There are signs that Congressional Republicans are likely to do better in 2008 than is typically expected. The most recent piece of news comes from the Hill, which points out that five of the most vulnerable House Democratic freshmen were outraised by their likely Republican opponents in the most recent round of filings:
The article notes the strong fundraising overall by Democratic candidates — even against some Republican incumbents. An important difference however, is that because of the Democratic sweep in 2006, virtually all targeted races will be played in Republican-leaning districts in 2008. In these races, Democrats will need to have the advantage of incumbency, or a significant financial edge, or both to prevail. All five of the Democratic incumbents who are being out-fundraised are listed by analyst Charlie Cook as among the most endangered Democratic incumbents. The fact that they are being surpassed by their opponents at this relatively early stage of the election cycle is an indication that they really do face stiff challenges in November.
