The Atlantic: Bailout May Factor in Mo. Senate Race

"DON'T BAIL"

The Atlantic's Justin Miller speculates that Congressman Roy Blunt's role in crafting the financial bailout package last fall could factor prominently in his 2010 U.S. Senate bid.

"Blunt could face heavy fire from Steelman for voting twice in favor of both versions of the bailout last year and being the chief House Republican negotiator with Democrats to pass the bill. Steelman said in September she would have voted against the bill," writes Miller in a piece entitled "Don't Bail."

PLUS: DEM SENATE CAMPAIGN CHIEF ROBERT MENENDEZ:

"I’m looking at the power of Robin Carnahan."

AND HOTLINE NOTES, MENENDEZ EYES BLUNT:

Menendez said Blunt will have to explain his leadership in the House.
"I'm not dismissing him," Menendez said. "I'm looking at the reality of Robin Carnahan."

IN THE BONUS ROUND:

The Hill notes that the National Republican Congressional Committee has launched the first wave of ads in the 2010 cycle targeting 30 vulnerable Democrats who supported the economic stimulus package --- and that includes some who have had little trouble winning re-election, like Congressman Ike Skelton.