[Brilliant]

“the disastrous campaign waged in 2006...”

I think that is overstating it. First, he lost by a few thousand votes. Second, 2006 was a very good year for the Dems. In retrospect, it is amazing he was so close.

[Extremely Extreme Extremist]

You don't get it. Allen lost because of his ridiculous groveling apology which made him look weak. The guy had no business running for re-election when there was reports he was going to declare a presidential run.

Not a very smart politician.

[WOSG]

“I think that is overstating it. First, he lost by a few thousand votes. Second, 2006 was a very good year for the Dems.”

Third, VA is GOP-leaning but is a swing state, that went for Obama. Fourth, the WashPost engaged in a PR campaign to oust him.

” In retrospect, it is amazing he was so close.”
The fact that it was close and new GOP energy in VA gives him the edge in a rematch.

[GregH]

Allen blew up a lead of 20 points and lost to Webb in a contest most Dems did not expect to win anway.

It was a disastrous run for relection and a text book example of how not to run for office. Blaming it on Bush etc doesn’t wash.

Allen is a spent politician and the GOP bench in VA has a lot of other fresh talent to take that seat back.