Alaska recount a blow to Palin's 2012 ambitions

THE defeat of Alaska's Republican senator in a recount has brought the Democrats nearer to control of the Senate - and represents a blow for Sarah Palin's White House ambitions.

Democrat Mark Begich's victory over veteran Ted Stevens came in one of two recounts and one run-off being held following the presidential elections.

Last night's result, on Mr Stevens's 85th birthday, edges the Democrats closer to a "super-majority" in the Senate.

It also closes a path for Mrs Palin, 44, the Governor of Alaska, to enter the Senate as a step on the road to the White House and plan for the 2012 race as the Republican candidate.

Mr Stevens, the longest serving Republican in Senate history and known in Alaska as Uncle Ted, failed to survive a conviction last month on federal corruption charges. His defeat by Mr Begich, the mayor of Anchorage, marks the downfall of a towering figure on Alaska's political landscape, and will alter the power structure in the Senate. In becoming the first Democrat to represent Alaska in the Senate in nearly 30 years, Mr Begich moves Senate Democrats to within two seats of the 60-vote majority needed to overcome filibusters. The delaying tactic is used by the Senate minority to block legislation from coming to a vote.

If the Democrats win two more Senate seats they would be able to prevent the Republicans from blocking legislation.

Minnesota's vote is being recounted while Georgia is holding a run-off vote.

In a sign of how crucial the votes are, Bill Clinton was due to campaign for the Democratic candidate in Georgia today.

Mr Begich defeated Mr Stevens by 3,724 after last night's count, with only 2,500 overseas votes to be tallied today. The Senate race in Alaska was plunged into controversy when Mr Stevens was convicted last month of lying about gifts he had received from an oil company.

Mr Stevens said he had no idea what his life would be like in January, when the 111th Congress convenes. He said: "I wouldn't wish what I'm going through on anyone, my worst enemy. I haven't had a night's sleep for almost four months."