So I presume that social issues seem to have taken on greater importance to the "creative class" than economic issues, otherwise I don't think 2012 would be the narrow race it is.
Not exactly. Social liberalism has taken on more importance, but the "creative class" typically recognizes the complexity of economic policy and shies away from simple solutions from either the left or the right. They appreciate some fiscal conservatism in the form of balanced budgets and lower debt, but don't mind government support of a wide variety of programs even if that means modest new tax revenue. Many in that class rely directly or indirectly on government support for their own work.
