Another closely-watched race that could turn the Senate tables is happening in the Commonwealth’s 21st district, spanning from Roanoke to Giles County.
Incumbent Democrat John Edwards has held his seat for nearly 20 years, and he’s being challenged by Republican Nancy Dye, a former surgeon, and Independent Don Caldwell, the longest serving commonwealth’s attorney in Roanoke and a longtime Democrat.
Karen Hult is chair of the Center for Public Administration and Policy at Virginia Tech – she says since Caldwell is a former Democrat, he will likely attract some of those votes.
“I think most people suspect that if he has any impact on the race at all, it will be to help Nancy Dye and to hurt Senator Edwards.”
Hult also points to the significant influx of money Dye has received from state and national republican groups.
“Now money doesn’t decide elections, of course, but it does suggest that there’s a lot of interest in this race, and it also suggests that the Republicans are betting that this will be a turnover and regain a Republican seat.”
