1) It could have been the end of a sitting President's second term. They wouldn't be running again, so might not care too much about the election, or spend any time thinking about it.
2) It could be an election like the ones in 1996 or 1984, where a popular sitting President had to win an election, but it was mostly a foregone conclusion that he would win.
3) You mention that there is no saber-rattling in the book. What is the economic situation? If 2068 is more peaceful and prosperous, the position of President might be a more wonkish position, and less of the great prize that it is today.
reasons for the 2068 election to not be mentioned.
2) It could be an election like the ones in 1996 or 1984, where a popular sitting President had to win an election, but it was mostly a foregone conclusion that he would win.
3) You mention that there is no saber-rattling in the book. What is the economic situation? If 2068 is more peaceful and prosperous, the position of President might be a more wonkish position, and less of the great prize that it is today.