What were the main issues during the election of 2012?

The election of 2012 was significantly shaped by the lingering effects of the Great Recession, which had begun in 2007-2008 and profoundly impacted the economy, employment rates, and overall public sentiment. Many voters were concerned about issues such as job creation, economic recovery, and financial stability, making the state of the economy a central focus of the campaign.

Healthcare reform also played a critical role during this election, particularly with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), championed by President Barack Obama. This legislation aimed to expand access to healthcare and reduce costs, which were hotly debated topics among voters and candidates alike. The ACA faced criticism and support, becoming a pivotal issue in how candidates presented their visions for America's future.

In contrast, while foreign policy and immigration reform were discussed, they did not dominate the conversation to the same extent as economic issues and healthcare. Environmental regulations and tax cuts, as well as education policy and women's rights, were certainly relevant topics, but they did not resonate as strongly with voters when compared to the pressing concerns related to the recession and healthcare. Thus, these two issues distinctly characterized the election, shaping discussions and influencing voter priorities in 2012.