Misc. Ramblings

In local politics, I heard an attack ad on the radio recently. I admit, I only listen to the radio to and from work so my hearing this one, versus the possibility of any other ad is rather limited. But to my knowledge, it is the first of the political season.

What, at first glance, is the surprising thing is that it came from incumbent US Senator Daniel Akaka. Before I go farther, I need to disclose that I will be voting for Senator Akaka's opponent, US Congressman Ed Case (even though I don't agree with him on all issues), so take anything I say with a grain of salt.

Usually, the person lagging in the polls is the one that comes out attacking. Thus, it seems logical when Congressman Case is the one calling for a debate with Senator Akaka. But it seems illogical, to me, for Senator Akaka to attack Congressman Case.

At least, it seemed illogical until a recent Survey USA tracking poll (note: I have never heard of these people and have no idea how accurate, precise, or reliable the survey is) shows Senator Akaka's approval rating plummeting 10 percent in one month while his disapproval ratings jumped from 29 percent to 41 percent during that same period.

Some are speculating that the abrupt change came as a result of the Time magazine article that called Senator Akaka one of the five least effective people in Congress. The article said:

By all accounts, Daniel Akaka is an affectionate and earnest man. As a legislator, though, Akaka is living proof that experience does not necessarily yield expertise. After 16 years on the job, the junior senator from Hawaii is a master of the minor resolution and the bill that dies in committee...

I don't know if this speculation is true, but regardless of the reason for the change in approval ratings (assuming here the change is reflective of reality), this could be the reason Senator Akaka has come out attacking. It does seem to make some sense that he would try to show that he is a man of action, fire, and daring (rather than inactive, somniferous, and timid) if his approval ratings were falling.

Whatever is going on, all I can say for sure is what I've said in the past; the fact that Congressman Case is challenging the incumbent senator makes for an interesting political season. YMMV. Insert disclaimer here

Aloha!