Webb/Allen Race in FocusThe New York Times covers the
Virginia Senate race between George Allen and James Webb. Allen is being touted by many as the best hope to derail John McCain's straight talk express in 2008, but he may not make it to the starting gate.
In recent days, the Allen campaign, acknowledging a newly competitive race, has gone on the attack. A Mason-Dixon poll conducted this month found Mr. Allen’s lead, once in the double-digits, had shrunk, with 46 percent for Mr. Allen, 42 percent for Mr. Webb, and a margin of error of 4 percentage points.In fact, this race could also have strong implications for the Democratic ticket as well; if Webb can crack open the Old Dominion, Mark Warner will certainly benefit.
Dick Wadhams, the Allen campaign manager, said the race was competitive, “no doubt about it,” but said Mr. Webb’s political inexperience, fuzziness on the issues and lack of enthusiasm for campaigning — Mr. Webb does not appear to have a high comfort level on the campaign trail — would all work in the Allen campaign’s favor. “We still have a financial advantage,” Mr. Wadhams said. “And we still have an incumbent who’s won two tough elections.”
