His success this week has heightened interest in him as a potential political candidate in this Republican-leaning state.

In these mostly Republican-leaning states, people have begun to take painful note of the toll in Iraq.

One important question is how Democrats in Republican-leaning states will vote.

Blue dog A fiscally conservative Democrat, often from a Republican-leaning state.

The likely suspects: Democrats from Republican-leaning states who are up for re-election in 2006.

Some Democrats in Republican-leaning states said they would support the nomination.

Any Republican defection could provide cover for Democrats who want to oppose confirmation, protecting them politically in Republican-leaning states.

Republicans may have a chance at gaining seats in this election, as they can target several Democratic seats in Republican-leaning states.

Alaska is often characterized as a Republican-leaning state with strong libertarian tendencies.

Alabama, Louisiana and Nebraska are increasingly considered Republican-leaning states.