Public Softens Slightly on Bush

President Bush inched up from record lows in one poll this week, thanks in part to buzz around David Petraeus’ report on Iraq. His overall approval rating was 33% in the latest Journal/NBC News poll, up from 31% in July. The results reveal the complexity of Americans' feelings toward the war: They want it over but can’t agree on when.

While 26% want US troops out of Iraq now, 24% support leaving only after the country is stable, and 37% support a gradual withdrawal in an effort to prevent sudden violence. The poll results may strengthen Bush’s position in upcoming clashes over expedited withdrawal. Despite his gains, Americans want a Democratic Congress and president in 2008, the poll results indicate. (More Iraq stories.)