WASHINGTON -- The meandering pattern of the presidential race has captured the attention of most Americans. But there are other important stakes that will be decided on Nov. 2, including 33 seats in the U.S. Senate and all 435 members of the House of Representatives.

Let's take a look at the Senate contests. At the current time, the Republicans control the Senate by a margin of 51-49. If the Republicans lose of just one seat to the Democrats, the Senate will be evenly divided. If they lose two, the Democrats will suddenly be in charge. If the Republicans gain seats, however, they'll have a much easier time pushing through their conservative agenda.

As usual, there are a number of incumbent Senators who are well ahead in their contests and considered safe. These seats account for two-thirds of the contests this year. There may be a surprise of two among them, but don't bet the farm against any of these incumbents. They are enjoying the benefits of incumbency and each of them has developed a happy constituent base by their service over the past years. People tend to disparage the advantages of incumbency. I don't. Those advantages come largely from good service and solid political representation of the people back home. Most senators earn the advantages they get.