Kathleen Parker: In the end of this eating contest, the winner just gets more pie

The mega-storm Sandy that is still afflicting several states, including especially New York and New Jersey, where people are hungry and bodies are still being recovered, can't be discounted as a factor. Notwithstanding New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's praise for Obama, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg's surprise endorsement of the president, (and unearthing of Romney's suddenly unwelcome promise to dismantle FEMA), the mood of voters come today may not be coherent by any previous standard.

Anger at feeling underserved, no matter the logistical implausibility of government agencies meeting so many victims' needs at once, could turn emotions in unexpected ways. Unhappy people may even vote against their own best interests as an expression of frustration. This is, of course, assuming these people can even get to the polls.

Any or none of the above could shift the course of this election. We'll know when we know. As for the two fine men vying for this impossible job, each should remember that no mandate comes with this victory. The winner of the pie-eating contest gets more pie.

Vote — and good luck, America.

Kathleen Parker's email address is kathleenparker@washpost.com.