|
Mark Warner launches Virginia campaign for U.S. Senate
2008-05-07 16:35:00 Former Virginia governor Mark Warner (D) officially launched his campaign this week Monday for the U.S. Senate seat held by retiring incumbent John Warner (R), pledging to run outside normal partisan divides during a statewide tour that's taking him across eleven stops through Wednesday. Warner had already announced his intention to run for the seat months ago, his residual popularity as a more moderate-style Democrat from his term as governor makes him the strong favorite to claim the seat over the eventual Republican nominee.Warner's Web site and the Web sites of countless other Senate and House candidates from Virginia, Maryland and the D.C. area in general are linked on the left sidebar of this blog's main page.----Relevant links: Mark Warner for Senate 2008, Washington Post
By: DCABloob
Senate Watch: News & Notes
2008-04-13 00:42:00 Let's take a look at the latest news from Senate races around the country. Click here for our latest Senate rankings--look for a fresh set of rankings next week. AlabamaThe latest polling continues to show Republican Senator Jeff Session (pictured) with a commanding lead in his bid for a third term. Sessions leads state Senator Vivian Figures 57%-36%. Three-fourths of the electorate hold a favorable view of the incumbent, while only 39% view Figures favorably. Figures, who isn't well known outside of her own district, doesn't appear to pose a serious threat to Sessions.AlaskaNew numbers out of Alaska confirm that Republican Senator Ted Stevens, in office since 1970, is facing the toughest challenge of his political career. Elected by landslide margins in every election since he assumed office, Stevens (pictured) holds a narrow 46%-45% lead over Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich. In trouble largely because of a federal corruption investigation, Stevens earns support from just 71% ...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2008-03-19 05:27:00 Our latest rankings paint a rosy picture for Democrats, who find only one of their incumbents on our list of the ten seats most likely to flip hands in 2008. After picking up six seats and winning a thin 51-49 majority in 2006, they appear poised to expand their holdings, but fall short of a filibuster-proof 60-seat advantage.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: As a former business executive and governor, Mark Warner (pictured) simply doesn't come across as a legislative branch kind of guy. Widely considered a potential 2008 presidential candidate before he surprisingly put such speculation to rest in October 2006, Warner does little to scuttle the notion that he has ambitions that lie beyond the Senate. A term in the Senate, which seems all but assured at this point, could help fill out the foreign policy portion of his resume for a presidential run in 2012, 2016, or beyond. At this point in 2006, however, another former governor was also prepping for an apparently easy Senate race befor...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-03-01 00:27:00 Let's take a look at the latest news from Senate races around the country.AlaskaRepublican Ted Stevens (pictured), the 84 year old veteran lawmaker, officially filed for re-election last week. The move puts to rest any speculation that Stevens would step aside in light of an active FBI investigation into his ties to an oil contractor. Ordinarily elected by landslide margins, Stevens faces danger from Democrats and from within his own party in 2008. Jerry Heikes and David Cuddy, who challenged Stevens in 1996, are already in the race. Should Republicans feel Stevens' presence on the ballot endangers their chances to keep the seat, pressure could be increased for him to retire or more prominent challengers could emerge. In 2006, unpopular Republican Governor Frank Murkowski finished third to now-Governor Sarah Palin in the primary. Of course, Murkowski doesn't have the same clout that Stevens carries within the state--he's been in office since 1968, routinely brings pork spe...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-02-05 06:41:00 ColoradoSlowly, but surely Democratic Congressman Mark Udall (pictured) is increasing his financial advantage over former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer. Udall raised $1.1 million to end 2007, bringing his cash on hand total to $3.6 million. Schaffer raised $673,000 in the final quarter of the year, with $1.5 million available for the race. A $2 million deficit is not good news for Schaffer, who will likely appeal to national Republicans for support. With several endangered Republicans throughout the country, however, it's unclear how the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) will respond. The group was out raised by its counterpart, the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), by nearly $25 million last year.IdahoRepublican Lt. Governor Jim Risch (pictured), the favorite for the Republican nomination in a large field, raised $236,000 in the fourth quarter, with $171,000 available. Risch's total bests the $166,000 brought in by Democrat Larry LaRocco, ...