Chasing the White Whale Races | At the Races

Georgia’s 12th District

The Hunt

Last cycle, Rep. John Barrow stunned Democrats and Republicans by holding on to this conservative district. Until last cycle, Barrow had survived four re-election battles, often with a comfortable margin of victory, despite the GOP’s best efforts to oust him.

In 2012, Barrow sought re-election in redrawn, more conservative territory. Outside groups dumped $3.2 million to defeat him.

But Barrow held on, beating Republican nominee Lee Anderson by 7 points. Obama received 44 percent on the same ticket.

What’s Different This Cycle?

Privately, Republicans said Anderson was a lackluster candidate to challenge Barrow. They argue that with a better candidate in the race, they can defeat the Democrat.

via Chasing the White Whale Races | At the Races.