The Nation - News from Feb. 22, 1987

The Democratic Party, in the wake of the Iran- contra scandal, registered sharp gains in a poll of Americans’ perceptions as better able than the Republican Party to keep the nation prosperous and at peace. The Gallup Poll said 39% of the public cited the Democrats as the “party of peace,” 29% cited the Republicans and 32% saw little difference or were undecided. In October, the GOP held a 34% to 29% advantage. Neither party has a significant edge as the “party of prosperity,” with 38% of those polled naming the Republicans, 37% the Democrats and 25% uncommitted. In October, the GOP enjoyed a 41% to 30% lead.