one way to view the election is as a test btw "mobilize the base" theories of winning and "persuade" theories.

the two are not mutually exclusive, but there are real tensions! mobilizing the base may involve emotional language that offends "swing voters" who identify somewhat with the targets of, um, critique.

in any case, the democrats plainly went for "persuade", the republicans for "mobilize the base". it's very clear which won.

( i tend to argue for "persuade!" interfluidity.com/v2/6732.html )