. You know, HE'S THE MAN. Now I am more than certain that as The Man he's confident enough ti enjoy someone else's 'popularity'. Especially someone that is a part of his team. If he can use Hillary's 'popularity' to get something accomplished for the country you can bet your 'popular vote' that he will. It's ALL GOOD.

Mike   October 15th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

Happens all the time. Had Hillary won she would have the same numbers as Obama. Trust me, they will continue to slide unless he does something earth shatteringly positive. Like pass bi-partisan, comprehensive health care reform. Good luck with that, at least the bi-partisan part.

terry,va   October 15th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

Anyone but Obummie in 2012. Heck I'd rather have another Bush.

CHANGE.COM   October 15th, 2009 12:36 pm ET

Who cares, CNN? Please tell me who actually gives a blink if Hilary is more popular? Solving the nation's problems caused by 8 years of neglet isn't a popularity contest. You make me puke, CNN!...And, I dare you to publish this:)

Tim   October 15th, 2009 12:35 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is pretty much "gagged" by the Administration. We all know that Vice President Biden is the "real" Secretary of State.

Anyhow, the President sets policy. The Secretary of State just follows it.

Shari, NY   October 15th, 2009 12:35 pm ET

Simply put, if she were the President it would be the other way around. In other words, America is in a President's hands, so if there is one iota of dissatisfaction on any matter he/she gets blamed.

Rob Selby   October 15th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

CNN is up to their old corporate media tricks again. I get a kick out of right-wingers that accuse CNN of being liberal. The opposite is true.

Whitney Ivey   October 15th, 2009 12:34 pm ET

Just because she is more popular than the president that does not mean anything. Obama is still our president and Hillary is just the secertary and nothing more. I do think that she should be president because she has already been in the White House even though she was only the first lady what do she need to be back in there for. Dont get me wrong I have nothing aganist her but if the people wanted her they would voted for her and she would have stayed in the race.

terry,va   October 15th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Obummie is on a roll and will over take Hillary. Look at his luck...he was the tenth caller to the Nobel Committee and won the Peace Award. Next he will take his traveling circus to a town near you.

eolufemi   October 15th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Divide and conquer huh...Let's see how dumb some democrats are by falling for it.

GWS   October 15th, 2009 12:33 pm ET

Wonder how many true Obama voters were contacted for this so-called poll?!? NONE! She's been in the background for months, not speaking out on healthcare, the economy or anything ... so I guess she would be perceived to be more popular by the Hillary women – after all, they're still angry because she didn't get the nomination. They're just as bad as the republicans!

Gary's Opinion   October 15th, 2009 12:32 pm ET

I don't agree with everything Hillary does but I think she probably would have made a better leader. She wouldn't have had 33 Czars, she would have been more measured with bailouts and stimulus. But then she'd probably be more extreme with healthcare reform which is bad....I guess in the end they are 2 of a kind. We want Mitt!!

blake   October 15th, 2009 12:32 pm ET

the only thing i can say is told you so!!!!

Bev   October 15th, 2009 12:31 pm ET

Agian with sowing discontent CNN...figures!! Why don't you focus on giving us updates on Ensign and Sanford's Appalachian hikes. How come you never poll everybody as I have never been appraoched?

J   October 15th, 2009 12:30 pm ET

Stop trying to distract everyone and do some serious journalism.

How much were you paid to run another one of these ridiculous distracting stories??

The black Spider   October 15th, 2009 12:29 pm ET

How do compare a soldier at the front line fighting day and night to a soldier in the army reserve?
Any intelligent human being knows the president is the one calling all the shots and the only one that takes the heat.
What is Next Do a popularity poll betwen the president and Rush Limbaugh or Gleen Beck or Lou Dobbs or Woolf Blitzer?

CNN your polls are becoming pathetic.

SLM   October 15th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

Sorry, we Republicans are not so predictable..............Hillary should have become president.............Not Obama!

terry,va   October 15th, 2009 12:28 pm ET

Is this a surprise? Hillary has more commander in chief skills than Obummie will ever have. He can't vote present on ever issue that comes up. America lost when Obummie won!!!

