Even though the GOP is a weak presence in the region’s national politics – no Republican congressmen and only three GOP senators represent New England in Washington – its leaders said at a national meeting last week in Texas that they are preparing a well-funded effort to contest a crowded slate of governors’ races in 2010.

All New England chief executive jobs will be on the ballot next year. In Vermont, Connecticut, and Rhode Island, Republican governors will be leaving office, as will Democrat John Baldacci of Maine. Only in New Hampshire, where Democrat John Lynch has yet to draw a serious Republican challenger, does an incumbent appear cer tain to stay on next November.

The competition to fill the open posts – and to unseat Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick – has energized Republicans who see new promise running as an out-of-power party at a moment of voter anxiety.

“We’re talking about jobs and solutions, and seeing the results from Virginia and New Jersey proves it works,’’ said Matt Jacobson, the president of Maine & Company, a business group, and one of 22 announced candidates for the state’s governorship.

http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2009/11/25/in_ne_governors_races_gop_sees_a_chance_to_build_on_gains/