Most Americans (53%) discuss the War in Iraq with family, friends, and co-workers at least once a week. A Rasmussen Reports survey found that 28% discuss the War occasionally while only 17% rarely or never bring up the subject.

Sixty-one percent (61%) of Democrats discuss the topic at least once a week along with 46% of Republicans and 48% of those not affiliated with either party.

Other survey data suggests that these discussions are not terribly optimistic. Only 31% believe the situation in Iraq is getting better while 44% say it is getting worse.

Republicans, by a 60% to 16% margin, believe things are getting better in Iraq. Democrats, by a 68% to 12% margin, believe things are getting worse. Forty-four percent (44%) of those not affiliated with either party say the situation is getting worse while 21% say it is getting better.

Forty-three percent (43%) of American voters believe that President Bush is doing a good or an excellent job handling the situation in Iraq. Forty-one percent (41%) believe he is doing a poor job. These figures are updated weekly.

Sixty-four percent (64%) believe the War in Iraq is hurting the U.S. economy. Only 15% believe it is helping the economy.

An earlier survey found that nearly half of American voters know someone currently serving in Iraq or Afghanistan.

Other survey data shows that most Americans believe that the United Nations is somewhere between an enemy and an ally in the War on Terror. Public assessments of France are even harsher.

Rasmussen Reports is an independent public opinion research firm that provides daily updates on the Presidential election and the nation's economic confidence. We also update our Electoral College projections on a regular basis.

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