For much of 2011, Americans cited the economy in general, unemployment, dissatisfaction with government, and the deficit as the top problems facing the country. The latest update does show a few notable changes, however.

First, the percentages mentioning the economy in general and unemployment are down from November, including an 11-point drop in mentions of unemployment.

Related to this, the 64% of Americans mentioning any economic issue is the lowest Gallup has measured in over a year, since July 2010, though it remains well above the average of 45% since 2001.

Also, the 16% of Americans who say “the government” or “politicians” is the most important problem is the highest Gallup has measured since January 1996.