Economic downturn in US during election campaign?

[KeepTrying]

Question for US-based posters:

Is there usually a down-turn in economic activity, retailing etc. during a presidential election campaign, probably caused by the uncertainty of who will win?

Thanks.

[mquarles]

I don't think so. Most people are smart enough to know that who the President is has very little to do with the economy.

In addition, if there were a change from current status quo (i.e. Kerry is elected), it would be a while before his policies could go into effect. The fiscal year ends in July, if I recall correctly, so the very earliest he could change anything for better or worse would be a year from now.

MQ