By Jill Zuckman
Washington Bureau
Published September 4, 2006
WASHINGTON -- Karl Rove had a grand vision as he crafted George W. Bush's first presidential campaign.
Republicans not only would capture the White House, they also would realign American politics, creating an enduring majority that would rival President Franklin Roosevelt's accomplishment for Democrats almost 70 years earlier.
Now, though, as the congressional election season kicks off in earnest this Labor Day weekend, nobody is talking about realignment. Rather, Republicans concede they are struggling simply to cling to power.
Numerous political analysts are forecasting that a tidal wave of voter dissatisfaction will wash Republicans out of office on Nov. 7 and possibly hand control of the House back to Democrats, who also are poised for gains in the Senate and to win back governorships.
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