As pundits, politicians and public commentators intensely debate the election results, I caution against hyperbole and overinterpretation of what was, in reality, a close race, though the margin of victory looks wider than it actually is, due to the special quirk of the electoral college system. This, together with the geographic concentration of party affiliation and just two political parties dominating American politics, has made most of the state-by-state election results mundanely predictable.
Ultimately, U.S. presidential elections are decided by a small group of "swing" voters in a handful of states.
Drawing overarching conclusions from an election like this, regarding what issues are most important to Americans, is probably unwise, though everyone seems intent on doing just that! That said, and with all the relevant caveats in mind, what can we learn from these choices? Republicans got a new mandate this year, however small. Aside from the presidential race, several seats in both houses of Congress flipped, leading from a slight Democratic control to a slight Republican control.
What drove this? Many hot-button issues were widely discussed this year and probably had a real impact (even if the extent of it is exaggerated by talking heads feverishly pushing their pet theories). One key issue was the economy, as always. The Democrats' verbal assertions to the contrary, most Americans, are not experiencing any economic recovery. The stock market might be hot, but prices of everyday necessities are record high, and middle-class incomes are stagnant. Many people are concerned about the Democrats' handling of the unprecedented influx of asylum seekers. Many areas around the country, which were ravaged by widespread riots of 2020, are still struggling with crime spikes and destroyed local businesses and infrastructure. These kinds of problems usually work against incumbents.
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'Respect, trust and care are non-negotiable in a marriage'
People today are at a phase where relationships fail in front of the modern-day challenges. However, in contrast, there are Anup Kumar Roy Choudhury and Lata Roy Choudhury, who set an inspiring example of how relationships are kept alive. Married on 12 July 1976, the couple has spent 48 years together overcoming numerous problems and unexpected trials.
Shadows, light and symphonies: Kim Barbier illuminates Kolkata with Western classical elegance
As the crisp evening air gave a slight shiver, the daylight dwindled with flocks of birds flying back home, and the smell of fall engulfed the city.
Spring in Sandalwood forest
reeparna thinks about Kolkata while seated in her chamber at the Bhagabatpur rural health centre. She believes her best days are being spent in this health centre.
Dev Deepawali: Binding India's spirituality & divinity
Being presented as the \"Festival of Lights for the Gods\", Dev Deepawali is one of the most special events that Varanasi celebrates. It usually takes place fifteen days after Diwali on the full moon day.
A closer look at Justice Sanjiv Khanna's landmark rulings as he takes oath as 51st CJI
Justice Sanjiv Khanna assumed office as the 51st Chief Justice of India on Monday, following Justice DY Chandrachud's tenure.
Have we 'woken' up?
Pundits, politicians, and public commentators intensely debate the election results, I caution against hyperbole and overinterpretation of what was, in reality, a close race, though the margin of victory looks wider than it actually is, due to the special quirk of the electoral college system.
BGT: Team India jolted by Gill's thumb injury ahead of opening Test in Perth
Star opener Shubman Gill picks up injury during practice, creates headache for coach Gautam Gambhir
Paine worried over Gambhir's temperament
Former Australia skipper Tim Paine hit out at Gautam Gambhir for his coaching style ahead of the Border Gavaskar Trophy, and went on to state that he could not be a great fit into the Indian team as head coach.
Samson becomes first batter with 2 T20I tons in single calendar year
Sanju Samson delivered a breathtaking performance of batsmanship at the Wanderers Stadium here on Friday, smashing his third T20I century in the fourth match of the series against South Africa.
Paul Pogba and Juventus agree to terminate contract
Paul Pogba and Juventus have mutually agreed to part ways as the French midfielder faces an 18-month ban from football.
