Steve Benen posted this chart today:
Yes, reform is gain in popularity. And no, it really doesn't matter. What matters, I think, in the long run are the numbers at the far lefthand side of the chart showing overwhelming support for reform.
Here's why.
Healthcare reform has been relentlessly demonized for an entire year. I'm actually shocked that it's not more unpopular than it is, all things considered.
Secondly, people don't like watching laws get made. It's messy and confusing. Actually, people don't like governing in general for the same reason. I've always believed that if an independent third party -- or even the tea party -- were to be forced to legislate, it would be about as popular as the current parties.
Third, there isn't a specific final bill for anyone to ballyhoo. Just abstract principles -- some of which are in bill form.
But before the process began, healthcare reform was hugely popular. I suspect that once the bill and the sidecar are passed, and people learn about what's really in there, we'll see the numbers move back into that February, 2009 range.