Bugl3t   October 15th, 2009 12:27 pm ET

I guess that's understandable, given that she hasn't had to speak up on healthcare or the economy or jobs... give Hillary credit to see that losing the bid for the Democratic nominee turned out to be the best thing that could have happened... she can always run later.

Gabe Polson   October 15th, 2009 12:27 pm ET

Well now it all comes to light. Don't get me wrong, I like Obama and love Joe Biden. But Hillary Clinton is President material. There is just something about her. She is politically electrifying!! As we have seen in the past when a Clinton speaks the world takes notice. The Clinton name is the gold standard around the world. She makes very few mistakes and has no need to hog the spotlight. In the world of politics and political strategy, SEC Hillary Clinton comes from a special mold. It would have been a breath of fresh air to have had a President who thinks for themselves and stands on their own two feet.

Here's hoping she changes her mind in 2016!

billy123   October 15th, 2009 12:26 pm ET

A case of buyers remorse from the voters. Hillary Clinton is so much more qualified to be President than President Obama. I will agree President Obama took over the worst Economy in my life time.

President Obama please ask President Clinton to come in to help fix the Economy.

Amy from MN   October 15th, 2009 12:25 pm ET

I attribute the difference in popularity to the fact that she is not involved in trying to pass healthcare reform.

southerncousin   October 15th, 2009 12:25 pm ET

If Obama wins the Nobel Peace Prize for doing nothing and being popular, what would Hillary Clinton win for doing nothing and being even more popular?

me happy- at 4:20 each day   October 15th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

That is because she is an accomplished, self made woman- who, actually, rose to her position in a large part as the result of her accomplishments and hard work.

As opposed to rising to one of the most powerful position in the world based solely on the popularity contest similar to those held in a typical American high schools: the most popular, charming, handsome, smooth talking "jock" gets elected because, "oh, ahh, he is just so 'perfect'"- even though he has done absolutely nothing.

Got to love the hard working minds of Americans! Right...

Preco   October 15th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

And so what?

Obama Victim   October 15th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

sure wish SHE was president

mike   October 15th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

its simple she does not have to deal with the right wing republican NUT JOBS that
are always crying the blues on the stimulus and health care, not that they care about it but because they are looking for VOTES and nothing else

Michael M, Phoenix AZ   October 15th, 2009 12:24 pm ET

The only reason the President has dropped in the "polls" is that he did not save the world in his first 100 days. It took years to get into this mess and it will take years to get out of it...I believe he had stated that once or twice before.

Bill   October 15th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

How can this be? Hillary doesn't make nearly as many tv or interview appearances and is not nearly as constantly visable as our ...Oh. Never mind.

rachel   October 15th, 2009 12:23 pm ET

Okay this is just another ticker for the clinton haters to spew their hate. Hillary is doing a good job. I wish the media would stop doing this crap you all just want their to be some war between Obama and Hillary and it just kills you that their isn't so you want to try and make trouble. Oh Obama sidelined Hillary oh Hillary is more popular than Obama. Obama is not my favorite person but aren't you all getting a little tired of this?

FAYE, NV   October 15th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

You can like anyone whose not making the major decision for this country. If Hiliary was there making decision people would not favor her. President Obama inheirt a mess and it will take time to clean this mess up. No one knew what a big mess Bush and the Gop left behind.

I can see things slowly coming together: Economy, Overseas Respect, Foreclosures etc... Things are looking brighter.

Deb (long island)   October 15th, 2009 12:22 pm ET

All you can say is that the republicans are so predictable!

rwh   October 15th, 2009 12:21 pm ET

I really don't think that either Mrs. Clinton or President Obama care's about being popular! To many opinions and to much media has taken America into the wrong directions. Once Mrs. Clinton make's an error or say something that is viewed wrong....the media take's it another level. When President Obama do anything he is questioned; blamed, defamed and racism remarks are always made. Both of them are doing whatever it takes to have a smooth day and not let opinions govern them how they are doing in the popular arena.

felicia   October 15th, 2009 12:20 pm ET

So what President Obama will always be more popular in my book. The media always tryna get some shyt started. I'm really starting to hate all media outlets

Peace   October 15th, 2009 12:18 pm ET

If the difference is only 6, then Pres. Obama is doing very, very fine. All the blames go direct to him and not to Hillary.

