That is ALWAYS the DNC strategy, unfortunately (for them) SOME candidates are actually fighting back
In temperament, many GOP candidates and office-holders tend to lack the instinctive combativeness that is so useful and often necessary for survival in politics. Coming from genteel, affluent backgrounds, when they get into politics, GOP candidates are like upper crust prep school kids who have wandered into a bad neighborhood wearing penny loafers and a blazer with the school crest. They tend to flee from any threat of a fight, and when stuck in one, often go to pieces and beg for mercy.