Reply #19: AZ: Kolbe gone, Democrats finally have a chance [View All]

Kolbe gone, Democrats finally have a chance
Daniel Scarpinato
Arizona Daily Star
August 27, 2006

For more than two decades, Rep. Jim Kolbe has ensured that what is now Congressional District 8 remained in Republican hands.
So with Kolbe's career drawing to an end, it makes sense that for the first time in more than two decades, Democrats think they have a shot at the seat. The party is bolstered by national polls that show voters now are more inclined to want Democrats in charge of Congress.
But even with Iraq and health care major worries for Democrats, experts and observers say the party's primary race is less about issues and more about experience.
"The candidates have talked a lot about who can effectively beat the Republican candidate," says Democratic pollster Carol Zimmerman.
Since announcing her intention to run late last year, Gabrielle Giffords has been the candidate to beat. She has garnered a majority of union and Democratic interest group endorsements and has been a magnet for money.
As the only candidate with a voting history, Giffords is prone to highlighting her record on health care and education, not just her plans.
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http://www.azstarnet.com/allheadlines/142863