Poll: George W. Bush Only Living Ex-President Under 50%

CNN/theindychannel.com ^ | June 7, 2012 | CNN Political Unit

[Abathar]

Washington (CNN) -- More than three years after leaving office, former President George W. Bush remains unpopular with the public, according to a new national poll.

A CNN/ORC International poll also indicates that two-thirds of Americans have a positive view of Bush's predecessor, former President Bill Clinton.

According to the poll, released Thursday morning, 43% of people questioned had a favorable opinion of Bush, with 54% saying they had an unfavorable view of the former president. Bush's 43% favorable rating is the same as it was in 2010 in CNN polling, but is up from his mid-30's favorable rating during 2009, his first year out of the White House.

"Don't be surprised if the Obama campaign mentions the name of George W. Bush at every opportunity, and don't be surprised if that strategy works," says CNN Polling Director Keating Holland. "And the mention of Bush's name appears to prompt at least a few people to take a more positive view of their current financial situation."

When asked in the survey whether they are better or worse off than they were four years ago, Americans are split, 44% to 43%. But when asked whether they are better or worse off than they were four years ago "when Bush was president," a small gap opens - 47% say they are better off compared to 41% who say they are worse off.

[Bob]

Ben, I have a favorable outlook on President Bill Clinton too. Looking back at his Presidency compared to today was paradise. Heck at least the economy was good.

Can you name anything (other than getting a Republican congress elected) that Clinton himself did to create, or even encourage, that good economy?