[lasereye]

it fits perfectly within the historical context of how elections go for a president six years out, especially a president conducting a war

It's been pointed out that Congress has never changed hands during war (until now).

[EDINVA]

perhaps I should have said "unpopular" war ?

Until Vietnam, our presidents not only had public support, but were able to conduct the country's war(s) without the relentless bashing by the opposition party and the media whose coverage has certainly helped to make it unpopular.