In my column today on the main site, I talk about some past Massachusetts races where Republicans were able to ride tax revolts and a throw-the-bums out mentality to victory. On the ground here in Massachusetts and talking to people who plan to vote in this election, the Scott Brown versus Martha Coakley contest definitely has that feel. But I also remember many times when such efforts came up short: Ray Shamie versus John Kerry in 1984 (while Ronald Reagan was carrying Massachusetts), Mitt Romney versus Ted Kennedy in 1994, Bill Weld versus Kerry in 1996, and more ballot initiatives than I care to recall. Nothing is ever a given for a Republican in the Bay State.
