A president had a difficult first term dominated by a major economic recession, followed by a swift recovery and a costly but successful foreign war. He was unable to pursue his domestic-reform goals. The president now seeks reelection so he can pursue his domestic agenda during a second term.

Question

Which of the following will most greatly affect the candidate’s chance of winning reelection?

retrospective voting based on the nation’s economic recovery and foreign-policy success
the heavy use of television advertisements that attack the opponent’s character
presidential debates that strongly emphasize the president’s planned domestic agenda
a party-nomination acceptance speech that notes the president’s first-term accomplishments

Answer 1

Retrospective voting based on the nation's economic recovery and foreign-policy success will most greatly affect the candidate's chance of winning reelection.