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2008-01-22 22:15:00 Our rankings are supersized this month, with blurbs about all 35 races across the country. Our top ten remains largely unchanged, with the open seat race in Mississippi joining the list for the first time. Mitch McConnell's race in Kentucky fell from the top ten after Democrats failed to get a top tier recruit to face the minority leader.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: Former Democratic Governor Mark Warner (pictured) continues to have smooth sailing on his way to the Senate. His likely opponent, former Governor Jim Gilmore, has drawn a challenge from Bob Marshall, that further complicates his chances. Gilmore should survive in a party convention, but Warner has shown no signs of slowing. Most polling gives him a lead of 15-20 points, but the Old Dominion is very much a swing state, so Warner shouldn't get too comfortable. VERDICT: Likely Democratic takeover2. New Mexico (Open-R) [3]: While Representatives Steve Pearce (pictured) and Heather Wilson duke it out in the Republican pr...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2008-01-09 22:28:00 Due to the holiday break and the beginning of the primary season, we haven't touched on Senate campaign news for a while. So it's time to catch up.AlaskaRepublican Ted Stevens (pictured) earned a primary challenge this week in the midst of an ethics scandal that could drive the veteran lawmaker from office. Businessman David Cuddy, who challenged Stevens in 1996 and earned 27% of the vote, announced that he will again seek the Republican nomination. Since his appointment in 1968, Stevens has rarely faced a serious challenge, but this year he could be in trouble. Polling already shows him in a tight race against potential Democratic rival Mark Begich. Democrats, however, are likely hoping Stevens makes it through the primary. The scandal that surrounds him could propel them to a surprising win in this Republican state. KentuckyGreg Stumbo (pictured), once considered a likely challenger for Republican incumbent Mitch McConnell has confirmed that he will instead seek his old se...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-12-11 18:51:00 AlaskaA new poll suggests that Republican Ted Stevens, the longest-serving Republican in the Senate, would be defeated by potential Democratic challenger Mark Begich. Stevens trails 41%-47%. Begich, Anchorage mayor, has been recruited by national Democrats to challenge Stevens, who is facing the most difficult re-election effort of his career. Stevens (pictured) typically would garner little attention in this heavily Republican state, but an ongoing ethics investigation has left him vulnerable.ColoradoA new poll puts the Colorado Senate race in a virtual tie, with Republican Bob Schaffer edging Democrat Mark Udall (pictured) 42-41%. Several polls have confirmed that the race remains tight in this traditionally Republican state. Democrats have made inroads of late, however, picking up the governor's office and the other Senate seat during the past two cycles. The strategy here is clear: paint the other guy as too extreme (to the left or right) for Colorado. The candidate tha...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-12-04 17:57:00 It's once again time to review our rankings of the 2008 Senate races. Though Democrats were disappointed by Republican Thad Cochran's decision to seek re-election in Mississippi, it has turned out that they'll get a shot at an open seat there after all. Trent Lott's decision to resign before the end of his term means another seat for Republicans to defend. Tom Udall's decision to run in New Mexico also provided a boost for Democrats this month. As things stand today, Democrats seem almost certain to gain at least two seats, a number that could easily swell to half a dozen depending on how the cards fall.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: Democrat Mark Warner (pictured) lost his first Senate try more than a decade ago--a surprisingly strong effort against now-retiring Republican John Warner. Since that time, however, Warner was elected governor, left office with high approval ratings that helped Democrats keep the seat in 2005, his party toppled Republican George Allen in 2006 and won...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-11-20 18:30:00 AlabamaRepublican Jeff Sessions has a decisive lead over state Senator Vivian Figures, 62%-30%. The conservative Sessions appears well on his way to a third term.KentuckyMichael Cassaro, a Louisville-area doctor, became the first Democrat to officially challenge Republican Senator Mitch McConnell (pictured) this week. It's unlikely, however, that national Democrats will be satisfied with Cassaro, a political newcomer, as their candidate. Polling has showed McConnell is vulnerable and Democrats are pursuing state Auditor Crit Luallen and Attorney General Greg Stumbo among others. Stumbo, who has formed an exploratory committee, said he will make an official decision by mid-December. Stumbo even took at shot at potential rival Luallen, saying, ""I don't think you can take the oath of office for a four-year term one week and turn around and file for another office the next." Luallen was recently re-elected with 59% of the vote, while Stumbo did not pursue another term after bei...
