October 31, 2006
HRH Extra: Rolling 3s
How confident is the DCCC feeling?
So much that they’re airing ads in one of the most conservative districts in the country, Nebraska’s 3rd District. The open-seat district voted 75% for President Bush in ’04 – his eighth highest total nationwide. But Club for Growth-endorsed state senator Adrian Smith (R) has struggled on the campaign trail, and is trailing rancher Scott Kleeb (D) in a Democratic-sponsored poll -- outside the margin of error.
Even if Democrats don’t win here, the fact that they’re spending money in such a ruby red district indicates how they feel about their chances Election Night.
They’re also spending money in bellwether districts where the Democratic nominees have been weaker than in past cycles. Rep. Jon Porter (R-NV 03) has spent over $2 million against first-time candidate Tessa Hafen (D), who just turned 30. But he’s been has been laying low on the campaign trail, especially amid charges of illegal fundraising from his campaign office.
And Rep. Anne Northup (R-KY 03) usually faces tough re-election campaigns, but thought she had a breather when the Democrats nominated alt-weekly publisher John Yarmuth (D). He has been an oppo-researchers’ dream because he’s written many controversial columns throughout his career. But because of the national and statewide environment, he’s kept within striking distance and now will be getting a boost from the DCCC.
Democrats are rolling the dice in three 3rd Districts. On Election Night, we’ll see if their gamble pays off. [JOSH KRAUSHAAR]
Posted at 09:12 AM
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