Iowans had some clear ideas about what they wanted the current slate of candidates to do once in office. Now, as the prospect of one or even two open conventions is upon us, was anyone listening?
David Yepsen, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale and a former Des Moines Register political writer, said many political scientists and others who follow politics were surprised by the popularity of both Donald Trump and Sen. Bernie Sanders, in part because they underestimated voters’ anger and dissatisfaction.
“I do think that Americans are in a very foul mood,” Yepsen said. “Many Americans are angry about government performance, or lack thereof, and I think some of this also involves fear. People are afraid. We’re afraid of terrorists, afraid of losing our jobs, our businesses closing.”
He said both political parties seem to be searching for a sense of direction.
“Both parties have serious issues inside their ranks and this makes it fascinating because it’s tough for a party to sort this out. Both parties are having family feuds, if you will,” he said.
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