This is a loss...but for Webb in six years...he likely loses very easily if a bright new face for the Republicans in Virginia shows up and really does talk issues.
Depending on his voting record, Webb will be senator for as long as he wants it. Webb was a very strong candidate because of his military creditials, authentic war hero status, and the fact that he has a son serving in Iraq. He ran a well-organized, but vicious campaign in the primary and state wide race. It bears mentioning that the WP endorsed Webb's opponent in the primary, Harrison Miller.