75 Races in Play

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As anyone who works in politics knows, this is a non-stop business. One thing I've learned, though, is sometimes you've got to take a second to step back -- if only to assess your current position and future opportunities. Right now is one of those moments for us at the DCCC and for our Democratic Congressional candidates. Monday marked the end of the 2008 first quarter fundraising period -- the first chance to show our strength since the Republicans minted John "In Iraq Indefinitely" McCain as their nominee.

The numbers are still trickling in but the early returns are clear: our Democratic candidates have built powerful grassroots armies of supporters who are giving in unprecedented numbers. Clearly, our candidates have been able to capitalize on the excitement of this "big change" election year to bring new supporters into the political process. I am especially appreciative of the critical role local and national blogs have played in introducing our candidates to new audiences.

We are now slated to have at least 75 races in play -- a more than 50% increase from 2006. We still have a huge challenge in front of us. Our Republican counterparts are "very excited" by right wing "swift boat" groups like Freedom's Watch that are pledging to pour more than $200 million into tearing down our nominees with dishonest attacks. Their chairman even admitted that they "hope we see them in political races all across the board." However, as Bill Foster proved by winning former Speaker Dennis Hastert's seat, we know we can run and win in districts nationwide by focusing on a message of change. You can see our full 2008 targets map here.

On behalf of Speaker Pelosi, Chairman Van Hollen and the Democratic Leadership, I also want to share with you our Battleground Brief to keep you informed of our progress at the DCCC and recent news on our House Democrats and 2008 House Candidates.

Now I've got to get back to work.

Comments

[lobo1939]

This is the reason we need for this campaign to end. Obama needs to be in these districts inspiring voters for down the ticket races. We, the democratic party, have a very short time, 5 months is not a long time to mount a national campaign to strengthen the house and senate. This is vital: think row v wade, social security, health care, etc. With the republicans crossing over per Rush's instructions, it gives McBush time to save House and Senate seats for the Repugs.

[ProudLiberalDan]

I totally agree. There are other races than just the Presidential nominee. If we want actual progressive legislation passed based on liberal values, then we need increased Democratic majorities in both houses of Congress and in our state legislatures. While, I did not support Obama in the primary, he is light years ahead of McCain. His style of campaigning will work very well with Howard Dean's successful 50-state strategy. The time has come to rally around Obama, and start building a huge victory for the Democrats in November. This election is not one of which personality will be President: Obama, Clinton or McCain. This election is about nothing less than rescuing our beloved country from the forces of conservatism and neoconservatism, and the trail of destruction they have created both at home and abroad.

[PioneerKing]

Dude you are going to need more than a hope and a prayer if your friend Sen. Clinton is nominated. The Clintons have a way of winning elections but leaving the down ticket candidates blowing in the wind.
Got to give it to the Clintons during the 90' they helped to sour Americans against the Democratic Party in a way that no republicans could. The Clintons are so divisive that, from blowback, they put more republicans in office at the local, county, state and federal levels than any Republican President.
The Clintons are giving independents and some democrats another reason to consider voting for
RALPH NADER 2008!

[AnninCA]

Thanks for the update. That's one area I'm concerned about......how the 30% attrition rate if Obama is the nominee will affect the other races.

[woodbuck]

i can guarantee you one thing, if Hillary is the nominee, Al Franken will not oust Coleman here in Minnesota. Franken needs to roll up huge majorities in the more liberal urban areas, and, college towns, to offset Coleman's strength in rural Minnesota. If Pawlenty is the vp choice for MCain, the numbers will be even worse. Franken"s only chance is with Obama at the head of the ticket. There are tons of lifelong democrats like me, who will never vote for Hillary, she is poison for the party.

[babar77]

What you should be more concerned about is the Clinton effect on the Democratic Party. History does not look kindly towards the coattails of the Clintons. They have been the worst thing to happen to the Democratic party in the last 100 years - and quite possibly second only to the Civil War. Democrats were kicked out of power in decisive fashion under Bill's presidency and Hillary's failed Health Care reform, and now they've turned the Democratic primary into a war of attrition. The sooner these two retire, the better.

I was an independent until Obama and will go back to being an independent if Dems give the nod to Hillary.

[IRIE]

If Clinton is the nominee the attrition rate will be more and the Dems may loose many new voters.

[Researchguy66]

Technically, you can't "lose" new voters.

[standforpeace]

If this is a real concern, why are so many Democratic elected officials getting on board with Obama. According to the latest numbers, Obama has pulled even among Super Delegates who are elected officials. Those who are the closest to their constituents are the ones who are making the statement they believe that Obama is the guy who can help the Democrats win in November in the other races. Hillary has a 37% favorability rating. Exactly how do you think she is going to be able to "help" anyone out?

Obama also has almost 2 million donors so far. When he is the candidate and asks them to give to the party to help get the majorities that he will need in the House and Senate to get things done, they are going to pull out their wallets for the DNC.

Ann, you've been clogging up the Huff for weeks with your baseless hatred of Obama. It's pretty clear that you believe that this nomination somehow "belonged" to Hillary. Lots of folks believed that last fall. But in the meanwhile, we've done a little democratic thing called holding elections. And more primary voters simply decided to go another way. Now it's almost time for you to finally understand that the times are a-changin' and it's going to be Obama in 08 despite your preference for Hillary.

[AnninCA]

Yes, I know you want only Obama worshippers to post. *haha

However, there are nearly as many Democrats who do not particularly like him. That's why they are voting for Hillary, so either you figure that one out and stop acting as though anyone who would be for her is poisen, or you will find out that this is about more than just his candidacy.

Once you drive off people, you don't get them back. If the mean spirit continues against Hillary and her supporters, then you can count on that attrition rate of 30%.

And that will affect other races.

I do think things are changing. I think the Democratic party has sounded much more like the Republican party used to sound. It's pretty ridiculous.

[Umungus]

Well stated standforpeace.

[Gma11]

Looking good!!!