WASHINGTON (AP) - Barack Obama has apparently inspired confidence in his ability to fix the economy. More than 70 percent of the people surveyed say they think he'll do what's needed to deal with the economic problems.

Nearly all Democrats and most independents -- and 44 percent of the Republicans who were surveyed -- expressed that belief.

The poll found a willingness to wait on one of the keynote items of Obama's agenda -- tax cuts. Only about one out of three people surveyed by the Associated Press and GfK said they wanted Obama to make those cuts a top priority when he takes office. Even fewer wanted higher taxes on the rich to be a primary goal.

Instead, 84 percent said strengthening the economy should be a top-tier priority.

Overall, 68 percent said they think that when Obama takes office in January, he'll be able to enact the policies he pushed during his presidential campaign.

Three quarters of those surveyed said the election made them feel hopeful. Six in ten reported feeling proud -- including a third of Republicans.

Just half of those surveyed said they want Obama to make a U.S. troop pullout from Iraq a top focus.


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