Updating BD's Big Line prediction for Sen-24

By Lynn R. Mitchell

Bearing Drift's "Big Line" predictions have not been updated since March 5, 2015, so I'm going to update Senate District 24. Interestingly, their editorial board got it wrong.


Emmett Hanger was successful in court (by the way, there is no such thing as the "incumbent protection act," a name made up by the 24th legislative committee). Dan Moxley was not on the winning side of the lawsuit that called for a faux convention. Marshall Pattie was able to stay out of the fray but is he too far removed from the action to have a real possibility at winning on June 9?

(Continue reading here....)

Craig Parisot for vacated Comstock 34th House District seat … primary this Saturday

By Daniel Cortez

Last night at Tyson’s Corner, I had an opportunity to see a veteran on the stump who could responsibly attempt to fill the very big shoes of Congresswoman-elect Barbara Comstock in the House of Delegates 34^th District .  His name is Craig Parisot of McLean, Va.  Pass the.... (continue reading here)

News Leader: 'Bill Bolling's good ideas'

Jean Ann Bolling, Dr. Kurt Michael, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling
Overlooking downtown Staunton, Virginia / August 17, 2013

Yesterday the Virginian-Pilot applauded Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling's ideas presented by his Virginia Mainstream Project PAC. Today, the Staunton News Leader agreed:

Monday, as the federal government stumbled toward shutdown and Virginia’s lamentable gubernatorial campaign dragged toward November, we received a much-needed reminder that some elected officials are still serious about governing.

Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, the man who would be our next governor had Republicans had the sense to nominate him, released some excellent government reform proposals.

The Pilot noted the LG is not up for reelection, commenting:

In each case, Bolling's propositions settle right in the mainstream of Virginia politics. They are proposals that serve voters rather than political parties. They are neither obviously Democratic ideas nor clearly Republican.

They are, quite simply, legislative initiatives that should be - and no doubt would be - welcomed by the vast middle of the commonwealth's voters.

Unfortunately for all those voters, the man who proposed them will soon be out of state government, a victim of the same forces that kept those legislative ideas in a desk until Monday.

The Roanoke Times opined, Imagine: ideas, not ick. The first paragraph probably echoes what many are thinking in these final weeks of the 2013 Virginia gubernatorial race:

Another week. Another palm slap to the forehead. Another “Gee, we could have had Bill Bolling” moment for Virginia voters.

For those who will point fingers and again accuse of sour grapes (I'd like to see how they would handle how many in the Republican Party have been treated by the current crop), the editorial continued:

Cynics will say that Bolling found his moral high ground only after losing the GOP gubernatorial nomination to Cuccinelli. While we wish the lieutenant governor had shown more verve in his response to partisan machinations that thrust him aside in favor of his flashier opponent, it would be unfair to suggest Bolling’s motives are so shallow. He has a genuine heart for good government, as demonstrated by his long-time support for bipartisan redistricting reform despite its unpopularity within his own party.

Read all the proposals presented by the LG's Virginia Mainstream Project.

Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell

Boyd, Mudcat ... 2013's odd political climate in Virginia

The political climate in Virginia continues to get curiouser and curiouser on an almost daily basis and, today, it clouded yet again.

Two weeks ago, that ground shift you felt under your feet was the GOP reacting as longtime veteran Republican strategist Boyd Marcus endorsed and moved over to work for Democratic candidate Terry McAuliffe for governor. Conservative to the core, Boyd's move had some calling him a RINO, a moderate, and excoriating him for daring to step over the political line even as the Washington Post noted, "Democrats and even some Republicans see Marcus’s move as emblematic of a deep rift within the party: Marcus had been aligned with pragmatic establishment figures and repelled by the resolute tea party style...."

Interesting, then, that in another twist of this continuing drama, the Washington Post reported today that longtime Democratic strategist Mudcat Saunders had sorta-kinda joined the Cuccinelli campaign even though he didn't formally endorse him. Mudcat's reason? He doesn't agree with "corporate" types. That made me wonder if he meant he doesn't agree with capitalism. He was all over the map with thoughts about the campaign but seemed to zero in on southwestern Virginia and the coal industry, something Democrats and liberal environmentalists seem determined to destroy: “Once my party starts caring for the people at the bottom of the mountain as much as they care for the trees at the top of the mountain, I’ll join the conversation."

