State Legistlative Leaders Foundation

Preparing the leaders of today for the challenge of tomorrow

America's Vote: The New Political Landscape

SLLF Members Discuss Significance of 2008 Elections

Charlie Cook Chuck Todd

During the first weekend in December (December 4 - 7), state legislators and corporate leaders from all over the country gathered in Charleston, South Carolina to discuss the 2008 elections as part of SLLF’s annual Board of Directors Meeting and Winter Leadership Forum. Lead by a faculty of nationally recognized politicians, professors and pundits, participants discussed the politics behind and the long-term implications of the 2008 state and national elections.

More than thirty legislative leaders from across the country gathered to hear from such notable scholars and pundits as Charlie Cook of the Cook Report, Chuck Todd of MSNBC, Tim Storey from the National Conference of State Legislatures and Dr. Alan Abramowitz from Emory University. Further, Simon Rosenberg of NDN (New Democratic Network) led a spirited discussion of the technological implications of the 2008 election on the future of campaign politics. Finally, participants heard from a panel of state legislative leaders (Senator Glenn Coffee, Oklahoma; Speaker Terie Norelli, New Hampshire; Speaker Seth Hammett, Alabama; and Speaker Pat Murphy, Iowa) regarding the impact of the 2008 elections on the agendas and politics of the 2009 legislative sessions.

While their approaches may have varied, politicos, pundits and professors all agreed that much of the election results could be explained by the faltering economy, an unpopular president and war, and an inclination toward change after 8 years of White House control by the GOP. There was less agreement on the degree to which the election ushered in a significant longer advantage for the Democrats, with some citing demographic trends suggesting that the Democratic advantage might be around for a significant time.

Looking forward, Rosenberg suggested that the technological advantages exploited by the Obama campaign (texting, blogging, YouTube, etc.) are likely to redefine political campaigns for a long time to come. The panel of legislative leaders suggested that budget issues are likely to dominate the upcoming legislative sessions and acknowledged that a more activist administration and a more attentive public might increase pressure on states to address critical public policy issues.

While participants offered their opinions, the full impact of this election may not be known for at least a couple more election cycles. When they happen, you can count on SLLF to help you understand them!