Here's another race which may become of some interest nationally, even if you've never heard of any of these folks. Annise Parker (D) has a decent chance today to become the first openly gay mayor of a major American city. That this may happen in Houston, Texas of all places will surprise some people.

Parker is currently running a close second to a city councilman named Peter Brown (D) who has poured millions of his own money into the race. There are four legitimate contenders, three Democrats and one Republican, with the likelihood that a Democrat will replace outgoing mayor Bill White. If no one secures 50% there will be a run-off election in December.

UPDATE: Annise Parker finished first with 30.5% of the vote, and will face off next month against Gene Locke who had 25.9%.