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In turn, that willingness will be critical if the Democrats hope to preserve their newfound majority. At some point Iraq will no longer be an issue. Voters still prefer GOP economics -- the Republicans lost votes because more people saw them as representatives of big government. A couple years of Democratic governance should dispel that sentiment.

Which means social issues again will become a critical area of electoral competition. Observes Steven Waldman of Beliefnet: "To cement the gains with religious voters and Catholics, the Democrats will likely need to develop a more moderate position on abortion. These new pro-life Democrats will surely press the case; it's an open question how the pro-choice Democrats who will still dominate the party will react."

The answer will determine much about the future course of U.S. politics.

Today pro-lifers understandably lament the transfer of party control in Congress. But if the recent election sparks a revival of pro-life Democrats, the loss may ultimately prove to be a boon. Over the long-term the unborn will be more secure if they have protectors in both parties.

topics:
Transportation, Nancy Pelosi, Economics, Abortion, Environment, Supreme Court, Iraq, NATO