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Democrats' lessons learned (Now With Full Video!)
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Republican gubernatorial victories in New Jersey and Virginia may not necessarily be a referendum, but they are strong indicators that may be too hard to ignore for democrats. The wins were predicted in the days leading up to the elections. The issues were undeniable. Democrats were challenged with providing the solutions for a meandering economy, tumultuous taxes, the battle over healthcare and unemployment. Voters in the Garden State and the State for "Lovers" felt that republicans answered their questions better this time around.
Virginia democratic candidate Creigh Deeds lost his bid by double digits to Bob McDonnell. McDonnell had been polling well with voters concerned over taxes and government spending. Deeds stumbled over questions regarding public transportation. Analysts say those stumbles led to his candidacy fall.
Jon Corzine faced a popularity disaster in New Jersey, where it is often considered one of the states with the highest taxes on its citizens. "Corzine was corrupt, raised taxes beyond what we could bear (NJ is taxed at a higher rate than NY), spent way too much of the tax payers' money (NJ spends more than PA) and caused many companies to leave the state (we have the highest unemployment in the region)," posted Michele McGinty, a self-proclaimed informed reformed political writer.
One thing is certain: President Barack Obama's inspirational speeches have their limits especially on doubtful voters. Despite the president's stumping, campaigning and prose lent to robocalls, Deeds trailed McDonell by at least ten points for several days leading up to the election.
Political analysts say this may be a time for democrats to take pause and realize that the change voters are looking for is not being provided for by their party. Republicans have cleared their throats and are regaining their voice: "The Republican renaissance has begun. It has begun in earnest," said Republican National Committee chair Michael Steele.
There was cause for some celebration from some Democrats in upstate New York. Bill Owens beat a Conservative after a Republican drop out of the race and lent her support to her democratic rival. House speaker Nancy Pelosi proclaimed Owens' win a victory for her party. But analysts agree that Pelosi's "victory" would have felt more robust with newly elected democratic governors in New Jersey and Virginia.
Democrats now have new challenges.
So, what was learned from the November 4th elections?
That in the face of a downtrodden economy, increasing unemployment rates and anger with the U.S. Congress some Americans embraced new leadership after growing frustrated and by showing they are ready for change, again.
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