This Spring I set out on the campaign trail for The New York Times to document both candidates as they criss-crossed the state of Virginia shaking hands and giving speeches. Those paying attention to the race have noted the similarities between the candidates. Both men have occupied the Governor's mansion and both men are well known amongst Virginians. On the trail with both candidates I noticed the similarities firsthand. I also began noticing unintentional similarities in my photos. 

Rallies on Route 29: (Left) Democrat Tim Kaine in the Progressive enclave of Charlottesville, Va (Right) Republican George Allen in the rural town of Madison, Va. 

Canvassing: Campaign bumper stickers, free for the taking.

Touring: (Left) Tim Kaine at James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Va. (Right) George Allen in downtown Culpepper, Va.

Courting Voters: (Left) Kaine at Wright's Dairy Rite in Staunton, Va. (Right) Allen in the town square of Madison, Va.

Keeping up Appearances: (Left) Kaine in Harrisonburg, Va. (Right) Allen speaking to reporters in Culpepper, Va. (Right)

Constituencies: (Left) A Kaine rally on the Downtown Mall in Charlottesville, Va. (Right) An Allen stop at Raven's Nest Coffee House in Culpepper, Va. 

Election Year Baggage: November approaches.

Thanks for looking!

**Photo copyright Luke Sharrett and The New York Times**