The political genius that was the architect of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign is at it again. This time it was Tuesday night in Topeka, Kansas for GOP candidate Steve Watkins and his 2nd congressional district race.
The job should be a relatively easy for someone of Bannon’s expertise. After all, the 2nd district is Republican held now. Lynn Jenkins is retiring after holding the seat since 2008. Since 1995, it’s been held by the GOP for all but 2 years (including by former senator and governor Sam Brownback).
However, Paul Davis is polling well and has the state house experience and funding to make the race a toss-up or lean Democratic in many polls. Maybe that’s why it’s time for Republicans to bring in the big guns.
So, at a Topeka Holiday Inn, tens of people showed up to support Bannon and Watkins. That’s right. Tens.
There is excellent reporting from the scene, including Bannon’s explanation of seeking out small groups like this for pep talks. It’s intentional to maintain true grass roots credentials. Well OK, then again, I guess like the band Spinal Tap, it could be his appeal is just becoming more selective.
Maybe the Trump base is not energized in Kansas (but don’t count on it). Maybe this is a good sign that the white nationalist vote won’t show up next Tuesday (hopefully, but please get out and vote for Paul Davis!).
And maybe Steve Bannon is not be a political genius, but he did stay at a Holiday Inn last night.