Yup, the 2010 political season has begun:

Sen. Byron Dorgan, a veteran North Dakota Democrat, gave Republicans an unexpected opportunity to capture a Senate seat after he announced plans to retire Tuesday. Separately, five-term Sen. Chris Dodd, D-Conn., also plans to announce today that he won’t seek re-election this fall, according to Democratic officials who spoke to the Associated Press on condition of anonymity ahead of the announcement. 

This is actually something of a mixed bag for Democrats. Dorgan is a huge loss. He’s fairly progressive given the state he comes from and it’s gonna be a seat that will be extremely hard to defend for Democrats, particularly if popular Gov. John Hoeven decides to run. Democratic Rep. Earl Pomeroy is probably the only formiddable challenger Dems could put up.

Dodd’s exit, however, may be a blessing. He had become incredibly unpopular over the last year in his state and Republicans were salivating at a pick up oppurtunity in what is a very blue state. However, AG Richard Blumenthal has already announced his intention to run and he’s a very strong candidate.

So we’re looking at a likely loss and a likely hold right now for Democrats in the Senate. One thing’s for sure – 2010 will be a rough year for Democrats.

UPDATE: Somewhat consoling.

UPDATE II: I’ll take this as well.