Hello Everyone! "May we all have a wonderful evening."

Helloooo Anderson, Erica), Ed Henry, David Gergen, John King, Wolf Blitzer, CNN Political team, Martina Ilstad, Emily and my friends Twitter/Facebook Bloggers!!!!!
Happy Tuesday night, This is so exciting vote day tonight, What a night for me to see votes!

As a Virginia voter, I really hate the idea that the gubernatorial election is somehow a referendum on Obama. I think it should be a referendum on how terrible of a campaign Creigh Deeds ran. I mean, I'm a lifelong Democrat and I love Obama, but even I couldn't stomach voting for that dolt.

I can't believe how interested I am in all of this election stuff. I guess because of your own local races as well. I never paid attention until a few years back. I must be getting old or something.

Good evening Anderson, Erica & Entire CNN & Team 360!

Good evening fellow chatters, two hours tonight! We are going to be having quite a conversation tonight.

Hello, Anderson, Wolfe, Roland, Gergen and the rest of the AC team and bloggers! Hopefully Dems can win the House in NY and Gov. in NJ

Good evening Anderson, Erica, AC360 & CNN Team, Megan, Martina, and Bloggers!!!
This is looking like a great night already!

Does that 5% for Scozofava (sp?) include absentee ballots?

Bloomberg backlash.

I can't believe how some people treat these elections like a ball game the DEMS against the GOP. This is what's wrong with the system now we should vote for the person and their agenda. Who gives a hoot about a party they can all be crooks

What would that mean for the republican if Corzine slips by with a win?

good evening,anderson and everyone.

I am surprised about the NYC mayors vote, Mike Bloomberg seems to have done a good job for the last many years he has been in office (but i'm in NM so not privy to local polotics).

Am really hoping that up-state NY does Not follow Palin, Limbaugh's, etc. lead – way to the right.

Good Evening Anderson, Erica and Everyone. Two Hours!

Lets go Maine!

The liberty movement in America is not dead. We are just getting started. Tonight will be nothing compared to the 2012 election. Start getting ready for Ron Paul 2012, and more liberty-minded candidates!

@Russ. I totally agree. We need a viable third party. I wish the Libertarians could get a foot hold.

Obama campaigned 5 times in the last 10 days in NJ. A GOP win there will be HUGE in it's implications.

Good Evening AC 360:
I don't really think it matters who you vote for, nothing gets done, they just care about business and their own pockets. I believe more and more in the sentiment, don't vote, it only encourages them.

I can't believe that the voter turn out is as low as they are predicting in some of these districts!

These things that are taken for advantage, AND you GET the Government that you elect,....(if you don't vote, what right do you have to complain?)

I think this is a referendum on the direction congress and oval office are headed.

(1) Gergen's right: It's anti-incumbent, not anti-Obama

(2) Upstate NY has to be seen as a defeat for the hardcore right wing given all the conservative muscle they put in there

Evening everyone. Sorry Im late, and since I was not on the blog last night.......welcome back Anderson

Who is winning the CA-10 special election?

Good Evening Anderson, Erica, John, bloggers and Starr

Goood Eveeening Everyone! Yes, two hours of exciting news coverage! And I cannot believe that tomorrow will mark the year that Obama gets elected as president!

little late here but glad to see everyone tuning in to AC360!

Hi Anderson! two hours today...yeay!

I see Virgina Republicans all triple sweep beat Democrats.Wow!

its over in NJ....60% of the vote in and somerset and salme counties still not in under 7%

Casey it would be nice to have another choice, but I would just like to get some people in office I feel like we could trust. Right now I don't trust any of them.

I think that this election proves that the fairy tale is over . We americans need concrete results : Change we can beleive in Economy , Economy, end the war , health care reform

who knows how many people filled in their absentee ballot for Scozzofava before she dropped out..!

I have never heard about a Conservative party until now. Where did they come from?

Good evening Anderson, Erica, Isabel, everyone. Whew election day, election night, surprisingly catching me up though a bit late.

Nice look at VA gov election by John King. Quite noticable that the circle in the middle of Virginia is all red.

But in NY, in a congression district that I learned tonight has been in Republican hands since the 1800's, the Republican candidate endorses the democrat and he's leading by a sizeable margin. Media pressure of conservative media/celebrity maybe backfired.

VCraig is making a call based on 19% in upstate NY 23rd ? LOL...LOL

I think tonight at least in NJ we are seeing the reversal of how effective the vote for change was for democrats in the presidential election last time. I think the vote for change and voting your pocketbook is winning over party politics if Christie is successful

It would certainly be nice if, when a Republican spin artist tries to make VA's election results about Obama, someone would point out that 56% said their vote had nothing to do with the President.

These races have nothing to do with Obama, no matter how fun it is to try to make them about him.

Greetings to All! I am wondering if our own Boston Mayor Menino will make history and be voted in for his 5th term.

@ Casey Jones – Palm Springs, CA

I completely agree. It is why I voted for Ross Perot. He had enough money he could kick-off a new party.

If Bloomberg loses the NYC mayoral election, I will be worried. What has this man done wrong?

Anderson, keep your chin up, you are the best.

Harry Reid cares about his own race in Nevada. He can't lead heath care for that reason.

