The bigger problem becomes at what point do Republicans say he's actually going to be a liability.

Democrats have become more disciplined in making the case against Republicans.

It's clear that a storm is brewing. The question is just how strong.

Certainly things have changed in the last 20 years in voters' perceptions whether women can do the job. But there's still an inherent nervousness on the part of voters to put women in as the ultimate decision-maker. Control of the National Guard and border security, those sorts of traditionally male jobs — that's where I think voters consciously or unconsciously have difficulties with women candidates.

It's the bigger picture that continues to wear down Bush's approval rating on Iraq, and voter frustration with Iraq.

It is clear that the political environment right now looks bleak for Republicans. At the same time, I don't think that the ethics issue alone is enough to run on solely.