Reality check looming for Democratic Party and Obama

Over the weekend Adam read an interesting articcle in The Economist for the week of of 17 October on two gubernatorial races in the US. One in New Jersey and one in Virginia.

The article is now behind  the newly erected paywall, so if you do not have access a visit to the library might be required.

And with the recession still raging, the deficit swelling and memories of George Bush junior receding, it is a tough time to be a Democratic incumbent. Only two states’ governorships are up for election in this “off” year between the presidential election and the mid-terms: New Jersey and Virginia. Democrats hold, and could lose, both of them.

In New Jersey Jon Corzine the incumbent is a former head of Goldman Sachs. His opponent is a former federal prosecutor with a strong record in locking up corrupt officials and New Jersey has what is regarded as a corrupt and inefficient state government.

In Virginia the poll is seen as more of a litmus test on Obama as Virginia allows governors to serve only one term.

Although The One carried Virginia last November it looks unlikely that the Democrats will hold Virginia, which will be a nasty hit in the symbolism stakes.

The White house is apparently helping Corzine, but is not visible in Virginia.