There is a massive enthusiasm gap. The election of Obama wore many of us out and many core Democratic voting bloc are not going to the polls in 2009 elections. We need to turn this around if are not going to be crushed in the 2010 midterms.
Over the next few weeks, there are a bunch of races where Democrats must pay attention - we cannot become complacent. If you live in these areas, make sure to vote and make all your friends and family vote too.
These races tend to be low turnout, so you can really make a difference.
The two biggest races come out of the south. There is a potential Democratic pickup in the tight Tennessee State Senate and, in a lively race that has truly split Democrats in Atlanta, voters will be picking their new mayor in a runoff.
Atlanta Mayor
Polls show the race between Mary Norwood and Kasim Reed as still inside the margin of error. While Norwood won more votes in the initial election last month, it seems that this election will be much closer and there is a very good chance that Reed will win.
Norwood is widely seen as the more moderate candidate, although some in her camp would argue this. She is also attempting to be the first white mayor of the city since 1973. Reed is a former state senator and a strong liberal.
I would be curious to hear thoughts from Atlanta residents about this race.
There are also a few runoff races for Atlanta city council - as well as 4 State Legislative runoffs throughout Georgia. Only one, HD 141, has the potential for a party switch from last session - it looks likely that an Independent will beat out a Democrat in the race.
Tennessee SD31 and HD83
This East Memphis district has trended Republican - but the incumbent Republican resigned because of a sex scandal. Democrat Adrienne Pakis-Gillon is looking to win this one for the Democrats - and make the Senate composition 18-15 in favor of the Republicans (instead of 19-14).
Also important here is the primary for a house seat in East Memphis. While there is only one Democrat - so the primary doesn't mean much, the House is currently split down the middle with a Republican siding with the Democrats to give them the chamber.
To fully hold onto the House, the Democrats must win this seat in January.
Any residents of East Memphis out there able to comment on trends in the area?
It is incredibly important that we do not get complacent and that we use every race to elect the best Democrats possible.
Next week, Democrats in Massachusetts will choose, presumably, the next senator from that state - a chance for progressives to leave their mark.
To find out more about all upcoming special elections, this post and others are cross-posted on my special elections blog.