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John Daley ReportingNew approval numbers are out for President George W. Bush and Utah is one of the few bright spots. A new Survey USA poll for KSL-TV finds a solid majority in Utah support the President. But even here, the President's numbers aren't what they once were. The question ahead is, will it change the landscape for the upcoming mid-term elections?
In Utah it's Republican Orrin Hatch versus Democrat Pete Ashdown. But this year the name that could decide races around the US isn't even on the ballot. George W. Bush. State-by-state polling by Survey USA for KSL-TV finds his ratings below 50% in 46 states.
In Utah, Bush's approval is at 55%. He's more popular here than any other state, but he's seen a drop from 63% in December, and 40% disapprove.
Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R) Utah: "The president, he'll come back up in the polls. I have no doubt about it. And I think people who don't stick with this president are making a tragic mistake. First of all, you don't cut and run."
Pete Ashdown, (D) Candidate for Senate: "I think there's a minor shift. I wouldn't say it's going to throw every race democratic this year. I have talked to a lot of republicans who are dismayed at the fiscal problems, dismayed at the expansion we have throughout the world and the expansion of the government as well."
On Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, the two candidates disagree, if mildly.
Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R) Utah: "You've had six generals who were close to Clinton who've found fault with him. Let's face it, the man has been a terrific leader. He's been trying to change the pentagon and change the military so that it's a more efficient force."
Pete Ashdown, (D) Candidate for Senate: "I think it might be worth a change. You know, I don't know what we'd get in a replacement for him."
Seven months out, both Hatch and Ashdown see issues like jobs or immigration as more top of mind.
Reporter: "Are you hearing about it on the campaign trail and what do you tell people who say 'Senator, I'm just not happy with this president?'"
Sen. Orrin Hatch, (R) Utah: "Well, every once in a while you hear it, but most people out here are happy, that I've met with."
Pete Ashdown, (D) Candidate for Senate: "There have been a few republicans that have come up to me and expressed their dismay and said they'll vote for me, but I wouldn't say it's a tide."
In this poll, President Bush's highest approval rating in Utah's is followed by Wyoming, Idaho and Nebraska, all above 51%. The lowest is in Rhode Island where 24% approve and 74% disapprove.
