12 AM ET Wednesday, May 19
In our last update of the night, we will wrap up the races of substance that we didn't yet cover.
Jack Conway was finally projected the winner in tonight's Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat from the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With nearly all precincts in, Conway has 44 percent of the vote to Mongiardo's 43 percent. This is another crushing loss for the Commonwealth's Lt. Governor, as he attempted to go for this seat in 2004 when he challenged outgoing U.S. Senator Jim Bunning.
Of course the two big stories of the night, Rand Paul won in a cakewalk tonight in the GOP primary for this seat, while 30-year veteran U.S. Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania saw his career likely come to an end tonight as he ended in defeat to two-term congressman challenger Joe Sestak.
In Arkansas, another incumbent senator worked to fend off a surging challenge from her state's Lt. Governor. Blanche Lincoln will find herself in a runoff, as she will claim about 45 percent of the vote tonight to Bill Halter's 43 percent. The Republican that either one of them will face in November, Congressman John Boozman, waltzed to a big victory with nearly 53 percent of the vote, thus avoiding the runoff. He can focus on the general election, whil Lincoln and Halter have each other to worry about for three more weeks.
In Oregon, Ron Wyden won the Democrats nomination for another term, while Huffman won the GOP nomination easily. Wyden will be favored to hold that seat in the fall. In the race for governor, John Kitzhaber, the former governor, won the Democrats' nomination in a landslide. Former NBA player Clint Dudley, a wealth strategist, won the GOP nomination by a closer margin, but still comfortable.
Showing posts with label America Chooses 2010. Show all posts
Showing posts with label America Chooses 2010. Show all posts
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Critz Wins Pennsylvania 12
10:00 PM CT
Republican businessman Tim Burns has reportedly called Democrat Mark Critz to concede in the special election for the seat John Murtha long held in the 12th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. This means that Democrats will hold on to a seat they have long held. Democrats are taking this as a bit of a breather and trying to spin it so that it appears that Republicans won't get the wave that appears to be building. However, Critz pitched himself as a conservative Dem. It will be interesting to see how this district responds in November.
Republican businessman Tim Burns has reportedly called Democrat Mark Critz to concede in the special election for the seat John Murtha long held in the 12th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. This means that Democrats will hold on to a seat they have long held. Democrats are taking this as a bit of a breather and trying to spin it so that it appears that Republicans won't get the wave that appears to be building. However, Critz pitched himself as a conservative Dem. It will be interesting to see how this district responds in November.
BREAKING NEWS FROM THE KEYSTONE STATE
AP CALLS IT FOR SESTAK!
Pennsylvania's Democratic voters throw out 30-year veteran Specter.
9:15 PM CT
The Associated Press is calling the Democratic race for the U.S. Senate for Congressman Joe Sestak. Currently, with 71 percent of precincts in, Sestak leads incumbent Arlen Specter 53 percent to 47 percent.
This means that five-term veteran Specter will not be returning to the U.S. Senate next year.
Specter switched from the GOP to the Democratic Party because he believed it would give him a better chance at being re-elected. That turns out not to be the case.
Pennsylvania's Democratic voters throw out 30-year veteran Specter.
9:15 PM CT
The Associated Press is calling the Democratic race for the U.S. Senate for Congressman Joe Sestak. Currently, with 71 percent of precincts in, Sestak leads incumbent Arlen Specter 53 percent to 47 percent.
This means that five-term veteran Specter will not be returning to the U.S. Senate next year.
Specter switched from the GOP to the Democratic Party because he believed it would give him a better chance at being re-elected. That turns out not to be the case.
PENNSYLVANIA: Toomey, Corbett to Represent GOP in November, Specter in Trouble, Democrat Leads in 12th District Race
Things are now shaping up in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's primary elections tonight. As expected, former Congressman Pat Toomey quickly wrapped up the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate and Attorney General Tom Corbett also won the party's nod for Governor.
In the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, things are looking very hairy for incumbent Senator Arlen Specter. Although leading early, he now trails Congressman Joe Sestak 53% to 47% with 53% of precincts in. Specter is seeking his sixth term, but his first as a Democrat after his big party switch over a year ago.
In the Democratic governor's race, Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato was recently projected the winner. He recently had 46% of the vote with 47% of precincts reporting in a four-way race.
The nation's political eyes are on the special election to fill the seat in the Pennsylvania's 12th House District. This race is to fill the seat of longtime Congressman John Murtha, who passed away earlier this year. With 30 percent of precincts in, Democratic candidate Mark Critz leads Republican businessman Tim Burns 56% to 42%. That being said, it is reported that most of the precincts in are Democratic leaning.
Stay tuned...
In the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, things are looking very hairy for incumbent Senator Arlen Specter. Although leading early, he now trails Congressman Joe Sestak 53% to 47% with 53% of precincts in. Specter is seeking his sixth term, but his first as a Democrat after his big party switch over a year ago.
In the Democratic governor's race, Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato was recently projected the winner. He recently had 46% of the vote with 47% of precincts reporting in a four-way race.
The nation's political eyes are on the special election to fill the seat in the Pennsylvania's 12th House District. This race is to fill the seat of longtime Congressman John Murtha, who passed away earlier this year. With 30 percent of precincts in, Democratic candidate Mark Critz leads Republican businessman Tim Burns 56% to 42%. That being said, it is reported that most of the precincts in are Democratic leaning.
Stay tuned...
Kentucky Democratic Race Tightens
8:35 PM CT
The Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate in Kentucky has quickly tightened, with Conway now leading Mongiardo by only a 45%-43% count with nearly 90 percent of precincts in. Things are getting interesting in the Bluegrass State. Rand Paul romped to victory earlier. More to come...
The Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate in Kentucky has quickly tightened, with Conway now leading Mongiardo by only a 45%-43% count with nearly 90 percent of precincts in. Things are getting interesting in the Bluegrass State. Rand Paul romped to victory earlier. More to come...
DEMOCRAT U.S. SENATE UPDATE: Kentucky Gap Narrows, First Results Trickle In From Pennsylvania, Arkansas
7:45 PM CT
In the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it is only the Democratic primary that is really now being watched, as Rand Paul won by a huge margin earlier. Conway still leads, but by the narrower margin of 47.5% to 40.4% with nearly 64 percent of precincts in. Paul now leads 59% to 36%, but was projected the winner nearly an hour ago.
