Jacobs, Lawrence2018-03-282018-03-282004-11-25https://hdl.handle.net/11299/195051The initial conclusion of media commentators that moral values determined the outcome of the 2004 presidential election was off the mark, neglecting the impacts of partisanship and the economy. The Republican Party made important strides in widening its coalition. On the other hand, early conclusions that the Democratic Party’s coalition dooms it to defeat are premature; the Party continues to have solid bases of support that put it in a competitive position. One of the most intriguing questions raised by the 2004 presidential election is whether or not moderates and independents continue to hold the balance of power. Bush has won the last two presidential campaigns without receiving majorities among what were once considered critical swing voters.en2004presidential electionmediaReport