Keller @ Large: A Positive Spin On The News

BOSTON (CBS) - Are you up for a little positive news, or at least some positive spin on the news?

I have decided to keep an extra sharp eye out for positive signs in our political culture, if for no other reason than to be counterintuitive. And believe me, as the president-elect likes to say, it isn't easy.

But I think I've found some in the results of a new CNN/ORC poll that – despite an election that seemed to showcase harsh partisanship, gullibility and extremism – shows voters with healthy doses of skepticism, moderation, and bipartisanship.

For starters, half of the country thinks its bad news that one party will control both the executive and legislative branches for at least the next two years, always a good decision. When the 2008 election resulted in Democratic control of both branches, only 38% thought it would be bad for the country.

They were wrong.

Back then, 86% of voters said they'd rather see the Democrats include Republican input into their work. Almost the same number, 79%, want to see the same from the Republicans now, also a wise judgement.

And in a big time warning to the incoming administration, only 40% say they think Trump has a mandate to ignore differing viewpoints, while 53% say losing the popular vote means he has to broaden his outreach.

It's good news that voters are so cautious about possible overreach.

It's good news that they largely reject the partisanship so many in DC try to sell us.

And it's good news that they want the new president to avoid some of the worst mistakes of his predecessor.

Now, the big question – will the egomaniacs in Trump Tower do a better job of listening than the Obama-era egomaniacs did?

Listen to Jon's commentary: