VA: LG. Northam planning on running for Governor

[MATTROSE94]

I doubt that the Democrats can hold onto the VA governorship in 2017, as the Republicans have a decent bench of candidates such as Ed Gillespie, Bill Bolling and Barbara Comstock. In addition, Hillary Clinton's Presidency could likely be facing a backlash by then that could hurt the Democrats chances down the ballot.

While we are still on the subject of the 2017 Gubernatorial races, I think that the Democrats will easily pick up the NJ governorship in 2017 regardless of Hillary Clinton's popularity. Much like the VA Republicans, the NJ Democrats have a strong bench of candidates such as Steve Fulop, Frank Pallone and Steve Sweeney. In addition, Chris Christie's popularity might still be low in 2017, so the Democrats can use that as a campaign issue and tie whoever the Republicans nominate to him.

[MATTROSE94]

Who do the Republicans really have in New Jersey that would be acceptable Gubernatorial candidates? My guess is Steven Fulop takes it.

The only Republican candidate who is strong enough win the nomination is Lieutenant Governor Kim Guadagno, but her scandals are just as bad as Chris Christie's are and her record as Lieutenant Governor is weak at best. In the end, I would expect Steven Fulop to defeat her handily, maybe with over 60% of the vote.