On Capital Hill

A highly unpopular Republican president, an equally unpopular war in Iraq, a battered GOP brand, economic worries, $4 dollar plus gasoline. It seems like this election should be tailor-made for a Democrat, especially one who’s promising change.

But that’s not what the polls are indicating so far. The latest CNN poll of polls shows Barack Obama leading John McCain 48% to 43%, a difference of just 5 points.

A new Wall Street Journal-NBC poll puts Obama’s lead at 6, which is double his previous lead. However, it’s much smaller than the Democrats’ 16-point lead when voters are asked – without candidates’ names – which party they want to win the White House.

The poll points to strengths and weaknesses of both candidates. When it comes to Obama, he leads John McCain among African-Americans, Hispanics, women, Catholics, Independents and even blue-collar workers. Obama is also ahead, 61% to 19%, among those who say they voted for Hillary Clinton in the primaries. So much for the disaffected Clinton supporters.

But, McCain leads Obama among white men by 20 points. The Arizona senator also tops Obama when it comes to white suburban women, a critical voting block. However - Obama leads McCain among all white women.

As for McCain, his biggest challenge might just be President Bush. One Democratic pollster calls the president a “200-pound ball and chain” around McCain’s ankle. Also, more voters in this survey say they’re looking for a president who will bring change, instead of one who has more experience.

Here’s my question to you:What does it mean if Barack Obama and John McCain are less than ten points apart in the polls?

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