How hard is it to change the political complexion of a state? Not even a strong legislative record and high popularity may be enough for four Republican governors in predominantly Democratic states and four Democratic governors in heavily Republican states.

Two of these eight fish-out-of-water governors - Democrats Kathleen Sebelius of Kansas and Brad Henry of Oklahoma - seem to have the best shot at seeing a fellow party member succeed them in 2010. A same-party successor is less likely - but possible - for Republicans Arnold Schwarzenegger (Calif.), M. Jodi Rell (Conn.), Linda Lingle (Hawaii) and Don Carcieri (R.I.) and Democrats Phil Bredesen (Tenn.) and Dave Freudenthal (Wyo.).  Full Piece