Good observations on McDonnell/Bolling by the Virginian-Pilot

By J.R. | March 26, 2008
Filed Under Campaigns and Elections, Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Republicans |

Today’s Pilot editorial makes all the right observations when it comes to Lt. Gov. Bolling’s decision to seek re-election as lieutenant governor in 2009, paving the way for Attorney General McDonnell’s nomination by the GOP for the governor’s race.

The Pilot correctly observes that:

a united party that reaches out to independents and moderates is better than one that dukes it out;
the younger members of the GOP are ticked-off and will not allow stale ideas and old practices to undercut opportunity;
the GOP has a wide-array of talent to choose from for candidates and leadership…much more than what the Dems currently possess;
the lack of a primary fight will allow McDonnell the much needed time to raise and save money for the general election;
McDonnell can win in Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia; and,
McDonnell is conservative, while still being practical:

McDonnell has worked effectively with Democratic Gov. Tim Kaine and, in his previous tour as a Virginia Beach delegate, showed a talent for assembling bipartisan coalitions to tackle transportation and law enforcement issues.

Of course, what would a Pilot editorial be if they didn’t offer their insightful, earth-shattering, and ground-breaking wisdom:

McDonnell would be foolish to assume he’s a shoo-in at the governor’s mansion. The winner in November 2009 will be the candidate with the most persuasive vision about where he wants Virginia to be when he leaves the governor’s mansion in January 2014.

Duh.

In other news, water is wet.