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I think Hall's switch enhances his reelection prospects. Still, not many 80-year-olds would enjoy changing their lifelong political party commitment, but it's all for holding the office perhaps?

I don't think the popular Charles Stenholm would enhance his reelection prospects by switching parties. Stenholm is probably more electable as a Democrat; Hall, more electable as a Republican. How do you assess both the Hall and Stenholm races?

I'm still waiting for the new boundaries to shake out but I agree with your assessment. I've always liked Stenholm because he does (at least sometimes) stand up to Dem leadership, although I really miss Jim Trafficant.

I don't mind having some people who disagree as long as they've shown they've thought through it and come to their own conclusions rather than reading the latest DNC or RNC fax. My feelings are the same about Ron Paul. I don't always agree with him but I also don't think he's anyone's stooge.

Hall is too old to be a major victory for the party so I don't think it really matters but I'm glad at least one Democrat can see the handwriting and is doing what he has to in order to survive politically. At 80, you wonder why he doesn't just retire.