[rightofrush]

To me, the only possible explanation is that the leaderships of both parties made it very clear to their members behind the scenes: "Vote this guy out ... or else."

It is the only possible explantion.
Now take it one step further:

WHO GAVE THE "LEADERSHIP" ITS ORDERS?

[carenot]

"WHO GAVE THE "LEADERSHIP" ITS ORDERS?"

Something we should all be asking.