By: Political Realm
Ad Wars: The Attack Machine
2007-11-20 17:16:00 Hillary ClintonClinton's latest ad focuses on the "Republican attack machine," suggesting she is the target because she is the candidate they fear. Curiously, the ad is airing in New Hampshire and not Iowa, where a recent poll shows Clinton trailing Obama. The ad also doesn't mention the attacks from her Democratic rivals, which have probably done just as much damage. Duncan HunterThe Hunter campaign has released its first ad of the cycle, focusing on the economy and national security, calling for jobs for returning troops, but attacking China and its trade deficit with the US. For what it's worth, Hunter may have taken the lead in worst commercial produced by a major candidate in 2008 standings. The graphics in this one make it seem like an '80s infomercial. Senate Watch: VirginiaJim Gilmore officially entered the Senate race this week and posted this announcement video, in which he appeals to traditional conservative values. Polling, however, shows him running well behin...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-11-13 01:57:00 Polls, polls, and more polls--nearly every competitive 2008 Senate race was polled at least once last week, so today we will focus on those numbers and what they mean going forward.ColoradoPolling gives Democratic Congressman Mark Udall a 48%-41% lead over former Republican Congressman Bob Schaffer in the battle to replace retiring Republican Senator Wayne Allard. The poll also shows that Udall is better known by Colorado voters, with just over half familiar with Schaffer. These numbers should allow Colorado Democrats to breathe a little easier after an earlier poll showed the race neck and neck.KentuckyAnother poll shows that Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell will face a serious re-election test in 2008. He leads potential rivals Greg Stumbo 48%-41% and Crit Luallen 49%-39%. McConnell has seen his approval rating fall as he has become the target of several Democratic groups tying him with President Bush and the Iraq War. Kentucky Democrats also had an impressive showin...
By: Political Realm
Former Brownback SC Chair Endorses McCain
2007-11-09 19:01:00 After his boss dropped out of the presidential race, David Barron, Brownback?s former South Carolina Chair, is now endorsing John McCain for President citing McCain's track record as a consistent conservative."Sam is backing Sen. McCain and so will I. There is no viable alternative for conservatives now. Hope I'll see y'all on the trail. Sure would be good to fight the good fight with you.?Other members of Brownback?s former campaign are backing other candidates.A former member of Brownback?s steering committee, Kevin Bryant, will back Mitt Romney.