The people are telling Mr. Obama its time to go. The health bill is a bust , and next years races will go the same way. Watch the dems move away to save there own skins

I don't understand why the Republicans success tonight, whatever it turns out to be, is such a surprise – yes, voters are not happy with the direction that the Democratic leadership is taking the country.

Im surprised, but not really surprised, that the Republicans have won all three spots in Virginia. With all of the criticism that has been going on about Obama it shows that some people are changing their minds

As an Independent from Missouri, I am looking forward to a Republican sweep because I am fed up with the Tax & Spend (what we don't have) politics of Obama, Pelosi, and Reid, the 3 greatest threats to our freedoms and future. I was no GW Bush fan, but I believe in fiscal conservatism, free markets, capitalism, and smaller government.

Enjoyed David Gergen's analysis of impact of VA gov's election, but didn't Creigh Deeds make the mistake of running away from the President?

@Susan.

I deeply disagree. The Dems ran terrible races in Virginia and the candidate for governor was a total boob. I strongly support Obama and I'm a lifelong Democrat, but I could not find it in myself to vote for Creigh Deeds.

Good evening everyone. As a New Yorker, I'm not surprised the NYC mayor's race is as close as it is. After 9/11, Mayor Giuliani wanted to stay on due to the city's post-9/11 condition. Bloomberg and others rightfully told him that there were term limits. Now, 8 years later Bloomberg is pulling the same move Giuliani did. He went against the will of New Yorkers who have voted twice for 8-year term limits. I feel that Bloomberg is disrespecting my right to vote.

For the first time in the last year I have hope we can stop the liberal drive to national bankruptcy.

wow i live in hartford, CT. but i would love to see MIKE BLOOMBERG return as mayor of NYC.

Heather, I think people want to see jobs come back and they aren't. An increase in the GDP is meaningless to most people.

AP is now calling New Jersey for Christie?

James Carville doesn't get it either, we all want Health care reform, but the economy needs to be fixed first. If we increasing taxes on the rich you can bet the jobless numbers will rise. Makes no sense to spend money when we have to borrow it from China

Uh-oh. Not good news to hear, American feel things going bad down to percent 36%.

@Tim The Dems still have majority in the House and the Senate they aren't going anywhere

Good evening everyone, Anderson, Erica, Bloggers, AC360 Team, John King, Wolf Blitzer, and the rest of the CNN crew. I can't believe ONE FULL YEAR has already passed after the elections. It felt like yesterday that I was just watching Parodies of politicians and looking at CNN for who was American's new president...

Which Republican winner tonight will be involved in scandals, affairs and the same old policies that got us in debt and in two Wars before Obama moved to Washington. I'm betting on the New Jersey Dude!!

@dave,
It could be because there are not alot of Ideas from the Republicans.
The "talk show" hosts make so much noise and they are getting more atten. than many of the Republicans.
Also, with such a low voter turn out (as it sounds), they don't sound 'angry' enough or 'motived' enough to get out and vote!

sure hope washington gets the message now...the message being we hired you and now we will fire you for not doing what the people want.. time to hire folks that will do the job that the american people want done

I wonder what those who say the Republican win in Virginia has nothing to do with the Obama administration would be saying if the Democrats had won. The Obama administration is like a run away train!

I still support Obama. He has done well with all the stuff that he was left with when he got in, and you know what they say, things have to get bad before they can get better, and I think we are in the bad now but its going to get much better.

Hi all. The closeness of the Bloomberg race is pretty surprising.

Hello Anderson, Erica and all !!!!!!!

The Republicans versus the Democrats. What a bore. I just want excellent people doing good work. With all the money being thrown around, by rich politicians and special interest groups buying the not so rich politicians, how can we ever find and support the true leaders of this country ?

WoW, look at up state NY!

@Megan,
Things in Virgina are looking very interesting!

I'm a happy camper tonight for the first time in the last year.

I agree. Didin't think it would be so "down to the wire."

EM,

you have majority in congress and the inability to get anything done. dems are best left as minority party in congress.

Oh my goodness!!!!! Michael Bloomberg is losing his position Mayor of NYC! OUCH!

I think the media pressure weighed on McCain Palin and the campaign imploded a bit, not sure how to read that.

Interesting poll numbers from Soledad O'Brien, kind of says watch out for high expectations, stick with cautious optimism, but an undercurrent of positive feeling.

@WXDAVID 33% reporting in upstate NY

This Swine Flu sounds like it's really going to be something is season!

I hope that everyone who wants a vaccine gets it!

Woah, i cannot believe celebrities can get H1N1! I thought they were made of steel! turns out i was wrong, i guess everyone is human after all...

C'mon folks, Corzine had his issues in NJ.

Anti-incumbent and pro-Springsteen sentiment rules in Jersey

(Christie's been to 150 or so Bruce shows - which makes him a Republican with whom any Dem music fan can find common ground!)

Christie's win is not a 'blow' to Obama. Sheesh.

I believe many voters are conservatives it really does matter which parties in office so it seems.

Conservative Republicans are in trouble if only those runnig as moderates are winning.

Actually – I think it's a benefit that the govs are going to Repubs - the states are broke. Let them try to fix the state budgets. They will be out of office at the next election. Voters are just that fickle –

Hi, everyone. My polling station in NYC oddly quiet today. Granted, this is only the 3rd election day I've been in NY for, and one was a primary (in my years of voting experience, not a hot bed of activity), but in what is normally a very politcally acctive neighborhood, not a lot of action. I'm not the only one who noticed, either.

