In this era of electoral volatility and deep public divide, the mood - and results - of the 2008 and 2010 elections could not have been more different. How do the lessons drawn from the 2008 elections apply to 2010? In careful analysis of both contests, the authors examine the midterm election results and then turn to their analysis of the National Election Study surveys, while making sure to incorporate and discuss the most recent literature.

Updates to this edition include coverage of:

* the difference between the 2008 and 2010 electorates;

* the dominance of the economy in both races and their outcomes;

* the impact of unified party government on nationalizing elections;

* the virtual elimination of "cross-pressured" congressional districts; * the magnitude of campaign spending and its consequences;

* the role of the Tea Party movement; and

* the outlook for the 2012 elections - and likely presidential candidates.

As with all books in the Change and Continuity series, the authors present election data in a straightforward, accessible manner with an array of thorough, yet student-friendly graphics.