I see... so explain to me why Santorum and Hayworth lost?
Santorum and Hayworth each are dealing with their own unique districts, but in general, the problem is that the party as a whole delivered little in the past two years. Yes, those of us paying attention are happy because the WOT is on course and progress is made in Iraq, but for the typical voter that doesn't pay attention, there was nothing accomplished in the past two years but high gas prices, death in Iraq, and republican scandals. There was a clear national belief that the GOP are not doing much with their power, and it was time to try something new.
There was no clear plan for this election cycle by the GOP other than recycled 2004 issues....and 'we are better than the other guy'.
Santorum lost in 2004 when he supported Specter over whomever was Specter's primary opponent. Hayworth was arrogant.