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-11-02 21:18:00 AlaskaAnchorage Mayor Mark Begich, whose father served in the House of Representatives, was in Washington, DC this week. Begich, widely seen as a potential challenger to Republican Senator Ted Stevens, was heavily courted by Senate Democrats, including Senators Harry Reid and Chuck Schumer. Begich has yet to commit to the race and appears to be in no hurry to do so. Alaska, typically one of the most Republican states in the country, could elect Democrats to two of its three Congressional seats next year. Stevens and Congressman Don Young, both under federal investigation, appear vulnerable. A recent poll shows Young, who took over the House seat after the death of Begich's father in 1972, trailing Democratic challenger Ethan Berkowitz.MaineRepublican Senator Susan Collins out-raised Democratic Congressman Tom Allen during the third quarter, with Collins bringing in more than $1 million to Allen's $660,000. Collins also has a cash on hand advantage, holding $3.1 million in t...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-11-01 20:14:00 It's once again time to review our rankings of the 2008 Senate races. The top ranked seat is the one we believe most likely to flip control to the other party. The seat's previous ranking is listed in brackets. Democrats have had an up and down month, missing out on major opportunities in Nebraska and North Carolina, while picking up new prospects in New Mexico and Kentucky.1. Virginia (Open-R) [1]: The Virginia seat remains atop our rankings this month, even as Republicans avoided a potential bitter and divisive battle for their nomination. Congressman Tom Davis announced he would not seek the seat, though he had been seen for years as John Warner's preferred successor. Davis' decision, precluded by the party's choice to hold a convention over a primary, essentially gives the Republican nomination to former Governor Jim Gilmore. Though Gilmore has won statewide before, his more conservative views make him perhaps a less potent general election candidate to oppose Democrat...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-29 20:57:00 AlaskaRepublican incumbent Ted Stevens brought in $463,000 during the third quarter and has more than $1 million available for his re-election bid. That re-election remains in doubt, however, with Stevens under investigation by the FBI. That ethics controversy has led many to question whether the veteran lawmaker would seek another term. Stevens' fundraising, well ahead of his pace from the 2002 cycle, seems to suggest that he plans to be on the ballot next November. His presence could present an opening for Democrats, with Anchorage Mayor Mark Begich a possible opponent.ColoradoDemocratic Congressman Mark Udall raised $1.1 million during the third quarter, compared to $800,000 for likely opponent Bob Schaffer. Udall has an impressive advantage in cash on hand, with $3.5 million in the bank. Schaffer has $1.2 million available. Both are seeking the seat being vacated by Republican Wayne Allard.GeorgiaRecent polling shows Republican Senator Saxby Chambliss has a very comforta...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-23 20:52:00 Maine? A new poll shows Republican incumbent Susan Collins begins her re-election battle with an impressive lead over Democratic Congressman Tom Allen. Collins leads Allen, 56%-33%. It has been clear for months that Allen would be Collins' likely opponent, so it should be a little disheartening for Maine Democrats to see him trailing so badly. Allen is hoping to make the race about Iraq and President Bush, while tying Collins to national Republicans. Collins, however, has built a moderate reputation and appears to be controlling the race's message thus far. Things have been fairly quiet in Maine thus far, but look for Allen to step up his attacks soon.Nebraska? The Nebraska race has also been fairly quiet, as Republicans prepare for a primary battle and Democrats wait on former Senator Bob Kerrey's decision. Kerrey suggested a decision would be announced "soon," but weeks have passed and little has been reported. Kerrey was in the news this week after noting that he would ...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-10-18 06:56:00 New Mexico? Republican Congressman Steve Pearce has decided to run for the seat being vacated by Senator Pete Domenici. Pearce will face fellow Republican Representative Heather Wilson in a primary battle. Pearce is seen as the more conservative and may have an edge, because Wilson brings a tainted reputation to the race. Wilson was involved in the same Justice Department scandal that surely contributed to Domenici's decision to retire. Pearce is giving up a fairly safe House seat, while Wilson has been a perennial target for Democrats.? Wilson begins the race with a slight financial edge over Pearce. Wilson has $756,000 in the bank, while Pearce has $582,000 available for the race.? Former state Attorney General Patricia Madrid has decided against running for the Senate. Madrid narrowly lost to Congressman Heather Wilson in 2006, following a disastrous closing month on the campaign trail. She may pursue that seat again in 2008, with Wilson running for the Senate.North Carol...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Rankings
