U.S. gubernatorial elections, 2006
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The 2006 House election and 2006 Senate election are scheduled for the same date as this U.S. gubernatorial election, 2006 for 36 governors. Also many state and local races are on the same date.
You can also find some good information about who is running at some external sites, for candidates and filing deadlines look at politics1. If you want to know about past a present money look at Open Secrets and if you want to know about corporate relationships see sourcewatch.org. The following is intended to provide more background and links within dkosopedia itself. Please link every name to its own article.
Contents |
At a Glance
| DEMOCRATIC GOVERNORS: 13 up for re-election | REPUBLICAN GOVERNORS: 14 up for re-election | OPEN SEATS:
9 open |
| Janet Napolitano (AZ) | Bob Riley (AL) | Republican (AR) |
| Rod Blagojevich (IL) | Frank Murkowski (AK) | Republican (CO) |
| Kathleen Sebelius (KS) | Arnold Schwarzenegger (CA) | Republican (FL) |
| John Baldacci (ME) | Jodi Rell (CT) | Republican (ID) |
| Jennifer Granholm (MI) | Sonny Perdue (GA) | Democratic (IA) |
| John Lynch (NH) | Linda Lingle (HI) | Republican (MA) |
| Bill Richardson (NM) | Robert Ehrlich (MD) | Republican (NV) |
| Brad Henry (OK) | Tim Pawlenty (MN) | Republican (NY) |
| Ted Kulongoski (OR) | Dave Heineman (NE) | Republican (OH) |
| Ed Rendell (PA) | Donald Carcieri (RI) | |
| Phil Bredesen (TN) | Mark Sanford (SC) | |
| Jim Doyle (WI) | Mike Rounds (SD) | |
| Dave Freudenthal (WY) | Rick Perry (TX) | |
| Jim Douglas (VT) |
Open Seats
Arkansas
- Governor: Mike Huckabee (R) incumbent, term-limited.
- Candidates to open seat :
- Mike Beebe (D) (cw)
- Asa Hutchinson (R) (cw)
- Jim Lendall (Green) (cw)
- Rod Bryan (I) (cw)
- General election results:
Mike Beebe (D) 419,448 55%
Asa Hutchinson (R) 308,728 41%
Other 28,850 4%
- External Links:
- Arkansas Governor: Beebe 47%, Hutchinson 40% Angus Reid Consultatnts, July 31, 2006.
- Gubernatorial Candidates Talk Up Local Control at Education Conference KAIT Channel 8, August 3, 2006.
- Associated Press. Gov. candidates trade swipes, accuse each other of flip-flops WREG News Channel 3, August 4, 2006.
- Intelligent Design Big Topic In Election Season Todaysthv.com, August 14, 2006.
- Arkansas Governor: Hutchinson Hot on Beebe’s Trail -- Beebe’s Edge Shrinks to Four; Now Leads Hutchinson 45% to 41% Rasmussen Reports, August 21, 2006.
- Moritz, Rob. Clinton helps Beebe raise more than $600,000 for campaign Arkansas News Bureau, September 8, 2006.
- Arkansas Governor: Beebe by 11 -- Beebe (D) 49% Hutchinson (R) 38% Rasmussen Reports, September 12, 2006.
- Brummett, John. Huckabee responds Arkansas News Bureau, October 12, 2006.
- Related link:
- (see Arkansas gubernatorial election, 2006)
Colorado
- Governor: Bill Owens (R) incumbent, term limited.
- Candidates to open seat:
- Bill Ritter (D) (cw)
- Bob Beauprez (R) (cw)
- Dawn Winkler-Kinateder (L) (cw)
- Clyde Harkins (ACP)
- Darla Herold (Write-In)
- Chuck Sylvester (Write-In)
- General election results:
Bill Ritter (D) 779,741 56%
Bob Beauprez (R) 566,303 41%
Other 38,861 3%
- External Links:
- Beauprez "Mexican Time" Comment Causes Uproar; DA Mitch Morrissey Not Happy Colorado Politics, June 16, 2006.
- Webb, Dennis. Gubernatorial candidate outlines his vision The Aspen Times, August 3, 2006.
- Henley, Kyle. Beauprez, Ritter talk issues Colorado Springs Gazette, August 4, 2006.
- Gathright, Alan. Immigration takes spotlight in governor's debate -- Beauprez, Ritter draw lines in sand Rocky Mountain News, Aug 12, 2006.
- Colorado Governor: Ritter Now With 9-point Lead -- Ritter (D) 48%; Beauprez (R) 39% Rasmussen Reports, August 14, 2006.
- Henley, Kyle. Beauprez — a downward spiral? Experts question his chances after ugly August Gazette.com, September 10, 2006.
- Colorado Governor: Ritter's Biggest Lead Yet -- Ritter (D) 50%; Beauprez (R) 34% Rasmussen Reports, September 26, 2006.
- Julie Dunn and Will Shanley Jobs issue a debate winner -- Ritter, Beauprez stress economy DenverPost.com, October 11, 2006.
- Candidates debate Iraq, immigration -- Health care also on the agenda DenverPost.com, October 14, 2006.
Florida
- Governor: Jeb Bush (R) incumbent, term limited.
