Why it’s great to be a Swing State.

Image details: Obama Campaigns At Virginia School served by picapp.com

There are many reasons why voters (any policy people) in states such as Ohio, Florida, Michigan and Nevada feel a little more in tune with the Presidential race – it’s because they are “Swing States” – savvy voters and campaign managers know that a “swing” of just a few (thousand) votes can (and probably will) make the difference in the outcome of the Presidential election.

Swing states are barraged with tv ads, candidate visits, and news stories all focused on the wants and needs of the constituency – Political platforms and campaign promises are being tailored to appeal to the voters in these areas. Voter registration and turn out, independent voters and undecided voters are all under scrutiny – as the strategists contemplate how to win more votes.

A new state that Barack Obama is adding to the “Swing State List” is VIrginia. This week the Senator is opening an additional 20 campaign offices throughout the Commonwealth (making a total of 30). The last Democrat to carry Virginia in the presidential election was Lyndon Johnson, in 1964. But the Obama campaign is confident that, with changes in the voter demographic and the success that he had there during the primary season, they can win Virginia’s 13 electoral votes in November.

The bottom line here is that rents, utilities, supplies, furniture, food, etc. will all have to be purchased by these offices – adding, not only a political presence and connection for the communities – but revenue as well.

Some (especially those connected to the McCain camp, who currently run 5-6 offices in VA) say that Obama is overextending himself and that mere offices will not make a difference in areas that are primarily (and traditionally) Republican.

But you never know what can happen in an election – especially if voters feel personally connected to a candidate.

One more reason why it’s great to be a Swing State.