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Home Front: Politix
Altmire Is A Bellwether For 2010 Election
2010-02-19
Blue Dog Democrat Jason Altmire, who represents Pennsylvania's 4th District, could be getting a tough challenger this year in former U.S. Attorney Mary Beth Buchanan. Two other Republicans -- Edgeworth lawyer and former Department of Homeland Security official Keith Rothfus and salesman John Vinsick of Hopewell -- have already entered the race.

Altmire's race is a likely bellwether. Altmire seems like the type of conservative-to-moderate Democrat who wouldn't have a tough time winning re-election, even in a bad year for his party. If he loses, then Nov. 2 will surely be a very bad night for Democrats.
I just put Election Day on my calendar. I do not want to forget to vote this year.
Although the 4th District voted for McCain in 2008, Altmire defeated former Rep. Melissa Hart by a healthy 56%-44% margin. It was a rematch of their 2006 race when Altmire unseated Hart with 52% of the vote. Altmire voted against both cap-and-trade and the health care bill, so he is not vulnerable on those issues. (Altmire had made positive comments about the Senate health bill, but never had to vote on a final compromise.)

Expect his GOP opponent to fire away at Altmire's vote for the stimulus bill, his one potential weakness. Further, having interviewed Altmire quite a few times, he comes off as a likeable, easy-going person, one that connects well with constituents. Thus, Altmire is a hard target to knock off. If the GOP succeeds, then it is posed to have a very, very good year.
Posted by:Fred

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