SOBER SECOND LOOK DEPARTMENT – AT 9:31 P.M. ET:  We've reported here that the new census data shows a shift of population southward and westward, with some blue states losing population and some red states gaining.  That appears to be a plus for Republicans.

However, a caveat:  Political writers are pointing out that much of the population gain in many red states comes from the Hispanic community, which has generally been Democratic.  That is true, which is why the GOP must make a special effort to increase its appeal among Hispanics.  Two Hispanic-American Republicans were elected to high office in the last election – Marco Rubio to the Senate from Florida, and Susana Martinez as governor of New Mexico.  That's a great start.  The Republicans must build on it.

At the same time, Democrats can't be happy over the fact that there's an exodus from many blue, Democratically run states.   And why not?  Those states overtax and overspend, some are nearly bankrupt, and they're run for the benefit of public-service unions.  Not exactly a great draw.

Both the Republicans and Democrats have work to do.  The difference is that the Republicans realize it.

December 21, 2010