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, barely any precincts are coming in, just 1 percent, but we are looking at any numbers we can get today. Incumbent Arlen Specter leads Congressman Joe Sestak 64% to 35%. That margin will close as more results come in. We are waiting for one of the biggest races of the night, that is the special House election in the Pennsylvania 12th District. More will come on that as the results come in.
In Arkansas, polls have closed just a short while ago, and we are awaiting the bulk of the results there to see if incumbent Blanche Lincoln survives a primary challenge from Lt. Governor Bill Halter. We are also waiting to see what shapes up in the GOP primary, as Congressman John Boozman is expected to win that race.
Stay tuned...
In the Commonwealth of Kentucky, it is only the Democratic primary that is really now being watched, as Rand Paul won by a huge margin earlier. Conway still leads, but by the narrower margin of 47.5% to 40.4% with nearly 64 percent of precincts in. Paul now leads 59% to 36%, but was projected the winner nearly an hour ago.
In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, barely any precincts are coming in, just 1 percent, but we are looking at any numbers we can get today. Incumbent Arlen Specter leads Congressman Joe Sestak 64% to 35%. That margin will close as more results come in. We are waiting for one of the biggest races of the night, that is the special House election in the Pennsylvania 12th District. More will come on that as the results come in.
In Arkansas, polls have closed just a short while ago, and we are awaiting the bulk of the results there to see if incumbent Blanche Lincoln survives a primary challenge from Lt. Governor Bill Halter. We are also waiting to see what shapes up in the GOP primary, as Congressman John Boozman is expected to win that race.
Stay tuned...
BREAKING NEWS: Paul Declared Winner In Kentucky's GOP Primary For The U.S. Senate, Conway still dominates
CNN has just declared Rand Paul the winner in today's GOP primary for the U.S. Senate from Kentucky. With 37 percent of precincts in, the latest numbers are Paul with 59 percent of the vote, Secretary of State Trey Grayson with nearly 37 percent. In the Democratic primary, Attorney General Jack Conway has really opened up a lead, now claiming over 50 percent of the vote to the nearly 38 percent for Lt. Governor Dan Mongiardo with nearly 38 percent of precincts in.
UPDATE - 7:03 PM CT: The Associated Press has also called the race for Paul.
UPDATE - 7:03 PM CT: The Associated Press has also called the race for Paul.
KENTUCKY UPDATE: Paul Dominating Early, Conway Pulling Ahead
With now over 14 percent of precincts reporting in Kentucky's close-watched U.S. Senate race, signs of the frontrunning candidate for each party is developing. For the Republicans, Rand Paul leads Secretary of State Trey Grayson 51.5 percent to 33.9 percent. On the Democratic side, Attorney General Jack Conway has pulled open a gap over Lt. Governor Dan Mongiardo. Conway holds 46.5 percent to Mongiardo's 40.5 percent. More updates upcoming...
PREDICTIONS
Predictions from The Conservative Statesman on tonight's elections
PENNSYLVANIA
Governor
D - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato
R - State Attorney General Tom Corbett
U.S. Senate
D - Incumbent Arlen Specter
R - Former Congressman Pat Toomey
12th U.S. House District Special Election
Republican Businessman Tim Burns
4th U.S. House
R - U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan
6th U.S. House
D - Former Philadelphia Inquirer Writer Doug Pike
R - Incumbent Jim Gerlach
8th U.S. House
R - Former Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick
10th U.S. House
R - Tom Marino
11th U.S. House
D - Incumbent Paul Kanjorski
17th U.S. House
D - Incumbent Tim Holden
R - State Senator Dave Argall
KENTUCKY
U.S. Senate
D - State Attorney General Jack Conway
R - Ophthalmologist Rand Paul
ARKANSAS
U.S. Senate
D - Incumbent Blanche Lincoln
R - Congressman John Boozman
OREGON
Governor
D - Former Governor John Kitzhaber
R - Wealth Strategist and Former Portland Trailblazer Chris Dudley
PENNSYLVANIA
Governor
D - Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato
R - State Attorney General Tom Corbett
U.S. Senate
D - Incumbent Arlen Specter
R - Former Congressman Pat Toomey
12th U.S. House District Special Election
Republican Businessman Tim Burns
4th U.S. House
R - U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan
6th U.S. House
D - Former Philadelphia Inquirer Writer Doug Pike
R - Incumbent Jim Gerlach
8th U.S. House
R - Former Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick
10th U.S. House
R - Tom Marino
11th U.S. House
D - Incumbent Paul Kanjorski
17th U.S. House
D - Incumbent Tim Holden
R - State Senator Dave Argall
KENTUCKY
U.S. Senate
D - State Attorney General Jack Conway
R - Ophthalmologist Rand Paul
ARKANSAS
U.S. Senate
D - Incumbent Blanche Lincoln
R - Congressman John Boozman
OREGON
Governor
D - Former Governor John Kitzhaber
R - Wealth Strategist and Former Portland Trailblazer Chris Dudley
TURBULENT TUESDAY LIVEBLOG
Today, as you likely well know, is one of the biggest days of the year in American politics. There are several major primary election races, a special election for the U.S. House in the Keystone State and on top of that, two scandals have erupted today.
Many of the night's big races are shaping to be close, so it should be an exciting night to watch. Two U.S. Senators, one being a three-decade veteran, are in danger of going down to primary challengers in their own party, and a win by the Republican Tim Burns in the traditionally-Democratic Pennsylvania 12th House seat race stands to send shockwaves throughout the nation and would be seen as a referendum on the Obama administration.
Keep up with the action here as The Conservative Statesman liveblogs tonight's developments in the elections, the latest on the scandal around Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal's scandal regarding his statements on his service during Vietnam, and any other breaking political news of interest or merit.
Stay with us tonight on this very interesting evening.
Many of the night's big races are shaping to be close, so it should be an exciting night to watch. Two U.S. Senators, one being a three-decade veteran, are in danger of going down to primary challengers in their own party, and a win by the Republican Tim Burns in the traditionally-Democratic Pennsylvania 12th House seat race stands to send shockwaves throughout the nation and would be seen as a referendum on the Obama administration.
Keep up with the action here as The Conservative Statesman liveblogs tonight's developments in the elections, the latest on the scandal around Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal's scandal regarding his statements on his service during Vietnam, and any other breaking political news of interest or merit.