2007-10-01 23:51:00 Welcome to our first rankings of the 2008 Senate contests around the country. These rankings will appear at the beginning of each month through November 2008. The top ranked seat is the one we believe most likely to flip control to the other party. As you will notice, the landscape sets up rather nicely for Democrats looking to increase their small majority. Republicans have more seats to defend and (at least right now) fewer resources to help defend them. Democratic recruiting efforts have yielded strong results, while the jury is still out for Republicans. The bottom line is that Democrats have far more opportunities in 2008 and, while they won't pick up every seat they target, a gain of at least a few seems likely at this point.1. Virginia (Open-R): The retirement of John Warner dealt a devastating blow to Republicans. The seat that would have been easily defended had he opted for re-election has now become the Democrats' best pickup opportunity. Popular former Governo...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-09-19 16:29:00 Connecticut? A new poll shows that independent Senator Joe Lieberman would lose a rematch of his 2006 race were the voting held today. Ned Lamont, the anti-war candidate who upset Lieberman in the Democratic primary, would beat Lieberman 48%-40%. Lieberman left the party after losing the primary and ran in the general election as an independent. In the Senate, he caucuses with the Democrats, but typically sides with Republicans on foreign policy votes. The news probably pleases anti-war Democrats, but the results have little significance since Lieberman's term will not expire until 2012.Idaho? New polling shows that Democrats will have a difficult time capturing the seat being vacated by scandal-plagued Larry Craig. The Republican incumbent is resigning after it was revealed he was arrested on sex-related charges in a Minneapolis airport this summer. Larry LaRocco, the likely Democratic nominee, loses match-ups against all of his potential Republican rivals.Nebraska? Former C...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-09-14 18:58:00 Minnesota? Polling shows Republican incumbent Norm Coleman continues to hold a narrow lead over his two Democratic challengers, Al Franken and Mike Ciresi. Coleman leads Franken 46%-41% and his lead over Ciresi is 46%-42%. Coleman's is viewed favorably by 54% of the population, up slightly from last month. Both challengers have made significant gains on Coleman compared to surveys earlier this year that showed Coleman with a comfortable lead. Ciresi has had to overcome low name recognition, while Franken is seeking to prove he is a serious candidate, despite his background in entertainment. Both have seen their favorable numbers rise as well.Nebraska? Chuck Hagel confirmed Monday what had been widely rumored over the weekend--he would not seek a third term in the Senate. Hagel also will not seek the presidency in 2008. Republicans chances to hold the seat remain strong, though it presents a further challenge to Senate Republicans having to defend another seat once thought sa...
By: Political Realm
Former Va. Gov. Warner Makes it Official, Will Run for Senate
2007-09-13 20:00:00 Former Virginia governor Mark R. Warner announced today that he is running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican John W. Warner, setting the stage for one of the most competitive races in the country next year, according to sources familiar with his decision. Warner, 52, a self-described moderate Democrat, made his announcement in an e-mail and video message to supporters Thursday but won't formally begin his campaign until after the state legislative races in November, according to the sources, who spoke directly with Warner. "Six years ago, we brought a bipartisan agenda of change to Virginia. It's time to bring that same approach to Washington and our nation," Warner said in his message. Democrats in Virginia and nationally have been courting Warner in the hope that his entry in next year's race would help them retain their majority in the Senate. If Warner succeeded, Virginia would have two Democratic senators for the first time since 1970. "Our country is ...
Senate Watch: Warner Enters Race
2007-09-13 18:38:00 As expected, Former Virginia Governor Mark Warner has announced he is running for the Senate today. Warner has established a website for his campaign, where he made the video announcement. In the video, Warner talks about his accomplishments as governor, portrays himself as moderate willing to work with both sides, saying, "We brought folks together, focused on getting results, and together we accomplished some great things. Six years ago, we brought a bipartisan agenda of change to Virginia and it's time to bring that same approach to Washington and our nation." Warner suggested he will make a formal announcement this fall after state elections in November.The Virginia seat opened when Republican John Warner announced he would not seek another term two weeks ago. Republicans Tom Davis and Jim Gilmore are considered Warner's most likely opponents. The state GOP has already created a website labeling Warner as a liberal with an agenda of raising taxes. The site features a vid...
