Desperate Measures Taken to Preserve Senate Seats

The transcript discusses the unprecedented efforts to maintain Senate control, highlighting strategies by Reid and Obama. It examines the political climate in Washington, noting the increase in partisanship and the prevalence of safe seats for incumbents. The discussion includes insights from Fred Barnes and a former FDIC regulator, emphasizing the challenges of moving to the political middle due to primary challenges.

What is Fred Barnes' main observation about the current political efforts?

• They are similar to past efforts.

• They are less intense than before.

• They are unprecedented in his experience.

• They are focused on local elections.

What is a significant change in Washington politics compared to the past?

• Increased collaboration between parties.

• More focus on international issues.

• Greater nastiness and partisanship.

• Less media coverage of political events.

Why do politicians avoid moving to the middle?

• They fear losing general elections.

• They want to appeal to international voters.

• They are focused on economic policies.

• They fear challenges in their primary elections.

What is the problem with the political middle according to a former Clinton strategist?

• It is too expensive to campaign for.

• It only garners a small percentage of the vote.

• It is too radical for most voters.

• It is not well understood by the public.

What do safe seats for incumbents lead to in political behavior?

• Fear of attacks from within their own party.

• More attention to local issues.

• Increased bipartisanship.

• Focus on international policies.