The first state legislative seat to change parties in a special election this year went to Democrat Dave Marsden of Virginia, who scored an election-night upset over Republican Steve Hunt to win the 37th Senate District in Fairfax County. The seat was left open when Republican Ken Cuccinelli was elected Attorney General in the fall.

The Marsden Campaign’s impressive get-out-the-vote operation reveals itself in the district vote totals. Not only did Marsden win the early vote by more than 2-1 (providing just a few more votes than his total margin of victory), but turnout in his best-performing district was a full 9 points higher than in Steve Hunt’s best district.

Though 2010 is still young, this victory could turn out to be the most important special election all year. It gives Virginia Democrats a welcome shot of energy after a disappointing 2009 campaign, and it solidifies Democratic control of the State Senate ahead of redistricting. The Democratic margin there will now be 22-18, making it unlikely that any unforeseen events could flip control to the Republicans.

Congratulations to DLCC Board member and Virginia Senate Majority Leader Dick Saslaw and his political staff for running a great campaign.