We're number one! We're number one! On Cillizza's line, anyway:
1. New Hampshire (R): The Granite State has been the epicenter of Republicans' decline in the Northeast over the las few elections. In 2006, both GOP House members were defeated and in 2008 Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D) beat incumbent John Sununu (R). That trend spells trouble for Republicans' chances in the open seat being left behind by Sen. Judd Gregg (R) in 2010. Rep. Paul Hodes is already in the race on the Democratic side and wins strong reviews from national Democrats although Rep. Carol Shea-Porter continues to leave open the possibility of a primary challenge. Republicans don't have an obvious candidate -- especially considering that Sununu does not seem interested in moving back to New Hampshire to run. Once Sununu formally removes his name, look for attention to turn to former Gov. Steve Merrill as the GOP's best candidate. (Previous ranking: 1)
Interesting, the part I boldfaced. I don't know if Cillizza knows more than we do, or else he's just putting the logical two and two together about the Sprintin' Sununu Board Game.
