Actually I think the Republicans stand a pretty good chance of taking the Senate next year. Thanks to the Tea Party.
neither of my two GOPe Senators are up next year, but if they were, I suspect both could/would lose to any Democrat that ran. Both are popular with the high dollar GOPe so they could possibly survive a Tea Party challenge, but I do believe too may of us would just sit it out rather than vote for either of them.
That said, the same thing just may happen in enough states for the Democrats to hold the Senate. But the Republicans AIN'T going to lose the majority because of the shutdown.
"but I do believe too may of us would just sit it out rather than vote for either of them."
That could easily be the scenario for McConnell and Linda if they are not careful, but win their primaries.
Also should TEA Party candidates win the nomination, Juan, Cronyn et. al. could go scorched earth on the upset candidates (as they have tried to do in previous elections). It's going to be ugly, especially if Juan is out seeking retribution.
The GOPe should just suck it up and hold.