From The National Journal:

OH Gov. Ted Strickland (D) told reporters Saturday he believes this year’s legislative quagmire in DC will play a role in his bid for re-election in ’10, further evidence that Dems recognize the danger they face in a nationalized midterm election.

“If I win, I will thank those who helped me. If I lose, I will certainly not blame others for that loss, but I do believe what happens in Washington has a direct effect within our individual states, whether it is politically or in terms of the economy of our states,” said Strickland.

Strickland underscored the importance of passing health care for Dem candidates in ’10. He knows whereof he speaks; the “failure to address the health care issue” was a major factor when he lost his House seat in ’94. “I don’t think the American people reward failure or perceived failure,” he said.

Citing shortfalls in the current system, need, and state budgetary concerns as the most important reasons for Congress to act on the health care bill, Strickland added that there are also political implications, saying “if you’re speaking only politically, I think that that’s also important that we have action on health care.”

A surprisingly blunt assessment. But with voters souring on President Obama and with Strickland going to Washington to beg for additional billions of ObamaBucks to make up for his poor management of the state, how could Ted possibly avoid the national political climate?

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2. Ohio Democrats Not Thrilled With Obama’s Health Care Bill & Abortion Funding
3. The Former Boy Mayor of Cleveland Flips on Health Care
4. Real Health Care Reform
5. Where was Senator Voinovich on the Health Care Vote