A 50-year Democrat no more. Now an independent with brains.   October 15th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

WELL DUH!!! If you hadn't held caucases she'd be our President now. What good is a caucas really anyhow. Have you ever tried to stand in line at school and been pushed outbyf the four-letter talking heatherns breaking in line. That is what you have running the country. Thank you Democrats.

Chris D.   October 15th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Sec. Clinton gets to enjoy the fact that she doesn't have to lead the country and suffer criticisms........I'm proud of her as cheif diplomat though.......
President Obama, still has a commanding 56% approval.......That's huge......
Once we get this unemploment rate down.....America will be back on track....
Obama/Biden 2012......

LeAnne, Iowa   October 15th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Of course she is, she doesn't have to make the tough decisions that he does. As far as I'm concerned, the president is more popular. I'd much rather see him and shake his hand, than Hillary's. I'm sure there are a lot of people who would agree with me.

If she were that popular, she would have been president.

Also, Hillary doesn't have a whole network working against her, or the negative press everyday.

Gary, Indiana   October 15th, 2009 12:17 pm ET

Always has been, and always will be. Too bad the Dems cheated to get Obama in.

Ed, Santa Fe, NM   October 15th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

a moronic poll.....

Brian   October 15th, 2009 12:16 pm ET

Did you ever consider Republicans might be interested in skewing the results of this survey by saying they like Clinton more than Obama?

Furthermore, Clinton hasn't been in the limelight, taking massive criticism from the right-wing media and politicians on a daily basis. Of course Republicans don't like the President – he's the one making them realize how weak and ineffective their party really is.

A.B.   October 15th, 2009 12:14 pm ET

The Gallup poll results are bogus!! Hillary Clinton is not more popular than President Obama. Her loss in the Presidential Primary is proof of this fact!! People I see on the streets these days are wearing shirts with Obama's face on it. I don't see anyone with shirts bearing Hillary's face. In fact, Obama's face and image are everywhere. There is a Obama shop below Union Station in Washington DC that sells momentos, images, books and gifts of our beloved President. No such thing exists for Hillary Clinton.

Pennie Johnson   October 15th, 2009 12:13 pm ET

And what's your point? You people like to make something out of nothing important. Find a cure for cancer or world hunger.

carlo   October 15th, 2009 12:11 pm ET

That is not what the poll says. It is about polorization, which is totally different. Of course the person who is Sec. of State is going to be more popular than a President trying to make massive changes. Powell and Rice were both more popular than Bush.

CNN-you should worry more about why you allow shills like Alex Castellanos work for a company to defeat healthcare reform while serving as a seemingly non-bias commentator on your network.

Each and every day, your intentions become more evident.

SLM   October 15th, 2009 12:10 pm ET

Yeah, now people have figured out she would have been the better choice, the phone is still ringing and Obama still hasn't answered it. Too bad the media threw her under the bus in favor of empty suit that made great false promises.

Robert   October 15th, 2009 12:09 pm ET

Big whoopdy doo. It still didn't win her the election.

jfs Memhis, Tn   October 15th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

Will you folks at CNN stop this for heavens sakes. Sounds like you folks are trying to encourage discontent amongst the Dems. Using polls that includes Independents whom are from what ever party on any given day. This is a waste of time and silliness in NEWS REPORTING ??? We Dems(and Moderate Republicans) are as one.........we are not going to give up "OUR" hard earned position on the results of some rather questionable polls. Now lets talk about health insurance reform and the need for a public option.

Pepou   October 15th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

But I would like to know what exactly she is doing in this administration. She is not visible in the least!

John   October 15th, 2009 12:07 pm ET

Obama will continue to drop in the polls.... that's how it works with presidents.

Jeeze   October 15th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

They're both capable, intelligent, thinking people. This is something most Democrats acknowledge and appreciate, Independents cannot make up their minds (as with everything else) and Republicans continue to hate and fear. Simple as that.

m jeff   October 15th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

It doesn't matter, they are on the same team.

Sniffit   October 15th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

Yawn. She's also not running the show. When you're the guy in charge, you take all the blame.

