U.S. presidential race tightens as candidates focus on key states

FOCUSING ON KEY STATES

U.S. Republican presidential nominee Senator John McCain is joined by U.S. Republican vice-presidential nominee Alaska Governor Sarah Palin (L) and her husband Todd (2nd L) at  a campaign rally in Hershey, Pennsylvania October 28, 2008. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo)

As election day looms, both candidates have begun to focus on key states which will largely determine the outcome of the electoral college votes.

In this election, five states are considered crucial.

The Republicans haven't lost Virginia in 44 years and they absolutely need Florida to reach 270 electoral votes.

The Republicans never won the White House without carrying Ohio, and the last time Missouri backed a losing candidate was in 1956.

Though a traditional Democrat-leaning state, Pennsylvania is also pivotal because McCain does have a chance there.

On Wednesday, McCain toured Florida, trying to keep the state in the Republican column as some supporters worried about whether he can catch the better-funded Obama.

Obama arranged for a show of unity by appearing with former President Bill Clinton at a late-night rally outside Orlando, Florida, Wednesday.

Clinton hailed Obama, trying to inspire Democrats already smelling victory.

According to their schedules, Obama will hold rallies in Florida, Virginia and Missouri, while McCain will spend the whole day in Ohio.