Democrats want a blue wave. New Hampshire is Exhibit A for why that may not happen

(AP) — Five weeks before Election Day, Democratic enthusiasm is reaching a fever pitch. With Republicans struggling to overcome President Donald Trump’s low standing, Democrats are on the offensive in Republican strongholds like Texas and Florida, and even eyeing contests in deeper-red Kansas and Mississippi. Many Democratic leaders predict that the House majority is all but theirs, and that the Senate majority, almost unthinkable a year ago, is nearly in their grasp as well.

In the midst of such confidence, however, Democrats are ignoring glaring vulnerabilities that threaten to undermine the unstoppable blue wave they say is coming. Look no further than swing-state New Hampshire, where Democratic leaders are sounding the alarm about political challenges that could jeopardize Rep. Chris Pappas’ campaign for an open Senate seat and undermine the party’s ability to win races around the country.

Democrats point to Republicans’ overwhelming financial advantage that is allowing them to dominate the airwaves in the closing days of the campaign. At the same time, the Democrats’ brand remains deeply unpopular, and they have virtually no margin for error in midterm races that are playing out largely in Republican-leaning states. New Hampshire Democratic Chairman Ray Buckley says that national Democratic leaders “have consistently been overly optimistic” as they look to expand the midterm map.

He’s particularly worried about his state’s Senate contest, where Republicans are investing far more resources than Democrats. “There is reason for concern,” Buckley said. “We don’t want to let this one slip away because they were sending resources to some other unicorns — some other state that’s just not possible.” Despite such warnings, there is little sign of concern among senior Democratic officials, who point to Trump’s poor standing with voters who are frustrated by the war with Iran and surging costs with Republicans in control of Washington.

We’re winning because they’re losing,” said Democratic pollster John Anzalone. “And they’re losing dramatically with every action the president has taken.” There is almost no state where Democrats cannot compete in November, he said: “America is the battleground state.” Democrats are short on cash and goodwill For all the Democrats’ confidence, the party’s brand remains deeply unpopular and f…