But several legislators, who did not want to be identified, said Tuesday that Melvin may have a second career in public life ahead of him. He is being considered for a Portsmouth Circuit Court seat, the legislators said.
My understanding is that a sitting member of the General Assembly cannot be considered for a judicial appointment, thus the retirement announcement yesterday. An actual retirement resignation announcement is expected at a later date, which will allow Melvin to be appointed to the bench.
My sources tell me that the appointment by Melvin to the bench will be made by the governor, which will then require confirmation by the 2010 General Assembly. Further, I understand from several sources that certain deals are being made to ensure that this appointment does not go awry.
Now, I have no doubt that Ken Melvin will make a fine judge. His legal mind is well-respected by everyone. And he’s a nice guy, to boot. He is the type of person who we want in the courtroom.
So why the shenanigans surrounding his appointment?
Oh, I forgot – politics as usual. Instead of allowing the cream to rise to the top, subterfuge and secrecy – not to mention horsetrading – is the only way they know.
Is there any way President Obama can send some of that hope and change down to Virginia?
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 
Rumors are that certain Democrtic Senators are going to give a way judicial seats to Hampton Roads republicans to ensure his confirmation by the General Assembly in January.
I have known Mr Melvin my entire life. He was my childhood t-ball coach and has been a close friend of my family for years. His son and I are best friends and Mr Melvin has always been an excellent role model for myself and many other young black men in Portsmouth and throughout Virginia. I can think of no better choice to fill a seat as a judge and anyone who has objection to it must be biased towards the fact that he made a living as a criminal attorney. If that is the only objection, it will never be strong enough to keep a deserving man from a job he should have.