America.gov-2008 Elections: Campaigns

Virginia 2nd Voters See Election Through Military Lens

Danielle Zielinski — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 16:18:25 GMT

To many residents of Virginia’s 2nd Congressional District -– home to one the nation’s largest concentrations of military personnel –- time is measured in troop deployments rather than calendar years. The top issue for many Virginia 2nd voters is the continuing combat operation in Iraq and the toll it takes on families and the community.

Democrats Poised to Make Big Gains in Congress, Experts Say

Danielle Zielinski — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 11:17:59 GMT

The ongoing U.S. presidential race still grabs most of the headlines, but many congressional contests are heating up as well. Although Election Day is still months away, political experts already are predicting big gains for the Democrats. America.gov looks at some of the factors that will shape the next U.S. Congress.

Southern Minnesota's Congressional Candidates Focus on Economy

Danielle Zielinski — Wed, 18 Jun 2008 10:08:46 GMT

The economy and ways to achieve energy independence are key issues in front of voters living in Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. In November they will choose between incumbent Tim Walz of Mankato, a Democrat, and Republican Brian Davis of Rochester to represent them in Washington.

Political Pundits, Parties Closely Following New Mexico Politics

Danielle Zielinski — Mon, 09 Jun 2008 15:31:28 GMT

As the final Democratic presidential primary ballots were cast June 3, many Americans were watching to see the results of the Montana and South Dakota contests. But political junkies also had their eyes on another race -- New Mexico's congressional primaries.

Oregon’s Wu Wins Renomination for Congressional Race

Danielle Zielinski — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 16:43:15 GMT

In Oregon’s 1st Congressional District, the stage (and the ballot) is now set for a November contest in which voters will go to the polls to select a president, a senator, a congressman and numerous state and local officials. Find out how the races are shaping up.

University of Nebraska Student Sets Sights on Congress

Danielle Zielinski — Fri, 16 May 2008 17:25:13 GMT

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, students are enthusiastic about the upcoming U.S. elections, and soon they might discover another reason to get involved. One of their own -- Max Yashirin, a 25-year-old Iraq veteran and immigrant who will graduate this summer -- wants to be their next congressman.

Polls Show Texas Senate Race Extremely Close

Danielle Zielinski — Mon, 12 May 2008 18:13:40 GMT

Incumbent Republican Senate John Cornynfaces a challenge from Democratic state legislator Rick Noriega in Texas. America.gov looks at how the race is shaping up in one of the nation’s largest states, including key differences between the candidates and other factors that will affect the success of their campaigns.

Oregon Congressional Incumbent Faces Challenge Within His Party

Danielle Zielinski — Thu, 08 May 2008 13:05:18 GMT

Something odd is happening in Oregon’s 1st Congressional District, where an underfinanced candidate with little political experience or name recognition is gaining support for his challenge to an incumbent serving his 10th year in Congress. America.gov offers a snapshot of how the race is shaping up ahead of the May primary.

Democrats Try to Win over Pennsylvania 4th's Superdelegate

Danielle Zielinski — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 12:28:13 GMT

With Pennsylvania’s April 22 primary the next big Democratic contest, candidates Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are especially eager to win over one undecided Pennsylvania 4th voter -- Representative Jason Altmire. He is a superdelegate and winning his support puts either candidate at least one vote closer to the Democratic nomination.

Campaigns for National Offices Often Rely on Outside Expertise

Danielle Zielinski — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:22:01 GMT

As Election Day approaches, U.S political organizations shift into high gear, and campaigns for federal or statewide offices expand their capabilities by hiring political consultants with specialized skills, especially in advertising and marketing. America.gov talks with political consultant Mark Weiner about the role of these specialists.

Transportation Seen as Key Issue for Voters in Virginia District

Danielle Zielinski — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 17:37:12 GMT

Traffic routinely clogs bridges and tunnels in the Virginia 2nd Congressional District, draining time, fuel and drivers’ patience. So even though national topics like Iraq and the economy concern Virginia 2nd voters, their most important issue might be one presidential candidates are not discussing -- transportation.

History, Culture and Science Shape Central New Mexico

Danielle Zielinski — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 10:45:07 GMT

The New Mexico 1st is a swing district in a swing state. With open House and Senate seats and a presidential election that potentially could be decided by the people of a small state such as New Mexico, the New Mexico 1st has the makings of a swing district the country will be watching closely in 2008.