Cook Report: 'Political Mood' Favors Democratic Wave in 2018

The "political mood" of the country portends a big wave for Democrats in the 2018 midterms, Amy Walters writes for the Cook Political Report.

Even if Republicans pass their tax cuts legislation, it might not be enough to stave off a repeat of 2006, when Democrats won the House vote by 8.5 percent, Walters wrote for the independent newsletter.

"A candidate can control for many things, but he/she can't change the political mood. If it is with you, you get an extra advantage you may or may not deserve. When it is against you, even the best, most prepared candidates can lose," Walters wrote.

"Getting a tax bill across the finish line isn't going to be enough to change the mood of the country," Walters wrote. "A good economy is helpful to the GOP as it can cut down on some of the headwinds coming at them right now. But, it's not clear to me that it's enough to fundamentally alter the way voters see Congress, the GOP and the President."

In addition to 2006, Walters also cites the 2010 tea party midterms and President Donald Trump's victory last year as two other monstrous waves that should not be ignored ahead of 2018.

"In 2016 we made the mistake of rationalizing away the prospect of a Trump victory," Walters wrote. "We should not make same mistake in 2018.

"Democrats have a narrow path to 24 seats — even with a big wave or tailwind. But, do not ignore what's right in front of us. A wave is building. If I were a Republican running for Congress, I'd be taking that more seriously than ever," Walters wrote.

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