Looking at State Legislature control, there are four key states to look at tonight. Arizona, Colorado, Montana, and Nevada all have the potential to change control in at least one of their chambers.
Contentious budget battles will be waged in each state as they aim to rectify revenue shortfalls. With Nevada and Arizona continuing to have high unemployment rates, 14.4% and 9.7%[i] respectively, along with some of the worst foreclosure rates in the country (Nevada ranks #1 with Arizona close behind at #3[ii]) both states will face considerable challenges as they approach this coming session.
The other major priority in the coming session will be redistricting. Both Arizona and Nevada are projected to gain a Congressional seat each in reapportionment, Colorado maintaining its seven seats and Montana remaining to have a single at large seat.
The redistricting process is different for each of these states. However, final approval must be voted on by the Legislature and approved by the Governor. For a listing of each state's process NSCL is a good resource.
