Tea Party Darlings
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By Alan Mascarenhas and Katie Maloney
This year is proving to be one of insurrection within the Republican Party. In recent weeks a cavalcade of long shots has shocked the establishment in GOP primaries, armed with little but Tea Party backing and a supportive tweet or two from Sarah Palin. Now comes the Tea Party’s biggest test: can its heroes actually win in a general election? While few pundits would be willing to bet against the house just yet on Sharron Angle coming out on top in Nevada or Christine O’Donnell pulling ahead in Delaware, the movement has certainly thrown this year’s campaign for a loop. But among the kookier candidates the Tea Party has unearthed, there are a few who stand out as possible rising stars. Following our recent look at the top Tea Party movers and shakers, here’s a rundown of the most exciting and controversial names you’ll see on November’s ballot.