New poll shows some Republican gains, but majority disappointed with both parties

{mosads}”The Republican brand took a hit after the debt-ceiling debate this summer, with the party’s favorable ratings dropping eight points. Now, although the GOP still lags behind the Democrats, it has regained most of its strength,” said CNN Polling Director Keating Holland.

Americans aren’t particularly enthralled with either party, though — 56 percent of those polled said that Republican leaders are pursuing policies that would lead the country in the wrong direction, while 53 percent of Americans say the same about Democrats.

The universal disappointment will likely contribute to a volatile election season, in which Republicans see opportunity with a souring economy but are struggling to paint themselves as a more desirable alternative. While the GOP has made some inroads with older Americans, and Democrats with women and younger voters, neither has managed to ignite a passionate base.

“Men and women agree that the GOP policies are a bust, but women are split on the Democratic policies while men continue to dislike them. There is a generation gap as well, with younger Americans tending to favor the Democrats’ policies and older Americans more in the GOP camp,” Holland said.