The situation as it is now is easily the most positive atmosphere for Republicans since (IMO) 2002. A few data points:
- Rasmussen shows R's ahead on "generic ballot"
by 9%.
-
Qunnipiac poll out today, Obama approval on the issues:
-- 41% on economy
-- 34% on creating jobs
-- 35% on health care
-- 48% on terrorism
-- 45% overall
- Also in Qunnipiac, the public is split 35-37 on whether they'd have been better off with McCain as president
-
CNN/Opinion research: 48% judge Obama's first year a failure; 47% a success
The Brown-Coakley matchup, regardless of who ends up winning, has already showcased the discontent there is toward the incumbent party.