In the last day of campaigning before the midterm elections on Nov. 2, Democrats staged a major get-out-the-vote effort while Republicans prepared for the possibility that they could win the majority in the House of Representatives. President Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, former President Bill Clinton and other Democratic leaders appeared at rallies around the country intended to energize their party's base, while House Minority Leader John Boehner rallied voters around the fact that he could become the new Speaker of the House.
Democrats are pinning their hopes on high voter turnout, but polls indicate that more registered Republicans will vote than registered Democrats. Because the political climate is currently against incumbents, or politicians already in office, Democrats could suffer the most because they currently hold the most seats in the House and Senate. The Democratic National Committee, which heads up the Democratic party, ran a last-ditch television ad to encourage voters to turn out. The results from today's polling places will indicate whether their efforts were successful or whether the tide is turning toward Republican leadership in Congress.
Quotes
"We need you to find those folks that you know who are planning to sit this one out. And we need you to tell them that they can't just vote once, and then just hope for change to happen. You have got to tell them they have got to vote every single time." - First Lady Michelle Obama
"And, so, we're hoping now for a fresh start with the American people. And if we don't -- and this has been the word that I have gotten across the country -- if we don't live up to those expectations, then we will have a problem in two years." - Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele
Warm Up Questions
1. What are the midterm elections? What do they determine?
2. Who represents you in Congress?
3. Who is up for election in your area today?
Discussion Questions
1. Do you think it's important to vote in midterm elections? Why or why not?
2. Why is voter turnout so important to the political parties vying for seats in this election?
3. Why do you think the national political climate is generally against incumbent politicians? Would or did you vote for an incumbent in this election? Why or why not?
Additional Resources
Republicans Hope Midterm Elections Will Help Undo Obama's Agenda
