When Democrats formally take control of Congress in January, they may benefit from one of the most important tactical advantages in the political world—low expectations. On a series of key issues, most American voters are pessimistic about what Congress will accomplish in the next couple of years.

On the subject of Iraq, 32% are optimistic about what Congress will accomplish while 56% are pessimistic. Of the five issues we asked about, that is the most upbeat assessment.

On immigration, 27% are optimistic about what Congress will accomplish and 58% are pessimistic. On taxes, the numbers are 30% optimistic and 56% pessimistic.

Just 23% are optimistic about the chances for cleaning up corruption while 63% hold the opposite view. On government spending, 23% offer a positive answer while 61% disagree.

While there is a decided partisan flavor to the responses, a plurality or majority of Democrats are pessimistic on every single issue in the survey. On Iraq, there is little difference between perceptions of Republicans and Democrats.

These numbers suggest a certain hopelessness among the public. However, they also showthat there is tremendous upside potential for Democrats in Congress if Nancy Pelosi and her team are able to generate significant policy accomplishments. In the fall of 2002, fewer than 40% of Americans believed President Bush would succeed in removing Saddam Hussein from power. When that goal was achieved, the President’s approval ratings soared. Since then, subsequent events have changed public opinion dramatically concerning both the situation in Iraq and President Bush (see the President’s Job Approval Ratings).

Most of the incoming Congressional leaders are little known to the public. Pelosi is viewed as politically liberal by 52%.

The incoming Congress also benefits from the fact that just 15% of Likely Voters said the Republican-led Congress was doing a good or excellent job.

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