Having won a net gain of eight governorships in the 1986 elections, the GOP has nothing to lose and could theoretically win as many as three more governorships this year, winning a majority of the 50 governorships. Currently the GOP holds 24 governorships. Three states-Kentucky, Louisiana, and Mississippi-hold governors' races in 1987. All three now are held by Democrats. As a practical matter, however, Republicans are more likely to pick up only one or two, if that many, although the gain would build on l 986's great performance. Republicans have a reasonable chance to win in Louisiana. If House Minority Whip Trent Lott runs, they have a good chance in Mississippi as well. Only in the Kentucky race are the Republicans considered underdogs.
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