GOP Scores a Win in Virginia Governor’s Race

A year ago, Virginia surprised the nation by skewing blue in the presidential election, handing Barack Obama a key win below the Mason-Dixon Line. However, this trend didn’t extend into the 2009 gubernatorial race in the state, as the majority of Virginians voted in favor of conservative Republican Bob McDonnell on Tuesday. But does McDonnell’s victory spell trouble for Obama down the line? And will Democratic Gov. Jon Corzine prevail in New Jersey? It wasn’t looking good for Corzine on Tuesday evening.  —KA

AP via Google News:

Conservative Republican Bob McDonnell’s victory in the Virginia governor’s race over Democrat R. Creigh Deeds was a triumph for a GOP looking to rebuild after being booted from power in national elections in 2006 and 2008. It also was a setback for the White House in a swing state that was a crucial part of Obama’s electoral landslide just a year ago.

In New Jersey, the early vote count showed Republican challenger Chris Christie leading Democrat Corzine. Exit polls showed independents heavily favoring Christie.

Voters in both Virginia and New Jersey said their top concern was the economy.

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bobmcdonnell.com

Meet Bob: Virginia’s Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell looks back on his past in this still photo from his campaign Web site.