Democrats, More United than Republicans

A new Washington Post-ABC News poll reveals more self-identified Republicans disapprove of the way Republicans are handling federal spending than approve of their performance. Barack Obama's handling of federal spending did not rate well, either, with 52% of all adults disapproving. Democrats, though, show much more unity and cohesion, with 74% of self-identified Democrats approving of President Obama's handling of federal spending. 

The Republicans are in a dilemma. Part of their constituency wants a more libertarian form of government, with very little spending, while the other half relies on social welfare programs, such as Medicare. This schism is evident by the fact that House Speaker John Boehner has now brought two bills to the House floor for a vote that lacked substantial Republican support.