The lede emphasizes the strategic thrust of the editorial: "Who is the best candidate for Northern Virginia?"

In endorsing Sen. Creigh Deeds (D-25) in the June 9 primary, the Washington Post acknowledges both the importance of that part of the Commonwealth in a Democratic primary and the strength of the existing support there for Brian Moran and Terry McAuliffe.

With two and a half weeks to go, this is unusually early for such an endorsement--the Post clearly wishes to influence the vote, especially on their home ground.

Unlike his fellow candidates, says the Post, "He has demonstrated an understanding of the problems that matter most, the commitment to solve them and the capacity to get things done."

They approve of his emphais on transportation, his commitment to fair redistricting, and his nuanced stand on social issues. They also point out that four years ago he lost to Bob McDonnell in the Attorney General race by just 360 votes, while being relatively unknown in the most populous regions of the state and being outspent 2 to 1.

They make the point that while they are endorsing him because, in their judgment, he would make the best governor, he is also likely to be the most electable of the three Democrats against McDonnell.

(Dave Sagarin, May 22, 2009)