Odd Patterns in the Electoral College

There were several swing states in the 2008 election, some new, such as North Carolina, Indiana, Virginia, Colorado, and New Mexico. However, two states that consistantly act like a United States within a state are Ohio and Florida. I can almost understand Florida, as people from all over the nation retire there. I have always wondered what made Ohio a state that almost always reflects the nation at the time. It is a curious mix of the entire political spectrum, but very accurate. Maybe WebDog could comment on this.

Another thing I have noticed is California. In earlier years, with Nixon and Reagan both from California, the state almost always went Republican. At some point, maybe about 1988, it made a one eighty, and has not ever moved from the Democrat column. I always wondered what caused this.

Another state that changed parties lately is West Virginia. It used to be one of the most Democratiic states, and has voted Republican since 2000.

I have read several articles about some state surprises this year. I posted the idea in another thread, but do not agree with it. The senario goes that in the deep south, many Christian evangelicals will stay home due to Romney. This combined with the high black percentage in those states make them in play this election, where they would normally be all Republican. Like I said, that is really not very likely IMO.

Any comments appreciated, including states that you notice that have changed and why.