by Kathy Groob, Publisher ElectWomen Magazine

With much of the national spotlight is focused on two key 2009 state races for governor – Virginia and New Jersey, women running for key positions in state and city governments have been seriously overlooked on the national level.  Top races for women included:

#1 – Virginia Lt. Governor

Jody Wagner (D-Virginia) is running in Virginia’s general election on November 3, 2009 for Lt. Governor against Republican Lt. Governor Bill Bolling.  Wagner served as state treasurer and secretary of finance until August 2008. Jody Wagner is a small business owner from Virginia Beach, VA.

Strengths: Experience, credibility and lots of bi-partisan support

Weaknesses: Top of ticket, Creigh Deeds is trailing Robert McDonnell in recent polls.

#2 – Houston Mayor

Annie Parker is a Houston-area politician currently holding office as the Controller of the City of Houston. This position is second only to the Mayor. Previously, she served as an at-large member of the Houston City Council since 1997. Parker was victorious in her run for controller in 2003. She ran unopposed in 2005 and 2007; as of September 2008, she is into her final term.

Strengths: Extremely qualified, top-notch campaigner, great communications and social media presence, strong fundraising.

Weaknesses: Gender split – males could dominate, risk of run-off.

#3 – Atlanta Mayor

The 2009 race for Atlanta, Georgia’s top official is currently basically a contest between four people.  The candidates are Atlanta Councilmember Mary Norwood, State Senator Kasim Reed, City Councilmember Lisa Borders, and Jesse Spikes.  Currently Mary Norwood holds a slight edge in the polls followed by Lisa Borders.  Atlanta currently has a female mayor, Mayor Shirley Franklin.  The election is November 3, 2009 and if a run-off is necessary, it will be December 1st.

Assessment: This race is too close to call, but if race has anything to do with it, Lisa Borders will triumph over Mary Norwood, but most likely expect a run-off.

#4 Syracuse Mayor

History could be made if Stephanie Miner (D-Syracuse) wins the race for Syracuse Mayor, she would become the first woman to hold the office.  Here opponent is Republican Steve Kimatain who won a primary election in September by a narrow margin.  Another Republican, Otis Jennings, has vowed to stay in the race.

Strengths: Miner has racked up key endorsements that include Congressman Dan Maffei, Mayor Matt Driscoll, organized labor, the Greater Syracuse Association of Realtors and WUFPAC (Women Under Forty Political Action Committee).

Weaknesses: None, with the two men splitting the Republican vote, Stephanie Miner is poised to make history.