It sounds like the honeymoon is over

I voted for Christie. Last time I voted for Corzine. I am a registered Democrat and have always voted Democratic.

Corzine lost my vote when he gave away my primary vote for Hillary at the Democratic convention. How dare he! I will never forgive him for that. Many of my friends feel the same way and voted against him. Payback is a you know what.

Erica, all things considered, you were there only for a small window of time relative to the entire day. That said, I hate voter apathy–it really annoys me.

Erica, maybe they feel like me. Americans are only into hurting themselves and nothing I can do can fix that. We are fixated on fast food recovery ignoring the impossibility of that. Who I vote for governor of my state is about my STATE not my nation.

WOW!
Chris Christie beats John Corzine?!

That is something!
The wind is blowing in a different direction (D. Gergen), and it has been but a year that Obama has been in office.

I wonder if he will have a Presidency like Jimmy Carter?

Michael Steele and the RNC should not gloat over tonights results. This was not a clear victory for the Republicans. The RNC still represents a party of Anti Democrats. The RNC has to do as much soul searching after nights elections as the Democrats.

My impression of Corzine of NJ, was that he was not a good governor. I do Not think that a republican win in NJ is necessarily a "blow" to Obama.

I think the people of NJ had had it with Corzine.

Virginia was no surprise to me.

Republicans will come together in 2010 to take back one or both houses of Congress.

@Craig I think thats funny because wasn't Springsteen a democrat back in the 80's?

Erica: It has been my experience that voting in odd years just does not gather very many voters. Maybe they do not see it vital to vote. I am not sure why.

@Jo, Obama campaigned heavily in NJ, a very Democratic state. Of course it's a blow to him. If the Democrat won, Obama would be claiming credit and you know it.

Hey Erica, the crowds that voted in 2008 for president I guess are not that interested in other, perhaps more important races. I was hoping that this crowd wouold continue to stay engaged, but I guess I was wrong. I don't expect much from the Obama crowd in 2010 either.

David come on politics tend to be local dicuss why dont you ask someone form NJ what the NJ race was about " Novel Idea ! I thought that was reporting ?

@Heather
We need to think about this a little. Look at what Reagen inherited from Carter, it was worse then this economy, and what did he do. cut taxes, which created jobs. More jobs means more revenue which means better economy.

@Heather Bruce performed a series of VFC (Vote for Change) concerts for Kerry

Wow!! Oh boy, I am sorry for my favorite stars or celebrities had H1N1 virus...... My heart goes to them, Get well soon!

@ Gayle McCauley,
Are you happy with your Boston Mayor Menino?
That would be something to be serving for a 5th Term!

The movement in NJ is because NY has high unemployment not that Republicans are doing anything special

@ Starr

You are right on target! I completely agree. Just because a republican wins in NJ does not mean it is a result of Pres Obama.

@ David, Indiana

I just read your post on up state NY and i agree with you completely.

The strong media attention to that district and the support of super conservatives like Palin and Limbaugh may have hurt the conservative candiddate.

Hi Erica, why do you think your polling station was so quiet, what has Bloomberg done wrong?

Emily,
Agreed!

Megan,

I thought celebrities were supposed to get the shot first, considering how important they are and all!

Pamela Gentry does have a point about the blue dog's in congress, but also it looks like the dems are on it to pick up a seat in NY.

So gov. Corzine could as of yet pull it out, even after the projection? But Christie ahs eaten Corzine's territory.

Is it accurate to link gov elections to the robust Health Care Reform discussion that's solidly gained momentum

@Erica,
Glad to see you on the Blog tonight....great that you went out and voter...doesn't sound like alot did!
Too bad to hear that!

I wonder what the Louisiana judge says about gay marriage?

Ok, maybe I am a little slow or something but what is the big deal with these elections. They are local election not national. Regardless if Corzine wins or not his elections doesn't affect North Carolina or California or any other state besides where he is running.

Is OBAMA listening now....the middle/working class is getting screwed..we are tired and sick of promises..where is the change? Do not feed us this crap that he is not following the elections...he is a politician....time to step it up....

Glad to see David Gergen is finally recognizing the importance of Maine regarding marriage equality. Earlier this evening he dismissed it as "well, it's Maine" just as I am sure he dismissed Concord in the Revolutionary War as "well, it's Massachusetts"

Sean, the LA judge has resigned.....

Grah! The coverage is so depressing that I'm not sure I'll watch much longer. Harry Reid giving up on Health Care? Democrats getting trounced?

Yeah, depressing as heck. I guess I'll go back to the shutting up and stewing like I did for 8 years of Bush. It's tragic.

Guess I shouldn't be surprised by Ari Fleischer and his comments about gay marriage, especially considering the Bush administration saw fit to acknowledge that only certain people's constitutional rights really matter, on many fronts.

Hi Dodie CA

I'm glad you agree about NJ. I also don't feel that any of these elections have too much to do with Pres. Obama per se.

The election that i think will matter is the up state NY district. It may act as a "test" to see if people are going to really listen to and follow super conservatives.

I did vote our pres. Obama last year, I know it is very difficult for Republicans to vote say no bill our health-care..... I think might have losing democrats to defeat.

