Via the AP: 36 Governor Races Bound to Redraw Politics

Democrats are in good position to gain states, at least on paper. Republicans need to defend more of the 36 executive mansions up for grabs — 22 to just 14 held by the Democrats. Tough contests already are shaping up in big-population states including California, New York, Florida and Ohio, all now held by the GOP.

Open seats provide the best opportunity for a party switch and Democrats have only one to defend, while term limits or retirements mean Republicans are leaving eight seats open (New York, Florida and Ohio are amomg them).