Why a Good Economy Might Not Help Republicans

Heather Long: “First, there’s the Trump factor. This is a personality-driven election. In places where Trump is popular, candidates are focused on acting like Trump’s BFF. In places where he’s not, candidates promote themselves as the anti-Trump. Second, when the economy is good, it takes a back seat. People start thinking of other issues like education, health care and immigration. This is particularly true for the most critical swing group this year: college-educated white women. Third, there’s a noticeable gender gap in how men and women are approaching this election.”

“Still, strategists on both sides tell me they are advising their candidates to talk up the economy more, despite how unusual this year is.”