"All Politics Is Local" These polls are almost meaningless. Why? Because its city, county and state politics is where most (not all) party power resides, parti

"All Politics Is Local" These polls are almost meaningless. Why? Because its city, county and state politics is where most (not all) party power resides, particularly on election day when "get out the vote" and election integrity is determined. Trump's election in 2016 stands out as a notable exception to this general rule, but his defeat in 2020 was very much a return to the rule. Also, US elections currently come down a few dozen or so counties in the US where grass roots party activities make the biggest difference. Then, importantly, its from the State/County organizations that many political and judicial appointments are made by new administrations. A third party lacks the depth and roster of qualified applications for those roles. The problems this creates are well illustrated, again, by the Trump administration that struggled to fill positions. None of this is intended to take sides pro or con a party or person. I'm just pointing out reality having worked in a city and statewide campaign, among other related experiences.