Karl Rove: "This will be a very difficult year for Republicans. The
economy's shaky state, an unpopular war, and the natural desire for
partisan change after eight years of one party in the White House have
helped tilt the balance to the Democrats."
However, Sen. John McCain "is the best candidate Republicans could have picked in this environment. With the GOP brand low, his appeal to moderates and independents becomes even more crucial."
Related from Marc Ambinder: "Data released today by the Democratic Party reminds us all of just how
much of a Democratic year this actually is and just how valuable a
party-building exercise a competitive primary can be."