Shot/Chaser: Obama's Image and the 2012 Election

Published on December 16, 2011 | Luke Frans | President Obama, 2012 Election

Shot: "President Obama has not met with Republican leaders in Congress for 145 days, choosing instead to visit 20 states for 34 policy addresses and 34 campaign speeches." (Richard Wolf, "Observers: Obama has been keeping far afield of Congress," USA Today, 12/16/11)

Chaser: By 53 to 37 percent, Independents believe President Obama is more interested in campaigning against Republicans in Congress to win reelection. (Resurgent Republic, National Survey of Registered Voters, 10/30 - 11/2/11)

At this point in his presidency, do you think Barack Obama is more interested in working with Republicans in Congress to get things done, or campaigning against Republicans in Congress to win reelection?

Party breakdown of Obama's performance