Stay with us tonight on this very interesting evening.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
WINNERS AND LOSERS IN MASSACHUSETTS STUNNER
12:13 AM CT, Wednesday, January 20th
Even though the dust still clouds the air after one of the greatest political earthquakes in a generation, some of the major factors and consequences of the Republican win in the special U.S. Senate election in Massachusetts are peeking through the shadows. The environment is toxic for Democrats and the leftist agenda as they are over-reaching in their policies. No Democrat is safe in these conditions, even in a leftist bastion like the Bay State. The tea party movement is very capable of supporting even moderately conservative Republicans rather than tearing the party apart. Leftist proposals on healthcare, cap-and-trade, and even immigration reform are now on life-support. These are just several of the things we know coming out of this stunner.
Now is also a good time to look and see who has won and lost in the aftermath of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts's decision to send Republican Scott Brown to the U.S. Senate.
WINNERS
U.S. SENATOR-ELECT SCOTT BROWN
Obviously, the candidate who won the race is the big winner of the night, although his victory is also a major victory for other parties involved.
THE CONSERVATIVE MOVEMENT
Just a year ago, as Barack Obama was sworn in as President, pundits and the media were declaring conservatism dead as the Democrats won both chambers of Congress and the White House in a big way in 2008. Now, as a new election cycle is well under way, the political direction of the nation has done a full 180-turn and is looking in a conservative direction. It seems that the times most similar to ours today is the elections of 1980 and 1994, a time of weak leftist direction that disenfranchised the American people. This is sure to be an historic and exciting year for America.
THE TEA PARTY MOVEMENT
Activists in the freedom rallies were taken for granted as just a small minority less than a year ago when the movement began to gain steam. They were even the subjects of terrible name calling and offensive labels by some in the media and Democratic Party, as some still do today. Tuesday's results put in exclamation point on just how high the movement has risen as a major force in American politics. The results also prove that the tea parties are ready to work with the Republican Party this year, even slightly conservative ones, which goes contrary to the belief the media has been trying to portray.
THE NRSC
The National Republican Senatorial Committee took a big position in this race, as it was reported today that they recently forwarded $500,000 to the campaign. The chief campaign arm for Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate has already had a series of huge successes in recruiting and fundraising. This victory justifies their use of the money sent to the Bay State, and it also will likely lead to increased fundraising and recruiting.
MITT ROMNEY
It is no secret that the former Massachusetts governor is looking at another bid for President in 2012. He is also widely considered to be the Republican frontrunner if he runs. His support for the winning Brown campaign will shine for him should he give the run a go.
LOSERS
MASSACHUSETTS ATTORNEY GENERAL MARTHA COAKLEY
Of course, as the candidate who was beaten in this campaign, she stands to lose tremendously. Her loss signals a major turn in direction for the country and produces a large list of losers.
THE LEFTIST POLICY IN WASHINGTON
Now that the GOP has 41 senators, it can now again filibuster harmful Democratic legislation. Leftist proposals on healthcare, cap-and-trade and other issues are now either in doubt or temporarily on hold.
BARACK OBAMA
The President is now 0-for-3 in major campaign stumps in recent months. First, he lost Criegh Deeds in Virginia and Jon Corzine in New Jersey in races for governor in November. Now, he loses as even more important campaign in his agenda. With each failed campaign, he loses more political capital. Almost everyone said it was risky for him to go to Boston for Coakley over the weekend, and the risk fell short. This does not help and surely hurts the White House for the rest of the 2010 campaign. Attacking Brown's truck also didn't seem above the frey, either. That furthers his image of getting off track and being out of touch.
THE DSCC
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee poured over $2 million into a losing bid in Massachusetts. They are already at a cash disadvantage to Republicans. This loss widens the gap after risking big in a campaign that will further make leftists apathetic. That is a threefer of a loss.
SENATOR JOHN KERRY
The senator's personal attacks on his now-colleague Brown and his truck struck as very tacky and out of touch. Kerry's political capital has plummeted dramatically since his failed Presidential bid in 2004, and this would seem to accelerate it.
Even though the dust still clouds the air after one of the greatest political earthquakes in a generation, some of the major factors and consequences of the Republican win in the special U.S. Senate election in Massachusetts are peeking through the shadows. The environment is toxic for Democrats and the leftist agenda as they are over-reaching in their policies. No Democrat is safe in these conditions, even in a leftist bastion like the Bay State. The tea party movement is very capable of supporting even moderately conservative Republicans rather than tearing the party apart. Leftist proposals on healthcare, cap-and-trade, and even immigration reform are now on life-support. These are just several of the things we know coming out of this stunner.
Now is also a good time to look and see who has won and lost in the aftermath of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts's decision to send Republican Scott Brown to the U.S. Senate.
WINNERS
U.S. SENATOR-ELECT SCOTT BROWN
Obviously, the candidate who won the race is the big winner of the night, although his victory is also a major victory for other parties involved.
THE CONSERVATIVE MOVEMENT
Just a year ago, as Barack Obama was sworn in as President, pundits and the media were declaring conservatism dead as the Democrats won both chambers of Congress and the White House in a big way in 2008. Now, as a new election cycle is well under way, the political direction of the nation has done a full 180-turn and is looking in a conservative direction. It seems that the times most similar to ours today is the elections of 1980 and 1994, a time of weak leftist direction that disenfranchised the American people. This is sure to be an historic and exciting year for America.
THE TEA PARTY MOVEMENT
Activists in the freedom rallies were taken for granted as just a small minority less than a year ago when the movement began to gain steam. They were even the subjects of terrible name calling and offensive labels by some in the media and Democratic Party, as some still do today. Tuesday's results put in exclamation point on just how high the movement has risen as a major force in American politics. The results also prove that the tea parties are ready to work with the Republican Party this year, even slightly conservative ones, which goes contrary to the belief the media has been trying to portray.
THE NRSC
The National Republican Senatorial Committee took a big position in this race, as it was reported today that they recently forwarded $500,000 to the campaign. The chief campaign arm for Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate has already had a series of huge successes in recruiting and fundraising. This victory justifies their use of the money sent to the Bay State, and it also will likely lead to increased fundraising and recruiting.
MITT ROMNEY
It is no secret that the former Massachusetts governor is looking at another bid for President in 2012. He is also widely considered to be the Republican frontrunner if he runs. His support for the winning Brown campaign will shine for him should he give the run a go.
LOSERS
MASSACHUSETTS ATTORNEY GENERAL MARTHA COAKLEY
Of course, as the candidate who was beaten in this campaign, she stands to lose tremendously. Her loss signals a major turn in direction for the country and produces a large list of losers.
