Missouri: Something has happened. There's no good reason why this state should turn red...unless we let them. It has been the ultimate bellweather for over a century. Clinton and Carter certainly got more than the big cities. Remember, this is not a out of touch state. They elected a dead guy over Ashcroft, something that didn't happen in Minnesota. We cannot lose this bellweather.
Interesting points. My state is still pretty evenly balanced. I think the main reasons it swung to Bush so strongly in 2004 were:
1) 9/11 'patriotism'
2) anti-gay feeling (we had a referendum shortly prior to the election)
3) dislike of Kerry as a northeasterner.
I think it will be difficult for a Democrat to win over that crucial middle swing vote, because they tend to vote based on emotion - like voting for a dead guy out of sympathy or Bush out of anger/nationalism. This type of empty-headed voter is normally much more amenable to the GOP's 'patriotic' blandishments and simplistic view of social issues rather than the Democrats more moderate, thoughtful positions.
Anyway, I agree Nevada is headed Democrat without the need of much effort or expenditure.
I think Colorado should be a big priority, certainly way ahead of Arizona.
