Legislative preview, House districts 6-10

Legislative preview, House districts 6-10

LD6
Currently held by two Republicans, Doug Clark, who is moving on and Sam Crump, who is seeking another term. Crump is popular in the district and should easily be the top vote getter in LD6. History shows in this district if you have a R after your name you should be a shoe-in for the seat which is good news for Carl Seel, who defeated Tony Bouie in a heated primary battle. Democrats believe Seel in vulnerable and have the money to make a play for this seat. But come the morning of November 5th both Republicans should be getting ready to take their oath of office. The Democrats may have been better off only putting up one moderate to conservative Democrat for this seat.

LD7
Republicans Nancy Barto and Ray Barnes have a huge advantage in this district based on registration numbers. Barto should be easily returned to office, but one conservative consultant we talked to was a little more concerned about Barnes. Barnes is running as a traditional candidate, but has raised little money for his race and will be relying on his years in office and republican registration. While Democrats may make a run here, the voter registration will probably end up being to much to overcome.

LD8
When is the last time a Democratic candidate has come within 8,000 votes of a Republican in LD8. It doesn't happen. Michele Reagan and John Kavanagh should easily return to the House.

LD9
This is a one to watch for the Democrats this year. Debbie Lesko will be replacing Bob Stump in one seat, but incumbent Rick Murphy is a prime target for the Democrats. Murphy won by only 500 votes two years ago and his campaign efforts this year have been no better. This seat is a juicy target for Democratic candidates Shawn Hutchinson and Sheri Van Horsen. For years Republicans have been talking about forming a campaign committee to help re-elect incumbents and this race could be prime example one why they need it. While this should be two seats for the Republicans, it won't be an upset if each party picks up one seat here.

LD10
Mention this swing seat and Democrats start drooling. Democrats think every year they can knock off Speaker Jim Weiers, but it doesn't happen. This race is 2006 all over again. Republican Weiers will lead the ballot while Democratic incumbent Jackie Thrasher and Republican Doug Quelland will battle for the other seat and Lamont Lovejoy should bring up the rear. The question is can Quelland, who lost to Thrasher by about 200 votes in 2006 make that up? Thrasher has more money now and the Democratic Party will be spending what they need to spend to prevent Quelland from picking his old seat back up.