LATE POLLING NEWS – AT 9:42 A.M. ET:  On President's Day, Scott Rasmussen gives us a taste of lasting public assessment of past presidents:

Eighty-nine percent (89%) of adults have a favorable opinion of Washington, including 54% who view the nation's first president very favorably. Ninety-three percent (93%) regard Lincoln favorably, with 63% who have a very favorable opinion of the 16th president.

Huh?  Only 54% view Washington very favorably?  What did he do wrong?  I would have imagined that both he and Lincoln would have scored higher in the "very favorable" category.  Maybe the educational establishment has had its impact in tearing down our past.

Men have a higher opinion of Washington; women favor Lincoln more. Republicans put Washington first, with Lincoln and Reagan nearly tied for second. Democrats rank Lincoln highest and Roosevelt second, well ahead of Washington. Adults not affiliated with either party put Lincoln in first, closely followed by Reagan and Washington.

It is remarkable to see the impact that Reagan has had.  Now, a cautionary note:  People are more familiar with recent presidents, and that accounts for some bias.  But still, Reagan's standing glows. 

I would have put Truman way up there as well.  His handling of the post-war years made it possible for us eventually to win the Cold War. 

February 15, 2010