A Fight For The “Obama Independents”

Obama_Approval

by Maisie Allison

That's how Third Way is framing the general election: 

So who are these Obama Independents? According to exit poll data, they are distinct from McCain Independents, and even Independents generally, in specific ways that make them more winnable for the President—in addition to the fact that they liked and voted for him just 3 years ago. In 2008, Obama Independents were the most ideologically moderate segment of the electorate. And they are true swing voters, with one-quarter voting Republican in 2010 and one-quarter voting for President Bush in 2004.

This group tends to be younger, female, and more secular. It is racially diverse and was hit hardest by the recession early on. Michael Scherer focuses on the swing states. Chart from TPM.

(Hat tip: Ryan Lizza