The presidential race in Virginia is a dead heat, according to the latest poll.

The Rasmussen polling group, which publishes its surveys online, showed Republican Sen. John McCain leading Democratic Sen. Barack Obama 48 percent to 47 percent, within the statistical margin of error.

The poll, conducted Wednesday, surveyed 500 likely voters. When "leaners" were eliminated, the poll showed the race tied at 44 percent to 44 percent.

In Virginia's race for the U.S. Senate, Democrat Mark R. Warner led Republican Jim Gilmore 57 percent to 34 percent, according to the survey.

Virginia has not supported a Democratic presidential candidate since President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1964.

Gail Gitcho, a spokeswoman for the McCain campaign, said the results show that "John McCain's message is resonating in Virginia. No matter what the polls show, we are not taking anything for granted and will continue to campaign very hard in the state."

Kevin Griffis, a spokesman for Obama, said, "We expect a very close race here, a race that presents a stark choice for Virginia voters: a leader in Barack Obama who will help put an end to Washington politics as usual, versus a politician whose plans and policies represent a third term for George W. Bush."

The margin of error for the poll was plus or minus 4.5 percentage points.

Obama and McCain have each made several stops in Virginia during the general election campaign. Both have opened campaign offices in the state.
Contact Tyler Whitley at (804) 649-6780 or twhitley@timesdispatch.com.