DISTURBING RESULT – AT 9:40 A.M. ET:  We often cite Scott Rasmussen's polling results here, in part because they're based on likely voters, which we feel is the most accurate method of polling.

In recent days, Rasmussen has reported an increase in support for President Obama, almost exclusively among Democrats.  That support is important.  If you can bring out your base on election day, you're in far better shape than if you can't.  The results:

The Rasmussen Reports daily Presidential Tracking Poll for Wednesday shows that 32% of the nation's voters Strongly Approve of the way that Barack Obama is performing his role as President. Forty percent (40%) Strongly Disapprove giving Obama a Presidential Approval Index rating of -8.

These results confirm the growing enthusiasm among the Democratic base. Sixty-one percent of liberal voters Strongly Approve of his performance while 68% of conservatives Strongly Disapprove.

And...

The President has not had a better Approval Index rating since February 1. Still, Republicans enjoy a nine-point lead among Likely Voters on the Generic Congressional Ballot. 

It's interesting that, although Rasmussen is often accused of publishing polls tilted toward Republicans, his numbers are actually more favorable toward Obama than the latest from Gallup.  Consider, from Rasmussen:

Overall, 50% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance. Forty-nine percent (49%) disapprove. Today is the first time the President’s Total Approval has reached the 50% mark in nearly two months.

We'll have to wait for some confirming numbers in coming weeks, but the GOP can't rejoice if Obama is actually getting stronger.  We always stress that polls are snapshots in time. 

Clearly, the Democrats are happy with Obama's latest moves.  He hasn't been helped, though, among independents, who are absolutely critical to his political future.

April 14, 2010