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DJStrata just texted me from the McCain/Palin rally in Fairfax, VA (they got there at 0-Dark-Thirty and are up front) and reports there are 20,000 people at the event. Obama must be green with jealousy. Updates from the event as I get them.

Update: Some initial reporting on the event:

Thousands of people waited in line this morning in Fairfax City to enter a rally for the Republican presidential nominee, Sen. John McCain, and his running mate, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

Many in the crowd wore red, a color identified with the GOP, to express their hope that Virginia and its 13 electoral votes stay in the Republican column this year. They carried home-made signs and said they are energized for the fall campaign in what has become a new battleground state.

“I’m here to show my support for the future strength of America, and McCain is the best for our nation and Palin represents the future of our party,” said Laura Brady, 41, of Woodbridge.

Supporters of the Arizona Republican, who appeared to be lined up for more than a half mile to enter the rally at Van Dyck Park along Old Lee Highway, were confronted by about 100 supporters of the Democratic presidential nominee, Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.).

20,000 verses 100. I like those odds.

Update: Heard Fred Thompson was going to be at the rally today – and if he performs like he did at the convention the place will be rocking. BTW, also heard on the way in that McCain was struggling in VA to get a couple hundred people at his events prior to the Palin pick. Now that is up to 20,000 today – no mystery on the tea leaves here.

Finally, Obama is in Norfolk today (at a high school of course) and it will be interesting to compare crowd sizes and energy levels.

Update: Crowd now estimated at 23,000. LJStrata and DJStrata got to meet Sarah and Todd and get autographs – they had a blast! LJStrata texted me “That was totally wicked!” (re: The Incredibles).

I am sure one or both will post on the experience later today.

Final Update: If we are talking crowd sizes Obama drew a few supporters in a school library in Norfolk, while McCain/Palin wowed 23,000 in Fairfax, VA.

In a campaign stop here, the Illinois senator accused the McCain camp of deception. “They seize on innocent remarks, try to throw them out of context, throw up an outrageous ad because they know that it’s catnip for the news media,” Sen. Obama said before delivering remarks about education to a small group of supporters gathered in a high school library. 

Anyone see a pattern here?

Tags: 2008 Election, Fairfax VA, McCain/Palin Rally