Republican victories in Virginia and New Jersey this week don't look good for Democrats hoping to seize more governorships in next year's mid-term election.

New Jersey voters elected former financial executive Chris Christie over Democratic incumbent Jon Corzine in a race that drew President Obama's attention. Mr. Obama campaigned heavily for the unpopular Corzine.

Another conservative Republican, Bob McDonnell, won in Virginia over Democrat R. Creigh Deeds. Both wins were badly needed by Republicans looking to regroup nationally after losing the presidency, U.S. House and Senate to Democrats.

The Associated Press exit polls showed independents made the difference in both races. Independents by a 2 to 1 margin preferred the Republican candidates.