North Carolina (6/28/06)

Well, I missed yesterday's... I was a bit busy. Anyways, North Carolina. Even though it's a Republican stronghold, this state seems to always be in play. 2008 is no exception. Senator Elizabeth Dole might face her toughest reelection opponent in Governor Mike Easley. His term conveniently ends in 2008, and he is barred by term limits from running for a third term. He is regarded well, with a 17% net approval rating, and, should he choose to run, would certainly make this race the forefront of the 2008 senate races. Another potential Democratic candidate is, as always, President of UNC Erskine Bowles. Bowles is a perennial candidate who has yet to win, but has always gotten 45-47% of the vote anyway. The wild card in this race is Dole, who could give up her seat for a spot on the Republican ticket as VP, which is a real possibility. State Senator Robert Pittenger, a popular local figure, could replace Dole, should she be put on the ticket. Even thought the Democrats would have a better chance against Pittenger, don't count them out against Dole either.

Potential GOP Candidates: Senator Elizabeth Dole (http://dole.senate.gov/)
State Senator Robert Pittenger (http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/gascripts/members/viewMember.pl?sChamber=Senate&nUserID=91)

Potential Dem Candidates: President of UNC Erskine Bowles (http://www.northcarolina.edu/content.php/pres/index.htm)
Governor Mike Easley (http://www.governor.state.nc.us/)

Current Rating: Leans GOP