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Giffords has cast several House votes that could put into question her moderate credentials. But neither Bee nor national Republicans have the money lying around to spend on a tough district like the 8th. The Congresswoman’s war chest is full enough, and she appears personally popular enough, to fend off any challenge.
It didn’t help Bee’s cause that Kolbe pulled his endorsement in the middle of his campaign after the state Senator came out against same-sex marriage in the Legislature. Kolbe is openly gay.
New Mexico
Senate
Open seat: Pete Domenici (R)
is retiring
Outlook: Likely Democratic
The good reputation Rep. Tom Udall (D) earned during his two terms as state attorney general and the crisp operation of his Senate campaign appear to be winning the day over Rep. Steve Pearce (R) and his possibly accurate charge that Udall is too liberal for many voters in the Land of Enchantment.
Pearce failed to nail Udall on his long-standing opposition to increasing domestic oil drilling — the one issue this election cycle that has played directly into the Republicans’ hands. Meanwhile, Udall smartly went on television saying he favored more domestic drilling, among other measures, and appears to have nipped Pearce’s one advantage in the bud.
Pearce, who endured a tough GOP primary with Rep. Heather Wilson, has suffered from a campaign that has at times appeared directionless while mostly misusing the folksy and charming Congressman in its ads by failing to allow his personality and warmth to shine through.
House
1st district
Open seat: Heather Wilson lost the Senate GOP primary
Outlook: Tossup
As good a candidate as Wilson was, she barely managed to hang on to this Democratic-leaning district in several successive elections, and even then it took some big-time help from the National Republican Congressional Committee.
This year, the NRCC doesn’t have the money to spend on this seat, and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee does. Additionally, former Albuquerque City Councilor Martin Heinrich should benefit from the seat’s Democratic lean — Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.) has been polling well in the district — and the diminished image of President Bush and the GOP, which Heinrich is attempting to exploit.
But Bernalillo County Sheriff Darren White is capable of holding the seat for the GOP.
New Mexicans like their law enforcement officials, and White is a hard worker with some cross- party appeal. He could capitalize from a renewed enthusiasm among the Republican base and recent questions that have been raised about Heinrich’s career as a small- business man.
2nd district
Open seat: Steve Pearce (R)
is running for Senate
Outlook: Tossup
This majority Democratic district has sent Republicans to Congress since 1980 because voters here tend to agree with the GOP on most major issues.
Former Lea County Commissioner Harry Teague (D) has an opportunity to change that, based in part on his personal fortune, his background in the oil services industry, his attempt to position himself as a conservative Democrat, and the fact that his home county has been key to winning the district (Pearce is based in Lea County).
However, wealthy restaurateur Ed Tinsley (R) is more politically in line with the district, and he should benefit accordingly. Although he is not based in Lea County, Tinsley owns a ranch, and his background as a business owner should play well. Additionally, Tinsley has shown a willingness to spend his own money to keep the race competitive.
Schumer Advocates for Many on Panel
Nov. 16, 12 a.m.
As Senate Majority Leader, Lyndon Johnson once said of the Joint Economic Committee, “It’s as useless as tits on a bull.” But as that panel’s chairman during the 110th Congress, Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) seized the opportunity to elevate the traditionally low-profile post to the forefront of shaping policy. Read Full Article
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