If 2007 was a year of shocking Republican retirements, 2008 appears to be offering its own share of stunners. The latest? The upcoming retirement of Rep. Jim Walsh:
Republican Rep. Jim Walsh of New York is expected to announce his retirement soon, according to a GOP aide familiar with the decision, giving Democrats another pick-up opportunity following a wave of Republican retirements this cycle.
The veteran appropriator had a tough reelection fight in 2006 and was expected to face another challenge in the fall.
This is huge, huge news, and an incredible break for Democratic challenger Dan Maffei. With an open seat on the table, he’s in prime position to pick up this D+3.4 district.
Holy hell. Will there be any Republicans left in Congress to turn the lights off at the end of the day?
How much longer can we expect retirements? I assume once the filling deadline has passed, the incumbent won’t retire (short of a serious, major scandal).
Does this mean for the most part retirements are over, or could we see a few more trickle in? Or could we see another wave building?
Patrick McHenry should be in the leadership by 2013.
There is no way Republicans will hold this seat. This seat will likely be picked up by Dan Maffei and will be held by him for a long time.
With the possible addition of VA-11 Tom Davis and many others.
….particularly with Maffei back in the race.