As promised, I now present the THIRD TIER targets for the GOP in 2006. And no, by tramp I am not referring to former President Clinton.

New York: Most conservatives won’t say it out loud, but Hillary is almost guaranteed to win if she runs again in NY. Rudy could likely mount the strongest challenge against her, but that’s even debatable. Pataki’s low popularity doesn’t help the cause and with the MSM gushing over Spitzer, it is likely that there will be a strong Democratic turnout. Meanwhile, Shrillary is gleefully waiting for the GOP to start their attacks so she can play victim to the big blue state’s liberal base.

Vermont: Sen. Jim Jeffords will have to decide in 2006 whether he wants to run as an independent or even run at all. Back in 2001, this stray dog ditched the GOP and President Bush just six months after winning re-election as a Republican. Maybe a few “grass root” supporters could talk the fiery Howard Dean into running against Jeffords? Now, that would be something to scream about.

THE WILD CARDS

Delaware: Sen. Tom Carper knocked off the late Sen. Bill Roth (of Roth IRA fame) by a whopping 12 points in 2000. Since then, he has kept a low and moderate profile and will not be in jeopardy unless GOP Rep. Mike Castle grows a sack and takes him on.

Wisconsin: Sen. Herb Kohl could find a tough opponent in Tommy Thompson if he decided to take run. Also, if Kohl retires, this seat becomes a toss up.

Nebraska: Conservative Sen. Ben Nelson’s job will likely be spared considering his toughest potential opponent took a job in the Bush Administration.

Code Blue Alert: There are several Democrats that may be considering throwing in the towel after years of minority status. Depending on the mood of the nation, the candidates, and current events, these seats could be potential targets for the GOP. The hawkish Joe Lieberman (CT), the very partisan Dianne Feinstein (CA), the aging Daniel Akaka (HI), the left’s favorite Klansman Robert Byrd (WV) and of course the manslaughtering drunk, Ted Kennedy (MA) could decide to retire in ‘06 putting more pressure on the Dems to protect open seats. We can only hope.

Coming Soon - the GOP hit list!

Archived in: Agriculture, Conservatives, Democrats, Howard Dean, Joe Lieberman, Ted Kennedy, Vermont, Wisconsin