A more useful benchmark: LA Times's pre-convention poll

[Bucky]

In all the kvetching about polls, I thought that this poll from last week offers a better, unspun snapshot of that national mood. It's from the LA Times, which I consider a far more reliable and objective source than the NY Times or WaPo.

Essentially people see Bush as far more rigid and (gag) more experienced in dealing w/ security issues. Kerry did exactly what he needed to do at the convention--hammer home the message about his war experience (which really isn't all that important as far leading the country in war goes, eg Abe Lincoln, FDR) and his experience in working on security issues in the Congress (which is very important and quite substantive).

Character and personality issues are a wash. Kerry's got the advantage on the economy. He went right after Bush's strengths and I think held his own. I'm not happy about the first post convention polls, but the big picture is what really matters and I think we're doing okay there.

Which of the following applies? Bush Kerry

Cares about people like me . . . 34% . 44%

Strong leader for the country. . 44% . 42%

Honesty and integrity to serve . 42% . 42%

Flip flops on the issues . . . . 31% . 43%

Best for country vs terrorism. . 49% . 31%

Better ideas for economy . . . . 35% . 48%

Build respect for the U.S. . . . 38% . 44%

Shares my moral values . . . . . 44% . 38%

Doesn’t admit mistakes and is
inflexible in changing mind. . . 55% . 20%

More likely to develop a plan for
achieving success in Iraq. . . . 46% . 37%