Va. Republicans Chart a Return to Dominance

James K. "Jay" O'Brien Jr., a former Republican state senator from Fairfax who lost his reelection bid last year, describes the current situation as a "Republican malaise."

"It's no longer cool to be Republican," O'Brien said.

Eight years ago, Virginia Republicans controlled four of five statewide offices, including the governor's mansion, and the General Assembly.

But they began losing ground in 2001 and have since lost two successive gubernatorial elections, a high-profile Senate seat in 2006 and the state Senate last year. Sen. George Allen's stunning defeat to newcomer James Webb in 2006 helped Republicans lose control of Congress.

An influx of new voters, particularly in Northern Virginia, and a stronger get-out-the-vote effort have helped Democrats gain ground.

So did national fatigue caused largely by President Bush's sagging approval ratings, an unpopular war in Iraq and disappointment over Republican leaders' handling of the explosion of scandals in Congress. The economic crisis also is helping Democrats this year.

But others attributed the losses to the "arrogance of power." Activists blame elected officials for raising taxes, running up the deficit and spending money on unnecessary items -- a lengthy list that includes everything from foreign aid to early childhood education programs.

In Virginia, former governor Mark R. Warner (D) pushed through a $1.4 billion tax increase in 2004 with help from moderate Republicans. In Washington, the national debt has continued to grow through Republican administrations and stands at almost $9.9 trillion.

Republicans blame the financial industry's meltdown on a nation willing to live off debt and spend beyond its means.

Sen. Ken Cuccinelli II (R-Fairfax), who is running for attorney general next year, said Republicans have been spending like "drunken fools."

That confusion has crucial independent voters supporting Democrats and disgruntled Republicans planning to sit out Election Day.

"The base stayed home. Why bother?" Cuccinelli said. "You vote for Republicans and you get a tax increase."