Missouri is considered a key to Presidential elections not only because of it being an important swing state but because it has voted with the winner in 25 of the last 26 Presidential elections (the only miss was in 1956).

President: Polls have been very close and the state could easily go to either candidate. The Democrats hope to start with a big vote in the urban areas then add to it with economically troubled rural voters. The GOP key is a strong turnout in the conservative southwestern region.

At this point I would give McCain a very slight edge, but like Michigan it is a bare edge.

Leans Republican (barely)

Governor: Over the years Missouri has tended to swing back and forth between the two parties, usually switching when there is no incumbent running.

That is the case this year with incumbent Matt Blunt stepping down after one term. Democrats are backing Attorney General Jay Nixon while the GOP is expected to choose either Congressman Kenny Hulshof or state Treasurer Sarah Steelman.

Nixon should have a clear edge in this contest as he has been a statewide figure for many years. He has made no secret of his goal to become the second President named Nixon and this is a stepping stone to that goal.

Leans Democrat

House: Republicans should hold on to their seats in the 2nd, 7th, 8th and also the open 9th District. Democrats seem secured in the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th.

In the 6th District, incumbent Sam Graves (R) faces former Kansas City Mayor Kay Barnes. It will be a tight contest but the GOP incumbency will help them hold the seat

Leans Republican