WASHINGTON (AP) - When you hear the names John McCain and Barack Obama, what are the first words that come to mind?

People were asked that question for an Associated Press-Yahoo News poll that's out today. Researchers have followed the same 2,000 or so people since November to gauge how their views have changed during the presidential campaign.

Nearly one in five blurted out "old" as their image of McCain, and "outsider" or "change" when it comes to Obama. In January, fewer than one in 10 volunteered those descriptions.

But even though Obama is also seen as more likable and someone who cares more about "people like you," there's been an increase in the number who take an unfavorable view of the Democratic candidate, especially among whites and independents.

McCain has the edge as a military leader and is seen as more decisive. But six in 10 think the Republican would follow the policies of President Bush.


(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)