For an odd-numbered election, this is a busy night, as many of you know. In accord with tradition, here's my de rigueur predictions & results thread. Post any thoughts you have on the elections, along with any gossip. Here are my predictions:
KENTUCKY
Governor - Fletcher in a major upset! Just kidding. Gov. Ernie Fletcher (R) is down anywhere from 15 to 25 points, and while those gay-baiting robocalls about Steve Beshear (D) may get a few nuts out to the polls, there is nothing that can save this pathetic governorship. My prediction: Beshear 58-42.
Secretary of State - What was an easy win for incumbent Trey Grayson (R) has become a close race with Bruce Hendrickson (D) thanks to Fletcher's albatross status. I still think Grayson pulls it out, but not by as much as he was supposed to. Grayson 53-47.
A lot more below the fold...
KENTUCKY CONT.
Treasurer, Attorney General, Auditor - Democrats (Todd Hollenbach, Jack Conway, and incumbent Crit Luallen, respectively) all win with varying margins, probably within the vicinity of Beshear's numbers, though likely closer for Hollenbach. Republican incumbent Richie Farmer hangs on for Ag Commissioner.
State Legislature - Democrats narrow the GOP majority in the Senate and hold their big House majority.
MISSISSIPPI
State Offices - Mostly good for incumbents and especially Republicans, as Gov. Haley Barbour (R) coasts to reelection. Only interesting race might be Insurance Commissioner between Gary Anderson (D) and Mike Chaney (R), though my gut says Chaney makes it by about 54-46 or 55-45.
State Legislature - Democrats hold the House, GOP wins real majority in the Senate (instead of the current tie), sayeth I.
NEW JERSEY
State Legislature - Probably only minimal changes. Dems should retain strong Assembly majority and weak Senate majority.
VIRGINIA
State Legislature - Intrigue and confusion. I really don't see the Dems taking the House, but the Senate is possible. It would require running the table with competitive races, but people are bullish. Headliner of the night: Chap Petersen (D) defeats Tom Davis' wife, State Sen. Jeannemarie Devolites-Davis (R). Incidentally, what a name!
In the end, I'll be conservative and say Republicans lose two seats for a bare 21-19 majority in the Senate.
OHIO 05 GOP PRIMARY - In this safe Republican seat, the primary is close between State Sen. Steve Buehrer and State Rep. Bob Latta (who narrowly lost the primary to now-deceased Rep. Paul Gillmor in 1988). Latta has the name rec, but Buehrer has been closing the gap. I will say Latta by 6-8 points.
Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City Mayors - I don't know enough to predict these two. Input, anyone?