The assistant professor of political science and assistant director of the Elon University Poll penned a May 8 viewpoint analyzing the way in which North Carolina's Republican-controlled legislature might inadvertently boost Democratic U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan's reelection bid.
[/caption]Assistant Professor Jason Husser was a featured guest columnist for the Washington Post’s “Monkey Cage” political blog on May 8, 2014, in which he argued that legislation passed by North Carolina lawmakers in recent months could boost re-election chances for incumbent Democratic U.S. Sen. Kay Hagan.
Hagan defends her seat this fall against Republican challenger Thom Tillis, the speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Tillis presided over the Republican Party’s legislative accomplishments.
Husser cited Elon University Poll data in supporting his analysis. From “How North Carolina Republicans may be helping Kay Hagan”:
“… the North Carolina race will also allow voters to evaluate not only national politics but state politics, especially the recent policy shift in Raleigh. For the first time in a century, the state has a Republican governor and legislature. The GOP quickly moved to pass many controversial measures — including restrictions on abortion facilities, requirements of voter photo identification, elimination of teacher tenure and implementation of a less progressive tax code. … Paradoxically, the policy successes of North Carolina Republicans could be a blessing in disguise for Kay Hagan. Because the GOP controls North Carolina state government, the party is vulnerable to be blamed when things go wrong (like a recent $445 million state budget shortfall).”
Husser joined the Elon University faculty in 2012 and assists with the Elon University Poll, which frequently surveys North Carolinians about their opinions of elected leaders and public policy debates.