A key rule in presidential political analysis involves just which states candidates are vying for in the crucial period coming down to the wire.

During the 1988 campaign Republican operatives delighted in noting the shrinking Democratic state effort, which they ultimately belittled as the Dukakis "18 state strategy" when resources were gradually pulled from states that the party had original designs of winning.  

When offices were closed in Florida and resources transferred elsewhere it became increasingly apparent that what was being sought was elimination of a blowout that could cost the entire party maximal damage at all levels.

While Barack Obama is correct in asserting that the effort needs to be continued aggressively and nothing can be taken for granted, it is confidence enhancing for Democrats to see that now the Republicans are in the position of becoming a dangerously marginalized and sharply diminished party.