The problem with polls

Another poll with a problem:

As hearings begin today in the Senate on his nomination, the survey found that 53 percent of the public says Alito should be confirmed to serve on the court--virtually identical to the proportion that supported John Roberts' confirmation as chief justice four months ago. One in four--27 percent--say Alito should be rejected by the Senate.

Republican bloggers will note that part of the poll and move on. However:

The survey also found that most Americans expect Alito, if confirmed, would not vote to strike down Roe v. Wade.

That, many liberals would suggest, is a false view of Alito's beliefs, and that belief, in turn, props up his support numbers. That idea is supported in this poll, which shows that close to 70% of Americans would oppose Alito if he would vote to make abortion illegal, a position he will no doubt be unwilling to put on the record.