Do Halloween mask sales predict presidential elections?

The theory is that for the past seven presidential election cycles in a row the sales in masks for a presidential candidate have been accurate predictors of the election winner. Obviously, since the Presidential elections take place so close to Halloween, it would put the factor of mask sales in the position to be at the peak season.

This past Halloween many costume distributors set up presidential polls that corresponded with their sales to show the fluctuations and predictions based on sales. As it turned out,these polls were accurate. The question however is whether or not the top selling presidential Halloween masks were purchased out of respect or support for the soon to be Commander and Chief, or as with most Halloween costumes, were the masks being purchased to be worn in a type of sarcastic mockery of candidate? I suspect that most were purchased for more of a joke than for support but it's really anyones guess as to the motivation.

Say what you will about the popularly of President Obama's stimulus plan ... Halloween masks of presidential candidales are popular -- and will probably always be even long after the election is over. Think about the Wild Bill Latex mask that was very popular in the 1996 presidential election ... and still is! This mask portrayed lipstick all over the disheveled mask. What does this say about the respect our society hold for the United States President? It seems as though the US Presidency has become a joke. When I asked my 9 year old son if he would like to be the President for Halloween, he turned up his nose and quickly informed me he would much rather be a pirate or fireman. For some reason, even our children do not give reverence to the seat of presidency anymore. When did this happen?