THE LEFTIST POLICY IN WASHINGTON
Now that the GOP has 41 senators, it can now again filibuster harmful Democratic legislation. Leftist proposals on healthcare, cap-and-trade and other issues are now either in doubt or temporarily on hold.
BARACK OBAMA
The President is now 0-for-3 in major campaign stumps in recent months. First, he lost Criegh Deeds in Virginia and Jon Corzine in New Jersey in races for governor in November. Now, he loses as even more important campaign in his agenda. With each failed campaign, he loses more political capital. Almost everyone said it was risky for him to go to Boston for Coakley over the weekend, and the risk fell short. This does not help and surely hurts the White House for the rest of the 2010 campaign. Attacking Brown's truck also didn't seem above the frey, either. That furthers his image of getting off track and being out of touch.
THE DSCC
The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee poured over $2 million into a losing bid in Massachusetts. They are already at a cash disadvantage to Republicans. This loss widens the gap after risking big in a campaign that will further make leftists apathetic. That is a threefer of a loss.
SENATOR JOHN KERRY
The senator's personal attacks on his now-colleague Brown and his truck struck as very tacky and out of touch. Kerry's political capital has plummeted dramatically since his failed Presidential bid in 2004, and this would seem to accelerate it.
BREAKING NEWS - Filibuster Proof Majority For Dems Broken As Bay State Elects First GOP Senator Since 1972
WHAT CAN BROWN DO FOR YOU...
REPUBLICAN SCOTT BROWN DEFEATS DEMOCRAT MARTHA COAKLEY FOR U.S. SENATE SEAT IN MASSACHUSETTS HELD BY TED KENNEDY!
9:15 PM CT
With 94 percent of precincts in, Republican state senator leads state attorney general Martha Coakley 52 percent to 47 percent. Coakley has just conceded, meaning that Brown is now the U.S. Senator elect from the Bay State. He is the first Republican to be elected to the U.S. Senate from the state since 1972.
REPUBLICAN SCOTT BROWN DEFEATS DEMOCRAT MARTHA COAKLEY FOR U.S. SENATE SEAT IN MASSACHUSETTS HELD BY TED KENNEDY!
9:15 PM CT
With 94 percent of precincts in, Republican state senator leads state attorney general Martha Coakley 52 percent to 47 percent. Coakley has just conceded, meaning that Brown is now the U.S. Senator elect from the Bay State. He is the first Republican to be elected to the U.S. Senate from the state since 1972.
Monday, January 18, 2010
A MASSACHUSETTS MIRACLE?
BROWN-COAKLEY RACE IN THE BAY STATE COMING DOWN TO THE LAST HOURS AND LOOKS TO BE THE FIRST MAJOR POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE OF 2010.
by Jordan M. Iwanyszyn
Over recent weeks, a once little-followed campaign for the U.S. Senate in the leftist bastion of New England has taken the nation by storm.
The race is for the U.S. Senate seat in Massachusetts that was held by Ted Kennedy for over four decades, and has seen Republican state senator Scott Brown surge into a tie or the lead in the campaign against Democratic state attorney general Martha Coakley.
Why am I saying all this for? Just about everyone it seems have already heard all this.
What cannot be stressed enough is the fact that this looks more and more likely to be the first major political tremor to shake the nation in this new year.
This race started to grab attention just about as the calendar turned from 2009 to '10. Polls coming out in late December into early January showed the margin of the lead by Coakley (as late as November at 31 percent) to quickly narrow and even evaporate. The first major poll that really started turning heads came from the Democratic-leaning firm Public Policy Polling on January 9th that showed Brown up by one, and with a solid lead for independents. Every poll since that time has now showed either a very narrow Coakley lead withing the margin of error, a tie, or a Brown lead. Four of the five polls to be released over the weekend show Brown with a fairly or strong lead, most as high as seven to ten points. Now, even Democratic congressmen from the Bay State and Democrats in the White House are now criticizing Coakley and blaming her for running a lackluster campaign.
The truth is that Coakley has done just that. While Brown is running a smart, hard campaign with the energy of national conservative and tea party groups behind him, Coakley has run a lousy campaign. Democrats have signaled that they feel entitled to this seat, and Coakley really did not seriously campaign for the general election until January started.
At the same time, Brown has made some memorable and really good statements, while Coakley has committed some serious gaffes. In a recent debate, Brown had said that the seat he is running for is "...not the Kennedy seat, it is not the Democrat's seat. It is the peoples' seat." Brown has also been on-message and on-target in focusing on the socialist health care proposal currently in Washington and on national security issues, therefore, taking out positions that are appealing across party lines.
Meanwhile, Coakley criticized Brown for 'campaigning in the cold' at a recent Boston Bruins-Philadelphia Flyers hockey game at Boston's legendary Fenway Park. She has also criticized Brown for driving around in a red truck and claimed that famed former Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling is a New York Yankees fan. Schilling is a vocal Brown supporter. She also made the claim that catholics should maybe give a second look at working in the emergency rooms at hospitals and not work there if they oppose abortion. These are just a few of the examples of Coakley getting off message and making pointless attacks.
The combination of the smart Brown campaign and a terrible Coakley campaign has resulted in independents and even Democrats turning out the lights on Coakley. Recent polling suggests that almost 60 percent of independents, and even as many as 30-35 percent of Democrats are backing Brown.
Now, many people watching this race, including numerous Democrats, are expecting a major Republican victory with Brown winning the seat. I am one of those expecting a Brown victory, and I will even pinpoint a specific winning margin. I think Brown will be the victor by four points.
A Brown victory will likely signal the death of this current government-run healthcare proposal as he is opposed to it, and the Democrats only have the upper hand by one vote. Also, it makes cap-and-trade much harder. It also signals that Democrats have a much harder time on their hands during this mid-term election year than we even thought a few weeks ago. For a Republican to be leading in a state that hasn't elected a senator from the GOP in nearly four decades sends a massive message that an enormous political earthquake is ready to shake the leftists in power this year.
This race also sends the message that the conservative tea party activists are not there to shake apart the GOP, like the media and leftist organizations are trying to portray. Brown is not a line-following conservative. He supports civil unions, supports Roe v. Wade as 'the law of the land', and takes some other positions that conservatives object to. However, tea party activists are in Massachusetts helping Brown, and conservative radio talk show hosts are excited about a Brown victory. Those that expect tea party supporters to 'tear the GOP apart' do not really understand what the tea party message is all about.
