So, according to some columnist at the Boston Herald, Pres. Obama's approval rating has magically plummeted from the mid-60's to an even 50-50 based, supposedly, on the "Special Olympics" and "Punch-Drunk Laughing" memes.
Somehow, I suspect this is crap.
Look, I realize that there's a huge danger in blinding ourselves to reality, in refusing to face facts, in denying data that doesn't support our world view, etc. In other words, there's a huge danger in acting like a Republican.
However, since the Zogby poll that the Herald refers to hasn't been released yet, I'm going to make a prediction right now: I'm willing to bet that it's actually one of his asinine "interactive online" polls.
Now, I suppose it's possible that Zogby has it right--that Obama is now as disliked as he is liked.
I doubt it, however.
For those who are 'concerned' about whatever Zogby releases, let me just say this: If it turns out to be one of his stupid "interactive" polls, forget it. Throw it in the trash, 'cus it's garbage. I used to participate in those, until I realized what utter shit the "methodology" is--they might as well be a FOX 'freep-this' poll.
Even if it turns out to be a "real" poll, my understanding is that Zogby has had a pretty crappy track record for some time now. I'll be very curious about what Nate Silver has to say about it, if he bothers responding to the story whatsoever.
Update: Well, I just had my question answered: USA Today is running with it (of course, so are Hot Air and other right-wing sites, but what do you expect from them?)
UPDATE X2: Hah! While I was writing the last update, Nate at 538 posted his own analysis, and it's pretty much what you'd expect. Just to give you an idea, here's his own headline:
The Worst Pollster in the World Strikes Again
Updated x3:I KNEW IT!!
Obama's Job Performance Drops Under 50%
UTICA, NY - A March 20-23 Zogby Interactive survey...