So was Mudcat piqued that McAuliffe didn't turn to him to consult his campaign, perhaps ticked that a Republican was hired instead? Or did the Cuccinelli campaign begin overtures to Mudcat after Boyd went to McAuliffe? Or could it be that the rural-leaning Mudcat just didn't like the globe-trotting McAuliffe who is closely associated with the Clintons?

There's no knowing for sure but it certainly adds to the mystique and entertainment of those watching this eclectic campaign season play out. With six weeks left until election day, it will be interesting to see who may next trip over party lines.

Cross-posted at Virginia Politics On Demand

Bob McDonnell orders flags flown at half-staff in memory of Harry F. Byrd, Jr.

Governor Orders State Flags to Fly at Half-Staff Friday and Saturday

On Wednesday, Virginia's Governor Bob McDonnell ordered all state flags to fly at half-staff on Friday and Saturday in memory of U.S. Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr., 98, who passed away Wednesday morning. Governor McDonnell noted the order and commented on the Senator's passing:

“This morning, Harry F. Byrd, Jr., America’s oldest living former senator, passed away at his home in Winchester. This is a sad day in the Commonwealth. A chapter of our history has concluded; we’ve lost a good and decent person and a dedicated public servant.

"Senator Byrd was a son of the Valley. He was born in Winchester. While he would go on to attend school at VMI and UVa, serve our nation in World War II, represent the area in the State Senate, and then serve three terms in Washington as a United States Senator, it was always true that in spirit and in soul, Harry F. Byrd, Jr. never left the Valley that he loved.

"Senator Byrd was an iconic figure in Virginia history. He lived through a century of immense change, both here at home and abroad, and he never sat on the sidelines. From his time in public office to his long career in journalism, Harry F. Byrd, Jr. was at the center of the great debates and policy discussions that marked our nation’s path forward. He made his mark as a strong fiscal conservative, always committed to ensuring that taxpayer dollars be wisely and conservatively utilized.

"I had the great opportunity to visit with the senator several times over the past few years at his home. His mind was sharp, and he was quick with stories from growing up in Virginia’s Executive Mansion in the 1920’s to his experiences as the first person ever elected and re-elected to the United States Senate as an independent. The senator was rightly known for his civility, candor and wit, and those attributes remained with him until the very end. As governor, there were a number of times I would receive a carefully handwritten letter from the senator, well into his 90’s, letting me know how he felt about legislation and policy discussions in Richmond. He lived to participate in the public discourse and he cherished democracy and civic engagement. That was the common thread that ran from his time in public office to his editorials and columns in The Winchester Star and The Harrisonburg Daily News-Record.

"Virginia will mourn the passing of Senator Harry F. Byrd, Jr.”

The race for Governor: The silly snark over Rt. 58

"Instead of wasting time with snarky videos and scripted statements of indignation from surrogates, maybe both candidates should spend a week traveling U.S. 58 to see it for themselves. ... It’s about time for them to run campaigns worthy of the title [of Governor]." -- Roanoke Times editorial (Stuck on the side of the road)

The Governor apologizes to his 'beloved Virginia'

Governor Bob McDonnell and Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling
Executive Mansion, January 2011

"Being Governor of Virginia is the highest honor of my 37 years in public service. I am deeply sorry for the embarrassment certain members of my family and I brought upon my beloved Virginia and her citizens. I want you to know that I broke no laws and that I am committed to regaining your sacred trust and confidence. I hope today's action is another step toward that end. 

"Virginia has never been stronger and I plan to focus on creating even more jobs and facilitating greater opportunity during the last five months of my term as your Governor. Our work together on education, transportation, pension reform, voting rights, and economic expansion has produced great results for Virginia." --Governor Bob McDonnell (July 23, 2013)

Cross-posted at Va Political Pineapple

Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell
January 2011 

Augusta public hearing tonight ... do we need to raise taxes?

A public hearing will be held at 7:00 tonight by the Augusta County Board of Supervisors as they consider the idea of raising taxes to balance the budget.

A financial tsumani is hitting Virginia's cities and counties and, since many citizens are also attempting to make ends meet in their personal lives, all sides are dealing with the question of how to handle this issue that has faced multiple localities in the Commonwealth.

As local elected officials struggle with budget shortfalls in these financially turbulent times, one has to wonder how many citizens, angry at the though of raising local taxes, have talked with their state representatives about the unfunded mandates that are breaking the backs of localities throughout Virginia?