Lastly, Barack Obama was in Massachusetts over the weekend to rally for Coakley, and in the meanwhile spent time criticizing Brown and his pickup. He also campaigned for outgoing New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine and for Creigh Deeds, the candidate for governor in Virginia last year. Both of those races went the other way to Republicans Chris Christie and Bob McDonnell respectively. He continues to hurt his standing with every campaign he gets involved with and losing. If Brown wins tomorrow, he won't improve his standing.
It's about to get exciting!
Wikipedia article handicapping the race, including polls
Coakley calling Schilling a 'Yankees fan'
Boston Herald article on energy surrounding Brown's campaign
CNBC's Jim Cramer says stock market rally will come with Brown victory
Coakley attempts to tie Brown to Wall Street.....but uses a photo of the World Trade Center to do so.
The WTC ad is found appaling by former NYC Mayor Giuliani
by Jordan M. Iwanyszyn
Over recent weeks, a once little-followed campaign for the U.S. Senate in the leftist bastion of New England has taken the nation by storm.
The race is for the U.S. Senate seat in Massachusetts that was held by Ted Kennedy for over four decades, and has seen Republican state senator Scott Brown surge into a tie or the lead in the campaign against Democratic state attorney general Martha Coakley.
Why am I saying all this for? Just about everyone it seems have already heard all this.
What cannot be stressed enough is the fact that this looks more and more likely to be the first major political tremor to shake the nation in this new year.
This race started to grab attention just about as the calendar turned from 2009 to '10. Polls coming out in late December into early January showed the margin of the lead by Coakley (as late as November at 31 percent) to quickly narrow and even evaporate. The first major poll that really started turning heads came from the Democratic-leaning firm Public Policy Polling on January 9th that showed Brown up by one, and with a solid lead for independents. Every poll since that time has now showed either a very narrow Coakley lead withing the margin of error, a tie, or a Brown lead. Four of the five polls to be released over the weekend show Brown with a fairly or strong lead, most as high as seven to ten points. Now, even Democratic congressmen from the Bay State and Democrats in the White House are now criticizing Coakley and blaming her for running a lackluster campaign.
The truth is that Coakley has done just that. While Brown is running a smart, hard campaign with the energy of national conservative and tea party groups behind him, Coakley has run a lousy campaign. Democrats have signaled that they feel entitled to this seat, and Coakley really did not seriously campaign for the general election until January started.
At the same time, Brown has made some memorable and really good statements, while Coakley has committed some serious gaffes. In a recent debate, Brown had said that the seat he is running for is "...not the Kennedy seat, it is not the Democrat's seat. It is the peoples' seat." Brown has also been on-message and on-target in focusing on the socialist health care proposal currently in Washington and on national security issues, therefore, taking out positions that are appealing across party lines.
Meanwhile, Coakley criticized Brown for 'campaigning in the cold' at a recent Boston Bruins-Philadelphia Flyers hockey game at Boston's legendary Fenway Park. She has also criticized Brown for driving around in a red truck and claimed that famed former Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling is a New York Yankees fan. Schilling is a vocal Brown supporter. She also made the claim that catholics should maybe give a second look at working in the emergency rooms at hospitals and not work there if they oppose abortion. These are just a few of the examples of Coakley getting off message and making pointless attacks.
The combination of the smart Brown campaign and a terrible Coakley campaign has resulted in independents and even Democrats turning out the lights on Coakley. Recent polling suggests that almost 60 percent of independents, and even as many as 30-35 percent of Democrats are backing Brown.
Now, many people watching this race, including numerous Democrats, are expecting a major Republican victory with Brown winning the seat. I am one of those expecting a Brown victory, and I will even pinpoint a specific winning margin. I think Brown will be the victor by four points.
A Brown victory will likely signal the death of this current government-run healthcare proposal as he is opposed to it, and the Democrats only have the upper hand by one vote. Also, it makes cap-and-trade much harder. It also signals that Democrats have a much harder time on their hands during this mid-term election year than we even thought a few weeks ago. For a Republican to be leading in a state that hasn't elected a senator from the GOP in nearly four decades sends a massive message that an enormous political earthquake is ready to shake the leftists in power this year.
This race also sends the message that the conservative tea party activists are not there to shake apart the GOP, like the media and leftist organizations are trying to portray. Brown is not a line-following conservative. He supports civil unions, supports Roe v. Wade as 'the law of the land', and takes some other positions that conservatives object to. However, tea party activists are in Massachusetts helping Brown, and conservative radio talk show hosts are excited about a Brown victory. Those that expect tea party supporters to 'tear the GOP apart' do not really understand what the tea party message is all about.
Lastly, Barack Obama was in Massachusetts over the weekend to rally for Coakley, and in the meanwhile spent time criticizing Brown and his pickup. He also campaigned for outgoing New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine and for Creigh Deeds, the candidate for governor in Virginia last year. Both of those races went the other way to Republicans Chris Christie and Bob McDonnell respectively. He continues to hurt his standing with every campaign he gets involved with and losing. If Brown wins tomorrow, he won't improve his standing.
It's about to get exciting!
Wikipedia article handicapping the race, including polls
Coakley calling Schilling a 'Yankees fan'
Boston Herald article on energy surrounding Brown's campaign
CNBC's Jim Cramer says stock market rally will come with Brown victory
Coakley attempts to tie Brown to Wall Street.....but uses a photo of the World Trade Center to do so.
The WTC ad is found appaling by former NYC Mayor Giuliani
Monday, October 19, 2009
ELECTORAL SIGNS POINT TO A REPUBLICAN WAVE BUILDING.
While most off-year political watchers are focusing on the 2009 races for governor in Virginia and New Jersey as a barometer on next year's midterms, there are other signs from special and local elections are showing a huge swing in the mood of the electorate from last year. A swing to Republican candidates because of a desire to return to conservative values and policies.
Notable as of late have been the wins in New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee and Oklahoma. Earlier this month in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Republican State Representative Richard Berry was elected the city's mayor, the first GOP mayor in a quarter-century for the city. Granted, he was helped by the fact that two Democrats split the vote, but for a Republican to win enough votes in a city such as this, the largest in New Mexico, to win outright victory is still a stunner. For those who are unfamiliar with the state's politics, it has been trending strongly Democratic in recent election years. Now, there is even talk that Berry will become a leading voice for the state and a potential congressional or statewide candidate in future years.