Obama won with independents who voted for him because of Bush, not for big government spending. The Dems have misinterpreted that election as a referendum on their agenda. If they continue to ignore the average americans that showed up at their town hall meetings, 2010 elections will be the same as tonight.

@Angela,
It's a Republican with religious values!
Many republicans are 'conservative', however, it's usually thought of in a fiscal manner ....now it's become a Complete way of life!

Maybe, just maybe this will slow down this race for healthcare reform enough to do some common sense things like torte reform and natural competition by allowing people to actually shop their insurance in a free market. Competition within the free market hasn't even been tried!

@Casey – I agree I was only there for a small window, though the fact that it was lunch-time struck me.

@Starr – not sure people necessarily think anyone has done anything "wrong", but it does seem that local elections - even one which has big implications for the City's leadership - don't tend to draw nearly the same crowd as large national elections ...in my experience/completely unscientific view

An interesting day in politics. Harry Reid's statement was surprising. Elections were surprising.

@Angela- I am extremely elated that the LA judge resigned because he was being racist and unfair towards interracial couples!

Republicans represent fiscal responsibiltiy right ? Boy I was born at night but not last night, how quickly we forget...

@Angela,
btw,
this is also why you are now hearing more about Libertarians.

Maybe voters are really disgusted.

Roland's analysis of the NJ Gov race spot on. Christine Whitman was gov only a few years ago. Also two dem govs consecutively could lead to republican candidate making major headway.

This discussion on Maine is interesting. If states go back and forth on same sex marriage people will go crazy.

Evening everyone!

Oh yes, please, the GOP surely needs to be more conservative. Maybe I need to double check that word in the dictionary.

Good Evening Anderson!

Watching the votes tonight and the swing in the states from Dems to GOP. Have we created the shift by reporting the dire straits of the economy? Can we really say that any administration can turn these big problems around in 10 months. Perception is reality and the the reality for people is...The economy is bad...people are angry at the government and Obama and the Democrats are now the target for that anger!

Im surprised any republican candidate would want Palin to help them out due to her own stunts that made people lose respect for her and she messed up her own chances for any type of political career for her in the future by quitting two years into a five year position.

David – You mentioned the possibility danger for President Obama may be the perception of the big government. I was wondering how could have these issues been dealt with differently without providing the government response?

Roland Martin doesn't get it either. How many people do we have in office now that do know what the issues are, have ivy league degrees and still do nothing to fix the problems, DEMS and REP.

You are doing a wonderful job tonight. I am really enjoying the discussion and opinions.

I do feel that politics has gotten extremely out of control. We've gotten to a point where it's all about the election. When a politician gets elected their focus becomes how to get re-elected and not how to work or fix things. Even worse when they try to fix things they are criticized. Even worse than that we never accept that other can be right so we only believe those with who we agree with.

Thank you Erica for your explanation re: NYC mayors race.

I think you are right that these smaller elections perhaps do not generate the "excitement" of the "national" elections.

However, given how important ALL elections are, i remain surprised that the American people still don't seem to "get it".

This tape that Anderson is showing is very sad!
Did he shot someone(s) on Purpose?!
I hope not!

I realize, impatience can get in the way of a decision. Obama has potential, just give it some time, its not as easy as it may seem...

@ Emily

I completely agree. This is why I am a libertarian. I was just disgusted with both parties...

That four part series looks like it's going to be very revealing.
I don't believe that it's the norm of the men and women in the Military, so when seeing this, it's very disturbing!

The interview of the young soldier....heart rending.

Yay!!!!!! Michael Bloomberg winner as position mayor of NYC! Finally!

Baggage Bandits. I hope they got lots of dirty laundry.

Why would anyone want to steal 50 pieces of luggage? Are they looking for better undewear?

Anderson – could many of the votes for Scozzafava be absentee ballots cast before she dropped out?

NYC Mayor race was really close....

@ Erica, i am glad that Mayor Bloomberg will stay that way. He has certainly represented to the country that he is serious, level headed and a leader....i hope you are happy too.

On the health care issue...our Rep's & Sen's need to grow a spine and do something good for the American people, instead of worrying about their re-election.

Well, i can always hope they will do that.

Good night everyone, Anderson, Erica, AC360 team, bloggers, and the rest of the CNN crew. Take care see ya'll tomorrow

So sad for a father to kill his own daughter because he did not like her life style. Especially since he was living in the USA. Now I call that really stupid.

OUCH!!!
That shot, even I can feel that pain.

Hello everyone –

Thanks for joining in tonight - some very interesting results. It is true, as some of you have pointed out, that local factors were important in determining the outcome of the governors' races in Va and NJ. But there were also some national factors at play - a rough economy, unemployment still going up, some souring about the President's policy agenda, etc. And that is influencing our interpretations here - perhaps more than they should. Thanks for letting us know your views.

Wow, NJm a huge Dem state just voted in a Republican!!
Hope that Republican helps NJ out and doesn't make more messes.

Good Night Everyone! "Enjoy the night!"

I wonder if there are alcohol fumes in that warehouse? I mean do you think the forklift operator could have been a little light-headed?

@Starr it wouldn't surprise me, district elections have to do with how a candidate connects w/people in his her district, there's lots of coverage radio newspapers etc, somewhat tighter in NY now 46 to 49%

@Susan, dems were the majority in congress all during Reagan's presidency that worked out fine.

