Democrats Outrun by a 2-Year G.O.P. Comeback Plan

The New York Times has a long article on how the Republicans plotted their comeback which started before Obama took office:

How they did it is the story of one of the most remarkable Congressional campaigns in more than a half-century, characterized by careful plotting by Republicans, miscalculations by Democrats and a new political dynamic with forces out of both parties control. The unpredictable Tea Party movement, the torrent of corporate money from outside interests and an electorate with deep discontent helped shift the balance of power in Washington.

An article well worth your time.