On October 6th in Raleigh, North Carolina, four Wake County School Board seats were up for re-election, and Republicans swept all four of them. Also, the GOP picked up a seat in the Raleigh City Council.
The election news in New Mexico and North Carolina came to me by way of SaveTheGOP.com.
More recently, last week in Tennessee and Oklahoma, Republicans made big state legislative wins. In the Volunteer State, Republican Pat Marsh won a long-time Democratically-held State House District 62. The trucking firm owner beat Democrat Ty Cobb, the brother of the former state legislator who retired the seat, by a 56-41 percent margin. The seat had never been held by a Republican previously. The event has even been described by one Nashville news source as a "Democrat disaster". The most important coming out of the win is that it dramatically changes the make-up of the closely divided state house. Coming into last Tuesday's election, the state house was deadlocked 49-49 with one Independent caucusing with the GOP. Now it is a 50-48 Republican body with the one Independent.
As the state continues to quickly become more Republican, and shake out its former solidly Democratic past, this becomes vital as redistricting is performed after next year's mid-terms. Now the GOP holds quite a bit of influence in Tennessee, including 2 U.S. Senators, a 19-14 majority in the state senate and now the state house. GOP power was gained in the state senate in 2006 for the first time in decades and in the state house last year. The Dems hold the governor's mansion and a 5-4 lead in the U.S. Congressional delegation. Going into next year, those are also found to be in jeopardy, and especially in redistricting to come.
In the race for Tennessee State House District 62, especially interesting is the fact that the Democratic nominee, Cobb, and the state Democratic establishment decided to campaign like a Republican, with a focus on conservative principles. Cobb got the endorsement from the Tennessee Right To Life and put out these mailings. He failed miserably as the voters from the area, which includes Shelbyville, saw through the mask. However, it shows the point that the Democrats know that they can't win majorities without attempting a conservative message.
In Oklahoma, which along with Tennessee has quickly transformed into one of the strongest GOP states in the union, Democratically-held State House District 55 went Republican for the first time in nearly 45 years.
Businessman Todd Russ, also a Cordell City Councilman, defeated Democratic Educator Larry Peck with about 55.9 percent of the vote. The last time a Republican held that seat, the year was 1965. Democrats hold a nearly 2-to-1 voting majority in District 55. The GOP has been making strong and steady gains in the Oklahoma house, going from a 57-44 majority in 2004 to now holding 62 seats in the body of 101.
Other special election victories for the GOP this year can be found here, courtesy of the RSLC.
Are these signs of the mood of the nation, or just outlying victories for the GOP. Well, I say that the events speak for themselves.
Notable as of late have been the wins in New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee and Oklahoma. Earlier this month in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Republican State Representative Richard Berry was elected the city's mayor, the first GOP mayor in a quarter-century for the city. Granted, he was helped by the fact that two Democrats split the vote, but for a Republican to win enough votes in a city such as this, the largest in New Mexico, to win outright victory is still a stunner. For those who are unfamiliar with the state's politics, it has been trending strongly Democratic in recent election years. Now, there is even talk that Berry will become a leading voice for the state and a potential congressional or statewide candidate in future years.
On October 6th in Raleigh, North Carolina, four Wake County School Board seats were up for re-election, and Republicans swept all four of them. Also, the GOP picked up a seat in the Raleigh City Council.
The election news in New Mexico and North Carolina came to me by way of SaveTheGOP.com.
More recently, last week in Tennessee and Oklahoma, Republicans made big state legislative wins. In the Volunteer State, Republican Pat Marsh won a long-time Democratically-held State House District 62. The trucking firm owner beat Democrat Ty Cobb, the brother of the former state legislator who retired the seat, by a 56-41 percent margin. The seat had never been held by a Republican previously. The event has even been described by one Nashville news source as a "Democrat disaster". The most important coming out of the win is that it dramatically changes the make-up of the closely divided state house. Coming into last Tuesday's election, the state house was deadlocked 49-49 with one Independent caucusing with the GOP. Now it is a 50-48 Republican body with the one Independent.
As the state continues to quickly become more Republican, and shake out its former solidly Democratic past, this becomes vital as redistricting is performed after next year's mid-terms. Now the GOP holds quite a bit of influence in Tennessee, including 2 U.S. Senators, a 19-14 majority in the state senate and now the state house. GOP power was gained in the state senate in 2006 for the first time in decades and in the state house last year. The Dems hold the governor's mansion and a 5-4 lead in the U.S. Congressional delegation. Going into next year, those are also found to be in jeopardy, and especially in redistricting to come.
In the race for Tennessee State House District 62, especially interesting is the fact that the Democratic nominee, Cobb, and the state Democratic establishment decided to campaign like a Republican, with a focus on conservative principles. Cobb got the endorsement from the Tennessee Right To Life and put out these mailings. He failed miserably as the voters from the area, which includes Shelbyville, saw through the mask. However, it shows the point that the Democrats know that they can't win majorities without attempting a conservative message.
In Oklahoma, which along with Tennessee has quickly transformed into one of the strongest GOP states in the union, Democratically-held State House District 55 went Republican for the first time in nearly 45 years.
Businessman Todd Russ, also a Cordell City Councilman, defeated Democratic Educator Larry Peck with about 55.9 percent of the vote. The last time a Republican held that seat, the year was 1965. Democrats hold a nearly 2-to-1 voting majority in District 55. The GOP has been making strong and steady gains in the Oklahoma house, going from a 57-44 majority in 2004 to now holding 62 seats in the body of 101.
Other special election victories for the GOP this year can be found here, courtesy of the RSLC.
Are these signs of the mood of the nation, or just outlying victories for the GOP. Well, I say that the events speak for themselves.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Former Senate Majority Leader Frist Pulls Himself Out Of 2010 Contest For Tennessee Governor, Wamp And Gibbons In On GOP Side, No One Yet For Dems.
by Jordan M. Iwanyszyn
Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, a Republican from Tennessee, decided against running for governor of his state in 2010 on Sunday. The departure of his name from the race sets up a likely crowded field for both Republicans and Democrats.
Two Republicans eager to jump into the race if Frist didn't made their intentions clear quickly. Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons jumped in Sunday, and was followed by Rep. Zach Wamp of Chattanooga with an announcement Monday.
