US Presidential Race The Republican Primaries were a quickly-decided affair, with Senator John McCain gaining and maintaining an early lead. The Democratic Primaries were somewhat marred by the assassination of Senator Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton managed to gain an early lead over her opponents, the closest rival being John Edwards, who was finally outstripped during Super Tuesday. The presidential race came down to Hillary Clinton running as Democratic candidate, her Republican opponent being John McCain. Hillary's campaign was leant vigor by her taking up of the gun control and civil liberties issues brought up by Senator Obama's assassination. McCain seemed to regain some favour in the polls after announcing Sarah Palin as his Vice-Presidential nominee, but this edge faded as hints of