I don’t believe the DSCC is bluffing about spending $6 million-plus for Kay Hagan in North Carolina.

The DSCC chairman, Senator Chuck Schumer, told one of Hillary Clinton’s top North Carolina supporters in March that he would put real money into the race. He probably had to make that commitment to entice Hagan to run.

Carter’s right: $6 million on television – spent right – can put a big hole in Senator Dole’s boat.

John Edwards could not have won in 1998 without the DSCC’s money. He got it for two reasons: He put so much of his own money in his campaign. And he hit it off with Bob Kerrey, who was DSCC chair.

We used the money for negative ads against Faircloth. The ads worked, and they kept Edwards’ positive image intact.

I still believe Hagan has an uphill climb against the woman Rob Christensen always calls a “rock star.” Unless the force is with her in a Democratic year.

The Cook Political Report says the race is getting more interesting. But it added:

“As a first-time statewide candidate, Hagan is still honing her campaign skills. She needs to be able to articulate the rationale for her candidacy more succinctly. She also has to become more adroit in presenting her arguments against Dole.”

Hagan has to overcome the traditional Democratic reluctance to “go negative.” She has to make a case for why voters should replace Dole with her. With the DSCC’s help, she can do it without looking negative.

Click Here to discuss and comment on this and other articles.