Democrats have a chance to pick up both houses and one of our best Senate opportunities is in the 34th, where Chap Petersen will be challenging Jeannemarie Devolites-Davis, wife of Congressman Tom Davis. Defeating Devolites-Davis this year sets us up to defeat Tom Davis next year, whether run runs for reelection to Congress or John Warner retires and Tom Davis runs for Senate. Electing Chap Petersen this year sets us up for victories in the 11th CD, the US Senate and possibly carry Virginia's electoral college. It is a key race for Virginia and the nation.

Petersen is a strong candidate, he first ran in 2001 after redistricting created what was supposed to be a safe Republican seat. Petersen was the only Democratic challenger to win in 2001. He was reelected in 2003 and ran an unsuccessful race for Lt. Gov. in 2005. Now he is running for State Senate and we think he can win.

Another race to watch is the 13th House of Delegate's seat. This features a rematch between the odious Bob Marshall (not related) and Democrat Bruce Roemmelt. Marshall was one of the sponsors of last year's Get-the-Gays referendum. Roemmelt supports civil unions and is an all-round good guy. He is a Vietnam Vet and former firefighter. We are very lucky to have such a candidate.

New Jersey and Kentucky are also having elections this year. These elections will tell us a great deal about where voters are heading and will set us up for victory in 2008 if we take advantage of our opportunities.