In the SWAC area that would be Sen. Emmett Hanger, Sen. Mark Obenshain, Del. Steve Landes, Del. Ben Cline, Del. Dickie Bell, and Del. Tony Wilt (see their contact info below).

Augusta supervisors voted 5-2 to hold the public hearing on a proposal to add a 3-cent increase to the real estate tax and a 32-cent hike on the personal property tax rate for vehicles. Supervisors David Beyeler, Jeff Moore, Larry Wills, Mike Shull, and David Karaffa voted to consider the idea while Tracy Pyles and Marshall Pattie voiced their preference to use money from the county's capital account -- savings -- a reasonable alternate plan but since it involved recurring costs, other supervisors were concerned about dipping into those savings.

The proposal to raise taxes is driven by needs that include more firefighters, sheriff's deputies, and school costs -- the core services that are the responsibility of local governments.

The three SWAC localities -- Staunton, Waynesboro, and Augusta County -- continue to wrestle with budget shortfalls even after years of spending cuts. Public schools and local governments have been in the headlines for months, laying off employees, making additional cuts, putting off building repairs, and searching for even more ways to save. Local school teachers have gone four years without pay raises, and school buildings have put needed basic repairs and technology updates on hold.

The Augusta County School Board voted in December to close an elementary school, and has threatened to close two others. The superintendent even floated the idea of closing Shenandoah Valley Governor's School because of budget cuts, news that brought out hundreds of teachers, parents, and students in protest at a supervisor meeting and resulted in that idea being back-burnered. In the process, however, a group called Support Our Schools (SOS) was born and an online petition garnered over 1,000 signatures in a the first few days and SOS yard signs popped up all over the county.

Unfunded mandates from state representatives have had deep repercussions at the local level including state legislators' voting to pass along Virginia Retirement System costs, as noted by the News Advance:

One of the biggest burdens Richmond has foisted on local government entities ­— city councils, boards of supervisors and school boards — is the recapitalization of the Virginia Retirement System. And it’s close to becoming the straw that breaks the backs of local governments and local taxpayers. [emphasis added]

More than twenty localities throughout the Commonwealth have either proposed or already enacted tax increases to meet the demands of running their communities, including Bath, Rockingham, Fluvanna, Harrisonburg, Winchester, Lynchburg, Hampton, Fredericksburg, Lexington, Petersburg, Williamsburg, Bristol, Shenandoah, Orange, Staunton, Accomack, Gloucester, Poquoson, York, Washington, and Albemarle.

As a low-tax person who believes in cutting costs to make ends meet, what has caught my attention in the local struggle is listening to those who are just as fiscally conservative -- elected folks who feel the pain of their constituents when they have to raise taxes. They have engaged in thoughtful discussions to find solutions but have often been met with an unmovable wall of discontent from those who have declared "no new taxes," no matter what the circumstances.

Are people listening when local leaders say they have cut as much as they can? Rockingham County supervisors held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. Only one person spoke up against a tax increase; the others understood the need to fund core services such as fire and emergency, schools, and infrastructure. Fluvanna County supervisors under Chairman Shaun Kenney, a strong financial conservative, also held a public hearing last week about the necessity of raising taxes. The anti-tax people turned out to protest.

Tonight's public hearing may come down to a clash of retired citizens on fixed incomes versus younger members of the community who are holding down jobs and raising children.

So what is the answer? The bills are due. The budget has been studied, cuts have been made, and still there's a deficit. Should local elected leaders ignore their responsibility and kick the can down the road for the next group of supervisors and council members?

If you're going:
What: Augusta County public hearing on proposed tax increases
When: Tonight, April 18, 2012
Time: 7:00
Place: Augusta County Government Center, Verona

Contact info for local state representatives to ask that they stop passing along unfunded mandates to localities:

Delegate Dickie Bell
DelDBell@house.virginia.gov
(540) 332-3998

Delegate Steve Landes
DelSLandes@house.virginia.gov
(540) 245-5540

Delegate Tony Wilt
DelTWilt@house.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1450

Delegate Todd Gilbert
DelTGilbert@house.virginia.gov
(540) 459-7550

Delegate Ben Cline
DelBCline@house.virginia.gov
(434) 946-9908

Senator Mark Obenshain
district26@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 437-1451

Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr.
district24@senate.virginia.gov
(540) 885-6898

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

April 28 ... SWAC Political Breakfast with Congressman Bob Goodlatte

We will continue the 6th District Congressional Candidate Series this month by hearing from Congressman Bob Goodlatte on Saturday, April 28. Bring your questions and come hear Rep. Goodlatte's vision for the future of the 6th District.

