Featured Post from University of Mary Washington

When to hold the party line and when to flee a sinking ship – let our experts explain how down-the-ballot voting is playing part in this year’s election

Oct 23, 2020

2 min


With America less than two weeks away from one of its most unique and divisive elections in the country’s history – and as the polls tighten and the outcome seems to be coming a little more clear from the fog of a long campaign, some might be getting a little worried.


The November 3rd outcome is far from determined, especially if anyone wants to think back four years when President Trump was a candidate that was expected to be routed by Hillary Clinton.


But as Joe Biden’s campaign is showing strength in traditional Republican strongholds, the idea of voting down the ballot and the ripple effects of voter change has representatives from both the Senate and House of Representatives concerned.



If the presidency is to be lost, holding power and keeping a strong presence in both houses is still a priority. Getting re-elected and staying employed is also an important factor for members of Congress and sitting Senators.


The following few days may be a crucial time for a lot of candidates seeking election in traditional ‘red’ states to start thinking for themselves and even distancing their platforms and profiles away from the campaign for the White House.



It’s not as easy as it may seem. And that’s where a political expert can assist when examining a few of the important angles:


  • What consequences and risks are there for candidates who abandon the party line?
  • Where is it happening now and who is most vulnerable?
  • Is down-the-ballot voting really an issue or just more of a myth made up for media covering an already long election?


If you are a journalist looking to cover this election trend or any other topic leading up to Election Day – then let our experts help.


Dr. Rosalyn Cooperman, associate professor of political science at the University of Mary Washington and member of Gender Watch 2018, is an expert on women in politics. She is available to speak with media regarding this topic – simply click on her icon to arrange an interview.



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