Social mood and politics; Obama already has Nixonian poll numbers

Poll: Americans find little to like in Washington

Negativity historically hurts the party in power - particularly when it occurs in the second term of a presidency - but this round seems to be hitting everyone. More people now say they see bigger differences between the two parties than before Obama was elected, yet few like what either side is offering. A big unknown: possible fallout from the unresolved budget battle in Washington.

Unless the stock market tanks and the economy weakens, voters will be calm by next November and vote for more of the same. Changes will occur at the primary level, and the net result will be to make things "worse" in the eyes of the "moderate voter," as Republicans and Democrats cull their centrists.

A bad sign for Democrats is that Obama has bled support among independents - 60 percent disapprove of the way Obama is handling his job, while only 16 percent approve. As he began his second term in January, independents tilted positive, 48 percent approved and 39 percent disapproved.

Obama's overall support is down to 37%. Considering about 10% percent of that is African-American voters who support him no matter what, Obama is already in Nixon territory.