In February we heard from Congressional candidate Karen Kwiatkowski (R) and in March we heard from Congressional candidate Andy Schmookler (D).

Speaker: Congressman Bob Goodlatte

Date:  Saturday, April 28, 2012

Time:  8:30 a.m.

Place:  Golden Corral

Location: 51 Apple Tree Lane, Waynesboro, VA 22980 (I-64, Exit 94)

Dutch-treat: Buffet breakfast $10.25 includes coffee & juice 

About Our Guest Speaker
Source: www.BobGoodlatte.com

Bob Goodlatte came to the United States House of Representatives in 1993, bringing with him valuable knowledge and working experience of one of the largest and most diverse Congressional Districts in Virginia.

Bob's service to the Sixth District began in 1977, when he became District Director for former Congressman M. Caldwell Butler. In that position, he was responsible for providing assistance to citizens as related to solving issues with various federal agencies. In 1979, he founded a private law practice; and later became a partner in the law firm of Bird, Kinder and Huffman, working there from 1981, until his election to Congress.

While in Congress, his leadership abilities earned him a seat on the House Judiciary Committee, where he currently serves as the Vice Ranking Member. He also serves on the Courts and Competition Policy Subcommittee and the Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security Subcommittee. Bob's work on the Judiciary Committee aids many of his legislative priorities including ending the Immigration Visa Lottery, cracking down on spammers, curbing illegal Internet gambling, stemming the abuse of frivolous class action lawsuits, and reducing wasteful government spending by requiring a federal Balanced Budget Amendment.

In 2003, Bob was named Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, the first from Virginia since 1947. In that role he promoted healthy forest initiatives, and worked to provide programs to rural Americans who are in need of a stable farm economy, while providing for the safest, most abundant and affordable food supply in the world. He now serves as the Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Conservation, Credit, Energy and Research.

Bob serves as Chairman of the House Republican High Technology Working Group; Co-Chair of the Congressional Internet Caucus; and is a member of the Republican Policy Committee.

Bob, 57, is a graduate of Washington and Lee University School of Law, and his undergraduate degree in Government was earned at Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. Bob and Maryellen have been married for 34 years, live in Roanoke, and have two children, Jennifer and Rob.

About SWAC Political Breakfast:
SWAC Political Breakfast is fashioned after the popular “town hall meeting” venue. It is non-partisan and open to everybody in the community. SWAC Breakfast does not promote or endorse any particular party and/or point of view. It serves as a social forum for politically-minded people who like to share and discuss ideas with their neighbors. It also allows citizens an opportunity to hear from public figures, elected officials, and candidates running for public office. SWAC Political Breakfast is held at various locations throughout the community.

Good morning, Homestead ... Friday GOP Advance events

 The Casino on a frosty Friday morning before the sun peeked over the mountain.

 The ice skating rink and fire pit next to the Casino.

Steam rises as workers spray water on the skating rink.

This is the view out my window as I wake to a frosty cold morning at the historic 245-year-old Homestead Resort surrounded by the beautiful Alleghany Mountains. The hotel has been bought by KSL Resorts since the last time we were here with the Advance in 2008 and there have been some changes and improvements.

For one, the extensive outdoor Christmas lights that were turned off at midnight in the past stayed on until day break. Our room overlooks the Casino and the new ice skating rink so all the twinkly lights added a festive atmosphere throughout the night. This morning as I look out the widow as the frost-covered grounds, workers are spraying down the skating rink preparing for a busy weekend with a packed resort.

Also new is the fire pit adjacent to the rink where a roaring fire last night had families gathered around enjoying the cold mountain air. Lighted arches over walkways as well decorated lamp posts, faux carolers, deer, and trees add to the holiday feeling.

Indoors, the signature multi-story Christmas tree anchors one end of the Great Hall with its colored lights and decorations while a grand piano anchors the other end as a pianist plays seasonal music. Doors and arches throughout the resort are dressed in garlands and red bows, and the annual gingerbread house has turned into a gingerbread village in the garden hallway.

The Homestead is a winter wonderland, offering skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snow tubing, and snowmobiling. This weekend, there are hayrides available in the afternoons along with archery, paintballing, hiking, golfing, bowling, and shopping ... and don't forget people-watching in the Great Hall sitting cozied next to a crackling fireplace. It has been nice to once again see familiar employee faces. They are a wealth of information about the history of the place and interesting to talk with.

