So, it’s mid-February, it’s nine months to the general election, and already Barack Obama is showing that he has very real coattails. Yesterday, Donna Edwards, a Maryland lawyer and social activist, won the Democratic primary election for the 4th District over the 8 term sitting incumbent Congressman, Albert Wynn.

This was no small victory for Ms. Edwards. Al Wynn was a popular and long serving representative from a suburban Maryland district not far from the District of Columbia. Donna Edwards had previously challenged Rep. Wynn in 2006, and lost. The difference this time around was the enthusiastic and broad support that Barack Obama’s candidacy brought about, driving younger and more informed voters to the polls simply by appearing on the ballot. This new support was the key to Donna Edwards’ victory against what had become an entrenched establishment candidate.

Again, nine months before the general election is held, and there is already clear evidence of the effect that having Obama on the ballot will have on down-ticket elections come November.