My 16 week 2301 students will be studying elections this week. As we will note, electoral rules - the winner take all system specifically - favors the development of two large political parties, and thought there is a degree of stability in the membership of each (at least in the short to mid term) certain groups can fluctuate between the two and prove to be factor that determines who wins a given election. Often these groups are given catchy names: "soccer moms" and "NASCAR dads" are two recent examples.
This year it seems to be the "Walmart moms."
Here are a few stories that describe this demographic group, explain what motivates them and how they might impact the election in 2012. I want you to read through them - and please do your own research as well - and tell me whether you think that this group may well end up determining who wins in 2012.
- Watch Out for Walmart Moms.
- Meet the New Swing Voters: Walmart Moms.
- Insight: Wal-Mart moms - The election pollsters' new favorites.
- Walmart Moms: Not giving up on Obama yet.
- Wikipedia: Swing Vote.
