We need 60 to really get some things done. Looks like that is still a ways away.
Not quite true. We should be 54 - 56 after this election. Then the Dems who have to run in 2006 will be very careful how they operate.
In theory, yes and now. Actually, we need 60 votes---but you can't count on Chafee. I'm convinced if we actually GOT the 60 GOP Senate votes, he would bolt. On the other hand, Landrieu could be cut in on a deal (a promise, for ex., from Bush not to campaign against her, or something like that); Nelson of NE might not switch, but he might vote with us. Dayton could be under a LOT of pressure.