[mtviewdave]

I don't see how the page you linked to supports your thesis. It doesn't call out, or even discuss, election years. 1996 looks to be better than 1993, 1984 better than 1981.

[yasth]

You can't compare across 4 year periods (General economic noise will swamp the signal), but instead look at declines in the run up. Basically take the first derivative.

[awl130]

I think his chart tells the greater point which is: no, we aren't angry.