In this race, the voting was close, so each candidate was obviously correct in believing they had a chance to win.

I've been through every election cycle since Jimmy Carter was elected President.  Far too often, I've seen GOP candidates beat up on one another, including financially, only to have the last one standing become an easy target for the lone Dem opponent.

Then there are always the semi-GOP candidates who form third parties (Ross Perot) and hand elections to the Dems.

We just witnessed a huge field of GOP candidates for Governor.  Did all of those candidates really believe they had a chance to win?  I mean, c'mon.  If even three of them had dropped out, the outcome of the vote could have been far different.  Was it arrogance that made them stay in the race?  I just don't know.

I don't have an answer.  Obviously, it was within their right to run for the office, and stay in the race until the end.  Did they help themselves by doing so?  Did they help the GOP by doing so?

I give Mr. Allen a lot of credit for making the decision he made.  Now Mr. Benishek and the GOP can save their resources to take on the Dem, McDowell.  

I referenced Jimmy Carter because, not since his Presidency, has this country been in such incapable hands.  This election and the 2012 election are crucial.  This is no time for arrogance or popularity contests.  All Conservatives (whether they label themselves as GOP Republicans, Tea Party Members, Federalists, Constitutionalists like me, Independents - cough, cough, etc.), must join together with one voice in order to put down the Socialist/Marxist regime that has taken hold in our country.