Candidates Quote by Mark Shields
“All about midterm elections is turnouts. And turnout is measured by enthusiasm, intensity, how interested are people. And President Obama - candidate Obama had it on his side in 2008. The Democrats had it on their side in 2006. The enthusiasm, the intensity, the passion was all on their side.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Commentary, 2008 US Election Cycle
Enthusiasm and voter turnout drive election outcomes; high passion benefits the party with it.
In simple terms: Voter enthusiasm fuels turnout and election results.
Cultivate genuine public enthusiasm.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- campaign planning
- grassroots organizing
- public speaking
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can parties maintain voter passion beyond a single election?
- What tactics keep enthusiasm high in low‑stakes elections?
Enthusiasm can wane quickly without sustained engagement.