With over 600 Republicans registered for the Advance, the resort will be hopping. Registration begins at noon today in the South Parlor.

Tonight's RPV Welcome Reception will be sponsored by Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling in the Grand Ballroom West.

Tonight's hospitality suites will be headlined by Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling's "Bowling with Bolling" at the Homestead bowling alley from 9-11.

Also headlining will be former Governor George Allen's "A-Team Huddle" in the Players Club from 9-11.

Others with hospitality suites tonight:

Room 900 – Virginia Conservative Victory Fund, hosted by Delegate Ben Cline
Room 906 – Virginia Senate Republican Caucus’ “Campaign Candy Land”
Room 1005 – Americans for Prosperity
Room 1006 – Dessert with Dave and Martha Foster
Room 1105 – Pat Mullins for Chairman
Room 1106 – Congressman Eric Cantor, U.S. House Majority Leader
Room 1200 – Delegate Rob Bell with "Camp Bell" -- s'mores and more
Room 1400 – Senator Mark Obenshain
Room 1520 – Delegate Bob Marshall
Bowling Alley – Lieutenant Governor Bolling’s “Bowling with Bolling”
Players Pub – George and Susan Allen’s A-Team Huddle
Washington Library – Keith Fimian - Growth Opportunity and Prosperity Fund

The complete lineup for the weekend can be found at RPV's website. Meanwhile, I'm going to roam the grounds, the building, and catch up with fellow blogger Jeanine Martin while watching for Republicans to begin arriving this morning. It's time for the 28th Annual Donald Huffman Republican Advance.

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell
2 December 2011

Back at the Homestead for the Republican Advance ... Christmas is in the air

 It's a beautiful sight ... the Homestead Resort in the Alleghany Mountains of western Virginia.

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell and SWAC Husband
1 December 2011

Cantor, Bolling, Cuccinelli, Howell purged from local GOP committees

The Commonwealth's top cop has been kicked off his local Republican committee.

Ken Cuccinelli, Virginia's Attorney General, was purged from the membership after endorsing Republican-turned-Independent candidate Delegate Bill Janis who left the Party to run against the Republican nominee for Henrico commonwealth's attorney. At that time, Cuccinelli was quoted by the Richmond Times-Dispatch:

Cuccinelli said political affiliation has little to do with decisions made by local leaders, nor should it get in the way of selecting, or endorsing, the best candidate in a race.

"I'm a Republican because I fit better there, but it's not the reason for my being, politically," he said.

Janis, a popular legislator who has served in House leadership for years and is the current Republican Whip, decided to run for commonwealth's attorney after the vetted Republican candidate, Matthew Geary, was deemed by some to be unsuitable for the position.

Cuccinelli was in good company with other top Virginia Republicans who had endorsed Janis and found themselves facing removal due to a Republican Party of Virginia bylaw. U.S. House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, Lt. Governor Bill Bolling, and Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Bill Howell were all purged from their Republican committees.

The way the bylaw reads, any other elected officials or Republican activists who endorse Janis can also be removed from their respective GOP committees.

That may be an issue for Lacey Putney, a long-time Independent who has caucused with Republicans for over 20 years, and who has found himself in a similar situation this year after Republicans put up a  contender against him. His colleagues and long-time supporters, some who hold leadership positions in the GOP and who have been donors to his campaign, have found themselves caught in the middle. Putney also faces a Democrat in that race so there is the question of whether Republicans may lose a seat that has been GOP-friendly for years.

The automatic removal rule can be reversed by local committees who need a two-thirds vote to reinstate ousted members. For Cantor, Bolling, Cuccinelli, and Howell, that may not come until after the elections.

Ironically, today is Bill Janis' birthday but some are hesitant to send him public birthday wishes because of the rule, wondering if it would be declared a "public endorsement" of an Independent.

Facebook discussion was lively Friday evening when news got out of the removals of  the four high-ranking Republican leaders. "This will probably happen to me one day," read one response. Another wrote, "Dear RPV: Please amend this rule to allow exceptions. It's a great rule in principle but the Janis race shows what happens when the wrong candidate is nominated and people must take stands of principle."

Someone else commented, "I think they need to get rid of that rule entirely. Many times there are candidates who just aren't trustworthy and to tell someone they have to vote against their interests or leave the party is just crazy."

