[writmeister]

Historical trends point to Democratic gains in 2006, the second midterm elections of President Bush's administration.

AP fails to note that 1998 elections disproved this trend with Dems picking up House seats.

[68skylark]

I think the AP is correct to say that on average the party in the White House loses seats in a mid-term election -- especially in the second term of a president.

It didn't happen in 1998, though. And I predict that Republicans will lose few (if any) seats in 2006.

[Soul Seeker]

Dems were supposed to pick up seats in '02, didn't happen either.

The way I survey the canvas, aside from Santorum, the ones mainly in danger are those affectionately refered to as "RINO'S" around here. Mainly because Reps don't like them and the Dems may prefer a REAL "D" rather than one that votes with them.

Other than that there may be some competitive fights but as long as we don't do anything stupid, they'll be safe. While Dems in "red" states are at the whims of the national party and so face strong possibility of defeat so long as we nominate good people.