In terms of their own personal life, most Americans (54%) say that 2007 was either a good year, an excellent year, or one of the best years ever in their life. However, a Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that voters were less optimistic when rating the year for the nation at large. Just 35% said that, for the USA, 2007 was good, excellent, or one of the best years ever. (see crosstabs)

At the other extreme, 25% said the year was just fair for them on a personal basis and 20% rated 2007 as poor. For the nation at large, 39% said fair and 26% poor.

Looking ahead to 2008, there is more optimism. Sixty-eight percent (68%) say that the coming year will be a good one for them personally. Twenty-one percent (21%) say fair and 7% are expecting a poor year.

For the nation at large, 51% expect 2008 to be a good year, 28% say fair, and 15% poor.

Republicans are far more optimistic than Democrats or unaffiliated voters. Sixty-two percent (62%) of the GOP faithful rated 2007 as a good year for the nation while 70% have that hope for 2008. Among Democrats, just 18% rated 2007 as a good year for the country and 46% have that expectation for 2008. As for those not affiliated with either major party, 29% say that 2007 was a good year and 39% expect 2008 to be a good year for the USA.

Thirty-nine percent (39%) of men rate 2007 as a good year for the nation and 31% of women agree. Looking to 2008, 50% of men express an expectation for a good year along with 52% of women.

Just 25% of voters believe it is even somewhat likely that U.S. combat troops will be withdrawn from Iraq in 2008. That figure includes 5% who believe a troop withdrawal is Very Likely.

Sixty-eight percent (68%) say it is not likely that most U.S. combat troops will leave Iraq during the coming year.

See survey questions and topline results. Crosstabs are available to Premium Members only.