The Nation - News from Feb. 2, 1989

President Bush, like his predecessor, has begun his presidency with the approval of a majority of the American people, according to a Gallup poll. Less than a week after he took office, 51% approve of Bush’s job performance while 6% disapprove. High levels of uncertainty are characteristic of early surveys of incoming presidents, but an exceptionally large number, 43%, have not yet formed opinions about Bush, the poll said. President Reagan also received a 51% approval rating early in his tenure. But Reagan left office last month riding an unprecedented wave of popularity, and the high rate of people undecided on Bush may reflect some public uncertainty that he can match Reagan.