The big deal back then was always the presidential year, usually kicked off by the Iowa caucuses. Nowadays the presidential campaign is in full gear practically after the midterms. So you are right, the politics never stops.
The prominent feature of the fliers sent by mail, and most other campaign material, is negative against the opposition. I hardly ever see any proposals for doing things, anything positive that is mutually generally beneficial to all voters.
The debate in Arkansas last week for Spinate only had one minor candidate that got anywhere close to answering questions or providing any useful ideas.
On roads in areas of burgeoning growth Boozeman only had to day: “Well yes, roads are very important.” and never flinched. The others were just the same.
On the subject of growth, the only response the local mental midgets have is to raise taxes. Do they not realize or care that with inflation and growth come higher revenues? Try to explain that to dead eyed stares.
Getting closer and closer to “Jesus take me home, please.”