Poll Tracker

Gallup periodically does polls measuring how the public rates various professions for honesty and ethics, and taking a look at the results for its Nov. 7-9 survey, this is not a good time to be a lobbyist, telemarketer or car salesman.

Over half the public give low marks to car salesmen, with telemarketers and lobbyists being panned by 60 percent and 64 percent respectively. That perhaps is some consolation for congressman who shine by contrast, with 46 percent - a plurality - not having much regard for them.

Journalists, bankers, building contractors and real estate agents are viewed neutrally although the reputations of bankers - no surprise, given current events - who were rated very highly by 41 percent in 2005, now only get those marks from 23 percent.

Who came out best?

Nurses. Eight-four percent rated their honesty and ethical standards as high or very high.