Meanwhile, the news has traveled. Blogs -- those on the left and those on the right -- have picked up on the action as well as the Washington Post, UPI, Live Wire, and others, and news of the removals didn't escape Twitter.

Even the Dallas Morning News headlined it online along with the Toronto Star, and Roland Martin Reports. Others across the country reposted the Washington Post article including iStock Analyst, News in Politics, and Political News Network.

Virginia's elections will be held on November 8th.

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Va Ag Commissioner Matt Lohr's wife, Andrea, loses battle with cancer

Andrea Lohr, 36, wife of Virginia's Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Matt Lohr, beat breast cancer twice, in 2006 and 2007, but not the third time.

Mrs. Lohr's battle ended Sunday, and an announcement by the family noted, "Earlier today our beloved Andrea was called home to see her Lord and savior Jesus Christ. The entire family wishes to say thanks to everyone for all their support throughout this painful journey. We will share service details as they become available. Again thanks for your prayers, encouragement, and inspiring messages. God bless!"

A mom of two, Mrs. Lohr's children were six years old and 18 months old when she was first diagnosed, and her husband was a member of the Virginia House of Delegates.

During the years, Mrs. Lohr became an advocate for breast cancer research, giving of her time to raise money and awareness of the cause including a dinner at James Madison University:

[Mrs.] Lohr underwent radiation treatment and surgery to have the cancer removed in 2006. Matt Lohr said his wife inspires him because she keeps a positive attitude and keeps on fighting.

"Before 2006, breast cancer was just something I had heard of," said Matt, who represents the central Valley's 26th district in the House of Delegates. "For our family, breast cancer's become a part of our life."

In the fall of 2007, [Mrs.] Lohr was diagnosed with the disease again, and once more had surgery and radiation treatment. "My kids are what kept me going," Lohr said, adding that her family has gotten a lot of support.

[Mrs.] Lohr, who will have major surgery on Tuesday to fight the recurrence, said the biggest lesson she's learned is to appreciate every day she's alive. "I'm smiling because the cancer has not gone anywhere else," she said. "Just be thankful you have a breath to take today."

Our prayers are with Matt and the family as they face the difficult days ahead.

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Virginia posts 17.9% revenue growth in May

From Governor Bob McDonnell's office:

Governor Bob McDonnell announced today that May revenue collections increased by 17.9 percent over the prior year. This is the fourteenth month out of the last 15 in which state revenue collections exceeded the previous year’s amount. It is the sixth out of the last seven in which year-over-year revenue growth was greater than 9 percent.

The revenue increase was primarily driven by a 49 percent increase in nonwithholding receipts (individual final payments based on 2010 tax liabilities). On the other hand, growth in two large sources, payroll withholding and sales tax, slowed.  On a year-to-date basis, total revenue collections have risen 5.8 percent, slightly ahead of the revised annual forecast of 3.5 percent growth. Adjusted for the accelerated sales tax program, state revenues have grown 7.3 percent, ahead of the forecast of 5.5 percent.

Speaking about the latest revenue report, Governor McDonnell noted, “The growth in state revenue is a positive sign that Virginia’s economy continues to improve.  However, while 17.9 percent revenue growth is great news, it does not mean we have fully turned the corner from the deep and long-lasting recession that has impacted every Virginian.  Like some national economic indicators, our payroll withholding and sales tax collections slowed last month. This means there is still much work to be done before we find ourselves with the full and robust economic recovery our Commonwealth and nation needs.”

The governor continued, “Even though our revenue collections continue to increase month after month, too many Virginians are still out of a job. That is unacceptable. We must work to ensure that every Virginian can find a good-paying job to support their families and afford the goods and services they need to live a healthy, happy life.  While more Virginians are back to work, families and businesses still face high gas prices and increasing commodity prices, forcing them to tighten their belts.  Just as families are doing, our administration will continue to reign in government spending, better utilize hard-earned taxpayer money, and exercise fiscal responsibility in managing the state.  At the same time, we remain committed to putting in place aggressive policies that encourage economic growth, help bring private sector jobs to every region of this state, and get our economy turned around for good.”

