Editor’s note:  This column has been updated.  Read this one and then click HERE for an update.

Today is Thursday and newspapers and websites are full of stories that are examining the results of the Tuesday night election. It’s no different whether you are in Missouri or Montana, the theme for the Democrats are basically the same: would have, could have, should have…and throw in a few lines about dirty campaigning and money from out of state making a difference.

That is so yesterday…

Political parties should now be looking ahead to 2012. Now. Waiting until after the holidays to get the 2012 campaign machine in gear is not an option.

In the United States Senate one-third of the senators are now “in cycle” meaning they are up next for re-election. For those unfamiliar with politics, senators are placed in one of three “classes” with approximately 33 of them up for re-election every two years. The members of the U.S. House are up for re-election very two years.

In 2012, there will be 21 Democrat senators up for re-election and only 10 Republicans. There are also two Independents that caucus with the Democrats. You can view the list HERE. Continue reading →