A Virginia Commonwealth University poll conducted Oct. 21-25 gives Republican Bob McDonnell an 18-point lead over Democrat Creigh Deeds, the latest survey to suggest that McDonnell is headed for a big victory in the once-close contest.

The survey of 625 voters who are likely to vote on Nov. 3 gives McDonnell 54 percent of the vote and Deeds 36 percent of the vote. By wide margins, Respondents prefer McDonnell to Deeds on the issues of handling economic development, state budget policy, transportation and education.

By a 56 percent to 29 percent margin, self-described political independents back McDonnell over Deeds.