Scott Brown has given us something of a blueprint for success: 1.) Do not "bad mouth" the competition (Salesmanship 101) 2.) Discuss facts and issues in a logical, matter of fact way 3.) Parallel your message with the mood of the country (or district) 4.) Define yourself and your positions - don't let them do it 5.) Campaign hard with confidence 6.) Be genuine 7.) Get the people to think less about the R or D after your name, but right and wrong instead....The mood in this country is ripe for something like I suggested back in November - something similar to the 1994 Contract with America. I hope the RNC will not blow it. If we can win in Mass - think anywhere!

I agree very much with your analysis. Candidates who remain independent from traditional, partisan labels (even though they may remain technically Republicans or Democrats); who speak honestly and directly about the issues affecting their states or districts; and who are able to come across as pragmatic problem solvers will tap into growing, populist sentiment and be victorious. Those who play the normal political games of smearing their opponents; or avoiding substantive distinctions with relevant issues (instead playing up phony "wedge issues" meant to inflame superficial sentiments); or appearing too "ideological" will decline. Republicans have a great capacity to make gains in this election cycle, in large part simply because they are in the position of challenger in a lot of these races; but that should never be interpreted as Americans moving toward the GOP. In fact, Republican voter registration has not shown any meaningful increase nationally; and in California it continues even now to decline. Furthermore, the Republican brand remains unpopular, even in traditionally "red states." What we are seeing now is a reaction to the overreach of the Obama/Pelosi/Reid team and a continued frustration with our high unemployment (which in real terms is in the 17% range, while the official number is a little above 10%). We can and should endeavor to take advantage of this electoral situation, while at the same time recognizing our limitation as Republicans, especially in blue counties like our own (where the Democrats continue to have a 2 to 1 advantage in voter registration), and thus adapting our approach accordingly.