President Obama faces strong disapproval on handling economy [Politico-GWU, 10/8]: Among likely voters, 44 percent strongly disapprove of Obama’s handling of the economy. Thirty-three percent strongly approve. More (46 percent) strongly disapprove of his handling of the federal deficit and government spending while 18 percent strongly approve.

First debate levels the race [Gallup, 10/8]: Mitt Romney received a two-point bounce among all registered voters after the presidential debate last week. The race is now tied 47-47.

Swing state Colorado tied [Rasmussen, 10/8]: Likely voters in Colorado are split 49 percent for Obama, 48 percent for Romney.

…Same for Virginia, Wisconsin [PPP, 10/7]: Obama leads Virginia 50 to 47 percent. He’s also leading Wisconsin 49 to 47 percent.

The horse race [RCP average, 10/8]: An average of national polls shows Obama leading Romney 48.3 to 47.2.