In 2008 Tom Periello (a Democrat) challenged Virgil Goode (a very conservative Republican who had a good record of responding to constituent requests), and Tom won in a state --Virginia -- that we could all agree has become purple, rather than red, as it has been in the past.  

Yes, Tom rode Obama's coat-tails, but it was more than that.  He organized and appeared at many many town hall meetings, and he demonstrated his receptiveness to ideas from all sides; he showed through his answers and his questions back to the audience, that he was working through a thoughtful way to vote.  One of the people we approached said she was a Republican, and ALWAYS votes, but she will vote for Tom Periello because of her respect for his family, and also because she is a teacher and recognizes that he is on the side of teachers.
Today my son and I went out and canvassed for Tom Periello.  I was nervous about doing it, and so was Patrick.  It was a good experience, and it was a great way for us to spend the morning together.  
The point of our message was this:  VOTE!  
For all of you who  think it is scary to do this, let me tell you it was great!  (Of course it helps that my football-coach son was at my side)  but after this experience, I'd be willing to go out again without him.
Do it!