The NPR Politics Podcast Republicans Fear Democrats May Win Senate
Aug 6, 2020
Republicans are worried about their chances to retain a Senate majority as competitive races heat up. The podcast dives into the trend of incumbents losing primaries and the emergence of progressive candidates. Polarization plays a crucial role in shaping voter behavior, making upcoming elections even more unpredictable. The discussion includes insights on how Senate candidates grapple with their identities in the shadow of Donald Trump's influence. Overall, it’s a captivating look at the shifting political landscape and its implications.
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Kobach's Loss
- Republicans were initially pleased by the loss of Chris Kobach in the Kansas primary.
- They viewed him as too extreme to win the general election, potentially costing them a Senate seat.
Uphill Battle for Senate
- Even with Kobach out, Republicans still face an uphill battle to retain their Senate majority.
- This is partly due to the increasingly polarized political climate and Trump's trailing poll numbers.
Shifting Expectations
- Democrats initially didn't expect to gain control of the Senate in 2020.
- This was because of a small number of potential seats available to Democrats and a change in perspective.