In this year of historic and notable electoral bounty,
it is very easy and simple to dismiss a certain state or region as 'lost',
as did our fearless champion just yesterday.
"Let's chalk up Tennessee as a long-term project."
I did not expect the Democratic party to 'carry'
my now present domecile, but have believed for
some time now that the races were much closer than anticipated,
and so was very pleased to see my former home,
the very home state of the republican nominee, turning blue.
I was especially pleased and surprised
to this morning see on the front page of the local
wing of the Gannett machines version of my once
"home town" newspaper:
"John McCain and Barack Obama are polling in a dead heat among Middle Tennessee voters."
Such an amazing and heartening revelation!
But what of the polling discrepancy?
I think it is noteworthy to compare the
data from Gannetts rural/suburban demographic
with that of the entire R2K, as they are almost identical.
"The regional poll gives no hint about statewide trends, but there are signs of a slight thawing toward Obama in this solidly red state."
This is a very solid red state. And so received little
in the form of resources, which is only sensible from both
a tactical and strategic point of view. I have seen very few of the
campaign ads aired in the 'battleground states'.
But the citizens here are every bit affected by failed policies as elsewhwere.
And there is no doubt in my mind that the 50 state stategy
is at work here also. I am not so sure that even Obama winning here
will help unlodge Lamar Alexander, but I am hoping that this state
turns 'blue' in time for the 2010 census, and district reaportionment.
I have noticed the distinct absence of visual support
for either presidential candidate. Oh sure, in the gated and fenced
'country club' neighborhoods, there are a very few
McCain/Palin yardsigns and the stray SUV bumperstickers,
while in the "darker" sections the odd Obama/Biden and downticket
Democratic candidates. I attribute this not to a lack of
candidate enthusiasm, but to the very real fear of vandalism,
and overlord employer retribution.
I, like many others, have already voted, and personally
experienced the worried looks and expressions on many on my
fellow citizens faces. I also noticed my own pride and elation,
and the calm assuredness on many more of the great multitudes
of my brothers and sisters in the very long lines at the election places.
For whatever reasons, I really just thought this good news
might be enjoyed by all of the DailKos communtiy.
Especially the Tennesseans.
And I must admit that Markos is very rarely wrong.
But I still forsee Obama +15% national average.
Can we all say ELECTORAL LANDSLIDE?