By: Political Realm
Mark Warner Makes It Official
2007-09-13 17:46:00 Former Virginia Governor Mark Warner today officially announced that he would seek the Senate seat being vacated by John Warner. His path to the Democratic nomination should be easy - perhaps uncontested - and imo he enters the race as the favorite over two Republicans who have indicated they might run for the seat, VA-11 Rep. Tom Davis and former governor (and presidential candidate) Jim Gilmore.
By: Coldheartedtruth
Mark Warner to Run for Senate
2007-09-13 17:34:00 The speculation is over, Mark Warner will run for the United States Senate.The following is an e-mail announcement, followed by a video announcement from the former Governor.Thirteen days ago, my friend, Senator John Warner announced his retirement from the US Senate. He has served Virginia and our country with distinction, and brought an independence and civility to office we need to see more of in public life.After his announcement, I said that I would make my future plans public in the coming days. After a great deal of reflection, talking with my family and friends, I've reached my decision.I hope you will watch my announcement video - and join us in this effort.With best wishes, Mark Warner.This puts Republicans at a disadvantage. Warner is possibly the most popular local politician in the state and recent polls show him crushing the Republican opposition. This race is the Democrat's to lose.This now puts him out of the short list of possible VP choices for the Democratic nom...
Senate Watch: Virginia
2007-09-11 23:15:00 When Republican Senator John Warner announced his retirement a week ago, few were surprised. The veteran lawmaker and former naval secretary turned 80 in February, had done raised only a few thousand dollars for his re-election bid, and was doing little to quiet retirement speculation. Warner's announcement did, however, open the field in what is likely to be one of the highest profile Senate races in the country.On the Democratic side, the field seems clear. Mark Warner, the popular former governor, is said to be considering a run. Term limits (no one can serve consecutive terms as governor in Virginia) forced him from office in 2006, yet Warner was seen as one of the rising stars in the Democratic Party. He ruled out a presidential run in late 2006, but remains a potential running mate for the eventual Democratic nominee. With no guarantees to get on the ticket, however, Warner seems inclined to abandon such aspirations for a Senate run. The bid wouldn't be Warner's firs...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-09-07 19:34:00 Idaho? Republican Congressman Mike Simpson has withdrawn his name from consideration to replace scandal-plagued Senator Larry Craig, who's set to resign at the end of the month. Simpson lashed out at Republican Minority Leader Mitch McConnell for his treatment of Craig. "I hope I never stub my toe and they throw me under the bus," Simpson said. He noted that he has no intention of leaving the Republican Party, but simply does not want to serve in the Senate."If that's how they treat their own," Simpson said, referring to Senate GOP leaders' quick push for Craig to resign, "that tells me they?re more interested in party than individuals, and the party is made up of individuals. How you treat them says a lot about your party."Simpson pointed a finger at Craig's leaders for staying mum on the legal and personal jeopardy facing other GOP senators, including Alaskan Ted Stevens, now under federal investigations, and Louisianan David Vitter, who has admitted contacting an escort se...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-08-30 22:43:00 Alabama? Incumbent Republican Jeff Sessions continues to lead in his race against state Senator Vivian Figures, 59%-37%. Sessions appears to be a safe bet for re-election to a third term.Idaho? Embattled Republican Larry Craig has been removed from his his committee assignments at the request of the GOP leadership seeking to distance the party from the scandal. Support from Craig in his home state and among Republicans is already collapsing, with several senators calling for him to resign.? Mitt Romney, whom Craig endorsed for president, continues to distance himself from the veteran lawmaker. Romney called Craig's actions "very disappointing" and compared the situation to the scandals that surrounded former President Clinton and former Congressman Mark Foley.Louisiana? State Treasurer John Kennedy announced earlier this week that he will switch parties and become a Republican before he seeks re-election to his current post this fall. Many are interpreting the party switch as a...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-08-24 19:44:00 Louisiana? Republicans are still searching for a candidate to challenge vulnerable Democrat Mary Landrieu. The incumbent has twice won extremely narrow victories, but the demographics in the state continue to trend Republican, perhaps expedited by the population displacement following Hurricane Katrina.? John Kennedy, the current state treasurer and a Democrat, is being recruited to challenge Landrieu. He recently announced that he would seek re-election to his current post in 2007, send mixed signals about his future plans. Kennedy ran as a Democrat for the Senate in 2004, but lost to David Vitter, the first Republican senator from the state since Reconstruction and who was recently involved in a sex scandal. Minnesota? CQ Politics writes that Al Franken is working hard to prove himself as a serious candidate in the race to challenge Republican Senator Norm Coleman. Franken has proven himself a strong fundraiser already and is airing web ads attacking Norm Coleman's associati...
