GLEN DALE, WV -- The John Kerry Campaign is reaching out to all of the Mountain State's counties. They're gaining support from house meetings at individual voter's homes -- so far, holding more than 100 statewide.

Monday evening, Marshall County hosted its second, where democrats turned out to meet with a representative from the campaign.

He said Kerry must win West Virginia to earn the presidency, and he's asking supporters to help him get that message out to other voters. Marshall County will need to draw 7,000 voters for Kerry. Statewide, he'll need about a quarter-million votes.

Just last week, the Kerry Campaign set up its state office in Charleston. The group has been focusing on fundraising and forming social networks to rally support for the democratic frontrunner.

"I believe in John Kerry because he seems to be an honest man and he's straightforward," said Iris Yocum, a Glen Dale Heights resident. "And I believe he's trustworthy."

Voters who attended the house meeting said President Bush has left a mess for others to clean up, and they said he's not earned the respect of blue-collar workers, who make up a majority of votes statewide.

"He's worked against working people and union people ever since he's been in office," said Paul Omear, an international representative for the chemical workers union. "And I believe union members in the country are tired of it."

The campaign is trying to organize more house meetings to build support for Kerry. West Virginia is one of 18 states nationwide that are considered battleground states, where the candidates will focus their attention.

Kerry is scheduled to attend a fundraiser and public appearance on July 15 at Charleston's convention center.

From the Marshall County Mobile Newsroom

-Brandon Weghorst, NEWS 9