WSJ: "White House steps back in Virginia race"

Is the writing on the wall for Virginia Democrats in the gubernatorial campaign? The Wall Street Journal reports:

The White House is stepping back from lending its heft to a bellwether gubernatorial race in Virginia, party strategists say, seeking to conserve its political capital and avoid close association with a candidate who might lose.

The November vote in Virginia, as well as one in New Jersey, is an early indicator of Democrats' likely fortunes in the 2010 gubernatorial and congressional elections. Virginia is a particular testing ground for Democrats -- President Barack Obama was the first Democratic candidate for president in four decades to win the state.

Virginia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Creigh Deeds, right, and Republican Bob McDonnell face off in a debate in McLean, Va., last month.
After one appearance earlier this year, Mr. Obama hasn't committed to any further engagements in the state, despite repeated requests by the campaign of Virginia state Senator Creigh Deeds. Mr. Obama will make a second appearance on behalf of New Jersey Democratic incumbent Jon Corzine, on a date yet to be announced.

Ouch.

H/T to Riley