Democratic consultants and operatives who worked on the 2010 campaign think the tea party movement served as more of an energy force for Republicans than a divisive factor that split the GOP, according to an informal survey being released today.
Sixty-four percent of Democratic professionals said the tea party “energized the Republican base and was one reason for Republican gains” while just 36 percent thought it “splintered the party
Similarly, the respondents indicated that they thought hitting their GOP opponents on issues related to outsourcing jobs and trade was more effective (44 percent) than attacking them for ties to the tea party and extremism (23 percent).
Those surveyed also were confident that President Barack Obama would win reelection in 2012 if he faces either Sarah Palin or Mike Huckabee, but indicated that they ultimately thought the GOP would nominate an establishment candidate rather than a tea party favorite.
The poll was conducted by the Democratic polling firm Global Strategy Group. The data are from 132 individuals who served as staffers and consultants for 2010 candidates and party committees. The firm sent an e-mail questionnaire to the operatives — using a list culled from party consultants around the country — just over a week after Election Day. While the survey is not scientific, it offers a window on the private thinking of Democratic professionals in the days since the election.
THE SURVEY RELEASE IS HERE.
