McClatchy: Presidential ambitions are interfering with hopefuls' votes

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http://www.mcclatchydc.com/homepage/story/17255.html

Presidential ambitions are interfering with hopefuls' votes
By Margaret Talev | McClatchy Newspapers


WASHINGTON — Members of Congress who run for president have always had to juggle their Capitol Hill responsibilities with the need to get out, campaign and raise bundles of money.

But an unusually large herd of legislators — six senators and four congressmen — is off pursuing the presidency this year, the campaign has begun earlier than ever and bigger — and more expensive — primaries will be held early next year.

That's made it harder than ever for lawmakers to balance ambition and responsibility, especially the Democrats, who have a 50-49 majority in the Senate. Should they stay and grapple with divisive issues such as immigration and Iraq, or get out and glad-hand more Hollywood stars, trial lawyers and online activists?

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., has admonished the hopefuls not to let fundraisers, speeches and other events keep them from casting important votes.

"We have people running for president on both sides of the aisle," Reid said. "They should plan on being here. Their votes could make the difference."

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