When Republican Sen. Pete Domenici announced his decision to retire at the end of this Congress, this seat went from being a pretty sure bet for the GOP to a toss up. But, a confluence of factors including the political climate and the party’s choice of nominee, has dimmed their prospects of holding on to it.
In the last two presidential elections, New Mexico has been the ultimate swing state, handing Democrat Al Gore and Republican George W. Bush very narrow victories in 2000 and 2004, respectively. Democratic nominee Barack Obama is slightly favored to carry the state this year given a national political climate that favors his party and the help he will get from Gov. Bill Richardson and other Democratic statewide officials; six of seven statewide constitutional officeholders are Democrats. Democrats also control both chambers of the state legislature. Finally, all three House seats are open. Democrats should hold on to the 3rd congressional district and Republicans should retain the 2nd CD, but the 1st district is up for grabs. Still, these three races should guarantee active campaigns
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