Erica, that is surprising given how close the NY mayoral election is, maybe that's why it's so close?

The todays elections show that we as a nation have short term memory. Everyone says that these are local elections and do not refletct president Obama. I disagree. President Obama went way to the left and people are sharing their frustration. I am one of them. I voted for Obama change. This is not the change I was looking for. Spending billions of dollars which we do not have.
Thanks

Starr

Right on the money. I think Congress is all worried about themselves and can not be concerned about us due to wanting to be re-elected.

This is just all backwards to me...

I figured French would still be the sexiest accent. Isnt that why Peppy Le Pew was popular? And what a waste of good vodka!

@ Jennifer – AZ

re. "Baggage Bandits" (some people!)

That was funny!
might say alot about those whose luggage they took however!

The shot is so funny I have seen!! LOL!!! Wow!!! poor man get stuck, when shelves fall both sides. Nice shot!

the best thing for the Democrats now would be to LOSE the NY election there. that would say alot about the Republican civil war.

My big question is how do people vote, party lines or for someone that can improve their situation?

Even though the president has disappointed his supporters, these races have little to do with him. People assign blame to an incumbent party and that was the Dems in the two states, so they did not win, but a party also has to have compelling candidates and the Dems did not in VA and NJ.

Good luck to those states though. Nothing will improve for the middle and working class under Republicans...I think that history has proven this.

@Heather,
I'm surprised that French was #1.
I would have voted for English or Scottish....I know that Italian is very popular, yet French?
Maybe it does have something to do with Pepe Le Pew!

I'm gonna have to disagree with that poll. Irish is the sexiest accent? No. Definitely Swedish. And I'm actually surprised Americans made the list since we always get made fun of and *ahem* we have no accent as Anderson pointed out.
Interesting nonetheless.

Great coverage tonite, CNN! keep up the good work. especially all of you at AC360.

I'll keep watching into the 11 o'clock hour.

@Dodie,
I agree with you re. the Parties...I'm surprised that a third party has not emerged from this....

@ David, Indiana

I have relatives in up state NY, and i know from experience that they do Not like be told what they should do...they are very independent people. And, you're are, of course, right, that district has its own issues and local advertisements.

I always enjoy your posts as they are so thoughtful and level headed.

I don't think this truly has THAT great of an impact because many people that voted for Obama's campaign did not vote ie young voters and Minorities so with that said their is a false notion that Republicans are turning things around...

David Gergen,
Hello, Nice see you on live blog tonight, I agree with you, too. And you're welcome.

so, they are looking to overturn same sex marriage in Maine?
that is looking really close....I wonder what that final result will be?

Ken, you are so right...I wish NJ a lot of luck with Christie...so glad we have Bloomberg...yes, I can support a republican when they get the job done...

I really don't like the idea that these candidates are allowed to use their own money to run. It is the same thing as buying an election. The person with the most money is not always the best candidate, in fact, they are often the worst.

I think there should be a set amount of money candidates are allowed to spend and whoever spends their 100 dollars the best is the one who deserves to win.

Greg says people have short memories...hmmm, he's right. President Bush was deemed the worse president in history and his party was in the doldrums less than a year ago and yet people vote for Republicans again.

Republicans should not celebrate too much because they only win when a majority of the population does not turn out, which is what happens in non-presidential years. That's something for Republicans to be proud of?

I am surprised that Irish is number one, but America is number 10 sex in the world..... I wish I vote France best one in the world.

@Jo Ann...I completely agree about campaign financing. If the candidates all had the same limitations it would indicate who has better fiscal business sense, dont you think?

@David Gergen,
Great to see you on the Blog tonight....
Do you really think that the economy, unemployment would have improved in only a year? ...the worst that it has been since that Great Depression? (and right after the Dot Com boom?!)

Health Care is for sure playing a fact, and I think that the fact that Pres. Obama has yet to make a decision on Afghanistan is not helping him.

He has great commanders providing him with info....and there has yet to be a decision and so many different opinions on that, however, Obamas is the one that matters!

This isn't one party beating the other party. It's American beating American.
The trick...don't politicize the outcome and get these people to work together.

Dave
PGH. PA.

As to using personal money to support a campaign, that's a lot better than relying on financing funneled through the two campaign machines that have monopolized the whole electoral process.

Thankfully....NJ exhibited common sense today....unlike during the presidential election...rock and roll! Congrats Christie!

The Gay Marriage race here in maine is down to a dead heat 50-50 only less than 200 votes seperate. being a resident of maine, this has been a mud slinging war...and its only beginning.

@Jatovi – that answer very much depends on the individual voter. I know people who do both proudly.

The Republican pick up of VA and NJ show that the movement of change that Obama promised the country has not seen. No decision on Afghanistan, job rates still high, and lack banking reform shows no 'Change'. I campaigned for Obama.

@ JoAnn & Casey Jones

Excellent point regarding campaign finances. If everyone was playing on a "level" field, we the people, might finally benefit from our government.

@Emily, Irish was voted #1, French was #4 (I believe)

I would like to know which "American" accent came in #10!
There are different 'accents' all over the US...people from Texas do not have the same accent as those from the Bronx, or NY in general!

