Political Science

Looking at the exit polls results, it can be seen that there are important areas to consider for both the Republican and Democratic parties. Each of these values corresponds to their strengths and weaknesses in creating perceptions among American voters in Virginia. Given these situation, it is thus important to highlight these aspects not only to address particular issues but also create an effective strategy to strengthen or address these weaknesses. Such capacity to look into these can help provide better leverage in catering to important issues and the needs of voters in the state.

For the part of the Republican Party, one striking feature of this exit poll was the advantage of John McCain against Barack Obama among the age bracket of 65 above. Despite the fact that it only comprises 11 of total voter turnout, this proves a good advantage to look into and develop. At the same time, the party also consolidated a landslide lead under the capacity of the candidate to have the right experience for the job garnering 96 in favor for McCain (CBS News, 2009). Similarly, voter turnout for McCain was also large for those who consider themselves to be conservative in their belief. This then goes to show the responsiveness of the voters to align themselves along the values and principles of the Republican Party as it highlighted a 92 margin for McCain (CBS News, 2009). Lastly, there is also a huge voter preference for the Republican presidential candidate when asked if Barack Obama is in touch a particular group. Here, 92 who opted for McCain said that this was possible compared to the 81 who argued that Obama can (CBS News, 2009).

On the other hand, for the part of the Democratic Party, it can be seen that majority of minorities voted for Obama particularly among Latinos ages 18-64 and Blacks ages 18-29 (CBS News, 2009). Similarly, another important component to consider revolves around the large voter turnout with the idea that Obama can bring about the needed change that Americans envision in the future. This particular figure is high and influenced 35 of the voter results in Virginia (CBS News, 2009). Moreover, like the Republican Party, affiliations with political parties also corresponded to the outcome and results wherein Democrats in Virginia (39) voted for Obama with a margin of 92 (CBS News, 2009). The policy of the previous Bush administration also became an important catalyst for people to favor Obama. This remains particularly apparent to those who claim that the former president was successful in handling his job. Lastly, families that earn less than 50,000 in Virginia opted for Obama with a lead of 62-37 accordingly (CBS News, 2009). Despite being only 35 of the total population, this serves as an important indicator for the Democratic Party to consider.

These are just some of the rather relevant data gathered from this exit poll. Given these particular results, an appropriate strategy can be employed and justify new directions for each party to consider. In addition, this can also help legitimize a more focused approach towards directing areas that are weak for both parties and fully extend their capacity to provide the same level of action in the succeeding elections to come.

Formal Letter
Mr. Barack Obama
President, United States of America
White House, Washington D.C.
February 27, 2010
Sir

I am writing to you this letter to provide important inputs and points that I believe the Democratic Party can use towards uplifting and improving your campaign strategy in the next election. This provides some key observations concerning the exit poll in Virginia. It highlights not only on your relevant strength in the state but also what alternatives can be made to address and increase voter turnout in your partys favor.

One important point I would like to raise is the need to reshape the strategy towards consolidating efforts to make your platforms and issues available for the citizenry. In particular it can be seen that your Republican counterpart, Senator John McCain only leads you 14 in voter results among Whites. If certain programs and campaigning would be intensified in these areas, it can help consolidate and narrow the gap of votes accordingly.

At the same time, I do believe that efforts should also be made in tackling Black voters aged 30-65. It can be seen in the exit poll that they comprise the highest number of voters in Virginia (a total of 57 and yet, the only amount of votes gained were 38 in each of these age brackets. Seeing this, campaigning efforts must be increased to tap into these group issues to help improve outcomes and justify why you are the appropriate choice for office.

Lastly, the exit poll also shows how voters in Virginia also show great importance towards the candidates ability to share their values. In the results however, it only showcased 34 for the Democrats and favored the Republican Party in achieving such cause. Due to this, proper information and dissemination of intentions and actions must be initiated by the party to effectively voice out common interests among voters. Highlighting these values within Virginia can help lessen the gap over this category which is a considered a major aspect in making Americans in that area decides.

Given these suggestions, I do hope that careful attention can be given in these observations and suggestions. This would not only help the Democratic Party tackle the hurdles and setbacks in this state but also carry out a more responsible approach in allowing the citizenry to understand what your group stands for and promotes.