Obama’s Lead Widens, McCain Falters in Latest Pew Poll

Susan Davis reports on the presidential race. The presidential race is increasing breaking in Barack Obama ’s favor, with the latest Pew Research Center poll giving the Illinois senator his widest lead yet, 52%-38%, over rival John McCain . Contributing to Obama’s edge is increased voter confidence in his candidacy. In particular, a majority of voters, 53%-32%, identify Obama as the best candidate to improve the U.S. economy, the No. 1 issue in this election year. McCain has also done himself no favors, according to the poll. Fewer voters view McCain as “inspiring” as they did one month ago, with 37% saying so now, while 43% said so in mid-September. In contrast, 71% of voters identify Obama as inspiring. More voters, 41%, also say McCain has poor judgment while just 29% say the same about Obama. McCain’s age has also increasingly become an issue for voters. At 72 years old, McCain would be the oldest president ever sworn in to a first term. About one-third, 34%, said McCain ... (link)