The May revenue numbers are available at this link: http://www.finance.virginia.gov/KeyDocuments/RevenueReports/FY2010-2011/May2011RevenueLetter.pdf

Del. Carrico to run for senate seat to be vacated by Wampler

Delegate Charles W. “Bill” Carrico, Sr. (R-Grayson), who has represented Southwest Virginia’s 5th District in the House of Delegates since 2002, today announced he would seek the Republican nomination for the Virginia Senate in the 40th District. Carrico made the announcement surrounded by his family at a news conference held at Abingdon’s Virginia Highlands Airport.

On Friday, June 3, Senator William C. Wampler, Jr. (R-Bristol), who has represented the 40th Senatorial District since 1988, announced his intention not to seek a seventh term.

“After much prayer and long conversations with Paula, my wife of 24 years, my 21-year-old son, Willie, my 11-year-old daughter, Emily, my mother and father, and my sister, all of whom are by my side today, I have decided to seek the Republican nomination for the 40th Senatorial District,” declared Carrico.

“As Delegate for the 5th District for the last 10 years, I have represented nearly half of the citizens of the 40th Senate District. I have worked closely with Senator Wampler on behalf of our region, and I am very familiar with the issues and challenges facing the people of Southwest.

“I grew up in Seven Mile Ford in Smyth County, which is just across the Washington County line. I was educated in the public school system, graduating from Chilhowie High School. I went on to attend Virginia Highlands Community College here in Abingdon. Before my service with the Virginia State Police, I worked as a draftsman at General Engineering in Abingdon. Then, I served with the State Police for 15 years. Today, my family and I live in Grayson County.

“I understand the challenges and issues facing the families of Southwest because my own family has lived them. Southwest has always been my home, and I have always stood up and fought for the people of our region. The most effective representatives are most like the people they are entrusted to serve. As demonstrated throughout my decades of public service, I am.

“My focus as your Senator will be to make sure that, from Lee County to Grayson County and all parts in between, Southwest Virginia will have the tools and ability to sustain a strong economy through the creation of jobs that so many in our region desperately need.

“I have been and will continue to be a strong supporter of the continued production of coal and will fight any federal or state regulation that, like Cap and Trade, tries to take away the viability of our coal producing regions.

“I will continue to fight to keep our education system one of the best in the nation to educate our children and to give them the same quality education as they could get anywhere in the state.

“I will continue the fight to address our transportation needs here in Southwest, because good roads are essential to safe travel and are integral the infrastructure needed to create the jobs for the future of our children.

“I will fight against undue tax increases that take money out of the pockets of our families, who are struggling to make ends meet because government isn’t willing to be good stewards of your tax dollars.

“Last, but most important, I will continue to fight for what our forefathers fought as they began this great nation:

· That our rights as citizens should never be trampled upon by the government or the courts;

· That each state within their boundaries should have the right to govern without the federal government’s interference; and

· That the Constitution is the ultimate document by which our elected leaders must govern.


“By continuing to adhere to fiscally responsible policies, and to respect that freedom is essential to economic prosperity, Virginia has been setting an example. It remains our hope that the federal government will catch on, abandoning policies that take us in a direction toward socialism with bail outs and out of control spending.

“It is a simple fact that if government can’t live within its means, how can we expect the American dream to flourish?

“I defended the Constitution as a Virginia State Trooper. I have protected the Constitution as a Delegate. I will live by the Constitution as a Senator.

“I am a leader and a fighter. I am not afraid to challenge the ACLU, the EPA, nor the Obama Administration when they tread on the rights and freedoms of the people. I believe the government should be responsible to the people, not the people responsible to the government.

“Let me conclude by thanking Senator William Wampler and his family for all their years of service to the people of Southwest and the Commonwealth. My family and all those who serve know the sacrifices that are made in public office. Although I cannot truly replace him, I have learned much from the many good traits and outstanding example set by Senator Wampler. His counsel and advice to me as a mentor will help me to serve the people of the 40th district well.

“Thank you for being here, and God Bless.”

Elected to the Virginia House of Delegates in 2001, Delegate Charles W. “Bill” Carrico, Sr. (R-Grayson), 49, represents the 5th District, which is currently comprised of the City of Galax and Grayson County, and portions of Carroll, Smyth, and Wythe Counties.

Under the redistricting plan approved by the General Assembly in late April, the 40th Senatorial District is comprised of the City of Bristol and Grayson, Lee, Scott, and Washington Counties, and portions of Smyth, Wise, and Wythe Counties.

