Those old school DKos users who know me realize that in the past I have given some too-public quotes that derided Congressman Emanuel. And I still know Rahm was wrong about running everywhere and way too late in making Iraq an issue -- but I think his ascendancy to Caucus Chair may ensure a true 50 state strategy in 2008.
Let's look at what we know about Emanuel (other than the fact his giant brass balls need six staffers to keep them from scratching the floor of the Capital):
- He is a hard-ass with an attention to detail
- He is an elections junkie
- He has a drive that separates him from most
OK, now let's look at what are the key factors when it comes to incumbent protection:
- Efficient and effective Frank mailings
- Constant fundraising
- Weekly local media triumphs
For my money, I would bet that Caucus Chair Emanuel is going to ensure the latter three points because of the former three points.
If Emanuel runs the caucus like an incumbent-protection version of the DCCC (like many have speculated), then I don't see any reason why the DCCC can't spend all the time and every dollar on offense.
Ironically, I'm betting that Rahm Emanuel as Caucus Chair will enable the 50 State Strategy at the DCCC that he once loathed. Godspeed.