Again – Republicans prefer to win this nation back at the polls.

But Senator Lautenberg (D-NJ) is giving the Tics a scare:

A bleeding ulcer is behind the hospitalization of longtime New Jersey Sen. Frank Lautenberg, an aide said Tuesday.

Chief of staff Dan Katz said that no discharge date is set, but that he expects the 86-year-old Democrat to be released soon.

The senator was taken to a hospital Monday after becoming lightheaded and falling at his Cliffside Park home. He later underwent a successful endoscopy procedure, spokesman Caley Gray said.

Lautenberg was expected “to make a full recovery and will be back to work soon,” Gray said.

I send my best wishes for Senator Lautenberg’s health.

And so, as it happens, do the Tics:

Any health decline for the Senate’s second-oldest member would be a serious concern for the party, because Republicans won control of the governor’s office in November. If Lautenberg were unable to finish his term, Gov. Chris Christie would appoint an interim successor. That could give a Republican candidate the added advantage of incumbency at a time the GOP already enjoys a favorable political environment.

Naturally, Jersey Democrats – whom mobsters shun socially as being “not ethical enough” – have been trying to make sure the rule of law comes in a close second to “the rule of the Democratic Party”:

New Jersey Democrats tried, but failed, to advance legislation to take the interim appointment power away from Christie. The legislation was introduced during the lame duck session with Lautenberg in mind.

And there are rumors – albeit contested ones – that Barbara Mikulski may yet announce a retirement.

Just saying.