This helps keep Pombo in the spotlight, which is really what the Democrats and many in the environmental community want to do.

I don't see that Cuellar starts off as particularly vulnerable.

Gard is certainly the most polished of the bunch, and he's had a long tenure in the Legislature. That shows in terms of his confidence in talking about the district and issues and the race.

Certainly things have changed in the last 20 years in voters' perceptions whether women can do the job. But there's still an inherent nervousness on the part of voters to put women in as the ultimate decision-maker. Control of the National Guard and border security, those sorts of traditionally male jobs that's where I think voters consciously or unconsciously have difficulties with women candidates.

Being a woman is very helpful in terms of giving a different look to the party, and she has an advantage there.

If there is a (Democratic) wave this year and it's going to hit anywhere, it's the Northeast. That is where Bush's weakness is felt.

If voters are upset about $3 gas and healthcare costs, they're ripe for a message that emphasizes fiscal discipline.

Their experience gives them instant credibility and the ability to break out and get their views heard. But it can be a double-edged sword if they get pigeonholed as one-issue candidates.

It's clear that a storm is brewing. The question is just how strong.

The bill does not delay implementation. TSA will continue working closely with GAO and Congress to meet the criteria outlined for the Secure Flight program.