In interviews late last week with two dozen voters around the country, many were quick to argue, even without prompting, that either Mrs. Clinton or Mr. Trump was the worst offender on issues of inappropriate behavior toward women. Not only had sex taken control of the political discussion, but sexual conduct itself had become politicized, with voters arguing about which kinds of disturbing behavior were worse, their responses often reflecting the candidate they supported…

But the focus on sexual assault has had other ripple effects as well: The number of calls to the nationwide hotline for the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network has jumped to about 800 a day, from about 600, said Scott Berkowitz, the group’s president and founder.

“Whenever there is a really high-profile media story or case, we find that a lot of people who have experienced this months or even years ago, but never talked about it, it prompts them to reach out for help for the first time,” he said.

“This topic is being discussed at every workplace and every dinner table,” Mr. Berkowitz continued. “It becomes harder for them to escape and more likely for them to talk to someone who understands.”