If you're looking for the political currents, we have swirling winds. Although there has been talk that Clinton's problems could produce GOP gains in the House of 25 seats or more, key Republican analysts expect gains in the range of 10 to 20 seats. Republicans now hold an 11-seat advantage. In the Senate, Republicans should gain seats, but may fall short of their hope of picking up the five necessary to give them a filibuster-proof majority of 60 seats. The scandal has clearly affected the races of two incumbent Democrats, Sens. Barbara Boxer of California and Carol Moseley-Braun of Illinois.
Republicans say their best other opportunities for gains are in Wisconsin, Nevada and Kentucky.
Democrats say they could offset anticipated losses with victories in New York and North Carolina. The uncertainty of the scandal's impact on the elections is reflected in the approaches of candidates in two important House races, Green's contest in northern Wisconsin and another contest in suburban Seattle. The district is heavily Catholic and conservative, having elected just four Democrats to the House this century. Johnson voted against the Republican resolution on Thursday and instead backed the Democratic alternative that said the impeachment inquiry should conclude by the end of this year. Many Democrats were surprised by his vote, believing he might support the Republicans to protect himself politically at home.