In the early 21st century , Republicans were able to maintain their hold on the federal government , as President George W. Bush was able to forge a powerful coalition of Southern states that had been out of reach of the Republican party in the last two Presidential contests . In particular , Bush 's increased popularity following the September 11 attacks in 2001 enabled him to aid in the defeat of most Southern Democratic Senators in 2002 and 2004 . On November 7 , 2006 , however , the Democratic Party once again regained control of the House and Senate , as well as control of the Southern Governors Association . The election was the first since the Gulf Coast was struck by Hurricane Katrina
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Elections in the Southern United States