With his job approval at 50 percent, President Obama is enjoying his highest performance rating since the spring of 2013, according to a
Washington Post-ABC poll released today.
Not surprisingly, Democrats give Obama the most love, with 85 percent approving of his job performance compared to just 14 percent of Republicans. But independents are far closer to Democrats in their viewpoint, with 46 percent favoring the president's performance.
A steadily improving economy and decreasing unemployment are mostly responsible for the bump in numbers.
Two Gallup polls released last week also highlight a more optimistic mood nationwide, particularly where the economy is concerned.
People's satisfaction with the economy jumped to 41 percent, up 13 points from 28 percent a year ago.
And just 7 percent of respondents said jobs or unemployment was the most important problem facing the country, the lowest number since October 2008.
Mentions of unemployment and jobs are down significantly from a peak of 39% in September 2011.