A truth-hugger?  (reuters photo)

Robert Gibbs had us all agog on Sunday when he pertly declared that Republicans could win the House in November. Is he allowed to say that? Shouldn't he be waxing relentlessly optimistic about Democrats and the economy? Certainly, Eric Cantor has been saying it. But: Gibbs?

"I did what is maybe uncommon in this town, and yesterday I opened my mouth and stated the obvious," Gibbs said at the White House today.

There are enough seats in play in both chambers, plus some increasingly grim polls to make it feel true, if it is true.

Our friends at MSNBC's First Read, however, have a different take on the matter. This isn't 1994, they argue. And yeah, Republicans have more momentum on their side, with enthused voters and newfound support from independents. And the battleground areas don't favor Obama, and historically the party out of power picks ups seats in a midterm.

But: Here are four other things to consider, they say --

1. The Republicans are tied with Democrats in favorable/unfavorable ratings.

2. The GOP has no new ideas, agenda or personalities like they did in '94

3. Democrats are raising more money, and

4. To get control of the House, Republicans have to win 39 seats (i.e., a lot)

All good points. Certainly, any shift in the narrative will get an undeserved level of attention, and Gibbs' remarks are being picked apart in great detail today for subtext, intent and strategy. But the MSNBC crew raise some compelling points.