Palin Power in the Heartland

Nebraska had a primary yesterday and it didn't just encompass the presidential vote. In 2012, the state of Nebraska will elect a new Senator with the retirement of Ben Nelson. It is now determined that Democrat and former Governor/Senator Bob Kerrey will face Nebraska State Senator Deb Fischer. The primary race on the Republican side was seen as an upset to many, but her win can be summed up in two words: Sarah Palin.


Long trailing as John Brunning as an underdog, Fischer received a big boost from Palin last week with the endorsement, as it brought in much needed campaign cash for the final push in the weekend, as well as additional notoriety she may bring a candidate. The left and the media may deny it, but Sarah Palin is still a major force in the Republican Party. Candidates know this and as proven in 2010, this is why her endorsement is one of the few that matters.

As Fischer moves forward, she will face notoriously liberal former Senator Bob Kerrey. While Kerrey may have the electoral experience and heft from the left, I do not see him winning. Back in 2000 when George W. Bush won, Kerrey left electoral politics and left Nebraska for what he believed to be brighter lights in the big city. After serving as president for The New School in New York City for a few years, Kerrey made the move back to Nebraska to re-enter electoral politics. Both he and Nelson taught Nebraskans why not to vote for Democrats and I believe with the attitude of the country, especially the state of Nebraska, there is no way Kerrey wins, and I think it's safe to say we put this one in the column of net gains for the Republicans.