For the first time since 1991, a Democrat has picked up a Republican Congressional seat in a special election. Ben Chandler beat Republican Alice Forgy Kerr by 12 points in Kentucky, a state that went overwhelmingly for George W. Bush in 2000.

Two things really jump out about this win:

1) Kerr ran as if she was joined at the hip with Bush. She promised to support every one of Bush’s policies, and she got pounded for it. It’s far too early to call this a trend, but it is something to watch.

2) Blogs and blog advertising played a huge part in this election. Chandler advertised on at least three blogs that I frequent (Calpundit, Talking Points Memo, and Eschaton). The ad buy was rumored to be only $2,000, and yielded $100,000 in contributions. That is no joke.

It remains to be seen if this kind of fundraising can continue, but it is mighty impressive in this case.

Congratulations to Ben Chandler, give ‘em hell in the House.