Posted at: 11/03/2009 6:25 PM
By: Becky Nahm

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Local Races Test Views on Obama, Dems

Three national races are being watched closely because of what they might mean for President Obama.

The governors' races in New Jersey and Virginia are both seen as a referendum on the president.

David Gergen with the Kennedy School of Government said, "These races may be determined entirely by local factors, but if the Republicans manage a sweep it will be interpreted as a loss for the president."

Another race drawing attention is New York's 23rd Congressional District.

Over the weekend, the Republican-endorsed candidate dropped out and threw her support behind the Democratic challenger.

A third party candidate is also in the race.

Republican critics say if they can win in these races, it means the president and Democrats are losing support.