That likely won't be the whole field. Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam, a wealthy former oil executive whose family founded Pilot Corp., is reportedly about to embark on a cross-state tour to announce a bid. Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, a state senator from northeast Tennessee, is considering it, but says financial and fundraising support will be crucial in his decision. Rep. Marsha Blackburn, a solid conservative from the wealthy southern Nashville suburbs in Williamson County, reportedly made it known through her press secretary that she is also considering a bid. Other GOP candidates may also make a bid.
On the Democratic side, the biggest name that often comes up is that of Rep. Lincoln Davis, who represents a mostly rural district in eastern Middle Tennessee. He has not committed to a race yet, however. Former State House Majority Leader Kim McMillan from Clarksville has already formed an exploratory committee to allow her to raise funds for a race. Freshman State Senator Andy Berke of Chattanooga is "exploring the possibility". State Senator Roy Herron and Knoxville developer Doug Horne may also make bids.
Should the above make up the field, count on Haslam, Wamp, and Blackburn to lead the GOP, and Davis to be the frontrunner for the Dems.
We'll watch this one....
Candidates lining up for run at governor's office in 2010
Wamp declares gubernatorial candidacy
Tennessee: Race to succeed Wamp could get crowded (on who will replace Wamp in the U.S. House)
Wamp Announces Run for Tennessee Governor - CQPolitics
Frist Says No Bid For Governor In 2010
Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, a Republican from Tennessee, decided against running for governor of his state in 2010 on Sunday. The departure of his name from the race sets up a likely crowded field for both Republicans and Democrats.
Two Republicans eager to jump into the race if Frist didn't made their intentions clear quickly. Shelby County District Attorney Bill Gibbons jumped in Sunday, and was followed by Rep. Zach Wamp of Chattanooga with an announcement Monday.
That likely won't be the whole field. Knoxville Mayor Bill Haslam, a wealthy former oil executive whose family founded Pilot Corp., is reportedly about to embark on a cross-state tour to announce a bid. Lt. Governor Ron Ramsey, a state senator from northeast Tennessee, is considering it, but says financial and fundraising support will be crucial in his decision. Rep. Marsha Blackburn, a solid conservative from the wealthy southern Nashville suburbs in Williamson County, reportedly made it known through her press secretary that she is also considering a bid. Other GOP candidates may also make a bid.
On the Democratic side, the biggest name that often comes up is that of Rep. Lincoln Davis, who represents a mostly rural district in eastern Middle Tennessee. He has not committed to a race yet, however. Former State House Majority Leader Kim McMillan from Clarksville has already formed an exploratory committee to allow her to raise funds for a race. Freshman State Senator Andy Berke of Chattanooga is "exploring the possibility". State Senator Roy Herron and Knoxville developer Doug Horne may also make bids.
Should the above make up the field, count on Haslam, Wamp, and Blackburn to lead the GOP, and Davis to be the frontrunner for the Dems.
We'll watch this one....
Candidates lining up for run at governor's office in 2010
Wamp declares gubernatorial candidacy
Tennessee: Race to succeed Wamp could get crowded (on who will replace Wamp in the U.S. House)
Wamp Announces Run for Tennessee Governor - CQPolitics
Frist Says No Bid For Governor In 2010
Thursday, December 11, 2008
YOU DON'T NEED PRIMETIME TV - JUST WATCH THE ACTION AROUND THE SENATE APPOINTMENTS
There sure has been a lot of drama surrounding the appointments that are being made to replace two recently vacated U.S. Senate seats, the one in Illinois that Barack Obama has left, and the one in New York that Hillary Rodham Clinton is likely to be leaving to become Secretary of State.
By far, the biggest news about an appointment surrounds the scandal on Democratic Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. The already scandal-tainted governor has decided that a responsibility to fill a vacant seat has instead become an opportunity. That is, an opportunity to either make some money out of it by putting it up for sale for favors, or appointing himself to the seat and positioning himself for a run for the U.S. Presidency in 2016.
This an an appalling and disgusting reflection on why many Americans have become tired of the political process. Instead of viewing government for what it is supposed to be - a limited body trying to help society move along smoothly - some officials see it as an opportunity to benefit themselves. Truly disgusting! Even though I find political watching a hobby, and I am a political science major at Tennessee Tech, even I get tired of the mess and find a lot of the elected officials truly revolting.
In New York, it isn't scandals that are the theme. It is rock star status that is looking to find its way into the Senate seat Clinton will probably vacate.
News first surfaced a couple of weeks ago that Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy, is interested in positioning herself to be appointed by Democratic Governor David Paterson. She has not yet said for sure, however, that she wants the post.
Someone else who has surfaced as being even more interested is former Nanny star Fran Drescher, who has been vocal about her ambition to be appointed.
If either one is appointed, it would show that star power prevails over actual service, as New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo actually is more qualified with his history of service.
Don't worry about turning on the TV set for primetime shows. The drama, and even the comedy, around the appointments to fill one, and likely soon two, vacant Senate seats is very much better than anything you'll find on NBC or CBS.
Stay tuned...
By far, the biggest news about an appointment surrounds the scandal on Democratic Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. The already scandal-tainted governor has decided that a responsibility to fill a vacant seat has instead become an opportunity. That is, an opportunity to either make some money out of it by putting it up for sale for favors, or appointing himself to the seat and positioning himself for a run for the U.S. Presidency in 2016.
This an an appalling and disgusting reflection on why many Americans have become tired of the political process. Instead of viewing government for what it is supposed to be - a limited body trying to help society move along smoothly - some officials see it as an opportunity to benefit themselves. Truly disgusting! Even though I find political watching a hobby, and I am a political science major at Tennessee Tech, even I get tired of the mess and find a lot of the elected officials truly revolting.
In New York, it isn't scandals that are the theme. It is rock star status that is looking to find its way into the Senate seat Clinton will probably vacate.
News first surfaced a couple of weeks ago that Caroline Kennedy, daughter of the late President John F. Kennedy, is interested in positioning herself to be appointed by Democratic Governor David Paterson. She has not yet said for sure, however, that she wants the post.
Someone else who has surfaced as being even more interested is former Nanny star Fran Drescher, who has been vocal about her ambition to be appointed.
If either one is appointed, it would show that star power prevails over actual service, as New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo actually is more qualified with his history of service.
Don't worry about turning on the TV set for primetime shows. The drama, and even the comedy, around the appointments to fill one, and likely soon two, vacant Senate seats is very much better than anything you'll find on NBC or CBS.
Stay tuned...
Sunday, November 9, 2008
LOOKING FORWARD - To 2010, And 2012
It is not too early to start thinking about a conservative Republican renaissance in 2010, and another one in 2012. Therefore, I figured I'd put up a post to quickly handicap the field.
