Boehlert points to another group of candidates, both moderates and Republicans more connected to the Party establishment, as being “infinitely more important” than the conservatives.

That group could include moderates like Reps. Mike Castle of Delaware and Mark Kirk of Illinois, as well as GOP veterans like Dan Coats in Indiana, Roy Blunt in Missouri and Rob Portman of Ohio, who once headed the White House Office of Management and Budget under then-President George W. Bush.

“You would never see them make outrageous statements” like the Sharron Angles and Joe Millers, Boehlert said, adding that their experience will help the Senate focus on solutions to the nation’s most difficult challenges.