By: Political Realm
Good Reads
2007-08-23 21:13:00 John Mercurio: Can Bush Regain The Upper Hand On Iraq?Something big is happening this week in Kansas City. In the middle of August, in the middle of America, the political debate over Iraq is apparently shifting, ever so slightly, back to the middle. How far will (can) it swing in President Bush's favor before the presidential election next fall?Newt Gingrich: Debates That Say SomethingA challenge arrived at the office of every presidential candidate about two weeks ago. It was a letter, signed by journalist Marvin Kalb and me, challenging each one, Republican and Democrat, to sign on for "Nine Nineties in Nine." That is, if nominated, they would pledge to take part in nine 90-minute debates in the nine weeks leading up to election day.How is this different? We are asking the candidates to throw out the rule book that has stifled political debate. Each party's nominee would be expected to present and defend solutions in a one-on-one dialogue with his or her opponent. The moderat...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: Recruitment Troubles
2007-08-22 21:37:00 In a recent column over at The Fix, Chris Cillizza wrote:Recruiting is the main task of both parties in the year before an election. It's an arduous process that involves not only trying to find the best candidate and convince him or her to run, but also navigating tricky local political waters to make sure not too many toes are stepped on. A good recruiting program, it should go without saying, is crucial to making gains (or preventing losses) at the ballot box. Without a competent challenger who can make a strong case for change, even the weakest of incumbents has a fighting chance to be reelected.At this still-early point in the '08 cycle, it's hard to overlook the dearth of top-tier Republican candidates in potentially competitive Senate races. The best recruit on the board for Republicans at the moment is Bob Schaffer, a former congressman who is running for the Colorado Senate seat being vacated next year by Wayne Allard. The GOP cupboard is all-but-bare elsewhere. No serio...
By: Political Realm
Senate Watch: News And Notes
2007-07-10 06:36:00 Michigan? Democratic Senator Carl Levin may find himself facing a familiar opponent in 2008. Republican Andrew "Rocky" Raczkowski, the former state representative that Levin easily beat in 2002, is considering another challenge. Minnesota ? Al Franken has reportedly raised $1.9 million in the second quarter, bringing his fundraising total to more than $3 million. Franken has $2 million in the bank. He is set to face Minneapolis lawyer Mike Ciresi, who raised $750,000 with $625,000 in the bank. Ciresi, like Franken, also has a significant amount of personal wealth to rely on for campaign support. Chris Cillizza notes, "The most important thing that Franken's fundraising does for him is that it sends a signal to the activist community that Franken is serious about this race and would be ready for Coleman if he winds up being the party's nominee. And it has the added bonus of reducing doubt in regular voters' minds about Franken's electability."? Republican incumbent Norm Coleman r...
