Senate 2008: Two More Competitive Seats

With the resignation of Idaho's Larry Craig and the retirement of Virginia's John Warner, Democrats are salivating over two more potentially competitive Senate seats in 2008. At least 10 Republican-held Senate seats can now be considered competitive, versus only one Democratic-held seat.

Craig's resignation comes after reports indicated he had solicited sex in an airport bathroom...from a man. Craig took a plea agreement and hoped to keep things quiet, but when the story broke the ax was bound to fall. His seat was previously listed as "likely Republican" on Cook Political, but given that the seat in now basically open Democrats will have a real shot at switching it.Ironically, Larry Craig was a big supporter of the "don't ask, don't tell" policy.

Virginia Senator John Warner, one of the Senate's oldest fogies, also announced he wouldn't seek another term this week. Warner was well known as a maverick and expert on defense issues. His resignation makes Virginia very much in play for the 2008 cycle, especially if former Governor Mark Warner jumps in the race for the Democrats. Mark Warner, no relation, toyed briefly with a presidential run.

So, if you're keeping score, here are the states with highly competitive Senate races on the horizon: Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Louisiana, Maine, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia. All but Louisiana are currently held by Republicans. Nebraska could also make that list, if Chuck Hagel decides to retire.