Only one third (33%) of Americans believe John McCain has a clear plan to solve America's problems. That's a nine point drop since mid-March. Yup, it seems that despite his month-long free pass to define himself to the American voter as the Democrats continue their deathmatch nomination battle, McCain has presented himself and Americans simply aren't impressed.
But, the good news for Democrats (particularly Hillary Clinton) doesn't stop there. Gallup measured eight "character" ratings for the three leading presidential candidates. McCain's image among Americans slipped in seven. While Obama's numbers also softened, it was McCain who experienced the steepest decline. Considering the ongoing Democratic intramural fighting, it is surprising Hillary Clinton saw her image actually increase in response to most questions. There is a huge red flag for her, however. More than 6 out of ten don't view Clinton as trustworthy.
Overall, Obama has a significant lead (4 points or larger) over his rivals on three questions. McCain leads on two while Clinton, despite her improving numbers does not lead both her rivals on any question.
Comparing the two Democratic rivals, Obama holds leads over Clinton on four questions. The most striking is the "trust gap" of 23 points. Clinton has cut into Obama's lead on empathy (cares about people like you) and pride (proud to have as president). She holds on three questions, (has a plan, leadership and management) manifestation of the "experience" mantle she has worked to claim throughout the nomination battle.
In head-to-head matchups, McCain now trails both Democrats on three questions. He trails Obama on two more (values and pride). Clinton's "trust gap" with McCain is even larger (28 points). Conversely, McCain trails Clinton as the problem solver in the race by double digits (15) and is viewed as being unaware of the average American's problems (10 points).
| Clinton | McCain | Obama | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cares about the needs of people like you. | 57 (+3) | 52 (-2) | 62 (-4) |
| Is a strong and decisive leader. | 62 (+1) | 66 (-3) | 55 (-1) |
| Is honest and trustworthy. | 37 (-7) | 65 (-2) | 60 (-3) |
| Shares your values. | 46 (+1) | 47 (+1) | 51 (NC) |
| Has a clear plan for solving the country's problems. | 47 (-2) | 33 (-9) | 40 (-1) |
| Understands the problems Americans face in their daily lives. | 60 (+2) | 50 (-5) | 63 (-4) |
| Is someone you would be proud to have as president. | 48 (+1) | 51 (-4) | 55 (-2) |
| Can manage the govt effectively. | 54 (+3) | 55 (-5) | 48 (NC) |
| MoE = +/- 3%. |
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