I don't make predications, but the midterm elections aren't going to be pretty for a lot of moderate Democrats. The loss of these centrist Democrats - known as the Blue Dogs - may also mean lost control of the House of Representatives.
Anyone who has been following my blog on the Huffington Post knows that I believe that what is bad for the Blue Dogs is also bad for the progressives. Why you may ask? It's very simple; retaining Blue Dogs in swing congressional districts are the key to keeping control of Congress and all the benefits that come with being in the majority.
While there are some Blue Dogs in key positions of power in the House, many of the most powerful positions are held by prominent progressives. These include Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and the chairmen of several very influential congressional committees, including: Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means, Judiciary, Financial Services and Appropriations. Being chairman allows the majority -- currently, Democrats -- to call hearings, launch investigations and even issue subpoenas for witnesses and relevant information that companies or government agencies won't give up nicely. Today, the Republicans on those committees cannot do any of those things. Having been in Congress, trust me, having that power means a lot.
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