While many of Washington’s political pundits are making dire predictions about the November elections with the Democrats losing their majority in the House of Representatives, and maybe even losing the Senate majority, Bob Cusack, the managing editor of the Hill Newspaper takes a more measured view. He believes the House is in play, but the Democrats will barely hold the majority. He doesn’t believe it is possible for Republicans to take the Senate.
In an interview with Chuck Conconi on Focus Washington, Cusack, who has covered the Washington policy and political scene for 15 years, argues that the present Congress has not been a “do nothing” Congress even though the polarization has increased the partisanship to new levels. He points to health care and the stimulus as significant legislation achievements that have not impressed the independent voters.
With the November elections looming, Cusack doesn’t believe much will be accomplished on Capitol Hill between now and November. “All they will be thinking about is getting back home to their campaigns,” he explained. This legislative period leading up to the off-year elections will, nevertheless, Cusack said, be fascinating to see.
As for the tea party movement that energizes the Republican’s base, Cusack contends it could be a positive for Democrats in getting them “off their couches” with the threat that if they don’t become energized, there will be a tea party Congress.
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