Obama marshals forces in Virginia

Large-margin win in northern part of state seen as key to upset

By Christina Bellantoni (Contact) | Friday, July 11, 2008

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Virginia has emerged as a battleground for the presidential race, prompting many to ask, "Can Barack Obama win the state?"

Democrats are excited about his chances because he could win Virginia - following the model set by the party's recent statewide victories - by capturing a big margin in Northern Virginia. Earning enough votes there can deliver the entire state.

That's one reason Thursday marked Mr. Obama's second trip to the region in less than 40 days, and his third visit to the state since becoming the presumptive Democratic nominee.

Mr. Obama has moved a historic level of cash and staffers into the Old Dominion to wage a full battle for its 13 electoral votes. The last Democrat to win the state was Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964.

His Republican rival, Sen. John McCain, has based his headquarters in Arlington and Thursday night held a "Tele-Town Hall" event for Virginia voters.

But the state is changing, and its populous - and expanding - Washington suburbs are vote-rich and have delivered wins for Democrats in recent years.

"If we do our jobs here in Fairfax County, we're going to make sure Virginia is carried by Barack Obama on November 4th," declared Democrat Gerald E. Connolly when introducing the senator at a local school. Mr. Connolly, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, is running for Congress this fall.

"We have the opportunity to turn Virginia blue for the first time in 40 years," he said.

He noted the changes in the county, thanking Democrats for their "shoe leather."

"Six years ago our General Assembly delegation was split 13 to 13. Six years later, it's 22 to 4, ladies and gentlemen," he said. "You did that."

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