Our yen for “yes” or “no” answers sometimes clouds our understanding — in this case, of presidential debates. Observers seem wedded to saying either “Yes, debates do have an impact” or “No, they don’t.” Reality is more complicated. [cont.] Mark Mellman Read more »
Obama’s surge fizzles out
Polls released over this past weekend suggest that Barack Obama’s September run-up in the polls has been blunted. Most often, now, the president is just below the magic 50 percent threshold that an incumbent must eclipse. [cont.] David Hill Read more »
One Debate Goal: Sway the Swayable
… Presidential debates don’t often change the course of a campaign. … Still, with the 2012 election continuing to be a cliffhanger in many polls, the candidates are looking for every opportunity to win votes. … Tad Devine, a senior adviser to Al Gore during the 2000 campaign, said “the […] Read more »
National Journal: Obama, Romney Tied Among Likely Voters
President Obama and Mitt Romney are deadlocked among likely voters as they prepare to square off in their first presidential debate, according to the latest United Technologies/National Journal Congressional Connection Poll. … Romney led in the poll among independents, 49 percent to 41 percent, with both candidates winning more than […] Read more »
Obama Lead Over Romney Similar to 2008 Margin Over McCain
President Barack Obama’s advantage over Republican challenger Mitt Romney among female voters is similar to his pre-election margins four years ago, though Obama’s edge among all voters is smaller than at a similar point in 2008. … Female voters have been more supportive of Democrats for decades, while men vote […] Read more »
What voters want in Wednesday’s debate
… Obama has opened a modest advantage over Romney since the political conventions ended last month, especially in the battleground states. But as the presidential rivals prepare to face off in the first of three debates, a USA TODAY/Gallup Poll shows Obama with vulnerabilities and Romney with assets — even […] Read more »