There is strong evidence that many conservatives supported Feingold. But they changed their mind this year.
Exit polling from the New York Times shows that only 10 percent of self-identified conservatives voted for Feingold this year. That is a drastic decrease from the percentage six years ago 22 percent!
Self-identified "moderates," most of whom are Democrats, voted for Feingold at a slightly lower rate as well. 57 percent, down from 63 percent. Ironically, the Times exit polls show an increase in liberal support for Feingold from last time around. Why more liberals were voting against one of the most outspoken opponents of President Bush than a member of the unpopular majority party is beyond my comprehension.
