13. Richard Schaffer

In a region where the GOP still holds a 70,000-registrant advan- tage, Schaffer has maneuvered smartly to create some big openings come November. The Democrats have a shot at winning three of the four seats now held by term-limited Republican legislators and could theoretically win the majority, if the party can hold on to two seats that veteran Dems are vacating. We will see how well Schaffer continues to capitalize on the GOP’s persistent infighting.