Chaffee's re-election may hinge on his vote on Bolton ?

[kentuck]

He has promoted an "independent" image and cultivated his support with Democrats in elections past. However, this time, he will be challenged. If he votes for Bolton, it will do much to discredit him in the eyes of his previous Democratic supporters. This could be the vote that determines whether or not Mr. Chaffee returns to the Senate. How will he vote?

[Clark Bayh 2008]

1. I'm more concerned about the filibuster issue

I hope he can broker a compromise so the filibuster will remain in effect until 11/06. Then if the republicans want to make it an election issue, ok.

[kentuck]

3. What is his position on the filibuster?

I think there are several Senators against the filibuster legislation and that is why the Repubs have not brought it up yet. They dont have the votes.

[DCal]

7. Chafee is one of 3 Republicans on record to keep the filibuster.

McCain and Snowe are the other two. Six no votes from Republicans would keep the filibuster in place.

According to Face the Nation yesterday, the following senators are undecided:
Collins (Maine), Warner (Virginia), Smith (Oregon), Hagel (Nebraska) and Specter (Pennsylvania).

It was speculated on Face the Nation that Specter would probably go along with Frist, because he could be yanked from the Judiciary Committee chair if he doesn't.

[MollyStark]

2. Unless he switches parties he is toast

Either way, democrats are going to put up a challenger. If they have any sense it will be a pro-choice challenger.

[Dave Sund]

4. Both challengers are pro-choice

Sheldon Whitehouse seems to be the guy endorsed by Kennedy and Langevin.

[Dave Sund]

5. If he votes "no,"

The GOP is going to try and challenge him in the primary. At least that was my read a few days ago.

[saltpoint]

6. My fingers are crossed that he will vote 'No.'

DUers who would like to help persuade Senator Chafee, please contact him through his webform at:

http://chafee.senate.gov/webform.htm


(Respectful but firm works better than "Dear Shithead...")

Chafee, like his father before him, does not descend from the Jesse Helms / John Bolton wing of his party.

kentuck, I think you are exactly right that Chafee's re-election bid depends on the Bolton vote. Absolutely.