[kabar]

I contributed multiple times to Allen and voted for him, but he ran a poor campaign beyond the macaca remark that was exploited daily for many weeks by the WP. Allen did not do enough to identify the policy differences between himself and Webb. Late in his campaign, Allen attacked something that was in a Webb novel. And despite all of that he almost won.

Webb was an inspired choice by the Dems. A legitimate war hero and SECNAV under Reagan, Webb had a broad appeal in a still conservative state that is starting to trend Dem [NoVA]. Webb did especially well among the military retirees and active duty in the Norfolk and Virginia Beach areas, usually strong Rep. The fact that Webb had a son going to Iraq also played well.

The bottom line is a combination of Allen gaffes and a strong Dem candidate spelled a victory for Webb. It is also interesting to note that the WP endorsed Webb's opponent in the primary.

[rodguy911]

Thanks,great analysis. I didn’t know at least half of what you said. Makes more sense now.