This weekend saw more Republican momentum. Check out the Republican State Leadership Committee’s statement on the special election victory:

Alexandria, Va. (February 20, 2011) – Republican momentum shows no signs of stopping, particularly on the state legislative level, as the party has now taken control of the Louisiana State Senate following a special election victory by Rep. Jonathan Perry to fill the vacant seat of Democrat Sen. Nick Gautreaux. The win marks the 14th special election victory for Republicans since Election Day 2010 and the 22nd legislative chamber to move into Republican control.

“Jonathan Perry ran an exemplary campaign and his message of fighting for smaller government and creating good jobs and a stronger economy for Louisiana families clearly resonated with voters. The RSLC was proud to support his candidacy and we congratulate him on his victory,” said RSLC Chairman Ed Gillespie.

The Louisiana Senate is currently split with 19 Republicans and 19 Democrats in the 39-member chamber. Perry’s election gives Republicans the majority, the first time Republicans have had majorities in both the House and Senate since Reconstruction. Heading into redistricting, Republicans now hold majorities in both legislative chambers in 26 states, up from 14 states before the 2010 elections.

“As legislators redraw the Louisiana maps, the new Republican majorities ensure Republicans are well-represented at the table,” Gillespie said. “And with the recent party switch of Attorney General Buddy Caldwell, it is clear Republicans have momentum on their side as we head into the 2011 Louisiana elections.”

Despite putting more than $200,000 into his own campaign, Democrat Nathan Granger was unable hold the seat for his party.