Obama, widely rumored to be a potential Democratic Presidential nominee in 2008, will speak to 2,000 donors and activists at the annual Democratic "Jefferson-Jackson Day Dinner" at the Richmond Convention Center.
Obama's Communications director, Robert Gibbs, indicated that the Illinois Senator is excited to help Governor Tim Kaine and the Democratic Party of Virginia:
"Sen. Obama is an admirer of Gov. Kaine's and believes that Gov. Kaine is somebody who demonstrates that working together to get something done is not just a slogan."
The WaPo article recognizes that Virginia will be recognized as a much more competitive state in 2008, than it was in 2004, and since our Primary has been held relatively early in recent years (long before any candidate had the nomination locked up), his speech may create a huge discussion about Virginia's role in 2008. According to the article, party leaders in Virginia are hopeful about the prospect's of a "blue" Virginia come 2008:
Democratic leaders are also hopeful that the party's nominee in 2008 will break the GOP's grip on the state's 13 electoral votes. A Democratic presidential nominee hasn't won the state since 1964.
State Delegate Brian Moran (D-Arlington) seemed almost to endorse Obama:
"Barack is an exciting, substantive, inspiring speaker and leader. He has to be at the very top of potential candidates."
Regardless, it will be interesting to hear what Obama says at the dinner next month, especially if he announces his Presidential bid BEFORE he comes to Richmond to speak.