Evie Hudak -- Colorado Senate District 19

Who she is: Evie Hudak is an educator from Jefferson County, Colorado. She has worked as a classroom teacher, a member of the state PTA board of directors, and as the coordinator of the School Readiness Quality Improvement Program. She currently serves on the Colorado State Board of Education. She's an expert on early childhood issues -- serving on the Early Childhood State Systems Team, the School Readiness Indicators Project, and the Early Childhood Councils Leadership Alliance.

Why her 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 Evie Hudak 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.

Mike Moran -- Ohio House District 42

Who he is: Mike Moran has served his community on the city council of Hudson, Ohio since 2005. He is a trustee for the Hudson Rotary Club, sits on the advisory board for Community First, and has served as a trustee of the Westhaven Homeowners Association. He previously worked as an attorney in a corporate law firm and for a contractor for the Dept. of Justice.

Why his race matters: After years of GOP control, Democrats are gaining strength throughout Ohio. In the House, Republicans currently hold a seven seat majority, 46/53. Democrats have an opportunity to make a play for the chamber this cycle by targeting vulnerable Republican incumbents like Mike Moran's opponent.

Greg Matthews -- Oregon House District 50

Who he is: Greg Matthews is an officer in the fire department of Greshman, Oregon. He previously served the community as an officer in the police force, where he worked in the Gresham Barlow School District, teaching schoolchildren Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) and giving kids the tools to make good choices while resisting drugs and violence. He began his career in the US military, where he fought in the battle of Granada.

Why his race matters: Democrats in Oregon hold the lower chamber by just two seats. Greg Matthews is challenging a vulnerable Republican, and the district represents an important pick up opportunities for those who want a long-term Democratic majority in the state of Oregon.

John Beard -- Iowa House District 16

Who he is: John Beard is a family farmer and small business owner from Iowa. He serves his community on the local conservation board and is the chair of his county Democratic party. He is an outdoorsman, who founded local chapters of Local Pheasants Forever and Trout Unlimited and serves as director of both groups. He is running to improve education, modernize his state's infrastucture, and promote new kinds of energy.

Why his race matters: Democrats in Iowa control the House of Representatives by six seats, 53/47. The party in the state is focused on building a majority that will help them to govern. A victory by John Beard will help to develop a Democratic agenda in Iowa.