Democrats need to win in 2012

Democrat Barney Frank has announced he will not seek re-election to Congress in 2012. At age 71, his exit is mainly due to a huge number of new constituents being placed into his district after the realignment process. So far, 17 Democrats have announced they will not seek re-election. Only six Republicans have announced they are retiring. Democrats faced an uphill battle in 2012, needing to gain 25 additional seats to win a majority in the house. With the retirements, Democrats must work even harder to get enough House seats to influence legislation and, possibly, win a House majority.