led to Democrats losing the House of Representatives and retaining only a slim majority in the Senate after the 2010 midterm elections. Drawing from the most recent National Election Study surveys, this substantial supplement includes an array of tables and figures featuring new data and includes close analysis of: the Tea Party s impact on election outcomes, as well as more detailed coverage of some of the most noteworthy races in Delaware, Nevada, Alaska, and Florida; the role of independents in elections, particularly in this era of partisan polarization; the influence of record campaign spending on election outcomes; and whether supporting President Obama s major programs helped or hurt members of Congress. The authors answer the question, "What do the 2010 midterm elections mean?" and consider whether the outcome is simply the result of a poor economy, if health care reform ought to be repealed or did Americans just want to throw out the scoundrels?About the twelfth edition: Flanigan and Zingale continue their thorough and accessible analytical overview of the political behavior of the American voter in this twelfth edition. Delving deeply into the 2008 National Election Study data, the authors explore the impact of innovative mobilization efforts, the effects of the waning war in Iraq and the economic slump on voting choice, and the continuing trends of polarization and partisanship all in a way that is clear and engaging to students. The book s updated tables and figures are available electronically and free for adopters, and a brandnew companion website offers datasets and exercises.

Hide more