The World Around You

I applaud Governor Riley for his support of the Clean Indoor Act. I hope that this will provide the last little push to finally get it through the House on Monday.

Riley: I’ll sign indoor smoking ban if it passes - Breaking News from The Birmingham News - al.com

Politico.com has a feature article on the congressional races in Alabama this morning.

“I think the party’s chances are very good. They’re better than many thought were conceivable several years ago,” said Rep. Artur Davis (D-Ala.), who heads the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s Red to Blue fundraising program for challengers. “Because of the quality of candidates that have emerged, Democrats now have a great chance in both districts.”

Despite the party’s high hopes, the two candidates still face tough obstacles. The strong Republican tint of both districts means few national party resources are likely to be directed to these races in 2008.

And one of the most politically experienced legislators in Cramer’s district may still jump into the race. Democratic state Sen. Tom Butler told Politico that he is likely to change his party affiliation if he decides to run. Butler said that Republican Gov. Bob Riley contacted him soon after Cramer’s retirement, encouraging him to run as a Republican.

I’m not sure if Sen. Butler’s statement had been reported anywhere else, but it is interesting that Riley made that call. I would expect additional national interest in the now two open congressional seat races in Alabama…it is an exciting year for us Alabama politicos.

Candidates eschew party labels in Alabama - Josh Kraushaar - Politico.com