In this week's video, Bryan Schott postulates that the down ballot effect of the Mitt Romney presidential candidacy will be an increase in votes for all Republican candidates.

Clearly, the Romney candidacy will increase voter turnout among members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. This will yield a sizable, if not overwhelming majority for Mitt Romney. Even, Democratic Mormons will vote in substantial numbers for Mitt Romney over Barack Obama. The impact for down ballot Republicans remains questionable.

Cognitive dissonance place a significant role in the lower races as voters must decide between Republican and Democrats. Registered independents will feel the need to state their independence by splitting their votes between Republicans and Democrats. Once they have voted for Mitt Romney, Orrin Hatch, and Gary Herbert, they will confront an internal conflict: Are they Republicans or are they independents? Their inclination will be to vote for some Democrats to maintain their psychological equilibrium.

This could result in victories for down ballot Democrats in the secondary political races.

A Democratic candidate who frames his message saying "If you vote for the man and not for the party, you should vote for me because I am the best man" could garner enough votes to win. This should create optimism for Dee Smith for Attorney General and for Den McAdams for Salt Lake County Major. McAdams is already framing this message with his Republicans for McAdams group.

One of the other candidates who could benefit from this strategy is Congressman Jim Matheson who has the support of the Chamber of Commerce. More than likely, he will receive support the National Rifle Association (NRA) as well. This will give the registered independent the cover they need to vote for Matheson over ultra right wing candidate Mia Love.

One other factor that warrants consideration. Political polling finds that the majority of the American public favors balanced government between the two major political parties. They do not like the idea of one party rule. Independents tend to switch back and forth to accomplish this objective.