Democrat retirements may be an opportunity

Recent statements by two Democrat senators, Chris Dodd of CT and Byron Dorgan of ND, to abandon reelection bids have raised worries about the state of the Democratic Party. Many feel that the state of the nation, along with traditional White House-governing party's setback in midterm elections, will imperil many of the Democrat bills, including health care and climate change. I want to cast doubt on those predictions. First, Dodd, for one, is highly unpopular in Connecticut; thus, another challenger, such as the incumbent Attorney General, will be a better choice for the party. Dorgan and North Dakota represent the more difficult situation. Second, Republicans, too, are facing candidates retiring or abandoning reelection. I think the current climate and dissatisfaction among voters will affect Democrat and Republican incumbents alike. Third, and perhaps least latent, the Democrat retirements present an opportunity and impetus for the party to pass and enact legislation, including health care. The state of the party, with impending losses in Congress in the November elections, should spur current legislators, including retiring incumbent, and President Obama to pass a health care bill quickly. The uncertain political climate may favor the strong executive driving legislation through Congress and a lame duck Congress pressing to leave a legacy.