USAToday/Gallup: Obama leads by 4-7 points

[Democratic Hawk]

Obama Wins on the Economy; McCain on Terrorism [October 14, 2008]

Independents give Obama his solid advantage over McCain on the economy

http://www.gallup.com/poll/111130/Obama-Wins-Economy-McCain-Terrorism.aspx

Would Barack Obama or John McCain Better Handle the Economy?

Based on national adults

Obama: 53%; McCain 39% (Obama +14)

Among Republicans: Obama 11%; McCain 83%; Same/Unsure 6%
Among Independents: Obama 53%; McCain 32%; Same/Unsure 15%
Among Democrats: Obama 89%; McCain 7%; Same/Unsure 3%

Other Issues

Healthcare: Obama 61%; McCain 32% (Obama +29)
Energy, including gas prices: Obama 52%; McCain 40% (Obama +12)
Taxes: Obama 52%; McCain 40% (Obama +12)
The situation in Iraq: Obama 46%; McCain 50% (McCain +4)
Gun policy: Obama 38%; McCain 50% (McCain +12)
Terrorism: Obama 39%; McCain 55% (McCain +16)

USA Today/Gallup poll, Oct. 10-12, 2008

Dave

[Democratic Hawk]

He doesn't have to "demolish" Obama.  McCain just has to connect.

And this poll illustrates the challenge McCain is facing

Seven in 10 Say Obama Understands Americans' Problems

Public also more likely to think Obama has plan to solve problems

http://www.gallup.com/poll/111148/Seven-Say-Obama-Understands-Americans-Problems.aspx

Applies to McCain/Obama: Understands the Problems Americans' Face in Their Daily Lives

Barack Obama: 73% Yes, it applies; 26 No, does not

John McCain: 48% Yes, it applies; 50% No, does not

51% say Obama has a clear plan to solving the country's problems; 35% say the same for McCain

63% say McCain is a strong and decisive leader; 61% say the same for Obama

58% say Obama shares their values; 50% say the same for McCain

Dave