Can Trump Become So Unpopular That Democrats Take Back The House?

It’s one of the most controversial things to say on Capitol Hill, sparking looks of shock and disbelief: The House majority is in play this fall.

For almost five years, ever since state legislatures and commissions finished drawing the new congressional districts for this decade, the Republican stranglehold on the House has been taken for granted because of the precise targeting that fortified GOP-held swing seats to seemingly withstand the toughest political climate. Even leading Democrats, just two months ago at their annual issues retreat in Baltimore, declined to predict anything close to winning the 30 seats they need in November to reclaim the majority.

Then Republicans started voting in their presidential primary, with Donald Trump taking a commanding lead.

By last week, as House Democrats showcased several dozen top recruits on Capitol Hill and at K Street fundraisers, the tone had finally begun to shift. Trump has become so unpopular among key constituencies, including the growing suburbs that are home to several dozen Republican members, that some independent analysts, political strategists and a few Democrats say that anything might be possible come Election Day.

“People are now beginning to understand that things could set up — could set up — to give us a shot at the majority. They’re beginning to understand that’s a possibility, because of Mr. Trump. But in any event, they understand we’re going to gain seats,” said Rep. Denny Heck (D-Wash.), who is helping lead the recruiting effort.

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https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/can-trump-become-so-unpopular-that-democrats-take-back-the-house/2016/03/29/34ff8176-f5c4-11e5-8b23-538270a1ca31_story.html