This article first appeared in the St. Louis Beacon: Name: John Combest
Party: Republican
Role: Blogger/news aggregator
His Clout: For more than a decade, Combest has been posting a daily list of links to news stories about Missouri politics from around the state and nation. His site is a daily must-visit for political staffers, candidates and reporters. Although he’s firmly in the Republican camp, Combest’s news list isn’t – it includes stories critical of both parties, making it valuable for readers of all political stripes.
Age: 34
Job: Monsanto public affairs/media
Education: Washington University in St. Louis
Current campaign work: None
I know I’ve done a good job when: “People who are either staff or candidates or reporters tell me they’re smarter every day because of what I do.”
Biggest issue beyond November: “The demographic shifts that both parties face. Republicans have to figure out, ‘if we’re not going to get African-American votes, how are we going to get Hispanic votes?’ Democrats have to figure out how they can recoup middle class and working class whites.”
Biggest disappointment: Technology and social media has exacerbated the chasm between right and left. A coarsening of that discourse has taken place.
Political hero: (Former Sen.) Jim Talent. “He’s widely respected because he’s reasonable and he’s not a mean person.”
Most important race: Presidential. “An Obama second term would be a lot different than a second Clinton term. He would essentially have a blank check.”
Most underrated race: Mo. Secretary of State. “The two candidates have very different ideas of how you balance ballot access and ballot integrity.”
Most overrated race: Governor. The GOP is close to having a veto-proof majority, and “Jay Nixon has proven to be anything but a progressive governor.”
Biggest primary surprise: Todd Akin. Before Akin’s “legitimate rape” interview: “I’ve underestimated Todd Akin since he declared for Congress in 1999. I’m confident my Democratic friends are making that same mistake this year. “
After the interview: “I don’t know Todd Akin. My speculation is based solely on watching him over the last 18 years. Akin is loved by his base, and the bond is reciprocal. As such, any exit scenario must allow his supporters to rationalize the move with a narrative heavy on martyrdom; e.g.: ‘Todd was going to win, but the media and the Hollywood types crucified him. God closed the Senate door, but opened a window – and Todd will rise again.’ GOP/business/conservative leaders must give Akin a soft landing – a well-paid advocacy group position, perhaps – to provide the requisite ‘He-did-what’s-best-for-his-family’ cover he needs.”