Posted: 11/11/2010
Western Region
In an election year dominated by Republican victories, the Democrats had one of their best showings a week ago in the Western region, particularly in California, where the Democrats bucked the national trend of substantial Republican gains. However, the final number of wins for the Democrats was not overwhelming in the West. While Democrats retained control of several state legislatures, their majority was greatly eroded, and in the Republican vs. Democrat battle for the governor’s office, two states switched from Republican control to Democrat control, and two states flipped from a Democratic governor to a Republican. Insurance advocates will continue to face significant challenges in many western states. Policymakers that are less than friendly to our industry remain firmly in control of several state legislatures and executive offices in the region.