MARK HALPERIN: Republicans are bracing for a wipeout. Here's who they'll blame if it happens

The political strategists I have known in my career are among the smartest, most interesting, most knowledgeable, and most impressive people I have ever met.

They are also capable of more white-hot animus for other people than anyone I have ever met.

And I am not talking about Democrats hating Republicans, or vice versa.

That is frequently a manageable relationship.

Sometimes they even share a corporate client.

BATTLEGROUND REPUBLICANS BREAK WITH TRUMP ON KEY ISSUES IN FINAL MIDTERM SPRINT The disgust to which I refer is intraparty.

That is when the hatred becomes unmatched by all other human relationships.

More than Glinda felt pure, unadulterated loathing for Elphaba at the beginning of "Wicked." More than a tenant despises her cruel and unusual landlord.

More than the Red Sox detest the Yankees.

These folks are experts at circular firing squads and shooting off bazookas inside the tent.

Most political strategists detest two things: losing campaigns and losing money.

The pair is connected.

An election defeat can cost you your next client.

Being blamed for an election defeat can cost you several.