Neither side should over-react. The Republicans need to be 'good' winners - that will go alot further than getting overly wound up and coming across as poor winners. The Dems need no try to 'down play' so much. Accept it, be good sports and move on.
Chris Cullen / Corpus Christi

people need to look at how long it took after the depression to recover. The stock market did not completely rebound back to the level of 1928 until 1956, Does anyone realize how many years that is. Obama is trying to take on this feat in a 4 year term. It is just impossible to recover this fast!

@Casey Jones – Palm Springs, CA, Absolutely! I could never understand why the American people do not demand this. We would really get a good look at how talented the candidates are at managing finances addressing a specific task.

Obama-mama here, NJ voter, voted for Daggett. Many independents wanted to, but didn't knowing he wouldn't win - "Waste of time". Nothing to do with Obama, Dems, or GOP rising. All about NJ prop. taxes!

Well, it will be interesting to see the republicans take everything and then still go on with no leader. They have nothing but a lot of whining as far as I can tell. I'm just frustrated that people will *believe* that any of these local elections mean something and allow fatigue to set in. Why is American so self defeating?

@Heather,
Thanks, you are right about that...thanks for reminding me!
I can understand that....

What's clear to me is Republicans could care less about those who are less fortunate...they only think of themselves and their pocketbook...

I prefer the French accent myself.

I am a republican who is disgusted with her party as well as the wild spending democrats in Congress. Republicans better not miss read this election cycle. This is a message to all incumbents.....you will not listen to the people you will be voted out. Stop the big spending and tighten your belts and engage and listen and do what the American people are saying. If not you Washinton politicians are in for big losses in 2010.

I don't agree with Ari at all! Surprise! 'Blue Dogs' are the ones who need to walk away from tonight with a lesson learned and get behind the President. The coalition the the President and Howard Dean brought to the polls are not 'traditional' voters' but were folks that actually were fed up with 'politics as usual' and we see it now in how this health care debate is playing out. The MAJORITY of Americans want health care reform - a public option. I fault the President for not taking the lead. Americans would have followed. Instead we were all exposed to how 'sausage is made' in Congress and all of the lobbyist paying for it.

I'm a voter in VA and when I cast my vote today I was sending a message to washington, .I'm angery about the gov't making a terrible health care bill and their superior attitude toward the american people as tho we are children to be seen and not heard.We have the power,and they better realize it if they want to keep their job!

I think that these are local races and cannot be "nationalized" so easily.

This election isn't about Obama.
We don't trust the government any more.
As a senior citizen I will speak for many.
Millions out of work. Lawmakers vote themselves a huge raise.
SS frozen for next year and medicare threatened.
Just wait until next year. We'll be out in force at the poles.

How can SO many rapes and murdered bodies go without being found?
Was there no one looking for them?

What a sick story!

With same sex marriage in Maine – Does anyone know if the vote is split with the bigger cities supporting same sex marriage and the rural areas against?

PS. I like the Italian accent best!

Hi Erica,
Nice see you.....I agree with you and Anderson...... talked about accent sex in the world, Irish is number one.... I disagree Irish accent......

I take it the guy who stabbed himself because he didnt want to go to work was sick of calling in sick? What a dumb donkey

@Maria. Blue dogs are just doing what liberal democrats are doing. They are looking out for their own locales. As for Obama's coalition, it was fragile from the start. It is too diverse to hold together for too long.

@Erica Hill
I too know of individuals who do the same however, in general, especially dealing with these local elections, doesn't it seem as if most voter vote party lines?

@ Robert Manship

near 50% of the vote in, its mainly city areas in the rural hand counters havent reported usually here in maine, the count is slow and the rural areas are usually the last to report. the way its been going the rural areas been favoring to ban gay marriage. the city areas have been huge in favor of gay marriage. I can see a recount if it stays this close. the ads on tv have been completely awful more like scare tatics in all of the ads.

@Robert,
That info has not yet been released.....

P.S. Scottish & English accents are the best!

what will happen if the final vote in Main stays at 50/50?

@Jo Ann, N. Royalton OH

We could also see some real "talent" enter the political field too.

As it is right now, almost no one can run for office unless they are independently wealthy or have huge financial support from others (to whom they are then beholdened to). And the circle goes around and around.

It would be refreshing to see who would run for office if money was publically provided and the same amount for everyone.

@Starr I am not surprised people in upstate New York don't like to be told what to do, people here are like that too. I've been up there once when I was a kid, very beautiful. Enjoy your thoughful to the pt posts too.

He stabbed himself because he didn't want to go to work at blockbuster video? Why didn't he call in?

How many States have legalized same-sex marriage?

Go MAINE!

@ Pat im a Democrat but I agree with much of what you said

I am so praying that Maine will elect same sex marriage = equal rights for everyone.

I don't understand Why it is so hard for people to see that same sex marriage is an equal rights issue!

Great to see that Michael Bloomberg has won.
I wonder how he would do if he ran for the Presidency as an Independent or Libertarian?

I hope the same sex bill here in Washington State will pass. I have friends who will benefit alot from it

@ Craig from Old Town

That's what I thought. Rural areas always seem to be ultra-conservative and Urban areas always seem to be more liberal.

