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For the Democrats it is an enormously delicate exercise in political judgment. Almost all of the contested congressional strategists are taking serious second looks at possible ways to capitalize on them.
For the Democrats it is an enormously delicate exercise in political judgment. Almost all of the contested congressional races in the state are regarded as very close. A misstep by either candidate could mean the difference between victory and defeat in November.
Thus the Democrats will be eyeing the Mondale-Ferraro polling trends to see to what degree, if at all, some association with the national ticket might be converted into even a small campaign advantage.*(‘They treB know that many of the congressional campaigns may turn on small advantages.
The debate, however, has revealed a chilling double problem for the Republicans, both in Virginia and nationally.
First, there was the undeniable fact that Mondale unexpectedly emerged as a far more formidable candidate than either the Democrats or the Republicans had expected. He was relaxed, articulate, well informed, and appeared every inch “presidential.”
And second, there was the president’s performance.
In the words of columnist Evans and Novak, normally two of Reagan’s strongest media supporters, that performance was a debacle. He was halting, nervous and at times seemed unable to find the words to express himself.
In stark turth, he suddenly appeared old.
The so-called age factor had been the subject of rumors and whispers ever since Reagan became president. Always, however, his boyish grin, youthful demeanor and disarming oheliners had reassured those who might have been concerned about it.
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