GOP could reach historic low if the party loses any ground

The governor's race may not be the only one with a historic outcome in Massachusetts. If Republicans lose any ground in the Legislature, they will occupy fewer seats than at any point since at least 1867, the earliest year for which records are readily available.

Republicans, however, say they have a good shot at four Senate seats, including those being vacated by Senate minority leader Brian Lees of East Longmeadow, and the seat being vacated by Senator Andrea F . Nuciforo Jr., a Pittsfield Democrat.

"You take the shots where the opportunities exist," said Brian Dodge, executive director of the state Republican Party.

One especially active race is the battle for the Framingham seat that was held by Democrat D . Deborah Blumer, who died of a heart attack last month. Six people are running, all as write-in candidates, because ballots had been finalized at the time of her death.

In another notable contest in Boston, Republican Samiyah Diaz is portraying herself as a progressive candidate supportive of same-sex marriage in an attempt to wrestle votes away from incumbent state Senator Dianne Wilkerson .

But Democrats expect that Wilkerson and the party generally will benefit from a strong showing by gubernatorial candidate Deval L . Patrick.

Today "will be a great victory for the Democratic Party," said Philip W. Johnston, Democratic Party chairman.

The majority of legislators are running unopposed.

MARIA CRAMER