Pat from Ohio, I could not agree more. Politicians must stop spending money we do not have. How about tyring to pass a law where the federal gov. cannot spend what we dont have. Our government behaves like an immature individual. We need a strong dollar(economy) to stay the only superpower in the world.
Thanks.

Popular vote should not be the method to affirm or repeal the current pending state law of same sex marriage. This sort of ruling is best handled through state legislation where influences and campaigns from out-of-state residents cannot reach or sway the final decision.

@ Starr

I totally agree with you. I just do not understand why other people have to be so concerned at who is marrying whom.... It is an equal rights issue. It would be the same as saying... because you are Christian, you can not marry a Jewish person.

Its just plain stupid. People need to get out of each others' business....

I just want to say good night. Sweet dreams. I am so tired.

Ari has it right. I am a dissatisfied Democrat mainly because of the of President and his team's overspending. And, the my way or the highway attitude especially from Pelosi and Reid. I will register as an Independent. My father will turn over in his grave, but if he were alive , I am sure that her will do the same. My two daughters feel the same way.

@starr,
I heard in Randi Kayes report that there are but 6 States including Maine that have same-sex marriage!
That is interesting....I think that LGBT should have the right to be as miserable as the rest of us, however, there are so many other issues right now.
Many believe that this should be a State by State issue....
Lets see what happens!

@Susan the reason things are slow in Congress is that the goal of bipartisanship sought by Dems is met by Rep senators with adolescent tantrums rather than constructive criticizism

As far as New Jersey is concerned: Booker 2013! Nuff said!

Heather – Spokane, WA
Agreed! It will pass soon I hope!

Heather and Starr

I am very disappointed in my state! Everyone seems so concerned and make "value" judgments on other people. What ever happened to live and let live?? Why do people worry about gay marriage? If it makes the couple happy and they are not hurting anyone else, why not?

Come on, does anyone believe that Obama is not watching the results tonight? If he isn't, that means that he doesn't have an interest in what is happening to this country. That is irresponsible!

@Emily and Starr yes a very sad incident being investigated on that video, but what is that a pressured admission?

Ari Fleischer is right that losing two governorships two big hits for the dems, but I think it's just incredibly hard to run away from your party's President, that's what happened to Presidential candidates, John McCain ran into that problem.

Good pt by Pamela Gentry, jobs increase and the discussion changes. The panel is in firm agreement on that.

We lost a huge part of what made us a great nation when we allowed the federal government more power than the individual states. That was the one controlling cap to federal government overindulgence. We are paying the price NOW for changing the balance of power 144 years ago.

@Danielle,
I just read what you said about Corzine, and how he lost your vote!
I wonder just how many people voted against him, or stayed home for the very reason that you described back there at 10:27.

Thanks for your insight.

As a Virginian, I voted based not on Obama, or on jobs, or on health care. My decision was based on the rapid expansion of the Federal Government. I voted for candidates who believed in a limited Federal government. That said, had their been Libertarian candidates on the ballot I probably would have voted for them instead.

The contest in upstate New York shows nothing. The Republican candidate that dropped out did so after many people voted absentee.
It looks like a setup to me. I wonder how much money changed hands to hand this district to the Democrats. You have a liberal Republican that drops out and throws her support to the Democrat? This job was open because the White House was attempting to steal that district. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that some dirty dealing was going on. Such tactics should be beneath freedom-loving people.

People always vote with their wallets. In 2012, if the unemployment rate is over 10%, Republicans will be swept back into power. If it's under 8%, the Dems continue to roll. If it's between 8-10%, it will be a dogfight. It will all be about the economy. Tonight, is just a taste.

If gays want to serve in the Military, they should just not say anything!!

There are so many things going on, including what David Gergen has described on this blog and that panel on the TV, this DADT Policy, whether you agree or not, it is not the #1 issue! (at this time!)

Surely the public are voting based on local issues, and their knowledge of the candidates rather than sending a message to the president. That is how I vote.

Anderson, i have to compliment your questions to the panel and their very sensible remarks (for the most part-Ari).

Many believe overspending is the problem to the falling dollar, had nothing been done the dollar would have a much lower value making energy trade (which is made exclusively in dollars) impossible as the global economy would crumble. Everyone things of objectives and goals but never the PROCESS to achieve that objective. Remember your economics.

Just because people are starting to register opinions this soon, doesn't mean they should.

After the Republicans are swept in, will the people go back and vote for Democrats again if unemployment tops 15%? Why must it be either/or? Why are we limiting our options?

I live in virginia and did manage to get to the polls to vote for creigh deeds,only because the president asked us too. I have five cousin pookies that live in my house that did not vote today who voted for the president .I could have driven them to the polls and made sure that they voted but I was not that excited about Creigh Deeds.But please dont take this race and turn it into a negative on president obama virginia is a really tough state for democrats to win.and I knew creigh had little chance of pulling it out. but as for the president we all love him and will definitely show up for him in 2012

Boy, do things take time!!!!

Women are still not even earning the same amount of pay for the same job that a man performs!

Politics is not going to be different!

Hi Anderson: You are beginning to see the takeback of our precious country!!

Okay, Ari was absolutely right about the appropriations bill. I remember being keenly disappointed with Pres. Obama's explanation that it was a GW bill, not his. Good point Ari.