Enough   October 15th, 2009 12:05 pm ET

Not a fan, but would rather have Hilary as president instead of Obama. She should run against him in 2012, Obama is a one term president.

Lilarose in Bandon, OR   October 15th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

I voted for Hillary Clinton and would do it again and again.

But I will keep Obama.

Peterson   October 15th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

who cares ??????????????????

Tamia   October 15th, 2009 12:04 pm ET

the Republican Poll is meaningless: these ae the same republicans who demonized her so muchthat the issue is now before the Supreme Court!!! Had the shoes been reversed, BO would be their best friend.

John from California   October 15th, 2009 12:03 pm ET

Hillary Clinton might be more popular because she hasn't been the subject of non-stop attacks by the republicans.

If Hillary were in the White House, the shrill attacks from the republican party would be just as concentrated as that against President Obama.

Oy Vey   October 15th, 2009 12:03 pm ET

Duh ... the wingnuts aren't taking daily potshots at Hillary.

The numbers would be just the opposite if she had won the nomination and subsequent election.

But then ... the pollsters must be right ... they only report what the 36.5 folks galloping toward the cliff said.

rr   October 15th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

it's always popular when you do nothing but suck up to people, especially foriegn leaders like Putin.

SF Serg   October 15th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

She'll be a great President from 2016 – 2024.

No More Incumbents   October 15th, 2009 12:02 pm ET

Wow. There's a statistic that means nothing.

Expat American   October 15th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

This is just stupid. CNN, stop catering to the American hunger for sensationalism and trash....'but a new national poll suggests' -what a joke....yeah, and 'Bridezillas' is coming out with a new 'box set'.

And I don't want to see chubby fat girl McCain boobies either! Yuck! Where's some real news to tune in to?

Sam   October 15th, 2009 12:01 pm ET

This is a no brainer. Clinton has the luxury of not being so exposed. I think they are both doing as good a job as possible under the circumstances.

T'SAH from Virginia   October 15th, 2009 12:00 pm ET

Hillary is favorable because she is doing a great job as the Secretary of State – NOT as President of the United States. Therefore, you are mixing apples with oranges!!!!

President Obama is viewed favorable as the President of the United States – NOT as Secretary of State. Therefore, you are still mixing apples with oranges!!!!

Then you go on to say that "This is a common pattern in recent polling... Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice consistently had higher favorable ratings than George W Bush." Again, you are mixing apples with oranges!!!!

STOP trying to wedge our party apart!!!

Of course!   October 15th, 2009 11:59 am ET

Why is anyone surprised?

Hillary should have been the POTUS. She is the most prepared. The most brilliant. The biggest policy wonk. The most passionate about standing her ground with healthcare and other issues on the table.

She would never have wavered and dropped the public option. She would not have ever folded to special interests.

Apparently, race trumped gender. Also not surprising.

Kel   October 15th, 2009 11:58 am ET

Holland said exactly what I was thinking. Is anyone remotely surprised by this? It's a non-news story. When the country is in a period of economic hardship like this, the approval rating will always go down. People tend to blame the president for everything that goes wrong. Not the secretary of state... Now if she were the secretary of the treasury, that would be a different story.

Larry   October 15th, 2009 11:58 am ET

Hillary's numbers are higher because she hasn't been in the middle of much needed health care reform that President Obama has been trying to push through.

Her job as Secretary of State has also been made easier by Obama in that the world has a much more favorable opinion of this country now with him in office.

Rani McBride   October 15th, 2009 11:55 am ET

But....if she was President, she wouldn't be. Come on people, you do realize why he is not as popular, don't you? He is the one that get's the blame for everything. Critized by all sides....left and right. And don't forget the negative Media Spot light, everyday!! With all this...I guess he could be doing much worse than in the low 50's. Looks like the right wing is going to have to work a little harder.

Robin   October 15th, 2009 11:54 am ET

We would be better off with Hillary as president. At least she understands what is going on.

Obama, one and done.

Dutch/Bad Newz, VA   October 15th, 2009 11:51 am ET

All the more reason to assume that the President's foreign policy holds weight. We, the People, approve of how this administration has restored America's good name in the world and reigned in a new era of diplomacy. Could that be the reason why the POTUS was rewarded the Nobel?

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