This is one poll. I do not like/want it's findings. I prefer Obama do well. Other polls may differ, so don't get all upset or overly excited over one poll.
Only 48% of Democrats on our most recent national survey said they were 'very excited' about voting in 2012. On the survey before that the figure was 49%. Those last two polls are the only times all year the 'very excited' number has dipped below 50%.
In 13 polls before August the average level of Democrats 'very excited' about voting next year had averaged 57%. It had been as high as 65% and only twice had the number even dipped below 55%.
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The debt deal really does appear to have demoralized the base, and the weird thing about it is that this is one issue where if Obama had done what folks on the left wanted him to do, he also would have had the support of independents. The deal has proven to be a complete flop in swing states where we've polled it like Colorado, North Carolina, and Ohio. And in every single one of those states a majority of voters overall, as well as a majority of independents, think new taxes are going to be needed to solve the deficit problem.
PPP Poll: Obama's Base Problem
There are multiple ways to se this. First, it may be wrong: there may be no real problem and it's just bad polling or noise. Second, it may be temporary. Third, it may be correct, but is picking up economic fears rather than an outcome to debt ceiling deal. Fourth, it may be correct. I'm sure there are many more ways to see it also and people will add those ways in the comments.
An important point by PPP is that there is plenty of time until the election.
It's a long way until November 2012 and Obama certainly has time to redeem himself but for the first time in his Presidency I really do think he has an issue with the Democratic base.
PPP Poll: Obama's Base Problem
Let's have a calm discussion.