In the next three weeks, the political parties will lay most of their
cards on the table for this fall's election. Filing begins Monday for
federal and state legislative offices, and runs through March 14.
Filing season usually provides a few surprises, as unexpected
candidates show up and unexpected retirements are announced at the
last second. The big picture is emerging on the federal level, and at
the state level it's already clear Republicans will have more open
seats. The marquee race looks like the 3rd District primary between
Democratic incumbent Leonard Boswell and 2006 gubernatorial candidate
Ed Fallon. The Republicans are still seeking a candidate to face the
winner.