Re: the polling: I was thinking the same.
Polls changed thanks to Cruz. As well as all the insurance renewal letters coming in the mail right now.
GOP Talking point will be: “Democrats shut down the government to protect Obamacare which everyone sees isn’t working as promised.”
GALLUP DAILY
Sep 25-27, 2013 – Updates daily at 1 p.m. ET; reflects one-day change
Obama Approval
43%
-1
Obama Disapproval
50%
+1
This probably helped!