Virginia will be a lot harder for him than you think.
Also in MississippiMasterpiece’s is Florida, a state that the Democrats have basically surrendered. Barack isn't winning Florida - nor will he win NC on Election Day, even if 100 days out, polling shows Barack within 4-5 points.
This election will come down to Ohio and Colorado. It is possible NM or VA will swing it, or there's an outside shot MO can. But realistically speaking, it's all about CO and OH in 2008.
Veep pick can help, as in Kaine's case. McCain can break with GOP tradition and make inroads, or he can go with the standard “loyalty to me above all else” pick that Republican's always seem to take and blow any chance at making a real impact at Veep. Remember what Lieberman did for Gore, and Quayle for Bush at the time.
McCain can pick Jindal or Palin and make real inroads - let's hope he does.
I think Jindal or Palin could be the ticket to a McCain White House. Not the guy from Minnesota who raised gasoline taxes and can't being a state or new voters. Which ticket has a candidate who actually raised gasoline prices for consumers? Can you see the commercials yet?