A divided country gets a divisive election

… In a polarized country, energizing the base of the party is a prerequisite to winning the nomination, if not the general election. More so than in some past campaigns, however, the effect of all this seems to be accentuating the gap between left and right, between Democrats and Republicans, […] Read more »

For Republicans, Mounting Fears of Lasting Split

The Republican Party is facing a historic split over its fundamental principles and identity, as its once powerful establishment grapples with an eruption of class tensions, ethnic resentments and mistrust among working-class conservatives who are demanding a presidential nominee who represents their interests. … While warring party factions usually reconcile […] Read more »

Jeb Bush’s Image Among Republicans Deteriorates

Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush’s image among Republicans has steadily worsened over the past 5 ½ months. His current net favorable rating of -1 (44% favorable, 45% unfavorable) among Republicans is significantly lower than his +27 (54% favorable, 27% unfavorable) rating in mid-July. CONT. Frank Newport, Gallup Read more »

Trump Leads, But When It Comes To Second Choice, Cruz Is On Top

While the media has been largely consumed by examining the GOP front-runner, asking about second choices is the key to understanding how the race will likely develop once candidates drop in viability or drop out altogether. In other words, who stands to topple Donald Trump once the field narrows? CONT. […] Read more »