Democrats Gain as Stevens Loses Race

In the New York Times article, "Democrats Gain as Stevens Loses Race", the article initially focuses on Republican Senator Ted Stevens of Alaska and the end of his reign as the longest-serving senator for his party amid his recent criminal conviction. The article then transitions into the debate over whether or not Joe Lieberman should be ostracized by the Democratic community for his affiliation and support of John McCain. I was attracted to the headline more than anything because I always find it fascinating when a public official has made an incredibly big mistake that has cost their career. I know it's a bad thing to say, but it's the truth. The lead followed a summary lead and indicated what the piece was going to be about.

This article engaged my attention and answered all my questions. I didn't finish reading it and think, "Well...so what?" Additionally, I enjoyed how the article really centered on the internal struggle of the democratic party as to whether or not Lieberman should be accepted into their circle. The article really hones in on the concept that democrats really look at Lieberman as a "traitor" and take his stance personally.

The main point of the story essentially related to the surge of democratic positions in higher political offices. The story beautifully transitioned from Stevens loss to the Lieberman loyalty question in an A to Z structure.

The main points in this story that were nicely linked through effective and seemless transitions were:

• Stevens loss and statistics to show his loss


• Mark Begich's victory and how this helps promote democratic popularity


• Democrat's anger with Lieberman


• Background information on Lieberman and his history with both parties


• Some defense for Lieberman and his ideological values


• The rise of Democrats, particularly Rahm Emmanuel

By the end of the story, I learned that Lieberman is really hated in the political world. I had no idea that because he backed John McCain, democrats have taken a real disliking to him. It is somewhat surprising to me that one man has caused such a sensational debate simply because he is an independent and decided to align himself with McCain.