By Alabama Public Radio
Mobile, AL – A survey shows more than half of Alabama residents say the nation's highest priority should be dealing with the war in Iraq. That differs from the national trend that indicates most Americans place their biggest concerns with the economy. Some observers say Alabama's confidence in the economy may be related to the state's continuing strong support for the re-election of President Bush. Eight percent of poll respondents said the national economy is in very good condition, while 55 percent more said it's in fairly good condition. The economy was rated fairly bad by 21 percent and very bad by 14 percent. Alabama's positive view of the national economy comes at a time when the state continues to have fewer jobs than it did in 2000...but is still seeing an increase in incomes. The Mobile Register-University of South Alabama poll surveyed more than 400 people.