Since when did less than half = "the public"?

Today’s Washington Post had a cover story titled: “Public Supportive of Alito.” Oddly however, the actual text of the article belies that title, claiming that only 49% of the public support him, with 30% unsupportive. The article went on to say the following:

“The poll suggests that Alito's supporters had some reason for concern. Initial public reaction to Alito was considerably less favorable than it has been to a number of other recent successful court nominees, according to Post-ABC News polls.”

Other finding from Gallup (courtesy of Taegan Goddard's Political Wire):

• If it becomes clear Alito would vote to reverse Roe v. Wade, Americans would not want the Senate to confirm him, by 53% to 37%.
  
• If most Senate Democrats oppose the nomination and decide to filibuster against Alito, 50% of Americans believe they would be justified, while 40% say they would not.
  
• If the Republicans pursue the "nuclear option" and eliminate the filibuster on judicial nominations, Americans would be evenly divided as to whether that tactic was justified -- 45% say it would be, 47% say it would not.