For the first time in decades, California House races are hot

[Draggingtree]

McClatchy:

 

Posted on Friday, October 5, 2012

 

For the first time in decades, California House races are hot

 

By Curtis Tate | McClatchy Newspapers

 

By Curtis Tate McClatchy Newspapers

WASHINGTON — Millions of dollars in campaign cash are pouring into California this year, but the ubiquitous television ads they’re funding aren’t for the presidential race; the hot ticket is the House of Representatives.

While Democrats dominate offices statewide, and President Barack Obama leads Republican challenger Mitt Romney by 20 points in state polls, at least eight California House districts are in play – more than any time in decades.

While most observers predict that Republicans will keep their House majority, the party and its allies aren’t taking any chances.

Democrats, meanwhile, see opportunity.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, which supports business-friendly candidates, has spent at least $3 million on television advertising to support eight Republican House candidates in the Golden State, its largest investment this year.

“It’s our number one priority in the House,” said