With Friends Like These...

As per usual, there are some wacky things going on in Oregon. The latest? Republican Senator Gordon Smith, who is facing a tough challenger in Democrat Jeff Merkley (check out the CQ election guide for this race), appears to be basking in the tremendous state-wide appeal of Barack Obama by touting his ties to the Democratic Presidential candidate in his latest ad. To many, it gave the impression that Smith was even suggesting an Obama endorsement. Needless to say, it elicited a clarifying statement:

“Barack Obama has a long record of bipartisan accomplishment and we appreciate that it is respected by his Democratic and Republican colleagues in the Senate. But in this race, Oregonians should know that Barack Obama supports Jeff Merkley for Senate. Merkley will help Obama bring about the fundamental change we need in Washington.” -- Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton

The unpopularity of President Bush, the growing realization that McCain offers more of the same, and the appeal of Barack Obama with moderates and independent all surely spell doom for the Republican Party this fall. But on the bright side, it’s refreshing to finally see a Republican candidate touting bipartisanship as a virtue and not a sign of weakness.