Could Clinton Surprise in the Potomac Primary?

The latest polls show Obama substantially ahead of Clinton. However, could Hillary surprise Barack on Tuesday?

According to Mason-Dixon, Clinton trails Obama by 35% to 53% in Maryland, and 37% to 53% in Virginia. These hefty leads suggest that the Illinois senator should extend his streak of solid wins in Tuesday's Potomac Primary, right?

Maybe.

According to these polls, around 10% or more of voters still have to make up their minds. Obama supporters might like to think that they'll all shift to Obama, who often gains support as he becomes better known and gains name recognition. However, it's just not clear that it works that way.

Remember that Obama didn't rack up any last minute gains in Massachusetts and New Jersey. Instead, Clinton won those contests by more than many anticipated, including the exit polls which showed them as tight.

While it would take a lot for Clinton to pull ahead, she just might finish more strongly than some anticipate. As many commentators have noted, the Obama distortion field can cause even the most jaded liberal observer to swoon and lose their judgment.