Most Americans wanted more extensive health care reform

For all the criticisms lobbed at the president's health care overhaul, a new poll shows that a large majority Americans wanted a government health plan that went further than the reform Obama signed into law in the spring. Those respondents outnumbered Americans who think government should stay out of health care 2-to-1.

The Associated Press poll found that about 4 in 10 adults believe the law "did not go far enough to change the health care system, regardless of whether they support the law, oppose it or remain neutral." One in five adults said they oppose the reform bill because they disagree with federal involvement in health care.

Of all adults surveyed, 30 percent favored the legislation, 40 percent opposed it, and 30 percent were neutral.

Democrats have been struggling to capitalize on health care reform amid polls showing overall public disapproval for the measure. Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress and those running for office have been calling for a total repeal of the health care law.

But the current Associated Press poll shows that a repeal of the president's health care plan wouldn't necessarily satisfy the 75 percent of Americans who want further changes to the nation's health care system.

(Photo: Getty Images/Joe Raedle)