
Just a statistical blip, I guess. Of 21 points.
On several measures, the presumptive Republican nominee is gaining ground on President Obama even as the president has slipped in some areas, according to a new ABC News-Washington Post poll out today.
Which candidate better understands the economic problems of average Americans?
Back in February Obama led Romney on that question by 17 percentage points. But the former Massachusetts governor has managed to cut the president’s advantage roughly in half — down to an 8 point gap.
And who’s more to blame for the tough economy — President George W. Bush or President Obama?
By a 49 to 34 percent margin more Americans still say Bush, but that 15 point divide has narrowed since January when it stood at 25 points.
The poll found the gender gap isn’t so wide anymore. Obama leads among female registered voters 51 to 44 percent — a smaller margin than back in April when he led 57 percent to 38 percent. The reason? Married women, who favored Obama by 4 points last month, now support Romney by 17 points.
Imagine if there was a swing in any category of 21 points in Obama’s favor. You suppose that would generate some headlines?
Worth noting of the issues most important to voters, 19 items are listed. Gay marriage is important to 1% of the respondents. Same for abortion. No wonder Obama wants to distract the public with irrelevant issues.
How bad does it look for Obama? This poll was just of adults, not registered voters, and included only 22% Republicans.

