But it is only recently that Republicans have gained ground here.

Following the elections Republicans gained control of the council with a 16-13 majority.

Republicans gained an additional seat in a 2007 special election.

Some politicians expect that the Republicans could gain one or two seats this year.

Democrats usually won both houses until the Republicans gained control in 1893.

The Republicans, meanwhile, did not gain control of any state legislature.

As a matter of their long-term political interest, the Republicans could gain from a delay, too.

"I can't succeed if the Republicans gain a majority, because they will try to stop me every step of the way."

The question is whether Republicans can gain traction on national security.

Republicans gained a handful of House seats in the last election.