By: Political Realm
Congressional News And Notes
2007-06-27 18:54:00 ? Republican John Barrasso, a surgeon and state senator, was seated as the new senator from Wyoming this week, assuming the seat vacated by the death of Craig Thomas. He was selected by Democratic Governor Dave Freudenthal to fill the seat until a special election in November of 2008. Wyoming's other senator, Republican Michael Enzi, is also expected to seek re-election at that time. Barrasso was defeated by Enzi in a Republican Senate primary in 1996.? Democrat Bob Kerrey, former governor and senator, is considering a bid to get his old job back in Nebraska. Kerrey, a decorated Vietnam veteran, served two terms in the Senate before retiring in 2001. He has suggested that he would not challenge Republican incumbent Chuck Hagel, but it is increasingly unlikely that Hagel will seek another term. Several Republicans, including Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning, have expressed interest in running. Kerrey, who currently lives in New York, has said his family will decide soon whether...
By: Political Realm
2007/2008 Tidbits
2007-05-03 01:57:00 ? South Dakota Senator Tim Johnson was released from the hospital this week and will continue his recovery efforts from home. He suffered a brain hemorrhage in December and has been absent from the Senate since that time. He does face re-election in 2008, should he decide to run again. While no Republican challenger has emerged, the South Dakota GOP has begun polling for possible matchups. Republican Governor Mike Rounds, who is facing term limits and will leave office in 2010, is considered a strong possible candidate.? Its possible that almost all of the GOP field will be excluded from the next major presidential debate to be held in two weeks. In order to be included, the rules state that candidate must be show at least 1% support in state or national polling. Recent information proves that only John McCain, Rudy Giuliani, and Mitt Romney easily clear that hurdle, though I would expect the organizers to be fairly lenient and allow any candidate that is close to the mark to partic...
By: Political Realm
2008 Tidbits
2007-02-28 18:12:00 According to the Washington Post, Mark Warner is giving a challenge of John Warner more consideration than it initially appeared. Its believed that neither Warner wants to run against the other, but the piece says that both seem to be open to the rematch of their 1996 battle. Chuck Schumer did a very good job of recruiting the right candidates in 2006, but he'll still have to do a lot of convincing--Warner probably has pretty high hopes of being selected as a VP candidate. If Mark Warner does get in, it seems like that should be enough to drive John Warner from the race. Rudy Giuliani actually has plans to campaign in Iowa?! He's been able to build a big lead nationally without visiting the first caucus state or hiring any major staffers there. The Des Moines Register reports that both are about to change, as he's hired a state political director and plans to visit in a few weeks. I still believe that Rudy will be a tough sell for Iowa conservatives and that Newt Gingrich, ...
By: Political Realm
Obama Endorsed By Virginia Governor
2007-02-19 19:44:00 Virginia Governor Tim Kaine has endorsed Barack Obama for president. The announcement official came Saturday, though rumors began to circulate in the middle of last week. The two are said to have a strong relationship--Obama campaigned for Kaine in 2005 and new Virginia Senator Jim Webb in 2006.An endorsement from Mark Warner would have been far more intriguing and unexpected. It is believed that many of the major political donors and operatives that were prepared to work for Warner have moved to the Obama campaign. Warner, however, seems likely to withhold any endorsement until after the nomination is wrapped up. As a potential VP candidate, he would not want to cross himself off of anyone's short list.Link: Discussion on Raising Kaine, a Virginia-oriented political site
By: Political Realm
Governor Mark Warner will not run for president
2006-10-14 03:33:01 Democrat Mark Warner has announced that he will not run for president in 2008.
No Prez run for Mark Warner
2006-10-13 14:55:00 Former Virginia governor Mark Warner surprised the political world by announcing Thursday that he would NOT run for the presidency of the United States in the 2008 election. Warner cited a wish to spend more time with his family. Often the family excuse is a "crock" but there's no known reason to disbelieve it yet considering what Warner just put aside.Warner had been well-positioned as a possible centrist alternative candidate against presumed Democratic front-runner Sen. Hillary Clinton. The odds of Clinton winning the Democratic nomination and in turn, the eventual Republican nominee winning the presidency have both increased.Relevant links: Washington Post, Washington Times.
By: DCABloob
|
|
 |
|
 |
