1.   Clinton had previously advanced his testing plans in speeches to state legislatures.

2.   Even if the Supreme Court overturns those decisions, as many people expect, that would only pass the question back to state legislatures.

3.   Fifty-nine years old, a one-time corporate lawyer and lobbyist on business issues before the California state legislature, Kennedy is conservative in style and outlook.

4.   Instead, it leaves the matter to state legislatures.

5.   It was more than a century ago that the idea of having U.S. senators chosen by voters instead of appointed by state legislatures was gaining in popularity.

6.   Meanwhile, the National Abortion and Reproductive Rights Action League reports a sharp increase in the number of laws introduced in state legislatures that would restrict abortions.

7.   The bitter partisan tone in Washington not only discourages potential congressional candidates who may be used to amiable state legislatures, it turns off voters, too.