“Mayor” Wilder retiring

By J.R. | May 17, 2008
Filed Under Attorney General, Campaigns and Elections, Democrats, Governor |

Former Gov. Douglas Wilder, America’s first African-American governor, has decided not to seek re-election as mayor of Richmond.

Since Wilder’s term as governor, candidates seeking elected office, have always sought his endorsement. What has always been slightly amusing is how the governor would hold off his endorsement until shortly before the election, creating a buzz among the media that he just might endorse the Republican, and, of course, he never does.

That doesn’t keep Republicans from saying nice things about him though. In the latest example, Virginia’s next governor, Attorney General Bob McDonnell, has this to say:

“Throughout his career, Doug Wilder has been a strong and innovative leader, and a dedicated public servant. His legacy is much larger than the individual achievements and actions that comprise his nearly 40 years of public service. His legacy is that of a statesman, who broke through old barriers, eschewed tired labels, and constantly sought new and better ways of governing. As a veteran, state senator, governor and mayor, L. Douglas Wilder has earned a secure place in the long list of great Virginians. I wish him the very best.”

Who knows. Maybe McDonnell can be the first Republican to get Wilder’s elusive endorsement.

Nah.

Vivian Paige has more nice comments for Wilder from Dwight Jones, who is seeking to be Wilder’s heir-apparent.

Comments

5 Responses to ““Mayor” Wilder retiring”

Brian Kirwin on May 17th, 2008 10:44 am

Maybe someone can start the “L. Douglas Wilder Museum of Presidential Campaign Quitters” featuring Wilder, Jim Gilmore and Mark Warner.
Junebug on May 17th, 2008 12:23 pm

Governor Wilder is abrasive and bull-headed, but has been exactly what Richmond has needed over his term as mayor.

We can blame him for losing the R-Braves, we can blame him for inadequate flood preparation, and we can blame him for pissing off both the School Board and Richmond City Council. BUT as a Richmonder, I know that the predominant issue facing any mayor is crime. Doug Wilder — through successful hiring and policy has made a huge impact on crime in the river city. From day one, the police presence has been impressive and effective.

Most flaming liberals from New England fancy themselves on being progressive… perticularly in comparison to the New South. They forget that Virginia had the first African American statewide-elected official in Lt. Governor Wilder and likewise the first African American Governor when he won the mansion.

I would say that I agree with Doug Wilder on approximately 20% of the issues. His leadership however, is undeniable. He has been an excellent public servant.
Brian Kirwin on May 17th, 2008 1:39 pm

Wilder was a transportation expert, too. He did wonders for helicopter travel.
Ian Jordan on May 18th, 2008 6:29 pm

Brian Kirwin: Always raising the tone of conversation.
Brian Kirwin on May 18th, 2008 6:52 pm

Ian, mind if I make t-shirts outta that?