Changes

=== Other Reasons for Romney's Loss ===

=== Other Reasons for Romney's Loss ===

There are other reasons, both in campaign tactics and in substance, that might explain Romney's loss.  Indeed, most students in this class predicted weeks ago that Romney would lose, even though Romney was ahead in the polls during periods in October.

There are other reasons, both in campaign tactics and in substance, which might explain Romney's loss.  Indeed, most students in this class predicted weeks ago that Romney would lose, even though Romney was ahead in the polls during periods in October.

One possible reason for Romney losing was how he handled the important final debate.  He intentionally appeared friendlier and more conciliatory in his attempt to win support of more women voters, and indicated that he agreed with Obama on several positions.  Obama's approval rating then improved and most people thought he won the debate, because even his sharpest critic (Romney) seemed in agreement with him.  The slight improvement in Obama's approval rating, from about 48% to 50%, may have meant the difference between Romney winning or losing.  Obama received a vote total of 50%, exactly the same as his approval rating.  Had Obama's rating stayed at 48%, then his final vote total may have been only 48%, and he may have lost.  This was an illustration of why a political candidate should not agree with the incumbent he is trying to defeat.

One possible reason for Romney losing was how he handled the important final debate.  He intentionally appeared friendlier and more conciliatory in his attempt to win support of more women voters, and indicated that he agreed with Obama on several positions.  Obama's approval rating then improved and most people thought he won the debate, because even his sharpest critic (Romney) seemed in agreement with him.  The slight improvement in Obama's approval rating, from about 48% to 50%, may have meant the difference between Romney winning or losing.  Obama received a vote total of 50%, exactly the same as his approval rating.  Had Obama's rating stayed at 48%, then his final vote total may have been only 48%, and he may have lost.  This was an illustration of why a political candidate should not agree with the incumbent he is trying to defeat.

9. Do you think the U.S. Constitution prevents the people of New Jersey from recalling a U.S. Senator?  Discuss.

9. Do you think the U.S. Constitution prevents the people of New Jersey from recalling a U.S. Senator?  Discuss.

<br>10.  The Republican Party has lost the popular vote in presidential elections in 5 out of the last 6 elections.  Do you think the Republican Party can win the presidency in 2016?

<br>10.  The Republican Party has lost the popular vote in presidential elections in 5 out of the last 6 elections.  Do you think the Republican Party can win the presidency in 2016?

<br>11. Do you expect Governor Chris Christie to run for reelection in 2013, and would he win?  Discuss.  

<br>11. Now that New Jersey Governor will not be appointed Attorney General in Romney Administration, because Romney lost, do you expect Governor Christie to run for reelection in 2013, and will he likely win?  Discuss.  

<br>12.  Do you think Romney could have won if he had campaigned in a different way, or taken different positions?  Discuss.

<br>12.  Do you think Romney could have won if he had campaigned in a different way, or taken different positions?  Discuss.

<br>13.  Discuss any topic in this lecture.

<br>13.  Discuss any topic in this lecture.