The Most Important Races You're Not Watching

1. New York State Senate.
Did you know the New York State Senate is dominated by Republicans? How do you think that affects your taxes? Social programs? Health care? Recognition of gay marriages performed in other states? But Dems have a chance to get their house back this year, and it hinges on races right here in the city: the most precarious being the 11th District in northeast Queens. If you know people who live in these districts, please let them know how vital their vote is next week.

*Find your district.

2. California Proposition 2.
By now you've either read Fast Food Nation, or you're at least aware of the torturous conditions that cows, pigs, and chickens endure in the name of cheap burgers and wings. I admit, I'm part of the problem (mmm, bacon), but California is endeavoring to take a step in the right direction. As California has earned the reputation as setting the progressive tone for the rest of the country, what passes here stands a big chance of creating a domino effect.

3. California Proposition 8.
That California domino effect is exactly what has conservatives quivering out West. If California allows gay marriage, what could possibly be next other than a total apocalypse, right? Hey, if the apocalypse includes dance music, appletinis, and kickass interior decor, count me in!

4. Minnesota Senate.
Al Franken is pretty much a genius. At least, that's my conclusion after finishing Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair & Balanced Look at the Right last week. If you haven't read it yet, pick it up. And now he's running for US Senate. Just think how much more fun it will be to watch CSPAN... as if it could get any more fun that it already is now!


View all New York candidates and ballot issues here.
(Hint: you won't find a referendum on 3rd terms for NYC mayor or City Council!)