Fight for control of state capitals heats up (USA Today)

[Omaha Steve]

Fight for control of state capitals heats up
Updated 10/23/2006 7:48 AM ET

By Kathy Kiely, USA TODAY
WASHINGTON — For the first time since 1994, Democrats are poised to surpass Republicans in the number of state capitals where one party enjoys complete political control — holding the governor's mansion and both chambers of the state legislature.

Having the political upper hand in state capitals has enabled Republicans to draw congressional districts that are more favorable to their party's candidates, notably in Texas and Georgia.

It has also helped the party develop strong candidates for higher office. According to the non-partisan National Conference of State Legislatures, 57% of members of Congress started out as state legislators.

Republicans hold the governorships and both chambers of the state legislatures in 12 states; Democrats, in eight. Republicans' control is in jeopardy in three of those states: Ohio, Alaska and Indiana.

FULL story at link above.