Searching For A Light

Embattled Democrats are struggling to find a way to keep their seats in November midterm elections.

Two freshman Democrats from Virginia, Tom Perriello and Gerry Connolly, swept into office on the wave of enthusiasm generated by Barack Obama, are now struggling to stay afloat in a sea of discontent about the president. OK, that’s a bit melodramatic, but listening to these lawmakers and what they’re up against in defending their seats is to wonder where all the magic has gone, and what can be done to recapture enough stardust to hold on to the Democratic majorities that are the bulwark of the Obama presidency.

Their districts are at opposite ends of the economic spectrum, but their challenge is the same, persuading voters that Obama’s policies are steering the country back on the right course even though their own life situations are not improving, and to rally a base that has grown lethargic and disinterested after 18 months of partisan wrangling. Connolly, a dapper, mustached fellow, represents the wealthiest district in the country in terms of median household income. His northern Virginia constituents work directly or indirectly for the government, as bureaucrats or contractors, and are mostly shielded from the recession. Still, they’re not happy.

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