2010 Midterm Elections: Most Important Elections Of This Century

The current state of the US economy makes the 2010 Midterm Elections the most important election of this century. Every election has important issues, but this November will determine whether we return to the failed policies of the GOP or continue to dig America out of the mess created by the last Republican administration.

Voter turn out is generally higher in Presidential elections, yet with 80% of eligible adults registered in America, less than half are expected to cast a ballot this November.

In the US House of Representatives, the overall national vote by itself does not directly determine the election outcome since that vote is spread out over 435 districts. Many districts are highly competitive while others currently are not. Given the Democrats' majority status (257 seats), it is unlikely that Republicans in the next election will win the number of seats necessary for them to become the majority party.

Losing control of the Senate is not totally out of the question. To be sure, the White House plans to continue to shape the mood of voters by touting its accomplishments, blaming Republicans for unprecedented filibustering, and railing against the Bush failed policies. The question is, will that be enough to sway angry American voters in November.

Yesterday Ed Schultz, Progressive Radio talk show host and star of the Ed Show on MSNBC, urged Democrats to differentiate themselves and their platform in clear terms. “What I want to know is, if the base comes out and keeps you in the majority in the House and Senate, or maybe even gain some seats and goes against the experts...what are you going to do? Is it going to be the same? I think the base wants fire and brimstone.” Schultz went on to give a list of what he feels the Democratic base wants to hear from the left to encourage voter turnout:

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In San Diego, there are 5 congressional districts with four incumbents seeking reelection. The most crucial votes will likely be the hotly contested Senate race pitting incumbent Barbara Boxer (D) against Republican challenger Carly Fiorina and the Governor's race between Jerry Brown and Meg Whitman. High unemployment and a nearly $20 billion budget gap continue to plague California this election cycle.

With millions of unemployed Americans hurting across the nation, the most vocal voter base may be the 99ers. (Those who have exhausted all UI benefits months ago and are hanging on by a thread) Millions of angry 99ers continue to lobby Washington for their Tier 5 benefits, which may or may not be addressed by Congress before the November elections.

Either way you look at it, the 2010 Midterm Elections are shaping up to be the most important election of this century.