The 2006 mid-term elections are just around the corner. One of the current comparisons going around is that this is our 1994. In other words, we will take control of the House and the Senate like the Republicans did in 1994.
Will this happen? I hope so.
But here is a notable difference.
The Republican "Revolution" of 1994 was not an overnight process. It began in 1978 with a newly elected congressman named Newt Gingrich, who from Day 1, started working towards Republican control of the House. He obtained an ally in Tom Delay when he was elected in 1984.
The Democratic Party since 1994? Call me crazy, but if there has been a long-term plan a la Gingrich, I haven't seen it. This isn't even a criticism, just an observation.
So what is our key for 2006?
Two words: Tom Delay
The Republican Party is beholden to Delay, and as he goes, so do they. If he goes down further in popularity, the Republicans go with him.
Hence, you can expect to hear a lot of attacks on Delay from Democrats, hopefully, we can even win Delay's seat.
However, one problem that we have is the power of incumbency. Seats are as incumbent- safe as ever due to gerrymandering, and this means that it is harder to pick up seats.
The Senate? I think it will take its lead from the House, as it did in 1994.
Just my thoughts...let me know what you think.