--The republicans were not able to overcome the noise and have their message be the defining message. --
Exactly. Communication is a major part of leadership, and the GOP was deficient, both in the WH and in Congress.
The Invisible Hastert was a prime example. Before the Foley case, he was a virtual unknown; he allowed the Enemedia to define him as a sinister predator-enabler and a pork-barrel baron.
HOW to overcome the liberal media monopoly is a problem.
If they refuse to let one message be heard, and the pound their themes 24/7/365, then their themes become dominant.