2006 Election Stretch Run

Democrats feel they've closed the gap when it comes to last-second strategy and organization. I'm not so sure, but time will tell the story. I'm not sure the White House's media day with the right-wing media was much of a boon though. Rush Limbaugh's accusation that Michael J. Fox was exaggerating the effects of Parkinson's disease can't exactly be viewed as "compassionate." I don't exactly feel like these last second tactics are home runs. Even here in Rochester, Laura Bush came to support two candidates that are or were tied up in scandals. And frankly, both candidates are in districts that are normally cakewalks for the right.

It seems that a lot of typical locks for the GOP are in play. I expect most to go to the Republicans--as simple use of scare tactics to appeal to single-issue voters will probably do the trick--but the Democrats should score a few upsets. The Electoral Vote website, as of now, is predicting a Senate majority for the GOP and a House majority for the Democrats. I still expect that's what will end up occurring next week. The opportunity is there for Democrats--I just wish they were a little more united in their message. And, fiscal responsibility is an area where Democrats hold an edge of late that they might want to leverage.

The Midterm Elections

It seems fairly safe to say that we'll see some changes come November. Americans are increasingly unhappy with what has been the status quo. In an interesting Time article, it appears that Republicans are shifting their focus to the Senate. The Foley scandal has put several seats in the House of Representatives into play for Democrats and a takeover by the Democratic Party looks increasingly likely. The Senate is much more of a stretch for Democrats, although the Republicans misfortunes of late have made that more plausible. Consequently, it appears the GOP is focusing on holding the Senate. Time will tell the story, by minus any major new events, I suspect Democrats will take the House and Republicans will maintain the Senate. Democrats have the opportunity for both, but it's tough to bet against the GOP's strategists.

Troubling Trends

Loub Dobbs highlights a number of concerns that I share in an article that he posted today on CNN. He looks at how a number of factors are leading to the increasing economic polarization between the richest Americans and the rest. Ridiculous healthcare costs, increasing tuition for higher education, falling real wages, and high housing costs are making the American dream harder for many. Of course, housing costs are coming crashing down in many overpriced markets, but that's a different topic. Anyways, I thought it was an interesting essay.