Via Greg Sargent, a new Democracy Corps poll finds that most people think President Obama is doing at least as good a job on national security than Bush -- and a plurality, 39%, think he's doing a better job.
When it comes to national security, do you think President Obama is doing better, worse, or about the same as President George W. Bush?
Total better: 39
Total worse: 31
And:
When it comes to combating terrorism and handling terrorism suspects, do you think President Obama is doing better, worse, or about the same as President George W. Bush?
Total better: 38
Total worse: 31
As both Greg and Spencer Ackerman note, these numbers should be a wakeup call to Congressional Democrats who for some reason think it's good politics embrace Republican talking points on national security.
In this case -- as with so many others -- good policy is good politics. Rasmussen polls aside, most Americans think President Obama is doing a good job on national security. In other words: if you're a pol looking for political safe ground on national security, President Obama offers it. Let's hope more Congressional Democrats realize that important fact.
Update (2:52): Politico notes that on the specific question of interrogation of the underpants bomber, 51% disapprove of Obama's approach while 44% agreed. Nonetheless, 57% support Obama overall on national security -- whereas on the congressional side, Republicans have a significant lead over Democrats.