Nixon's Approvals Among the Best In the Country

The Star's Steve Kraske has in interesting column today comparing the approval ratings of Barack Obama and Jay Nixon, and wondering whether their different standings is tied to their respective approaches to governing.  I think there's a danger in overemphasizing their governing and policy philosophies in trying to explain the differences in their approval ratings, but I won't quibble with the numbers.  From the column: 

Nixon, meanwhile, continues to tread on hallowed political ground, especially considering the tough economic times. Some 55 percent of Missouri voters approve of his job performance, Rasmussen found. Some 41 percent disapprove.

That’s regarded as one of the best sets of numbers for a sitting governor anywhere in the country.