VIRGINIA BEACH -- Sen. John McCain’s choice for a running mate surprised most everyone, including some of his staunchest supporters.

The former chair of the Va. Beach Republican party was surprised with the choice of Alaska governor Sarah Palin.

 “When I first heard it, I was very surprised. I think it's something most people didn't expect, but I think it's an excellent choice. I think it's a very brave choice and I think she's going to be an excellent candidate,” said Loretta Tate.

Video: Reaction to McCain-Palin follows party lines

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Tate believes Palin, a 44-year-old mother of give, will give the GOP the winning edge this “I think he'll win. I'm pretty convinced of that and I'm convinced this is a very strong ticket, a very appealing ticket to the broad spectrum of people,” she added.

Down the road at an Obama campaign office, workers had a much different view.

“I was thrilled when Joe Biden was selected.  I think he can step into the presidency with one minute’s notice. I think he's very well qualified on Barack Obama's side to have chosen him. As far as I'm concerned, this was not a good decision in terms of choosing Sarah Palin,” said volunteer Lillian Cooper.

Cooper says the GOP is wrong if they think Hillary Clinton supporters will jump parties because of Palin.

“I feel very strongly as a woman, as a person, that the most important thing in a vice president is somebody who is ready to takeover should anything happen to the president of the United States and from everything I hear, she would not be qualified to be president,” Cooper stated.

2nd District GOP chairman Gary Byler says Palin's a stauch supporter of ethics reform.

"Beyond that, being 44-years old and a governor are big pluses," he said.

The Republican National Convention starts Monday in Minnesota.

Rep. Thelma Drake (R-2nd District) is scheduled to speak Monday.

Attorney General Bob McDonnell will serve as chairman of the state's delegation at the convention.