The American public has had a significant shift of opinion from last May when Democrats and Republicans were viewed as equally capable of insuring the security and well-being of the nation, a new poll run by a Liberal group has found. Now, a sizable majority, 50% vs 33% think the Republicans do a better job than Democrats on the national security front.

Further, a majority of Americans 51 percent to 41 percent — think the standing of the U.S. dropped during the first 13 months of Mr. Obama’s presidency.

“The erosion since May is especially strong among women, and among independents, who now favor Republicans on this question by a 56 to 20 percent margin,” the pollsters said in their findings. Other findings are:
• “Keeping America safe”: Democrats now trail by 13 points (34 percent to 47 percent.) The gap was just 5 points in July 2008.

• “Ensuring a strong military”: Democrats trail by 31 points (27 percent to 58 percent.)

• “Making America safer from nuclear threats”: Democrats trail by 11 points (34 percent to 45 percent,) “despite the president’s strong actions and speeches on steps to reduce nuclear dangers,” the pollsters said.