Most Senators Leaving Since 1996 May Mean More Polarized Chamber

[Purveyor]

By Laura Litvan and James Rowley - Mar 1, 2012 12:01 AM ET

Retirement announcements by Senator Olympia Snowe and other centrists are putting more U.S. Senate seats at stake than at any time since 1996 -- and the result may be an even more polarized environment next year.

Snowe, a three-term Maine Republican known for voting with Democrats on some high-profile issues, said her decision was driven by frustration over partisanship and lack of compromise in the Senate. Other departing senators who seek consensus on such issues as debt reduction say they share her view.

“It’s very difficult to get things accomplished,” said Senator Ben Nelson, a Nebraska Democrat who said he will retire after two six-year terms to spend more time with his family. “People back home complain about gridlock, but they send people here who engage in that very thing.”

Ten senators -- seven Democrats and three Republicans --say they won’t face voters again in November, the largest number of elected senators eschewing re-election since 13 decided to forgo new terms in 1996.

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http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-03-01/most-senators-leaving-since-1996-may-mean-more-polarized-chamber.html

[tech3149]

1. I see it going one way or the other

If progressives do the groundwork there is a massive opportunity to make serious gains. Otherwise the regressives will play the same game and just gain by the apathy of the other side.
For those on the democratic side of the fence, stop trying to elect just any democrat and bust your butt for someone who really supports democratic ideals.

For those on the conservative side of the fence, quit supporting people who support some philosophical ideal that has little or no bearing on the quality of your life.

The same goes for both sides of the political spectrum. Vote for those that will provide the most immediate impact on your lifestyle. If they sold you short with a song and a dance to get elected, bust your butt to expose them and get them out of office as soon as possible.

[davidpdx]

2. The best case scenario I can see is

Keeping the Senate by a small margin, winning back the House and Obama being re-elected. The Republicans can still filibuster the hell out of us in the Senate though. The chances of a super majority in the Senate are slim to none.

[davidpdx]

3. I have to wonder whether Snowe will be the last one to declare retirement

Are there any other possibilities?