Americans aren't confident about officials' efforts to deal with the country's problems, a new George Washington University Battleground poll found.
The poll, a joint effort by Democratic pollster Celinda Lake and Republican pollster Ed Goeas, found more than 55 percent strongly feel the nation is on the wrong track.
Fifty-four percent think Washington officials can't work together to solve problems.
The news for the upcoming election is ominous for incumbents: Among likely voters, the poll found 54 percent thinking a new lawmaker should have a chance at the Capitol, while 29 percent say their incumbent deserves re-election.
“2013 certainly took a toll on the public's view of Washington,” said George Washington University Professor Chris Arterton in a statement. “Performance ratings are down across the board and a general sense of discouragement has set in. The public is clearly focused on jobs and the economy and doesn't feel that the politicians are addressing their issues.”
Republicans see a big opening with the Affordable Care Act--they keep reminding voters of its troubles. The poll found 56 percent are against the law, while 40 percent favor it. Support for the law has decreased slightly since December.