Guardian Runs With Made Up Info

Iranian President Ahmadinejad has the support of the people according to the Guardian:

The popularity of Iran's controversial leader, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is surging almost a year after he unexpectedly won closely contested presidential elections, Iranian officials and western diplomats said on Tuesday.

Attributing his success to his populist style and fortnightly meet-the-people tours of the country, the sources said, as matters stand, Mr Ahmadinejad was the clear favourite to win a second term in 2009. The perception that the president was standing up to the US over the nuclear issue was also boosting his standing.

"He's more popular now than a year ago. He's on the rise," said Nasser Hadian-Jazy, a professor of political science at Tehran University. "I guess he has a 70% approval rating right now. He portrays himself as a simple man doing an honest job. He's comfortable communicating with ordinary people."

So based on the word of one who has every reason to support Ahmadinejad, the Guardian runs with the 70% number. It's not based on any scientific data mind you, just the word of one professor.

The other 30% are in prison or worse.

In my opinion, Ahmadinejad is a slacker. Prior to Saddam being forced into a rat hole, he had the backing of 100% of the Iraqi populace.