2010 Was a Great Republican Year. Will 2011 Be as Good?

Republicans had a lot to cheer about in 2010.  Nationally, Republicans took back the House of Representatives, and made significant gains in the US. Senate.  In Virginia, Republicans picked up 3 congressional seats, the icing on the cake had to have been knocking off 27 year incumbent Rick Boucher.

Before the mid term elections, the Virginia Congressional delegation comprised of 5 Democrats and 6 Republicans, after the elections Republicans have taken a 8 Republicans to 3 Democrats advantage.  Looks like Virginia is a Red State again!

But what does 2011 hold?  Well, the big opportunity for Republican success will be State Senate elections in November.  Currently, Democrats hold a 22-18 advantage, as you may remember Republicans lost the State Senate back in 2007.  I think it is safe to say that this year’s battle for the State Senate will be hard fought, with both Democrats and Republicans recruiting their best candidates and spending record amounts of money.

The other  political event that will happen in 2011 is a decision on whether George Allen will run for the US. Senate.  Now, keeping in mind Yogi Berra’s admonition,  It's tough to make predictions, especially about the future, I will go out on a limb with a prediction, I think Allen will run, and will make his announcement early in 2011. Allen’ s actions clearly signal he is going to run.

According to the Washington Post:

"Allen has attended more than 100 gatherings - fundraisers, campaign events and speeches - since the summer and has raised $500,000 for candidates this year through his Good Government for America political action committee."

In addition, he has already started attacking Senator Webb for his pro Obama voting record.

 I also believe that he will have some challengers in the Republican primary, namely, Delegate Bob Marshall of Prince William county.  Marshall is a popular conservative, who almost beat Jim Gilmore for the Republican nomination in 2008.  Other candidates include Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey Stewart, and Bert Mizusawa, a businessman and lawyer who ran against Rigel.  These are all fine men, and good conservatives, but are no match for Allen in terms of fundraising ability and grassroots support.  Look for Allen to make his announcement by March, no later than April.

I wish all of you a Happy and Prosperous 2011.