The Obama campaign did something this past weekend no other Democratic presidential candidate has done in the past- opened an office in downtown Winchester.

Winchester and Frederick County have long been Republican strongholds, but the Obama campaign wants to change that.

The office will be used for phone banking, recruitment of volunteers and encouraging residents to register to vote.

It is a welcomed addition to Winchester for Democratic party chairman Paul Hampton.

"What is going on is that the Democratic party has taken a very inclusive approach to government," said Hampton. "They always include every part of Virginia in their efforts as elected officials, and in their campaigns they are doing the same thing. This is simply a measure of that, and we welcome that investment on their part."

The campaign hopes to appeal to Democrats, Independents and Republicans who are looking for a change in these tough economic times.

The office is located at 19 Cork Street in downtown Winchester.