Wed
Nov 3 2010
06:31 am

As it stands early this morning with some close races still being counted:

Governor: R, +1R
State Senate: 20R to 13D, +1R (pending)
State House: 64R to 34D and 1I, +14R (pending)
U.S. House: 7R to 2D, +3R

It was a bad day for Democrats. Worse than expected in some ways. This is the first time since reconstruction that Republicans have controlled the state House, Senate, and Governor's office.

Democrats handed the GOP two Congressional seats when Tanner and Gordon checked out. As Andy notes in an earlier comment, at least Davis put up a fight. His negative attacks might have gained him a few points, but probably cost him a lot more. Or people over there just decided to go with the genuine Republican and remove any doubt.

Democrats did even worse than expected in the state House, and Republicans appear to have extended their lead in the state Senate. The only real surprise is that Democrats didn't lose some of the races where they were unopposed by dropping out in shame or switching parties.

Failing to put on a competitive primary and instead hand-picking a weak candidate to take one for the team at the top of the ticket didn't help Tennessee Democrats, but it's not clear the outcome would have been much different. The Tea Party Red Tide of irrational fear and loathing won the day.

There was one glimmer of hope. Kim McMillan won her election for Mayor of Clarksville, which means she can check off the "executive experience" box next time around - if there's still a Tennessee Democratic Party and anything left of Tennessee to govern.

UPDATE: The Dean with the particulars...

R. Neal's picture

So when do I get my tax cut?

So when do I get my tax cut? And what about that Hall Tax? And all these business taxes and fees? And I'll be checking my mailbox for my mandatory handgun carry permit and complimentary pistol discount coupon from Big Red's House of Guns n' Ammo.

Just one thing, though. Can y'all make sure these kids who finish the race to the top can count my change at Burger King?

Kthx.

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