Even though sitting presidents are not on the ballot, mid-term elections generally are a referendum on their policies and accomplishments in the past two years. The expression of sentiment is shown in Congressional races. A change in control of either the House or the Senate can shift policy direction ahead and influence outcomes for financial market returns. Policy direction and any changes therein likely will emerge in the year following mid-term elections, the third year of the current presidential term. Overall economic activity, business strategy and investor preferences all are in play. A review of key variables can provide perspective for investing amidst the dilemma at hand.