This essential supplement draws on the most recent National Election Study surveys to offer a close analysis of the key issues and races, and answers the question, "What do the election results mean?" It examines




the outcome of the battle for control of the Senate, including races in Iowa, Colorado, Kansas, and Alaska;
the role of independents in elections, particularly in this era of partisan polarization;
the influence of record campaign spending on election outcomes; and
whether supporting President Obama's major programs helped or hurt members of Congress.