The final days before an election are critical, especially in close races. Candidates make their final, frenzied push while voters cast their ballots through early voting or make up their minds for Election Day.
However, Hurricane Sandy has thrown a curveball into this election.
The historic storm has blanketed large swaths of the state (particularly the eastern mountains) in heavy snow, and the snow continues to fall. As of Tuesday, an estimated quarter-million power company customers were without electricity.
Roads are treacherous; many schools and businesses are closed.
No doubt tens of thousands of West Virginians are more worried about the electricity than the election. Candidates will have trouble getting the attention of voters in the hardest-hit communities.
A dent in turnout would hurt Democrats more than Republicans. Democrats have a decided edge in registration and a large turnout typically helps Democratic candidates pull ahead of their Republican challengers.
Governor Tomblin has suspended his campaign activities because of the storm, but perhaps ironically, he’s in the media far more now than he was before. He’s been all over radio and television (even the Weather Channel) with storm information.
And it’s certainly appropriate for the state’s Governor to take the lead during times like these.
It will be interesting to see how voters respond.
Some voters may see Tomblin as being “in charge” during a time of crisis. Voters tend to migrate toward leaders, men and women who step up and take responsibility when there are challenges.
However, this is the second time in four months that West Virginia has been hit by a devastating storm. The June derecho left thousands of West Virginians frustrated over how long it took to restore electricity and basic services.
If it’s a tough slog back to normalcy this time, voters could take it out on the Governor. It won’t be the Governor’s fault if the power is not back on by Election Day, but his name is the one on the ballot.
That’s the other side of the double-edged sword of responsibility during a crisis.
Political candidate appearances are typically associated with smiles and handshakes. After all, campaigns are supposed to be about optimism and the future.
That’s a tougher sell right now, since thousands of West Virginians will spend the time between now and Election Day cold, wet and tired.