[Celtjew Libertarian]

Well, Rove's worry about 2004 was that he felt the Religious Right had stayed home in 2000. But I'd say that Reagan's 1984 reelection was the last time the religious right didn't provide the margin of victory, though they certainly voted for him.

Thing is, the last two elections have been so close that every group that voted for Bush was needed to win. In that light, the GOP is going to have to find a way to keep everyone, if not happy, at least not too upset, over the next 4 years. Not exactly easy.

[yellowdoghunter]

Thank you for that insight. Very good analysis....hadn't thought about the 1984 election in that way..(I was only 11)...

I had forgotten about Rove saying that in 2000....very interesting comment coming from him.

[dirtboy]

Thing is, the last two elections have been so close that every group that voted for Bush was needed to win. In that light, the GOP is going to have to find a way to keep everyone, if not happy, at least not too upset, over the next 4 years. Not exactly easy.

Well said yet again. In the end, I don't think too many folks are gonna be so frosted over this episode that they won't vote GOP in 2006 and 2008. I think illegal immigration, and Bush's tin ear towards a large segment of his base on such, is the greatest hazard the GOP faces.

I'm actually looking at Laura's comments in a bit broader context. I remember trying to watch the twins at the 2004 GOP convention and cringing at their humor attempts. Maybe it's just me, but I think the Bush clan doesn't fare well when they try to be cool.

[Howlin]

The Religious Right voted in almost the exact same numbers in 2004 as they did in 2000.

It was Hispanics who gave Bush the margin he needed.