The question on everyone’s mind right now is, “What will happen in this year’s upcoming elections?” The Republicans will likely play their terror and Iraqi war cards and the Democrats will counter with the need for fiscal responsibility, education, minimum wages, and health care. Current polls suggest that Americans may be ready for change.

Click here to view generic congressional ballot charts provided by Political Arithmetik from 1994-2006. Also note that the 2006 mid-term election trends have been updated as of August 11th, 2006.  

Now, click here to compare the generic ballot to historic presidential approval ratings and we can begin to see a clear picture of what will likely happen when voters go to the booth in this year’s mid-term elections. President Bush II’s approval ratings have been declining at horrific rates. Is this a sign of the punishment to come for the Republican Party? Although the Democrats may not gain much ground in the Senate, there is certainly the underlying feeling that the House of Representatives should be theirs for the taking. Although many would argue that the focus is on local races, do not underestimate the fact that Americans will not stand for one party rule and have expressed need for checks and balances. Republicans have historically turned out to vote at maximum levels and may be more inclined this time around to refrain from voting.  

Game over…the Democrats win this time right!?

Not so fast. Anything can happen. If the current administration catches Osama Bin Laden before the elections or another major terrorist attack occurs, you can bet that independent and insecure “soccer mom” voters will be out in support of Republicans. Also, the Democrats are still plagued by their general dovish, tolerant, and non-unified stances on issues of war and security. There is absolutely nothing wrong with these characteristics except when voters feel the need to elect hawkish politicians who will exercise American military and might during times of elevated global conflict.

Americans will soon determine whether or not it is time to focus on national interests outside the terrorism circle. The key word here is focus because you and I know the fight against terrorism will be a never-ending venture.