Over at the Virginia House of Delegates 2005 Elections blog, "Not Larry Sabato" had the following observations this morning about the 37th district Democratic primary race:
Democratic Primary Outlook: Toss Up (Old Rating: Leans Bulova)We've heard that the Janet Oleszek campaign has got a lot of momentum going into the primary, with better mail and a more focused candidate on the ground. David Bulova is still ahead but as they come down the stretch Oleszek is moving faster. Should be a photo finish in the 37th.
Anyway, I was curious about this, so I contacted the Bulova and Oleszek campaigns and asked them what they thought. Here's what Oleszek had to say (ladies first):
I will continue to run this race the same way I have been for months -- sticking to grassroots campaigning and hard work. I cannot get sidetracked by predictions and chatter, we will stay focused on getting our message of experience and dedication out to the voters of Fairfax.
Next, David Bulova said:
I am proud that this has been a positive race -- and it fulfills a commitment that was made between Janet and me at the very outset. Regardless of who wins the primary, we will come out of this process stronger and united to win in November.I think it is critical to be very skeptical of broad, sweeping pronouncements about "momentum" or a "focused candidate." This kind of anonymous information helps to generate buzz around a campaign -- but it also takes little effort. Real momentum is generated by gaining the trust of the residents of the 37th District. It means walking door-to-door, day-in and day-out, and exceeding fundraising goals. We are ahead of schedule on both fronts. We are also focused on the issues that matter most to the residents of the 37th District and how we can pull together as a community to meet these challenges.
I feel great about this campaign because we have a positive message and a wonderful team of volunteers who are working hard to get our message out (including a number of 37th District residents who have opened their homes for meet-and-greets). That is real momentum.
In other words, just one week out from the primary, both candidates are staying focused and on message. Gotta admire that. Unfortunately, that means I really didn't get any major substantive comments on "Not Larry Sabato"'s analysis. Oh well, at least David Bulova told me I had a "great site," and of course this pleases me to no end. With that, my life is now complete. Ha ha.