Democratic Lt. Gov. John Garamendi will soon trade his state title for that of congressman after an expected victory Tuesday in the face of a surprisingly tough GOP challenger.  

The longest-tenured mayor in the state and second-most senior in the country was heading toward easy re-election to his 15th term. David Smith, 63, who had no formal opposition on Tuesday's ballot, was elected to the City Council in 1976 and tapped as mayor two years later.  

n Lim, Ross lead vote getters; mayor wins third available seat  

Organized opposition often results in financial reward, plus a supervisor candidate's complaints against the Sheriff's Department unfounded except for a case of cussing.  

(AP Photo/Adam Bird)

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich.—College students ditched class, employees skipped work and some huddled in the cold overnight just to make sure they get an orange wristband Wednesday that would let them meet Sarah Palin.   Full Story

Tuesday's ballot is short, making for an election day that would be easy to overlook. We urge you not to make that mistake. The races and issues that remain are important.

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The five candidates for the 10th Congressional District seat entered the final week of campaigning Monday night participating in a cordial debate with few surprises.

  More: Politics | Congressional District 10 race