Learn the Jargon

An all-too-vivid description of a brief recovery in otherwise declining poll ratings.

An assertive, yet overused, catchphrase that younger candidates invoke to associate themselves with new ideas and fresh thinking.

A political science term for when people cast a ballot in some races – such as president -- but don’t bother voting in others.

A supposedly spontaneous clever one-liner that has become a leading measuring stick – to some, the only measuring stick – for success in a debate.

A political truism—also known as the “freshness test”— indicating that politicians have, in essence, a 14-year “sell-by date” between the time they win their first major elective office and either the presidency or vice presidency.