Christie Most Popular Pol In the Nation: Poll

Quinnipiac University’s “Feeling Thermometer” puts a temperature on elected officials, with the higher the number the more people who like the official. On that rating, Christie is at a hot 53.1 degrees, with a familiar face, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as the runner up, with 52.1.

“Clinton’s score is not surprising given her lengthy political career and especially strong support among Democrats and women,” said Peter A. Brown, assistant director of Quinnipiac’s Polling Institute. “But Gov. Christopher Christie’s rating is impressive given that his experience — less than four years as governor — pales compared to Mrs. Clinton’ s resume.”

A surprise third place goes to newly-elected Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, followed by President Barack Obama and Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, who are tied at 47.6 degrees. The four lowest scores went to the congressional leaders of both parties.

A caveat to Christie’s popularity is that much of it comes from Americans overall. As he contemplates a 2016 presidential run, Christie ranks only eighth in the hearts of Republican voters, with 59.8 degrees. Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, the 2012 Republican vice presidential candidate, generates the most heat among Republicans, with 68.7 degrees.

Americans like tea party Sens. Ted Cruz of Texas and Marco Rubio of Florida, right behind Obama, followed by Vice President Joe Biden.

This article appeared in print on page 16 of the August 7th, 2013 edition of Hamodia.