Although the President's approval rating has risen six points in the last two weeks, Americans still have a negative image of his accomplishments and his skills. Just about a third of those interviewed in the latest Economist/YouGov Poll say that - as president - Barack Obama has accomplished less than they expected he would. Just 19% say he has accomplished more than they expected.
There are concerns even among his base. One in four Democrats and 30% of liberals agree than the President has accomplished less than they expected he would.
56% call the President a "weak" leader, and only 45% call him a "strong" leader.
However, just two weeks ago, only 40% said he was a "strong" leader.
Mr. Obama is not seen as making much progress is critical areas: just 39% say he has made even "some" progress in improving the U.S's image in the world --- fewer than the 45% who thought he had at the end of 2009. Only 35% say he has made some progress in improving the economy, about the same percentage as in 2009. And only 21% say he has made progress improving the partisan tone in Washington - also not much change since 2009.
So when Americans look ahead to the current President's place in history, 41% expect he will be regarded as a "below average" or "poor" president. Just 30% say he will be looked on as "outstanding" or "above average" president.