- Democratic candidates:
- Republican candidates:
- Charlie Crist (R) - Florida Attorney General. (cw)
Tom Gallagher(R) - Florida State CFO, former State Treasurer. (cw)Vernon Palmer(R)Michael St. Jean(R)
- Reform Party Candidate:
- Max Linn (cw)
- Socialist candidates:
- Atlee Yarrow (Write-In) (cw)
- Omari Musa</strike> (Write-In)
- Independent Candidates:
- Other write-in candidates:
- General election results:
Charlie Crist (R) 2,487,140 52%
Jim Davis (D) 2,151,577 45%
Other 129,707 3%
- Previous Florida Presidential Election Results:
- 2004: Bush 52 / Kerry 47
- 2000: Bush 49 / Gore 49
- External Links:
- The Buzz TampaBay.com
- Farrington, Brendan. Gallagher points to differences with Crist in GOP governor's race HeraldTribune.com, August 1, 2006.
- Skoloff, Brian. Smith says he'll fix state insurance crisis in second TV campaign ad HeraldTribune.com, August 4, 2006.
- Adwatch: Jim Davis campaign for governor Miami Herald, August 4, 2006.
- Begos, Kevin. Plans In Place In Case Cubans Start Fleeing Isle TBO.com News, August 4, 2006.
- Pocketbook Issues Florida Times, August 13, 2006.
- Leading gubernatorial candidates step up attacks on challengers Sun-Sentinel.com, Augusut 17, 2006.
- Florida Governor: Crist (R) 45%, Davis (D) 41% Rasmussen Reports, September 5, 2006.
- (see Florida gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => FL-gov
Idaho
- Governor: Dirk Kempthorne (R) incumbent, retiring in 2006.
- candidates:
- Jerry Brady (D) (cw)
- Butch Otter (R) - Congressman, Ex-Lt. Governor. (cw)
- Marvin Richardson (Constitution) (cw)
- Ted Dunlap (L)
- General election results:
C.L. Butch Otter (R) 235,729 53%
Jerry M. Brady (D) 198,065 44%
Other 14,478 3%
- (see Idaho gubernatorial election, 2006)
- External links:
- Opyr, Joan. Gubernatorial Candidate Jerry Brady to Appear on Moscow Radio Show August 6th New West Politics, August 4, 2006.
- Miller, John. Democrats: Praise of GOP Idaho wilds bill doesn't undermine party's candidate The Times News, August 4, 2006.
- Miller, John. Otter: 'Wasting my time' in Congress spurred run for governor The Times News, August 16, 2006.
- Throndsen, Kiersten. Gubernatorial Candidates Square Off On TV KBCI2 Boise, Idaho, October 13, 2006.
- Daily Kos => ID-gov
Iowa
- Governor: Tom Vilsack (D) - incumbent, retiring in 2006.
- Candidates:
- Chet Culver (D) - Secretary of State. (cw)
- Jim Nussle (R) - Congressman. (cw)
- Christy Welty (L) - Fairfield City Councilwoman.
- Wendy Barth (Green) - Peace Activist (cw)
- General election results:
Chet Culver (D) 565,199 54%
Jim Nussle (R) 465,451 44%
Other 15,490 1%
- External links:
- Tibbetts, EdDrug plan gap may affect fall elections The Quad-City Times, July 31, 2006.
- Nussle, Culver Offer Plans to Help Veterans WHOtv.com, August 3, 2006.
- Beaumont, Thomas. Nussle opposes new rule for DNR -- It gives too much power to state, candidate says Des Moines Register, August 11, 2006.
- Beeman, Perry. Not all Iowans hog-wild over hogs -- Groups battle for zoning of livestock confinements Des Moines Register, August 13, 2006.
- Iowa Governor: Culver, Nussle in Dead Heat -- Culver (D) 42% Nussle (R) 40% Rasmussen Reports, September 1, 2006.
- See Iowa Statewide elections, 2006
- Yepson, David. Yepsen: Forget abortion, focus on growth Des Moines Register, September 10, 2006.
- Nussle, Culver clash in debate The Quad-City Times, October 13, 2006.
Massachusetts
- Governor: Mitt Romney (R) incumbent, retiring in 2006.
- Democratic candidates:
- Deval Patrick (D) (cw) - former US Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights.
Tom Reilly(D) (cw) - Attorney General and former Middlesex County District Attorney. Lost Dem primary.Chris Gabrieli(D) (cw) Lost Dem primary.
- Republican candidates:
- Kerry Healey (R) (cw) - Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor amd former MA GOP Chair. Endorsed by Gov. Mitt Romney.
- Green candidate:
- Grace Ross (G) (cw)
- Socialist Workers
- John Hawkins (Socialist Workers)
- Independent candidate:
- Christy Mihos (I) - Businessman and former State Turnpike Authority Board Member. His family founded the Christy's convenience store chain.
- General election results:
Deval Patrick (D) 1,230,065 56%
Kerry Healey (R) 779,807 35%
Other 197,044 9%
- External link:
- Associated press. Gabrieli proposes legal casino gambling for property tax relief The Boston Globe, August 1, 2006.
- Massachusetts Governor: Democrats Lead -- Gabrieli (D) 47%, Healey (R) 27% Rasmussen Reports, August 12, 2006.
- Democratic candidates for governor have heated debate in prime-time Sentinel and Enterprise, September 8, 2006.
- Spillane, Jack. Gabrieli riding the middle to the top -- Candidate's moderate stance gaining support South Coast Today, September 10, 2006.
- Phillips, Frank. Patrick roars to nomination -- Declares a change in Bay State politics; Healey launches attack The Boston Globe, September 20, 2006.
- (see Massachusetts gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => MA-gov
Nevada
- Governor: Kenny Guinn (R) incumbent, term limited.
- Democratic candidates:
- Dina Titus (D) - State Senate Minority Leader. (cw)
Jim Gibson(D) - Henderson Mayor. (cw)Leola McConnell(D) (cw)
- Republican candidate:
Bob Beers(R) - State Senator. (cw)Melody "Mimi Miyagi" Damayo(R) (cw)- Jim Gibbons (R) - Congressman, former State Assemblyman. (cw)
Lorraine Hunt(R) - Lt. Governor. (cw)Stan Lusak(R) (cw)
- Green candidate:
- Craig Bergland (G) (cw)
- Independent American Party candidate:
- Christopher Hansen (IAP) (cw)
- General election results:
Jim Gibbons (R) 277,855 48%
Dina Titus (D) 254,920 44%
Other 47,316 8%
- External links:
- Nevada: Carter (D) Catching Ensign (R) in Senate Race? -- Governor’s Race: Gibbons (R ) Leads Titus Rasmussen Reports, August 7, 2006.
- Sonner, Scott. GOP debate: Hunt, Beers attack Gibbons as dishonest flip-flopper SFGate, August 11, 2006.
- Sebelius, Steve. Why Titus won -- State Sen. Dina Titus is now the Democratic nominee for governor. Las Vegas City Life, August 17, 2006.
- Smith, John L. As Titus turns her attention to Gibbons, hope springs eternal Nevada Appeal, August 17, 2006.
- Smith, John L. Poll gives challengers hope that may end when money starts flowing Nevada Appeal, September 7, 2006.
- Associated Press. Nevada governor candidate denies role in whistleblower firing Las Vegas Sun, September 7, 2006.
- Shipley, Jarid. A first-hand lesson in getting involved -- Dina Titus answers questions from Pioneer High School students Nevada Appeal, September 9, 2006.
- (see Nevada gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => NV-gov
New York
- cw = campaign website
- George Pataki (R) incumbent, retiring in 2006.
- Republican candidate:
- Democratic candidates:
- Eliot Spitzer (D/IP/WF) - NY Attorney General. (cw)
Tom Suozzi(D) - Nassau County Executive. (cw) Lost democratic primary.
- Green Party candidates:
- Malachy McCourt (G) (cw)
- Libertarian candidate:
- John Clifton (L) (cw)
- Right to Life candidate:
- John Broderick
- Socialist Worker's Party
- Maura DeLuca (SWP)
- Voice of the People
- Bill Murawski (VOP)
- Independent
- Jimmy McMillan (Ind.)
- General election results:
Eliot Spitzer (D) 2,882,524 69%
John J. Faso (R) 1,217,516 29%
Other 76,668 2%
- Previous Elections
- 2002: 49%/33/15 over Carl McCall(D) and Tom Golisano
- NY Presidential Election Results
- 2004: Kerry 58 / Bush 40
- 2000: Gore 60 / Bush 35
- Narrative
- New York is yet another blue state with a Republican governor. With Democrats lining up behind Elior Spitzer there will most likley not be a primary challenge which would cost democrats millions in the highly expensive New York media market. With Spitzer's strong showing in the polls (as of Aug. 9, 2006 he has a 70 to 17 lead) over Faso, New York is expected to have a Democrat for Governor. Pataki announced his retirment on July 28, 2005.
- External link:
- New York Governor: Spitzer 69%, Faso 20% AngusReid Consultants, July 21, 2006.
- Spitzer expects one more `debate' with Suozzi SWTM.com NBC3, August 3, 2006.
- New York Governor: Spitzer 70%, Faso 17% Angus Reid Consultants, August 9, 2006.
- Williams, Fred O. Spitzer, Faso address abusive collectors The Buffalo News, August 12, 2006.
- Associated Press. Spitzer holds lead, poll says PoughkeepsieJournal.com, August 24, 2006.
- (see New York gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => NY-gov
Ohio
- Governor: Bob Taft (R) incumbent, term limited.
- Candidates:
- Ken Blackwell (R) (cw)
- Ted Strickland (D) (cw)
- Bob Fitrakis (Green) (cw)
- Bill Peirce (Libertarian) (cw)
- James Lundeen (Write-In) (cw)
- Larry Bays (Write-In)
- General election results:
Ted Strickland (D) 2,307,420 60%
J. Kenneth Blackwell (R) 1,406,792 37%
Other 106,583 3%
- External Links:
- Smyth, Julie Carr. Strickland releases tax returns, Blackwell declines Star-Telegram.com, August 1, 2006.
- Hopkins, Andrea. In Ohio, Republican incumbent faces tough fight Boston.com, August 1, 2006.
- Eaton, Dan. Broadband tops candidates' tech agendas Columbus Business First, August 11, 2006.
- Ohio Governor: Strickland 57%, Blackwell 35% Angus Reid Consultants, August 11, 2006.
- Turnpike controversy 13abc.com, August 18, 2006.
- Ohio Governor: Strickland Lead Widens to 25 Points -- Blackwell (R) 32% Strickland (D) 57% Rasmussen Reports, August 27, 2006.
- Harvey Wasserman, et. al. An open letter to Gov. Robert Taft and Sec. of State J. Kenneth Blackwell The Free Press, September 9, 2006.
- See Ohio Executive Branch Elections, 2006
- Daily Kos => OH-gov
Republican Incumbents
Alabama
- Governor: Bob Riley (R) (gw)(cw)
- Age in '06: 64
- Democratic Challenger: Lucy Baxley (D) - Lt. Governor. (cw)
- Libertarian Challenger: Loretta Nall (Libertarian) (cw)
- General election results:
Bob Riley (R) 717,287 58%
Lucy Baxley (D) 518,750 42%
- Prognosis: Riley has a good chance of holding on to his seat
- Previous Elections
- 2002: Riley (R) 49%, Siegelman (D - incumbent) 49%
- External link: **Alabama Governor: Riley 52%, Baxley 38% Angus Reid Consutants, August 3, 2006.
- (see Alabama gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => AL-gov
Alaska
- Governor: Frank Murkowski (R) has lost the Republican primary.
- Republican challengers:
- Sarah Palin (R/Independent)(campaign website)
John Binkley(R) - former State Senator. (cw)Jerry Heikes(R)Merica Hlatcu(R)
- Democratic candidates:
- Tony Knowles (D) - former Alaska Governor, former Anchorage Mayor. (cw)
Eric Croft(D) - State representative. (campaign website)Bruce Lemke(D)
- Other candidates:
- Walter Dixon (Alaska Frontier Constitutional)
- Don Wright (Alaskan Independence)
- Billy Toien (Libertarian)
- Andrew Halcro (Independent) (cw)
- General election results:
Sarah Palin (R) 99,619 49%
Tony Knowles (D) 83,640 41%
Other 21,783 11%
- Previous Elections
- 2002: Murkowski (R) 56%, Ulmer {D} 41%
- External link:
- Volz, Matt. Knowles to run for governor Anchorage Daily News, May 29, 2006.
- Voz, Matt. Knowles builds war chest for November election Kodiak Daily Mirror, August 11, 2006.
- Voz, Matt. Murkowski goes into attack mode as primary draws near Kodiak Daily Mirror, August 17, 2006.
- Alaska Governor: Palin by 14 -- Palin (R) 52%; Knowles (D) 38% Rasmussen Reports, September 8, 2006.
- Volz, Matt. Murkowski revives the possibility of a gas contract sesssion Alaska Journal of Commerce, September 8, 2006.
- (see Alaska gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => AK-gov
California
- Governor: Arnold Schwarzenegger (R)
- Candidates:
- Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) (cw)
- Phil Angelides (D) (cw)
- Ed Noonan (AIP) (cw)
- Peter Camejo (Green) (cw)
- Art Olivier (Libertarian) (cw)
- Janice Jordan (PFP) (cw)
- Mary "Mary Carey" Cook (Independent) (cw)
- Eric "Moose" Mahoney (Independent) (cw)
- George Fellows (Write-In) (cw)
- Daniel Sage (Write-In) (cw)
- General election results:
Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) 3,867,942 56%
Phil Angelides (D) 2,701,989 39%
Other 351,511 5%
- Previous Elections
- 2003: 49%/32%/13% over Cruz Bustamante (D), Tom McClintock (R) and dozens of others
- CA Pres Results
- 2004: Kerry 55 / Bush 44
- 2000: Gore 54 / Bush 42
- Narrative
- The state is nominally Democratic, having given its electoral votes to the Democratic candidate in the last two presidential elections. However, Schwarzenegger is not seen as a typical Republican, as he supports abortion rights and gay rights, and is much more secular than President Bush and the majority of the national Republican party. He was elected in a highly unusual recall election in November 2003: the question of recalling then Governor Gray Davis (D) was on the same ballot as who should be the new governor should the recall succeed; there were no primary elections; and there were over 120 candidates on the ballot. Under Schwarzenegger's tenure, California's budget deficit has ballooned, housing is less affordable than ever, a record 25% of the population says it is strongly considering leaving due to the high cost of living, the economy is still in recession in large parts of the state, community colleges and state universities are less affordable than ever, and a record seven million people are without health insurance. Regardless of these circumstances, Schwarzenegger enjoys a high level of popularity among Democrats and Republicans alike. As of July 2004, he has not stated that he will run for re-election but expectations are that he will. He can be expected to raise prodigious amounts of money and will be well supported by the national Republican party as well as President Bush. However, due to Bush's low popularity in the state, it remains to be seen whether or how much Bush will stump for Schwarzenegger's re-election. The Democratic contenders are : California's AG Bill Lockyer, who withdrew only a few days after he officially declared, State Treasurer Phil Angelides, a very traditional liberal lifelong politician and State Controller Steve Westly, fairly new to politics as one of the founders of Ebay and expected to run on his business experience but who could be hurt by his initial support of Schwarzenegger.
- External links:
- Governor, Democratic rival unveil competing health care plans The Mercury News, July 24, 2006.
- California Governor: Angelides (D) 46%, Schwarzenegger (R) 44% Rassmussen Reports, July 13, 2006.
- Folmar, Kate. California candidates use ballot initiatives to define campaigns San Jose Mercury News, August 12, 2006.
- Harmon, Steven. To pull off a win, Angelides must seize his opportunities Contra Costa Times, August 14, 2006.
- California Governor: Schwarzenegger Holding On to Six-Point Lead -- Schwarzenegger 48%, Angelides 42% Rasmussen Reports, August 31, 2006.
- Hammond, Steven. Schwarzenegger has no-lose situation with bonds -- Governor's move to political center makes Angelides' work harder Inside Bay Area, September 10, 2006.
- (see California gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => CA-gov
Connecticut
- Governor: Jodi Rell (R)
- Challengers:
- John DeStefano Jr. (D) - New Haven Mayor
- Cliff Thornton (Green)
- Scott Merrell (Independent)
- General election results:
M. Jodi Rell (R) 709,987 63%
John DeStefano (D) 397,745 35%
Other 15,155 1%
- External links:
- Connecticut Governor: Rell (R) Leading by 25%+ Rassmussen Reports, June 19, 2006.
- Coleman, Tobin A. A new team: DeStefano, Glassman are running together The Stamford Advocate, August 11, 2006.
- Connecticut Governor: Rell Lead Widens -- Jodi Rell (R) 61%, John DeStefano (D) 31% Rasmussen Reports, August 23, 2006.
- (see Connecticut gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => CT-gov
Georgia
- Governor: Sonny Perdue (R)
- Challengers
- Mark Taylor (Dem - Lieutenant Governor) (cw)
- Garrett Hayes (Libertarian) (cw)
- William Arth (Socialist Workers/Write-In)
- General election results:
Sonny Perdue (R) 1,203,173 58%
Mark Taylor (D) 796,354 38%
Garrett Hayes (L) 79,823 4%
- Previous Elections
- 2002: Perdue 52 / Barnes 46
- GA Pres Results
- 2004: Bush 58 / Kerry 41
- External links
- Georgia Governor: Perdue With 14-Point Lead Over Taylor -- Perdue 53%, Taylor 39% Rassmussen Reports, August 4, 2006.
- McCaffrey, Shannon. Perdue, Taylor talk tough on immigration, crime macon.com, September 7, 2006.
- Associated Press. GOP wants probe of Taylor's ties to state lease money Ledger-Enquirer, September 8, 2006.
- (see Georgia gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => GA-gov
Hawaii
- Governor: Linda Lingle (R)
- Democratic challengers:
- Green challenger
- Jim Brewer (Green)
- Libertarian challenger
- Ozell Daniel (cw)
- Independent chanllengers
- Daniel Cunningham
- Bradley Hara
- Paul Mattes
- General election results:
Linda Lingle (R) 215,279 63%
Randy Iwase (D) 121,708 35%
Other 7,282 2%
Maryland
- Governor: Robert Ehrlich (R) (gov ofc) (cw)
- Challengers:
- Martin O'Malley (Dem - Mayor of Baltimore) (cw)
- Ed Boyd (Green) (cw)
- Chris Driscoll (Populist) (cw)
- General election results:
Martin O'Malley (D) 875,352 53%
Robert Ehrlich (R) 757,099 46%
Other 17,755 1%
- Previous Elections
- 2002: 52%/48 over Kathleen Kennedy Townsend (D)
- MD Pres Results
- 2004: Kerry 56 / Bush 43
- 2000: Gore 57 / Bush 40
- Narrative
- Maryland is another of the heavily blue states with a Republican governor, NY, MA, CA, and VT being some of the others. In those states however, the candidates each won with a decisive message, and a shrewdly run campaign. Ehrlich on the other hand, won simply on the ineptitude of his opponent, Kathleen Kennedy Townsend. In 2002, Townsend ran one of the worst campaigns in state history, by betting completely on the turnout of Baltimore and the D.C. surrounding area. Even with this self-destructive policy, Ehrlich won with only 52% of the vote in a year in which republicans ran the table. Since his inauguration, Ehrlich has been plagued with problems. The democratic legislature blocked his plan to legalize slot-machines at race tracks, the centerpiece of Ehrlich's campaign. He also faces a budget gap of $550 million and no lack of prospective challengers. The top contender is Baltimore Mayor, Martin O'Malley. O'Malley is probably the dems' best chance. Even Ehrlich has admitted he would not have won had O'Malley thrown his hat into the ring in 2002. O'Malley would be able to bring back the Baltimore suburbs into the democrats’ column and make a more effective play upstate as well as increase black turnout in his native city.
- External links:
- Mosk, Matthew. Ehrlich Adviser Details Firings Washington Post, August 9, 2006.
- Maryland Governor: O'Malley Holding on to Lead -- O'Malley (D) 50%, Ehrlich (R) 43% Rasmussen Reports, August 19, 2006.
- Barnes, Robert. Crucial Md. Vote to Mold New Political Landscape -- A Younger Generation Finds a Rare Opening Washigton Post, September 10, 2006.
- (see Maryland gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => MD-gov
Minnesota
- Governor: Tim Pawlenty (R) (http://www.governor.state.mn.us/ governor's website) (cw)
- Republican challenger:
- Sue Jeffers (R) (cw)
- DFL candidates:
- Other candidates:
- General election results:
Tim Pawlenty (R) 1,030,236 47%
Mike Hatch (D) 1,007,753 46%
Other 166,017 8%
- External Links:
- Minnesota Governor: Pawlenty on the Rebound -- Pawlenty 46% Hatch 36% Rassmussen Reports, August 7, 2006.
- Lohn, Martiga. Hatch outlines modest improvements to health care Duluth News Tribune, August 10, 2006.
- Salisbury, Bill. Hutchinson spells out health care initiative -- 'Universal' plan aims to cover uninsuredTwinCities.com, August 12, 2006.
- George, Libby. Minn. Gubernatorial Primary an Expectations Game for Both Parties Yahoo News, September 7, 2006.
- (see Minnesota gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => MN-gov
Nebraska
- Governor: Dave Heineman (R) (cw)
- Challengers
- Democrat: David Hahn (cw)
- Nebraska Party: Barry Richards
- General election results:
Dave Heineman (R) 430,578 74%
David Hahn (D) 141,091 24%
Other 12,386 2%
- Previous Elections
- Heineman, as Lt. Gov., succeeded Gov. Mike Johanns when he left to join the Bush cabinet.
- Narrative:
- The Republican Primary is turning into an interesting race, as Osborne and Heineman are locked in a dead heat less than three weeks from election day. A recent poll from Pete Ricketts' Senate campaign has Osborne at 44% and Heineman at 43%, with Nabity at 6%. The recent dispute over OPS boundaries has become a big issue in the campaign now, with Heineman taking the side of suburban schools, and Osborne denouncing the plan to split up OPS into three racially identifiable districts. This may have cost Osborne support among more conservative Republicans, but chances are he already has Western Nebraska voters sealed up. It's a lose-lose for the Democrats, though, as both candidates stand to win in the general election. But if Heineman wins the primary, at least the race will be competitive.
- External Links:
- Nebraska Governor: Heineman 66%, Hahn 21% AngusReid Consultants, July 23, 2006.
- Voters Will Decide Fate Of State Spending Lid Proposal Nebraska State-Paper, August 11, 2006.
- Nebraska Governor: Heineman Still Coasting to Election -- Heineman (R) 71% Hahn (D) 18%
- (see Nebraska gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => NE-gov
Rhode Island
- Governor: Donald Carcieri (R) (gov ofc) (cw)
- Democratic challenger:
- Charlie Fogarty (D) (cw)
- General election results:
Don Carcieri (R) 197,013 51%
Charles Fogarty (D) 189,099 49%
- External link:
- Rhode Island Governor: Carcieri and Fogarty Dead Even -- Carcieri (R) 43%, Fogarty (D) 43% Rassmussen Reports, August 9, 2006.
- Carcieri says he's fighting to make Rhode Island better The Boston Globe, August 12, 2006.
- Rhode Island Governor: Fogarty by 5 -- Fogarty (D) 46% Carcieri (R) 41% Rasmussen Reports, September 5, 2006.
- (see Rhode Island gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => RI-gov
South Carolina
- Governor: Mark Sanford (R)
- Challengers:
- General election results:
Mark Sanford (R) 596,606 55%
Tommy Moore (D) 484,938 45%
- External link:
- South Carolina Governor -- Sanford (R) 47%, Moore (D) 38% Rassmussen Reports, August 4, 2006.
- Sheinin, Aaron Gould. Sanford gets head start on campaigning The State.com, August 11, 2006.
- (see South Carolina gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => SC-gov
South Dakota
- Governor: Mike Rounds (R)
- Challengers:
- General election results:
Mike Rounds (R) 206,996 62%
Jack Billion (D) 121,241 36%
Other 7,290 2%
- External link:
- Walker, Carson. State politics steps into online forums: Gubernatorial candidate boasts profile at social sites for young adults AberdeenNews.com, July 22, 2006.
- Lammers, Dirk. Jack Billion's brother jumps into HB1215 debate Rapid City Journal, August 14, 2006
- (see South Dakota gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => SD-gov
Texas
- Governor: Rick Perry (R)
- Republicans
- Rick Perry (R) Recieved 84.20% of the vote in the republican primary.
- Larry Kilgore (R) Recieved 7.58% of the vote in the republican primary.
- Rhett R. Smith (R) Recieved 4.63% of the vote in the republican primary.
- Star Locke (R) Recieved 3.58% of the vote in the republican primary.
- Democrats
- Chris Bell (D) a former congressman, former Houston City Councilman & Attorney. Recieved 63.65% of the vote in the democratic primary. (cw)
- Bob Grammage (D) a former Texas Supreme Court Justice, former Congressman, former State Senator. Recieved 28.63%% of the vote in the democratic primary.
- Rashad Jafer (D) Recieved 7.72% of the vote in the democratic primary.
- Independents
- Carole Keeton Strayhorn (R => I), Texas state comptroller and the mother of White House spokesman Scott McClellan, is quitting the GOP run for governor as an Independent. Strayhorn is a former State Railroad Commissioner. (cw)
- Kinky Friedman (I) country music singer. Campaign goal: "dewussification" of Texas. (cw)
- Larry Camp (Independent)
- Marcus Matthew Cherry (Independent)
- William Gilbert Jean (Independent)
- General election results:
Rick Perry (R) 1,714,618 39%
Chris Bell (D) 1,309,774 30%
Carole Strayhorn (I) 789,432 18%
Other 580,053 13%
- Outlook: Friedman is a wild card with populist support, and could pull a Jesse Ventura in November, or drain enough support from both Democrats and Republicans to otherwise skew the election.
- Previous Elections
- 2002: Perry 58 / Sanchez (D) 40
- TX Presidential Results
- 2004: Bush 61 / Kerry 38
- 2000: Bush 59 / Gore 38
- External link:
- Texas Governor: Perry (R) Dips to 35% -- Three Other Contenders Now Attract 18% Each Rassmussen Reports, August 9, 2006.
- Ratcliffe, R.G. Strayhorn lashes out at opponents' charges MySanAntonio.com, August 12, 2006.
- (see Texas gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => TX-gov
Vermont
- Jim Douglas (R) incumbent. (governor's website)
- Challengers:
- Scudder Parker (D) (cw)
- Bob Skold (Liberty Union) (cw)
- Cris Ericson (I) (cw)
- General election results:
Jim Douglas (R) 148,501 57%
Scudder Parker (D) 106,788 41%
Other 6,391 2%
- External link:
- Sneyd, Ross. Despite early start, Parker keeps low campaign profile The Boston Globe, July 22, 2006.
- Porter, Louis. Governor's stand focuses attention on energy policy Rutland Herald, August 11, 2006.
- (see Vermont gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => VT-gov
Democratic Incumbents
Arizona
- Prognosis: Safe Dem.
- Janet Napolitano (D) incumbent. (gw) (cw)
- Republican candidates:
- Len Munsil (R) (cw) won the GOP primary.
Don Goldwater(R) (cw)Mike Harris(R) (cw)Gary Tupper(R) (cw)
- Libertarian candidates:
- Barry Hess (Libertarian) (cw)
- Independent candidates:
- Roy Birnbaum (Independent)
- Jamie Coulter (Independent)
- "Pollock Jim" Kress (Indepedent)
- Scott Malcomson (Independent) (cw)
- Johnnie Robinson III (Independent)
- Robert Winn (Independent)
Janet Napolitano (D) 727,739 63%
Len Munsil (R) 405,456 35%
Barry Hess II (L) 23,414 2%
- External link:
- Arizona Governor: Napolitano Still Way Ahead -- Goldwater (R) 37% Napolitano (D) 52% Rasmussen Reports, August 2, 2006.
- Napolitano's business support could prove tough to beat The Phoenix Business Journal, August 11, 2006.
- (see Arizona gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => AZ-gov
Illinois
- Democratic candidates:
- Rod Blagojevich (D) Incumbent. (cw) 69.9% of votes in the Democratic primary.
Edwin Eisendrath(D) Former Chicago City Councillor. (cw) 30.1% of votes in the Democratic primary.
- Republican candidates:
- Judy Baar Topinka (R) State Treasurer. (cw) 38.0% of votes in the Republican primary.
Jim Oberweis(R) Businessman. (cw) 31.8% of the votes in the Republican primary.`Bill Brady(R) State Senator. (cw) 18.6%Ron Gidwitz(R) Businessman. (cw) 10.8%Andy Martin(R) Legal Activist. (cw) 0.8%
- Green candidates:
- Rich Whitney (G) Attorney. (cw)
- General election results:
Rod Blagojevich (D) 1,677,497 50%
Judy Baar Topinka (R) 1,332,755 40%
Rich Whitney (G) 349,128 10%
- External links:
- Illinois Governor: Blagojevich Still Ahead -- Blagojevich (D) 45% Topinka (R) 37% Rassmussen Reports, August 10, 2006.
- Topinka challenges governor's response to last month's storms Northwest Herald, August 12, 2006.
- Smith, Peter J. No Marriage Referendum for Illinois - Marriage Advocates Appeal LifeSite, August 14, 2006.
- (see Illinois gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => IL-gov
Kansas
- Governor: Kathleen Sebelius (D)
- Challengers:
- General election results:
Kathleen Sebelius (D) 480,532 58%
Jim Barnett (R) 336,583 41%
Other 13,734 2%
- External link:
- Kansas Governor: Sebelius by 17 -- On Eve of Primary Strongest GOP Candidate Far Behind Rassmussen Reports, July 31, 2006.
- Hanna, John. Sebelius: Federal law makes driver's license issue moot The Wichita Eagle, August 14, 2006.
- (see Kansas gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => KS-gov
Maine
- Incumbent: John Baldacci (D)
- Challengers:
- General election results:
John Baldacci (D) 206,753 38%
Chandler Woodcock (R) 164,514 30%
Barbara Merrill (Unr.) 116,966 22%
Other 55,515 10%
- Outlook: A Rasmussen poll from Feb. 2006, showed that Baldacci was vulnerable.
- External link:
- Maine Governor: At 43%, Baldacci Is Six Points Ahead -- As Governor Baldacci (D) Struggles, Senator Snowe (R) Enjoys 300% Advantage Rassmussen Reports, August 2, 2006.
- Hill, George A. A voting record that speaks for itself Bangor Daily News, August 12, 2006.
- (see Maine gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => ME-gov
Michigan
- Democratic running mates:
- Jennifer Granholm (D)* - (governor's website)(cw)
- Republican candidate:
- Dick DeVos (R) (cw)
- Libertarian candidate:
- Greg Creswell (L) (cw)
- General election results:
Jennifer Granholm (D) 2,139,839 56%
Dick DeVos (R) 1,606,058 42%
Other 50,552 1%
- External links:
- Michigan Governor: Will Slow & Steady Win the Race? -- DeVos (R) 48%, Granholm 42% Rassmussen Reports, August 1, 2006.
- Eggert, David. Repealed business tax could be factor in Michigan election Journal Gazette, August 13, 2006.
- (see Michigan gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => MI-gov
New Hampshire
- Governor: John Lynch (D) (cw)
- Jim Coburn (R) - State Representative. (cw)
- Richard Kahn (Libertarian) (cw)
- General election results:
John Lynch (D) 298,206 74%
Jim Coburn (R) 105,370 26%
New Mexico
- Governor: Bill Richardson (D) (governor's website) (cw)
- Challenger:
- John Dendahl (R)
- General election results:
Bill Richardson (D) 373,926 69%
John Dendahl (R) 170,352 31%
- External links:
- New Mexico Governor and Senate: Democratic Incumbents Look Safe -- 20%+ Leads for Richardson (D) and Bingaman (D) Rasmussen Reports, June 30, 2006.
- (see New Mexico gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => NM-gov
Oklahoma
- Democratic candidate:
- Brad Henry (D) incumbent governor. (governor's website) (cw)
- Democratic challenger:
Andrew Marr Jr.(D) lost in primary election.
- Republican candidates:
- General election results:
Brad Henry (D) 615,973 67%
Ernest Istook (R) 310,333 34%
- External links:
- Jenkins, Ron. Congressman seeks Okla. governorship Wichita Eagle, July 24, 2006.
- (see Oklahoma gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => OK-gov
Oregon
- Governor: Ted Kulongoski (D) (governor's website) (cw)
- Challengers:
- Ron Saxton (R) (cw)
- Pacific Green candidate:
- Joe Keating (Pacific Green) (cw)
- Libertarian:
- Richard Morley (L)
- Independent candidate:
Ben Westlund(I) (cw). Westlund has dropped out of the election.
- Constitution:
- Mary Starrett (cw)
- General election results:
Ted Kulongoski (D) 652,279 51%
Ron Saxton (R) 551,048 43%
Other 79,935 6%
- External links:
- Another View: Gubernatorial debate StatesmanJournal, July 25, 2006.
- Westlund's decision leaves governor's race poorer The News-Review, August 15, 2006.
- (see Oregon gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => OR-gov
Pennsylvania
- Governor: Ed Rendell (D) (governor's website) (cw)
- Challengers:
- Lynn Swann (R) (cw)
- Hagan Smith (Constitution) (cw)
- Marakay Rogers (Green) (cw)
- Drake Minder (Independent) (cw)
- General election results:
Ed Rendell (D) 2,431,974 60%
Lynn Swann (R) 1,599,202 40%
- External links:
- Pennsylvania Governor: Rendell (D) Sustains Double-Digit Lead Rasmussen Reports, August 3, 2006.
- Pidgeon, Dave. Bush presses support for war in Iraq at Swann fund-raiser The York Dispatch, August 17, 2006.
- (see Pennsylvania gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => PA-gov
Tennessee
- Governor: Phil Bredesen (D) Democratic primary winner.
- Challengers:
- Democratic challengers:
- Republican challengers:
- Green candidate:
- Howard Switzer (Green) (cw)
- Independent candidates:
- General election results:
Phil Bredesen (D) 1,244,037 69%
Jim Bryson (R) 539,857 30%
Other 30,195 2%
- Narrative
- Bredesen should coast to reelection after besting little known opponents.
- External links:
- Asssociated Press. Tim McGraw to appear at fundraiser for Tennessee governor Gainesville.com, August 16, 2006.
- (see Tennessee gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => TN-gov
Wisconsin
- Governor: Jim Doyle (D) Incumbent governor. (governor's website) (cw)
- Mark Green (R) - Represents Wisconsin's 8th Congressional District (cw)
- Nelson Eisman (G) (cw)
- General election results:
Jim Doyle (D) 1,136,726 53%
Mark Green (R) 976,275 45%
Nelson Eisman (G) 40,858 2%
- External link:
- Foley, Ryan. Doyle proposes health insurance tax break Pioneer Press, August 17, 2006.
- Wisconsin Governor: Doyle Leads Green By Eight -- Doyle (D) 49% Green (R) 41% Rasmussen Reports, August 20, 2006.
- (see Wisconsin gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => WI-gov
Wyoming
- Governor: Dave Freudenthal (D) (governor's website) (cw)
- Challengers:
- Al Hamburg (D)
- Ray Hunkins (R) (cw)
- General election results:
Dave Freudenthal (D) 135,389 70%
Ray Hunkins (R) 57,999 30%
- External links:
- Wyoming: No Party Swap Seen Rasmussen Reports, July 22, 2006.
- Neary, Ben. Freudenthal raises nearly four times Hunkins' cash CBSforDenver.com, August 15, 2006.
- (see Wyoming gubernatorial election, 2006)
- Daily Kos => WY-gov
External links
- New York Times Ratings
- In Governors Races, Dems Still Hold Stronger Hand Washington Post, October 10, 2006.
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