[Theodore R.]

Your optimism is needed, but is it realistic? Why would you think ND would turn out one of its entrenched Democrat senators when SD will not do so? Why do you think NV would turnout the Senate Democrat whip? Why do you think GA would vote out Zell Miller? Why do you think AR would reject its woman senator seeking reelection when LA did not? Just who in AR might even be available to run in 2004? Who do see as Schumer's opponent in NY in 2004? I notice that you did not put down LA as a possible pickup in 2004. At least you aren't that optimistic.

[republicanwizard]

The very, very popular former Governor Schaefer is considering a run in North Dakota. As a former Governor, he would be an excellent candidate. I strongly believe that Thune would have won in South Dakota had Daschle not been Majority Leader. What would have been the incentive to keep Johnson in the Senate otherwise? With Daschle running for President, and I believe he will, Thune can start packing his bags for Washington.

Reid is very vulnerable, and he only won by 500 some votes in 1998. Since then, the Republican Party has made huge gains in the state. Unless Reid does something special, he is finished.

I believe Zell Miller will retire in 2004. He doesn't enjoy serving in the Senate, and he doesn't like his Party.

I believe that Governor Huckabee will take on Blanche Lincoln in 2004. As far as I know, Lincoln is an unknown in her homestate. In fact, I very rarely hear her name mentioned nationally.

As far as NY is concerned, we have an excellent chance to win there. We need to start fighting in that state.

[lasereye]

I share your skepticism about all the GOP gains in 2004, even if the economy does finally shift into high gear. On the bright side though, I didn't think we'd pick up any seats this time. So hopefully I don't know what I'm talking about again.

[AmishDude]

Why would you think ND would turn out one of its entrenched Democrat senators when SD will not do so?

Small state, don't want 2 Senators in the minority.

Why do you think NV would turnout the Senate Democrat whip?

He had a close election the first time and it's a generally Republican state IIRC. Oh, and that's minority whip.

Why do you think GA would vote out Zell Miller?

They won't. He may, however, choose not to run. And it won't be an easy race.

Why do you think AR would reject its woman senator seeking reelection when LA did not?

LA is not a bellweather.

Who do see as Schumer's opponent in NY in 2004?

That's easy: Guiliani.

I notice that you did not put down LA as a possible pickup in 2004. At least you aren't that optimistic.

Why not? Breaux may choose not to run.