The residents of Virginia went to the polls today to pick the person to represent the Democratic Party to challenge Republican nominee Bob McDonnell. The three competitors are Terry McAuliffe, Creigh Deeds, and Brian Moran. In what is being viewed as a reflection of the view of the Obama Administration, both of the two dominating parties are hoping to score big to justify their stance on national politics.

If you have followed my comments on the CNN’s boards over the year, you will know that I have viewed Deeds as the Democrats best chance to defeat McDonnell. If you remember back to the 2005 Virginia State elections, McDonnell defeated Deeds by just 360 votes, or 1.9% of the total votes cast in the Attorney Generals race. This investment into statewide name recognition, especially in the head-to-head race against McDonnell, would be difficult for Moran or McAuliffe to counter.

Additionally, Moran and McAuliffe have other issues facing them. While Brian Moran is a well-known figure Northern Virginia, so is his outspoken brother Jim Moran. Jim has a habit of making verbal gaffes, including insults towards the Jewish community and endorsing earmarks (with the use of swear words in the process). On the other hand, McAuliffe is seen as a political outsider, even though he lives in Northern Virginia. After years of being involved with Democratic National Committee, and working with the Clinton’s before that, some fear that he is trying to bring beltway politics down to Richmond.

UPDATE: The Associated Press is currently projecting Deeds as the winner, with 49.88% of the votes currently counted. McAuliffe has 26.16% of the votes, and Moran has 23.95%. In what is already viewed as the rematch of 2005, Virginia is possibly facing another close election.

Related articles:
Richmond Times-Dispatch – “Deeds is Democratic nominee for governor”
WTVR TV – “Campaign 2009: Polls Now Open”
The Washington Post – “Morning Fix: Virginia Governor’s Race Viewer’s Guide”

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