In Key Elections, Republicans Sense Victory, Democrats Play Down Results

    chris christie
    Monday: Republican gubernatorial candidate Chris Christie greets supporter Ben Ross, left, as lieutenant governor candidate Kim Guadagno, looks on in Tinton Falls, N.J. (AP Photo)

    WASHINGTON — With Republicans poised for a strong outcome in three bitterly-contested elections Tuesday, Democrats are taking pains to lower expectations and dismiss commentary that the results are a referendum on President Obama and his policies.