The thing is, as far as the Senate goes, although the Democrats had a good 2006 and are, possibly, on course for a good 2008 once the 2012 and 2014 cycles come around, it will be the Democrats playing 'defense'
2010, of course, will see the Republicans playing 'defense' with 19 Republicans and 15 Democrats being up for re-election. Democratic 'targets' would be Martinez of FL, Bunning of KY, Burr of NC, Thune of SD (especially, if Herseth-Sandlin runs) - all elected by narrow margins in 2004; together with PA (if Specter retires or is taken out in a primary) and Gregg of NH (but only, if Lynch runs); Republican opportunities, on the other hand, seem much narrower, 'targets' being Salazar of CO and possibly an outside shot at an open-seat should Mikulski of MD opt for retirement
2012, of course, will see Democrats defending 22 seats to the Republicans 9 with 3 Democratic seats being gained in 2006, by pretty narrow margins, ranging from Webb in VA, Tester in MT and McCaskill in MO
Much will depends on who wins the White House in 2008 and how their popularity stands both mid-term going into 2010 and going into the presidential race of 2012
The opportunities are certainly there for Democrats to consolidate their position in the Senate but it's important they don't blow it
; while a Democratic president must make the most of their, likely, Congressional majorities. Perhaps then that 'magical' 60 will become a reality
Dave
