If Sen. Hagel can oppose the war in very red Nebraska

[Telly Savalas]

then why can't Democrats in red areas do the same thing?

[msongs]

1. you mean like the blue dog republicans...oops, blue dog democrats? nt

[JI7]

2. Bob Kerrey could do it in Nebraska also

Bob Kerrey was pro gay rights, pro abortion rights, pro gun control in very red Nebraska and he is a Democrat also.

Hagel is very conservative on all the other issues outside of foreign policy.

but both these guys are personally popular. similar to John Breaux of Louisiana.

the problem now with some of these red states is that we need more Breaux, Kerreys etc. those who can be so popular in their state that they don't always have to worry about being too liberal such as Mary Landrieu does now and Ben Nelson.

[TwilightGardener]

3. The rank and file 'Pugs

here in NE aren't thrilled with him (judging by LTTE of the Omaha World Herald) for daring to diss their dear leader. But the GOP leaders in this state know that he pretty much built their party machine, plus he's a good and well-respected senator with some standing on the national stage, so they continue to stand by him. He is in a unique position. Not sure it applies to other situations.