More Santorum in the news

Two articles in the Inquirer, yesterday and today, look at recent moves and mysteries of Senator Rick Santorum and next year's elections.

1. First, his battle for the suburban voter near Philadelphia, which he previously carried easily but are (a) becoming more liberal and (b) not too wowed by his recent book. Of course, the power and prestige of incumbancy should not be overlooked, nor should the reams of supporters lining up at his book-signings.
   
   
2. Second, how Santorum is the focus of larger strategic and tactical decisions being made by both parties for control of the Senate and possibly for future Presidential considerations.

   Republican pollster David Winston, who works with Santorum and the Senate GOP on policy issues, said the other day: "This is the race of 2006, with huge long-term national implications. If Santorum, for the third time, can win as a conservative in a blue state, if he can demonstrate that his brand of 'compassionate conservatism' can play well, that clearly would tell us that Pennsylvania will be in play for us" in the next presidential campaign.
   . . .
   "Santorum is priority one for a couple reasons," [national Democratic strategist Jenny Backus] said. "If our message is, 'The Washington Republicans are abusing power, and pushing an agenda for a select few,' Santorum is a good poster child for that. He gives us a chance to play offense."

   Santorum may have loud opponents, but he also has loud supporters, and so far, the same can't really be said of Robert Casey. This article also looks at some closely watched races in Ohio, Montana, Rhode Island, and Tennessee.