alternatehistory.com

Hi guys,

In 2004, Senater Tom Daschle lost his reelection bid to the US Senate, becoming the first party "leader" to do so since 1952.

His defeat was by no means a sure thing though, as he was leading for much of 2004. My question is, what if Daschle managed to pull it off?

First of all, how effective is Daschle as Minority Leader from 2005-7 (and presumerably majority leader post 2007)?

How does Daschle's 2004 victory effect presidencial politics? For a start, I heard that some of his staff went on to work with (the then Senata-elect) Obama, as Daschle's departure coinsided with Obama's election. Does this make Obama's 2008 run less likely (or at least weaker)? Does Daschle himself decide to run for president in 2008 in these circumstances? Who's the most likely Dem nominee for president in 2008 if Daschle holds onto his seat in 2004?
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