One of the this year's most under-covered stories is the impact that redistricting will have on national politics next year. As states reapportion their congressional geography, state legislatures and governors will have a chance to shape both the national legislature and the composition of parties, for better or worse -- and see the results last a decade. Reports this morning suggest that Democratic gubernatorial candidates in critical states like Ohio, Illinois, and Pennsylvania aren't putting themselves in a position to win, which spells bad news for the future. Caveat lector, of course: Pennsylvania Democrats think they can hold on to a state legislative chamber, and don't count out Ted Strickland just yet. Still, this is bad news for Democrats, who need success this year not just to influence the next congress but to shift the political playing field in a more favorable direction for the long term.
-- Tim Fernholz
