Democrats See an Opportunity

[newyawker99]

S.D. Victory Raises Hopes of Gaining House Majority

A narrow victory in this week's congressional race in Republican-leaning South Dakota has Democrats talking of something that seemed unthinkable six months ago: the possibility of regaining the House majority this fall after a decade in the minority.

Even the most optimistic Democrats agree that it is an uphill fight, but Stephanie Herseth's win in Tuesday's special election lends credence to claims that the party can grab seats from the GOP in districts carried by President Bush in 2000 if it runs smart, strong candidates. Democratic leaders said yesterday that several such campaigns are underway nationwide.

Gaining the House majority on Nov. 2 "is more than possible," said Rep. Robert T. Matsui Calif.), chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. "I think we have a very good shot at it."

Republicans scoffed at the idea, noting that they hold a dozen-seat cushion and are well positioned to knock off several Democrats in Texas alone. Still, GOP leaders seemed on the defensive, having to explain away their second special-election loss within four months in a district previously held by a Republican.


http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A6987-2004Jun1.html

[BayCityProgressive]

1. maybe I am too overly optimistic

But I don't think we will lose any Texas seats. The governor there is unpopular, the redistricting was very controversial...and with Bush losing support...I think we can hold onto our Texas seats and retake congress.