Chris Cillizza had a post yesterday about Howard Dean defending his 50-state strategy. Interesting that the overwhelming majority of comments were in support of Dean. Senate and House leaders think he’s spending too much money on that strategy and not enough on the key ’06 races.
I agree with Dean. I just wish Virginia Democrats had a 100-district strategy for the General Assembly. In 2001 and 2005, Virginians elected Democratic governors, yet in 2005, Democrats didn’t even offer a candidate for the House of Delegates in 33 of the 57 districts Republicans hold. Gov. Kaine won nine of those districts and in another seven lost by no more than 45-55. But even in the districts less competitive than that, Dems need someone to keep the GOP honest. While they’re doing that, they might lay the groundwork to eventually win some of those seats.
But Virginia Democrats don’t think long-term. Wish the Republicans hadn’t when they had 39 members in 1991. Or in 1995, when they had 46 members and challenged all but 15 seats.
I wish I could see evidence of a long-range plan to challenge more seats. If anyone does, let me know.