Democratic Losses In Ky., Miss. Underscore Southern Struggles; Lost governors' races, retiring senators hurt "sushi' political party.(A)

Byline: BRIAN MITCHELL

Halloween is over, but the frights keep coming for the Democrats.

A Democratic senator publishes a book blasting his party. Another decides not to run again. The party loses two governorships while its White House wannabees savage their front-runner for suggesting the party needs a bigger tent.

And horror of horrors, President Bush's approval ratings begin rising as the economy picks up steam.

It seems the only good news for Democrats is bad news from Iraq. Otherwise, the future looks dim for ousting Bush and holding on in Congress next year.

"It looks increasingly likely that not only will the Republicans retain control of the Senate, they will expand their control. The …