The statement that is MOST accurate about the results of midterm congressional elections based on the provided data is:
A. The influence of third party candidates in Congress has decreased in the 2000s.
Looking at the data, the total votes for third parties fluctuated but were consistently low, particularly in the elections from 2002 through 2010, where they generally accounted for around 2-3% of the total votes cast. This suggests that their influence did not significantly increase and appeared lower compared to previous decades.
The other statements can be debated:
- B. While some results may indicate public approval or disapproval of presidents, this isn't a definitive conclusion across all the elections.
- C. Although there is an overall trend of increasing voter turnout from 1978 to 2010, the increase is not universally significant, as illustrated by the turnout of 63.9 million in 1982 and the significant drop in subsequent elections before rising again in the 2000s.
- D. It's inaccurate to say presidents normally finish their terms with their party holding majorities since there have been notable shifts, especially during midterm elections.
Therefore, option A is the best choice based on the evidence provided.