New Print Edition: Illinois 6 & Ohio Senate

January 27, 2006 · 12:04 PM EST

The new January 27, 2006 print edition of the Rothenberg Political Report is on its way to subscribers. (Click here for subscription information.)

Illinois 6: Fighting Chance
By Nathan L. Gonzales

At first glance, you might think Illinois’ 6th Congressional District is the only race in the country. It’s received more media coverage recently than the other 434 Congressional districts combined.

That’s partially because Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman Rahm Emanuel (IL) and national party leaders have worked quickly and tirelessly on behalf of Iraq War veteran Tammy Duckworth (D) in an effort to catapult her bid for Congress.

Long-time Cong. Henry Hyde (R) announced he would not seek reelection, setting up an expensive open seat race in the 6th District. State Sen. Pete Roskam (R) has cleared the Republican field and is off to a strong fundraising start. But the excitement surrounding Duckworth’s candidacy coupled with a national political landscape than tilts toward Democrats, should place Roskam in a very competitive race.

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Ohio Senate: Buckeye Battle

Ohio is as close to a political disaster area for Republicans than any state in the country. Out-going Gov. Bob Taft (R) pleaded no contest to four misdemeanor charges for accepting gifts for political favors, and his job approval ratings crack 20% on a good day.

It is in this environment that Sen. Mike DeWine (R) and other Republicans must run for reelection. DeWine is not easily demonized by his opponents, but he is also not loved by conservative members of his own party.

Democrats certainly have an opportunity to unseat the incumbent, if they don’t eat themselves first. Cleveland-area Cong. Sherrod Brown and Iraq war veteran Paul Hackett of Cincinnati are both running for the Democratic nomination.

For the lay of the land, candidate bios, handicapping on both the Democratic primary and the general election, and the bottom line…… Subscribe now.