Reliably GOP State Is Up for Grabs

For now, though, such prospects are secondary to the confrontation on the ground, where there appears to be much more ferment on Obama's side. Late last month, a roomful of volunteers in Arlington made calls looking for supporters to come out for a Democratic canvass that drew 2,000 people statewide.

One, Nolan Fox, moved to the area after graduating from the University of Florida in May because he wanted to help Obama and thought Virginia would be even more closely fought than his home state. "We're going to need to get massive turnout in Northern Virginia," he said.

The energy level was a bit lower a couple of days later at McCain's Crystal City office, where 50 volunteers gathered before going to knock on doors.

"You're going out canvassing for who?" said Walker, trying to rally the troops.

"McCain," replied some.

Walker tried for a louder response. "You haven't had your coffee yet," he said.

Among the most eager to get to work was Warren Robinson, 23, of Alexandria. He relishes Virginia's competitiveness, despite its implications for McCain's chances. "Personally, for me, it's exciting, because Virginia Republicans can make a difference," he said. "But for other Republicans, it's a concern."