Do note: He doesn’t lead the Republican field with those over 50. He leads Barack Obama. In the general election. Could it be that Social Security isn’t actually hurting him?

Perry trails Obama by 15 percentage points among women and barely leads among men. Perry trails among voters under 40, runs even among 40-somethings and leads among those 50 and older. It’s worth remembering that most voters over 40 voted against Obama in 2008.

Perry currently attracts just 71% of the Republican vote, while the president wins 85% of Democrats. Among voters not affiliated with either party, the race is a toss-up.

Allah notes that Perry could be flailing thanks to his poor debate performance rather than Social Security. If there’s any group that will be afraid of reform talk on Social Security it’d be those closest to retirement or currently retired. And yet…

In fact, Rasmussen’s crosstabs reveal that Perry leads Obama 49/38 among voters aged 65 or over. In 2008, McCain won that demographic 53/45. Perry’s outperforming him — for the moment.

Perry — a guy who talks about reforming Social Security — is outperforming the 73-year-old, war hero lovable grandpa who portrayed himself as a moderate. Not quite the expected result.

Something else of note: As with all nomination polling, that “he only attracts 71% of Republicans” stat is bullcrap. You’re telling me 29% of registered Republicans would either stay home or vote for Barack Obama? Really? They would allow four more years of the Obama Administration? 29% of Republicans? Just to spite Rick Perry? Uh huh. I’ve got a bridge to sell you, if you believe that.