Democrats encouraged about Obama in 2012

WASHINGTON — After a dreary summer marred by the fight over government borrowing, rank-and-file Democrats say they are growing more optimistic about President Barack Obama's political prospects in 2012. They cite his tougher, more populist tone and what they view as a chaotic primary fight among Republicans.

AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster, File

President Barack Obama talks about the economy at Osawatomie High School in Osawatomie, Kansas.

Many Democrats acknowledged that high unemployment and economic uncertainty create formidable obstacles for the incumbent. But interviews with more th...