The two turnovers from 2006 - CD-2 and CD-5 - now have the power of incumbency.  I've listed them as possibly competitive.  We'll have to see if the GOP can mount a credible challenge to either seat.  On the other hand, Shays' seat will once again be among the Democrats' top targets and should be a close race.  However, if the Democrats couldn't knock him off in the very favorable climate of 2006, they probably won't be able to this year.  So, The Blogging Caesar starts this race off as a Weak GOP Hold.  That could change, and another good night for the Democrats here is certainly within reason.

On the presidential front, a good night for the Democratic nominee is all but assured in this state.  Connecticut is part of the solid liberal Northeast and has voted blue since Bill Clinton's first run in 1992.  This year will be no different.  The only question is whether to project a "solid" or "strong" margin.  For now, let's go with Solid DEM.

Neither Democratic Senator Chris Dodd nor newly-independent Joe Lieberman is up for re-election this year, and Republican Jodi Rell has two more years remaining in her first full term as governor.  (Dodd is retiring and will not seek re-election when his turn comes up in 2010.)

Be sure to check out the Connecticut state page for lots more information.

Next stop:  Delaware