Tony Blankley, Washington Times columnist and unapologetic Bush apologist, on NPR just a moment ago:

"I think the world is going to hell, and nobody's satisfied with any of the solutions being offered by either candidate, so they are falling back on whoever they viscerally identify with. I don't think anyone would say the world is on the right track."

The above is paraphrased, from about the show's eighth minute -- you'll be able to find it here once the show had concluded. Another panelist agreed immediately thereafter, based upon her discussions with Bush voters.

Is this a scientifically rigorous representation of public opinion? No. But if it's at all accurate -- and I think it probably is -- then all Kerry has to do is finish his campaign by saying "It doesn't have to be this way" -- a theme that his "America can do better" mantra has neatly laid the groundwork for. A pessimistic electorate can't possibly favor the incumbent.