That's good news, but I would take it with a grain of salt.  It sounds like a partisan poll.  I would love to see an independent poll.  If these results were published in the Virginian-Pilot, it would send shock waves through the district.

I attended the debate between Kellam and Drake at the Kempsville library a few weeks ago.  I was impressed with Kellam's organization for turning out a crowd of his supporters.  However, I wasn't that impressed with Kellam's performance.  Drake had a firm grasp of the issues (although she was wrong on all of them).  Kellam did not.  He's got the "aw shucks," good old boy, Andy Griffith act down pat, but he really needs to develop some clear short position statements on each of the major issues.  His web site is completely devoid of issues.  I can understand him wanting to duck the issue of Iraq in this military-dominated district, but there are plenty of domestic issues.  He needs to take a stand on something: deficit reduction, preserving Social Security, raising the minimum wage, expanding health care, protecting civil liberties, reducing oil dependence, etc.

I'd say this race is basically tied at the moment.  These numbers should help Kellam's fundraising significantly though.  National donors want to give to a race that's close, not a sure loser.

I agree -- this is clearly a partisan poll and to be taken seriously only with that proverbial grain of salt.

Kellam may yet be able to run a competitive race, but he has to do a lot more than echo Drake on damned near every issue.

Meanwhile, candidates only make themselves look silly when they brag about contrived polling data.

As a 20 year Navy veteran, I know that Phil Kellam will stand up for the military and help preserve the vital bases in Va Beach and Norfolk. I attend the BRAC committee hearings last year in Arlington.  The arguments to preserve Virginia's military installations were excellent.  Governor Warner, Senators Allen and Warner, Congressman Bobby Scott etc.  When it was Thelma's turn to speak it was hardly a ringing endorsement of the largest Naval Base in the world and for Oceana.  I thought Governor Warner's eyes would pop out of his head when she finished her very brief remarks.  Thank God Governor Warner asked the chairman if he could go back and expand remarks on Oceana and the Naval Base Norfolk. We need someone in Congress that will keep those vital military interests a priority.  I know Phil Kellam will ensure that the vital military role in the Second District is preserved and defended. 

I heard that Kellam had been beating Drake by even more in earlier polls.

I am interested in this race between Kellam and Drake.  I was disappointed that LTC David Ashe abandoned his primary campaign.  I liked his views on foreign and defense policy.  I had even given Ashe money, quite a bit.  However, I know very little about Mr. Kellam.  Where does he stand on the central issues?  Also, how is he doing with his fundraising?  Maybe you have already covered this topic in previous articles.  If so, I beg your indulgence.