Lieberman Could Save the House for the GOP

Joe Lieberman is actively seeking the votes of Republicans and Independents in his quest to win the Senate race against Dem "One-Note" Ned Lamont. In doing this, he's likely to increase Republican voter turnout and therefore aid the Republicans in down ballot races:

STAMFORD, Conn. - Sen. Joe Lieberman alienated plenty of Democrats with his independent bid. Just imagine their anger if he costs them control of the House.

The three-term Connecticut senator is aggressively pursuing Republican and independent voters in his race against Democratic nominee Ned Lamont and little-known Republican Alan Schlesinger. That targeted appeal — and the potential for a strong GOP turnout — could save three GOP House incumbents struggling to return to Washington.

"There's resentment on a lot of people's parts," said Richard Smith, Democratic town committee chairman in Milford, a New Haven suburb. "There's something about the American character. We love a good fight, but we also love people who play by the rules. C'mon Joe, you're a Democrat or you're not a Democrat. Sometimes, self-interest takes the day."

Reps. Christopher Shays, Nancy Johnson and Rob Simmons — GOP moderates in a Democratic-leaning state — have been on everyone's vulnerable list for months. Democrats need to gain 15 seats to win the House, and the three Connecticut districts consistently have been part of the calculation.

Lieberman has the support of 73 percent of Republicans and 51 percent of independents, according to a Quinnipiac University survey released Wednesday. Schlesinger trailed far behind in single digits in the head-to-head matchup.

Lieberman's coattails could carry the GOP incumbents to re-election and undercut Democratic hopes of majority control of the House.

Wouldn't that be entertaining? If it works out that way, and the three GOP Connecticut seats stay in GOP hands thanks to a high turnout to support Lieberman, I wonder how warm his welcome will be back on Capitol Hill?