State Politicos to Battle Between, Within Party Lines

While the federal government will work together, at least in early 2007, Alabama politics won’t be as friendly.

“Back home, however, Governor Bob Riley will face more acrimonious relations with the Democrats in the state legislature, and the legislature itself will be wracked with significant intra- and inter-party battles,” predicts Dr. David Lanoue, professor and chair of The University of Alabama political science department.

“The Democrats, interpreting the 2006 elections as something of a victory, at least compared to their showing in recent years, will be more emboldened in their willingness to do battle with the governor,” Lanoue adds.

“Lt. Gov. Folsom will be a much more visible player in day to day politics than was his predecessor, Lucy Baxley,” Lanoue says. “The new lieutenant governor will be positioning himself for a run at the top job in 2010. On the Republican side, Attorney General Troy King will attempt to keep his own name in the news for the same reasons.”

• VIDEO: Dr. David Lanoue discusses his predictions for national and state politics in 2007