BUSH’S POLLS SEEM TO BE DRIFTING UPWARD, and there are various theories as to why.

The photograph to the right seems to be the most likely explanation, though the reappearance of John Kerry — always good for Bush — may explain part of it too, as may the Administration’s willingness to hit back at its critics. This may not win over a lot of enemies, but it probably heartens a lot of Bush supporters. And given that some of the dissatisfaction with Bush comes from war supporters who think he’s not fighting hard enough at home and abroad, that might make a difference, too.