"Mark Warner has the best crossover appeal I've ever seen," Deeds said. "He is the model of success for Democrats in Virginia."
Deeds said Virginia moved toward Democrats because they see results.
"I think Virginia is turning blue because Democrats do a better job of governing," Deeds said. "As Mark Warner and Barack Obama have said, 'It's not about right or left, it's about right or wrong.'"
Deeds spent his weekend campaigning for Virginia Democrats in southwest Virginia. Yesterday, he was hitting the polls for Congressional candidate Tom Perriello. He was optimistic that Virginia would come in for Obama.
"Barack Obama has captured people's imagination all over the state." Deeds said.
Looking forward to his gubernatorial campaign, Deeds said Democrats would have an advantage going in, thanks to Obama and Warner.
"Barack Obama has invested more time and money in Virginia than any other Presidential candidate," Deeds said. "He has built an infrastructure that will be useful for Virginia Democrats down the road."
Working polls for congressional candidate Tom Perriello on Tuesday, Deeds said he witnessed a change in the attitude of America. He told the story of a middle-aged woman who asked him for help, as she had never voted before. He credits the new energy to President-elect Obama.
"Voters have suddenly come alive with the process, and that's because of this once in a lifetime candidate," Deeds said.
Deeds, lost the 2005 Attorney General race, the closest in Virginia history, to Republican Bob McDonnell. He said he is simply glad Virginia's voters are getting more involved. Less than 50 percent turned out for the 2005 elections.
"We're going to have 70-75% turnout tonight," Deeds said.
Now, Deeds will try to redirect his campaigning toward winning the Governor's Mansion in 2009. If he wins the Democratic nomination, Deeds will face a familiar foe.
McDonnell is the favorite to win the Republican governor nomination.
"I'm looking forward to the results tonight," Deeds said. "Then we have to move forward. I'll wake up in the morning and get started on it."
State delegate Brian Moran and former Clinton adviser Terry McAuliffe will contest Deeds for the Democratic governor nomination.
You might be interested in...- Editorial: The night before Inauguration
- Column: Keep an eye on Obama's promises once he takes office
- Column: Be careful not to expect too much from Obama
