Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Democrat elected in Mississippi!

A Democrat, Travis Childers of Mississippi, has won a seat in the US House held by Republicans since 1994. Even better, Bush won that district with 62% in 2004 and this Dem won it with 54%. Alas, as I read the article I see some bad along with the good, definitely a mixed blessing. Allow me to sort through my reasoning and feel free to comment here whether I've missed important ideas or where you don't agree.

The good stuff:

A strong indication the tide is turning against Bush and the GOP, giving a good chance for Dems in the White House and in comfortable control of both houses of Congress.

This Democratic takeover should lead to the end of the Iraq War, domestic spying, and the many ways in which the government has been subverted for partisan purposes. It might even mean the end of election abuses. I'm sure the list is long.

The bad stuff:

Childers is a "down-the-line conservative on social issues," and his views on "abortion and gun rights: staunchly against the first, and for the second." Which means he also won't be for such issues as repealing Don't Ask, Don't Tell and Defense of Marriage Act as well as for passing the Employment Non Discrimination Act.

I'm keeping in mind he is from Mississippi where such conservative views are widely held -- a Democrat from Mississippi is better than a Republican from Mississippi.

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