Category: 2009 Elections

Pilot endores 2Ds, 2Rs in Virginia Beach

The Virginian-Pilot endorsements in the Virginia Beach House of Delegates races has been published. In the three races in which I predicted an endorsement, the Pilot endorsed just as I thought they would: Democratic incumbent Bobby Mathieson in the 21st, Republican incumbent Bob Purkey in the 82nd, and Democratic incumbent Joe Bouchard in the 83rd. … Continue reading Pilot endores 2Ds, 2Rs in Virginia Beach →

“How can we trust Chris Stolle?”

We can't. As if that weren't enough, both The Virginian-Pilot (not available online) and the Richmond Times Dispatch had articles on Stolle's primary source of funds for this campaign. Stolle, brother of the state senator who is likely Virginia Beach's next sheriff, has received $326,000. That puts him at the top of the RSLC pledge … Continue reading “How can we trust Chris Stolle?” →

Pilot endorses Shannon, no endorsement for LG

In a strongly worded endorsement today, The Virginian-Pilot editorial board endorsed Steve Shannon for Attorney General. Much of the endorsement laid bare how bad it would be for Republican Ken Cuccinelli to win next week's election. The Pilot concluded: To put it politely, Cuccinelli’s election would bring embarrassment to Virginia, instability to the state’s law … Continue reading Pilot endorses Shannon, no endorsement for LG →

Redistricting is VA’s Supreme Court

Last year, when I dared question the support of Barack Obama for president, I was told repeatedly that the Supreme Court appointments were what mattered. Well Virginia, redistricting is our Supreme Court. I've always been clear that the closer government is to me, the more it affects me.  At stake in this election is how … Continue reading Redistricting is VA’s Supreme Court →

The Pilot’s policy on endorsements

In an op-ed piece today, editorial page editor Don Luzzatto explained the policy of The Virginian-Pilot on endorsements. Theoretically, the article is about why they endorse: What we hope to do, with all of our editorials, is encourage substantive debate on the issues of the day, the kind of conversation that continues in the vibrant … Continue reading The Pilot’s policy on endorsements →

Capt. John Bell garners endorsements

Capt. John Bell, the Democratic candidate for Sheriff in Virginia Beach, has been picking up some endorsements. The Virginia Police Benevolent Association, a statewide group who represents law enforcement officers,  has endorsed his candidacy. We will ask our members, their friends and families, and all citizens who respect the strong and efficient enforcement of our … Continue reading Capt. John Bell garners endorsements →

Predictions on Pilot endorsements – statewide races

Having two of the three candidates with ties to Hampton Roads is, no doubt, causing a bit of heartburn for the members of editorial board of The Virginian-Pilot.  Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell lived in Virginia Beach and represented part of it in the House of Delegates (84th district). Democratic Lieutenant Governor candidate Jody Wagner … Continue reading Predictions on Pilot endorsements – statewide races →

Fact check: Mathieson ad on Villanueva

Except one small problem: when given the opportunity to cut his pay, Virginia Beach Councilman, now the Republican challenger to incumbent Democrat Bobby Mathieson, basically punted. Last February, fellow council member Bill Steph proposed a 25% pay cut for the region's highest paid council. "It's not like we're phoning it in," said Councilman Ron Villanueva. … Continue reading Fact check: Mathieson ad on Villanueva →

AG debate today, 1:15pm

The last debate between the candidates for Attorney General, Democrat Steve Shannon and Republican Ken Cuccinelli, will take place at 1:15pm today in at the Omni in Richmond. The debate will be streamed live here. In the meantime, take a look at this video Is this the guy you want for AG?

Kaine rallies HQ staff

Governor Tim Kaine stopped by the campaign headquarters earlier today, bringing pizza and rallying the troops. I was sent a few photos, below. As always, click to enlarge.