Democrats vote Republicans off the island

Democrats' latest shot at their rivals gleefully highlights Senator Arlen Specter's defection last week and the GOP infighting that followed.

When Specter joined the Democratic fold, one of the few congressional Republicans left in the Northeast -- Senator Olympia Snowe of Maine -- had this juicy line in a New York Times op-ed: “It is true that being a Republican moderate sometimes feels like being a cast member of ‘Survivor’ — you are presented with multiple challenges, and you often get the distinct feeling that you’re no longer welcome in the tribe.”

In its new web ad, the Democratic National Committee lists 16 Republicans as the new cast of political "Survivor," leading off with former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, who appeared to take a swipe at Alaska Governor Sarah Palin this week.

With the drumbeat of the TV reality show, it shows GOP leaders -- including House Republican leader John Boehner, former Bush strategist Karl Rove, and talk show host Rush Limbaugh -- with just their first names.

"Marooned," it says on screen. "21% Party ID and shrinking," it adds, citing the latest dire poll numbers for Republicans.

"Which One Will Win The Battle For The Heart & Soul Of The GOP?" it concludes. "Outwit. Outplay. Outlast. Survivor. GOP Edition."

UPDATE: On MSNBC today, Collins was asked whether Democrats had wooed her to switch parties.

"You know, all of us who are centrists have been approached by the opposing party on various occasions, but I'm very happy being a moderate Republican. That's my DNA," she replied. "And I cannot envision circumstances which would cause me to switch parties."