Diana Maldonado -- Texas House District 52

Who she is: Diana Maldonado is a community leader from Round Rock, Texas. She previously served as president of the Round Rock Independent School District Board of Trustees. Under her tenure, the district became one of the fastest-growing and highest-rated in the state. She currently works as a government efficiency expert in the Texas Comptroller's Office.

Why her race matters: Diana Maldonado is running on an agenda to improve public education, expand access to health care, and build responsible transportation infrastructure in the state. She represents one more of the five seats that Democrats need to win to take back control of the House.

Gretchen Lawyer -- Iowa House District 36

Who she is: Gretchen Lawyer is an educator and community leader from Marion, Iowa. For six years, she worked as an elementary school teacher where she became an expert on integrating instructional technology in the cleassroom. After the birth of two daughters, she took a leave from teaching to stay at home but remains a committed volunteer at Francis Marion Intermediate School.

Why her race matters: Democrats in Iowa control the House of Representatives by six seats, 53/47. A victory for Gretchen Lawyer in this district will help Democrats develop the majority they need to govern.

Joe Whitcomb -- Colorado Senate District 23

Who he is: Joe Whitcomb has spent most of his adult life in service of his country. At 19, he enlisted in the US Army, completed Airborne School, and joined the Army Rangers. He parachuted into Panama as part of Operation Just Cause in 1989 and received a bachelor's degree and masters in international relations while serving in the armed forces. In 2002, after a six year break, he reenlisted, joining the Air Force, where he trained airmen in combat survival. He currently works as a lawyer in Colorado.

Why his race matters: Democrats gained control of the Colorado senate in 2005 and currently hold the chamber with a five seat majority, 20/15. A victory for Joe Whitcomb will help legislative leaders build momentum for a Democratic agenda in the state and ensure that the party is well positioned for redistricting in 2010.

Scott Heidepriem -- South Dakota Senate District 13

Who he is: Scott Heidepriem is a Democratic member of the South Dakota Senate. He first served in the senate and the South Dakota House of Representatives at various points from 1983 to 1992. Heidepriem has significant legal experience, having previously worked as a Special Assistant Attorney General and founding the law firm Johnson, Heidepriem, Miner, Marlow, and Janklow.

Why his race matters: Scott Heidepriem is currently the Senate Democratic leader and is working to ensure that our party takes control of the chamber in November. Republicans currently maintain a five seat advantage, but Democrats have a real chance to challenge that majority in the fall.