First of all, 2010 is just two short years away. There will be 36 Gubernatorial races, 35 U.S. Senate seats up for election, and all 435 seats in the U.S. House. Also, there will be numerous races in the states. This is a crucial first election for conservatives to start regaining power.
GOVERNORS - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
There will be 10 Democratic governors retiring in 2010, and if the GOP recruits the right candidates, they can all be winnable, except for probably Oregon and Maine. Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Wyoming could all be good shots at a pickup. Michigan could be won if rumored candidate Ted Nugent, the popular conservative rocker, makes a run. Likewise, Pennsylvania could have a chance at a GOP governor if state Attorney General Tom Corbett makes a run. In Tennessee, there are signs pointing to a run by former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, who would be the early frontrunner for the seat.
U.S. SENATE - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
Only one GOP senator is planning to retire, and that is Kansas Senator Sam Brownback, who might make a run at the Governor's Mansion in that state. We have to defend 19 seats, while the Dems have to defend 16. Therefore, it is highly unlikely we will get the majority back in the Senate, but we can cut into it. So far, it is hard to find any pickup opportunities in the Senate, but no Dems have announced plans to retire, and we don't know how favorable the public's view of Obama will be in two years, so seats might start coming open. On the down side, the reverse could be true, as well. For a more in-depth look, visit the Wikipedia link posted here.
U.S. HOUSE - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
A more likely shot at a re-gain of power would probably be the House, as all seats will be open in two years. Although a change in power right now doesn't look likely, two years is an eternity in politics. I believe the Dems' run at picking up GOP seats has finally come to an end, and a reversal in fortunes is about to begin.
In 2012, the House seats will again be up for election, as will 33 Senate seats. Of course, the big election for the Presidency is also in that year.
It is almost impossible to handicap the House races for '12 until the '10 races are sorted out. However, we have an idea of what seats are up in the Senate. The field shines bright for Republicans at this time. Why? Because the Dems have to defend 23 seats, while the GOP only needs to hold onto nine. Talk about a good opportunity to go on offense!
WIKIPEDIA ARTICLE ON THE SENATE RACE IN 2012 HERE
Of course, the big race in 2012 will be for the Presidency. After four years of governing, Barack Hussein Obama will almost certainly be looking for a second term. Meanwhile, a likely rejuvenated Republican Party will be seeking to gain the White House again.
Currently, there are four major names often spoken about being GOP candidates for the Presidency in 2012:
-Former Arkansas Governor and 2008 candidate Mike Huckabee
-Lousiana Governor Bobby Jindal
-Alaska Governor Sarah Palin
-Former Massachusetts Governor and 2008 candidate Mitt Romney
However, other names are also being spoken of. Not surprisingly, most of them are leaders in the modern day conservative movement. It would be a shocker if the GOP decides to go with another moderate like McCain in 2012. Here are some other names:
-Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour
-Florida Governor Charlie Crist
-Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels
-South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint
-Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich
-Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty
-CENTCOM Commander General David Petraeus
-South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford
-South Dakota Senator John Thune
In short, opportunities are coming for what I am sure will be a renewed and revived Republican Party in the next four years, especially come 2012.
First of all, 2010 is just two short years away. There will be 36 Gubernatorial races, 35 U.S. Senate seats up for election, and all 435 seats in the U.S. House. Also, there will be numerous races in the states. This is a crucial first election for conservatives to start regaining power.
GOVERNORS - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
There will be 10 Democratic governors retiring in 2010, and if the GOP recruits the right candidates, they can all be winnable, except for probably Oregon and Maine. Kansas, Michigan, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Wyoming could all be good shots at a pickup. Michigan could be won if rumored candidate Ted Nugent, the popular conservative rocker, makes a run. Likewise, Pennsylvania could have a chance at a GOP governor if state Attorney General Tom Corbett makes a run. In Tennessee, there are signs pointing to a run by former U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, who would be the early frontrunner for the seat.
U.S. SENATE - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
Only one GOP senator is planning to retire, and that is Kansas Senator Sam Brownback, who might make a run at the Governor's Mansion in that state. We have to defend 19 seats, while the Dems have to defend 16. Therefore, it is highly unlikely we will get the majority back in the Senate, but we can cut into it. So far, it is hard to find any pickup opportunities in the Senate, but no Dems have announced plans to retire, and we don't know how favorable the public's view of Obama will be in two years, so seats might start coming open. On the down side, the reverse could be true, as well. For a more in-depth look, visit the Wikipedia link posted here.
U.S. HOUSE - VIEW THE RACE AT WIKIPEDIA
A more likely shot at a re-gain of power would probably be the House, as all seats will be open in two years. Although a change in power right now doesn't look likely, two years is an eternity in politics. I believe the Dems' run at picking up GOP seats has finally come to an end, and a reversal in fortunes is about to begin.
In 2012, the House seats will again be up for election, as will 33 Senate seats. Of course, the big election for the Presidency is also in that year.
It is almost impossible to handicap the House races for '12 until the '10 races are sorted out. However, we have an idea of what seats are up in the Senate. The field shines bright for Republicans at this time. Why? Because the Dems have to defend 23 seats, while the GOP only needs to hold onto nine. Talk about a good opportunity to go on offense!
WIKIPEDIA ARTICLE ON THE SENATE RACE IN 2012 HERE
Of course, the big race in 2012 will be for the Presidency. After four years of governing, Barack Hussein Obama will almost certainly be looking for a second term. Meanwhile, a likely rejuvenated Republican Party will be seeking to gain the White House again.
Currently, there are four major names often spoken about being GOP candidates for the Presidency in 2012:
-Former Arkansas Governor and 2008 candidate Mike Huckabee
-Lousiana Governor Bobby Jindal
-Alaska Governor Sarah Palin
-Former Massachusetts Governor and 2008 candidate Mitt Romney
However, other names are also being spoken of. Not surprisingly, most of them are leaders in the modern day conservative movement. It would be a shocker if the GOP decides to go with another moderate like McCain in 2012. Here are some other names:
-Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour
-Florida Governor Charlie Crist
-Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels
-South Carolina Senator Jim DeMint
-Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich
-Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty
-CENTCOM Commander General David Petraeus
-South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford
-South Dakota Senator John Thune
In short, opportunities are coming for what I am sure will be a renewed and revived Republican Party in the next four years, especially come 2012.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)