We've been tracking impressive new progressive legislation, from environmental to voting rights to family leave to budget reform laws in states across the country.

But are these gains just a temporary reaction against the failures of national leadership, or are they based on a solid foundation of changes in public opinion?

In fact, a major multi-decade study of public opinion published just in the last few weeks by the Pew Research Center emphasizes that current political changes are matched by a strengthening of progressive values in the public. The study, Trends in Political Values and Core Attitudes: 1987-2007, shows that not only have there been important shifts in the last couple of years, but more importantly, there are long-term trends over the past few decades that have created opportunities for progressive leaders to deliver bold programs that take on the cynicism that affects too many Americans.

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