Decision '05

Why vote? Because the world belongs to those who show up. Because the closer an election is, the more crucial every vote becomes. And because we don't want a group of men in black robes deciding the outcome for us again.

It's not a national election year, but the issues to be decided are nonetheless crucial. The winners of the governor's races in New Jersey and Virginia could indicate the level of the electorate's dissatisfaction with the ruling party. The measures on the ballot in California can change the face of politics in the state and dictate the future of an increasingly unpopular governor. Measures can also alter the political landscape in Ohio, determine the fate of gay marriage in Texas and decide the issue of discrimination based on sexual orientation in Maine.

For the rest of the candidates and the issues to watch, check out Ken Rudin's analysis on NPR, Gregory Giroux's summary on CQ Weekly and Chris Cillizza's The Fix at the Washington Post. CBS also has an interactive graphic showing the elections by state.

There are no exit polls in any of today's races but Political Wire provides links to real time election results.

• This entry cross-posted at Wonky Muse.

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