Democrats, Not Bush, Should Take Lead in Solving the Nation’s Problems

By 51%-29%, more Americans want Democratic leaders — rather than President Bush — to take the lead in solving the nation’s problems. Twelve years ago, when the Republicans swept into control of Congress, the public was divided over whether GOP congressional leaders (43%), or President Clinton (39%), should take the lead in addressing national problems. And many Democrats are cool to the idea of their leaders cooperating with President Bush. About half of Democrats (51%) say party leaders should “stand up” to Bush on important issues, even if that means less gets done in Washington; 42% believe Democratic leaders should try to work with Bush, even if it means disappointing some Democratic supporters. By contrast, most Republicans (61%) want their party’s leaders to try to work with Democratic leaders, while 30% believe GOP leaders should stand up to the Democrats. Read More