President Obama’s approval ratings have hit a new high for his second term at 55%, according to a CNN/ORC poll released Thursday.
It continues a seven-month streak of approval ratings over 50% for the lame-duck president. And it brings his 2016 average to 51%—its highest level since his first year as President.
A similar poll a year ago put Obama’s approval 10 points lower. The rising ratings are mostly due to a 12-point spike in approval from Democrats and a 14-point spike in approval from independents. Only 13% of Republicans approve of him.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Caitlin Clark Is TIME's 2024 Athlete of the Year
- Where Trump 2.0 Will Differ From 1.0
- Is Intermittent Fasting Good or Bad for You?
- The 100 Must-Read Books of 2024
- Column: If Optimism Feels Ridiculous Now, Try Hope
- The Future of Climate Action Is Trade Policy
- FX’s Say Nothing Is the Must-Watch Political Thriller of 2024
- Merle Bombardieri Is Helping People Make the Baby Decision
Write to Julia Zorthian at julia.zorthian@time.com