WDBJ7 Roanoke News and Weather NRV Lynchburg Danville | Bill Bolling speaks out for McCain; Gilmore continues "Working Families Tour"

Bill Bolling speaks out for McCain; Gilmore continues "Working Families Tour"

Republicans have been busy keeping their candidate's name in the spotlight.  Virginia's top ranking Republican spoke out for John McCain, while Senate candidate Jim Gilmore continued his "Working Families Tour."

When Gilmore got into the race for U.S. Senate, he thought it was going to be about taxes.  Instead, everywhere he goes, people talk to him about one issue: gas prices.

"We're gonna drill here, drill now, and reduce these prices," said Gilmore. 

It's a line that pleases people who gather to hear him speak.  Along with drilling, Gilmore wants to tap deep into Virginia's coal seams.

"This is a national asset for us, and if we use clean coal technology and push that forward, you can use coal consistent with the environment," said Gilmore.

The latest polls show Gilmore trailing his opponent, but he told supporters to keep their spirits high.  He says the party is united behind him and donations are rolling in. 

Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling says momentum is also building behind Senator John McCain.  He says once independent voters closely examine the candidates, McCain will leap over Obama.

"I think it's about judgement.  I think it's about the soundness of the candidate's stand on the important issues facing the country today, and John McCain wins that comparison," said Bolling. 

Gilmore will visit the Virginia coal fields later this week.  When Senator McCain makes appearances in our area, News7 will provide live reports of all that as well.