First published 2009
Political journalists Daniel Balz and his colleague follow the complete arc of the 2008 presidential election. They begin their coverage during the primary season when candidates first announce their campaigns and establish their strategies. The reporters document each phase of the contest, tracking how the nominees build their organizations, navigate primary battles, and emerge as their parties' standard bearers. They observe the general election campaign as it unfolds across the country, watching candidates make their cases to voters in swing states and safe territories alike. The journalists analyze polling data, fundraising reports, and voter turnout patterns to understand the electoral dynamics. They examine what drove voters to make their choices and how different demographic groups responded to the campaigns. The book reveals the mechanics of American democracy in action during a pivotal moment when the nation faced economic uncertainty and foreign policy challenges.
Genres: american, political-science, non-fiction, 21st-century, journalism, american-history
Vibes: thought-provoking
Tropes: investigative-journalism
Setting: America
Period: 2008
432 pages · Hardcover · Viking Adult