GOP State Senator Wampler announces retirement

Noting that he was elected in 1987 and had spent the past 24 years logging close to half a million miles driving back and forth to Richmond, William Wampler, Jr. (R-40th Senate District), 51, announced in an interview this morning that he will not seek re-election.

Wampler, who represents the Southwestern Virginia cities of Bristol and Norton along with Lee, Scott, and Washington counties and part of Grayson, Smyth, and Wise, is the senior ranking Republican in the Senate.

His press release added details:

“Today I am announcing that I will not seek re-election to the Senate of Virginia. It has been a high honor to represent the citizens of Southwest Virginia for 24 years. Six terms is a long time. There have been many trips to Richmond and many nights away from home. There is a time for everything.

“I appreciate the good people of Southwest Virginia for giving me the chance to work for them in Richmond. I know I have tried to give it my best effort. Also, I wish to thank all of my colleagues, past and present, for the courtesies shown to me as we worked together in trying to make Virginia a better place to live, work and raise a family. I still believe that the best days are ahead of us. To all who have encouraged me, counseled me, and took time to offer their thoughts, I say thank you.

“To those who will return to Richmond and those who will succeed me, you have my encouragement and support.

“I look forward to continuing to offer help to our region as appropriate. So, I am retiring from public life and looking forward to resuming more of a private life of living and working here in the great Southwest.”

In his interview with WCYB, he talked about his accomplishments during his time in the senate and his desire to work with the citizens of tornado-ravaged Glade Spring to rebuild their community. He stressed that he felt honored to have represented the citizens of Southwest Virginia, and said it had been a great run.

Brian Schoeneman's campaign kickoff for Va House of Delegates (37th House District)

Gov. Bob McDonnell and Brian Schoeneman in the Executive Mansion during Bloggers Day
in February in a photo taken by me.

In February 2011 during Lt. Governor Bill Bolling's Bloggers Day at the Capitol, a tall young man took his place at the long table in the Governor's conference room with about two dozen conservative bloggers from around the Commonwealth. Included in the group were those from Virginia's Bearing Drift blog where he is one of the contributors.

Thoughtful in his responses but not shy in sharing opinions in the blogosphere, it wouldn't be long before this 34-year-old Fairfax Republican made a decision to cross the bridge from blogger to candidate.

Active in the Republican Party, Brian Schoeneman caught the political bug 16 years ago when he interned for a Pennsylvania state legislator. He later served in the George W. Bush administration as special assistant and senior speechwriter to Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao before entering the private sector as legislative and political director for the Seafarers International Union of North America.

Brian is married to KayAnn Panagi Schoeneman and together they have a young son. For a heart-warming read, check out this 2009 Washington Post article about how KayAnn and Brian met in college and eventually reconnected years later to become a couple.

This Saturday, June 3, is the Brian Schoeneman Campaign Kickoff for the 37th District Virginia House of Delegates seat. Everyone is invited to join him at the Old Firestation #3 formerly known as the Firehouse Grill in Fairfax from 3-5:30 p.m.

Brian Schoeneman for Delegate
Old Firestation #3
3988 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030

For questions, contact James Basile:
(703) 667-0817
james@brianfordelegate.com

Cross-posted at Bearing Drift

Eric Cantor in Brandermill 3rd of July parade

Congressman Eric Cantor (R-7th CD), Republican Whip, will attend the Brandermill Independence Day Parade in Chesterfield County on Saturday morning, July 3rd, at 10:00 a.m. as he walks in the parade with campaign volunteers and members of the Chesterfield County Republican Committee. He will also visit with constituents while celebrating our nation’s independence.

The Chesterfield parade will begin at Swift Creek Middle School in Midlothian and make its way to Brandermill's Sunday Park. Come out and join the fun!

Maureen McDonnell's father passes away

Our prayers go out to Virginia First Lady Maureen McDonnell and her family in the death of her father, 87-year-old Frank Gardner, in Northern Virginia late Saturday night.

Prayers for Maureen McDonnell's family

The Governor and Mrs. McDonnell unexpectedly headed to Northern Virginia Saturday to be with her father who reportedly is in ill health.

The Richmond Times-Dispatch reported:

Gov. Bob McDonnell has canceled his daily activities to accompany his wife, Maureen, to her father’s side.

Maureen McDonnell’s father, Frank Gardner, has been seriously ill for some time, and his health has apparently taken a severe turn.

Mrs. McDonnell's mother passsed away during the gubernatorial campaign in 2009. Our prayers go out to the family.