Wait? So the Dems win CA 10 *and* appear to have won NY 23 (for the first time in 70 elections) and this is somehow bad for Obama and the Democratic party? They pick up a seat in the House and this means trouble? Sorry, that makes no sense.

The report on Obama's campaign promises was a soft fluff piece. NO way does Obama get even partial credit for Health Care. And what a lame excuse for his coddling of lobbyists. The man has lobbyists in his administration. That's FAIL big time, not 'bending the rules'. Come on CNN, call it the way it is.

@Dodie, I totally agree. If two people of the same sex get married who are they hurting? No one! And thats what I keep hearing from conservative people is that gay marriage will hurt marriages.

Does anyone else just want to scream? He could have "controlled Congress"? In what dimension? Maybe if he tried to be a Nixon and blackmail, scare, and use any dirty underhanded way to do it. Otherwise, who can possibly control Congress?

I'll be the first to admit that the president has been slow to get things done, but he has had barriers put in place by the other party to contribute to that. The funny thing is that his plodding is a result of him not wanting to ruffle too many feathers.

In doing so, he still gets attacked and can't win for losing. I guess that it's to be expected. He kind of dug his own ditch trying to appease people who weren't going to be appeased anyway. If he just governed the way he truly feels, he'd probably be much more successful, the economy might have improved sooner, and today's elections may have turned out differently. Oh well, live and learn.

I totally agree that if 2 people of any sex love each other and want to marry each other they should have the right to do so. I can not stand it when republicans say because it is stated in the Bible that marriage is between a man and a woman it also states till death do you part then divorce should not be illegal when will they learn that you cant pick and chose if you go by what the Bible says then you need to follow everything it says. Why do you care anyway if their not asking you to join them then its none of your business I am a woman who has been married to the same man for 19 years if I have the right to be happy they everyone else does too

Emily:

In the government, it is not about sex... male or female... it is about what GS number you are. If you are a GS 9 you get this amount of money, if you are a GS 11 you get this amount of money.

Its too bad the private industry does Not follow the same format!

@starr,
that was a great point that Ari made, and I think that he made alot of sense....I wish that we heard more people like him, and some of the other CNN correspondents, as it's "the noise" and 'talk show' hosts that get the air time, and there really are valid points to be made!

@David, Indiana

Point well taken. I thought that the tape of that young soldier may have provoked a false admission. So hard to tell.

I grew up in the military. Military members, especially when at war, are so often put into confusing and conflicting situations. It is never black and white and often they only have seconds to make decisions that my haunt them the rest of their lives.

well, Bloomberg may have spent alot of money however, if he was not popular and the majority did NOT want him there, he would not have been re-elected.

people can VOTE with their FEET!
Money means nothing when the "power is with the people"!
they are the ones that had the power tonight!!

Good Night Anderson, Gergen, Erica, Roland and the rest of AC360 team and bloggers, good talk tonight!

Anderson,
You're doing great job tonight, So busy night for you...... Nice job for 2 hours now, I know you're so tired tonight.

Thank you Jason for such a comprehensive explanation of what was going on in NYC mayors race. I did not know about the term limits situation., It should have been up to the people of NYC!

@ken, I think the administration needs to look in the mirror for getting their 'mandate' wrong. Obama campaigned in the middle, and on day two, moved to the far left. It isn't just the 'right' who's torqued at the bait and switch. The man promised to be bipartisan and then handed the reigns to his attack dogs on the left. He stays all soft and well spoken, ever the statesman, but it's his strategy that's backfiring.

Billionaires consider being called a millionaire an offense? Im not rich but if anyone called me a millionaire I would take it as a compliment

None of these elections had to do with President Obama. Va always goes for the opposite Party than the WH party, Jon Corzine was unpopular, high unemployment and has other problems so he lost, NY 23 goes Dem for the first time in 100 years and in California 10 another Republican district the Democrat wins. None of this is about the PResident, it all local. Charlotte , NC elected first Democratic mayor in 22 years is that about Obama, no it's local.

It does not take a rocket scientist to figure why the Repubs won. Pres.Obama has not kept his promises. The Repubs have been feeding on this discontent on Fox and on the radio,and it is sticking because the Pres.is too honest and intelligent to play their game.This goes against him,when you don't have a job.Healthcare,Jobs,Afghanistan,Pakistan,and the Economy.He keeps saying "bring it on"! Well,the Repubs have!

@Dodie,
Thanks for that information!

"Its too bad the private industry does Not follow the same format!"

How Very True.

I didn't think that I would say that often!

Good night Anderson, Erica, Ed Henry, David Gergen, John King, Wolf Blitzer, CNN Political team, Martina Ilstad, Emily and my friends Twitter/Facebook Bloggers!!!!!
See you almost tomorrow night!
Have a great night and sleep tight everyone!!!!
Take care yourselves! HUGS!

Thank you Anderson for such agreat two hour show & blog. Thanks to the entire CNN team and especially Team 360. Good night to you all too, although, i'll bet many of you are not done for the night yet.

Thank you fellow bloggers, Dodie CA, David, Indiana, Emily & JoAnn, OH for such a great exchange of ideas. I love this show & the blog.

Wishing everyone a great tomorrow!

Interesting night of politics and spilled vodka tonight.

Have a great night Anderson, Erica, All the AC360 Team, Megan, and Dodie....
A great 2 hour blog with all of yous!