BD LIVE: Governor McDonnell and Lt Gov Bolling Endorse Scott Rigell in VA-02
By D.J. Spiker | Thursday, May 13th, 2010 | Policy, Politics
[Update: 4:48] End of event it looks like.
[Update: 4:46] Bartel asks McDonnell why Rigell, not the others.
Knows 3 or 4 of the others personally. It’s not a statement against them, it’s a statement for Rigell. Not only based on friendship, but know his business sense and also his strong conservative values.
[Update: 4:45 PM] Wrapping up. Q&A with Governor, Lt Governor and Rigell.
[Update: 4:41 PM] Such a joy to see Governor McDonnell leading the Commonwealth. Seeing the principles that lead McDonnell, the same principles that Rigell is running on.
Less regulation, less government to bring back a prosperous time for the small business owner.
Governor set priorities for our Commonwealth. Here’s my 3:
1) cut federal spending
2) create jobs, create the right economic environment
3) change Congress, rather then having Congress change me…a task of the highest order
[Update: 4:40 PM] We’ve gotta make sure we nominate this guy, and we gotta elect this guy.
Presents Rigell.
[Update: 4:39 PM] We have a great oppurtunity here in the 2nd District to send that message to Congress by electing Scott Rigell.
[Update: 4:38 PM] Rigell has right principles of government but the experience in the private sector to bring to Washington DC. Government needs to run like a business. If Congress were running a business today it’d be bankrupt.
[Update: 4:35 PM] People know that America is on the wrong track. In the last 15 months things have gone seriously wrong in our country. Mortgaging our children’s future, no longer respected abroad. Economy is sputtering but focus is on growing government.
[Update: 4:33 PM] McDonnell introducing Bolling now, giving a preview of the speech on Bolling’s behalf over the next three years. Bolling says he’s trying to create a new job in the 2nd District, for Scott Rigell. Not here today to campaign against candidates, here on behalf of the right candidate to carry the Republican banner and head to November.
[Update: 4:32 PM] trying to get Rigell to run for 14 years, when Scott said it wasn’t the time, I told him to tell me when, and this IS the time. Lived in 2nd District for 21 years, very confident in Scott’s chances for victory.
[Update: 4:30 PM] Fiscal responsibilty in government, we can’t run a debtor nation and jeopardize leaving that to our children and grandchildren
[Update: 4:27 PM] Relates 700,000 constituents as Rigells customers, government closest to the people govern best, as Jefferson said
[Update: 4:25 PM] Known Rigells for twenty years. Knows head and heart of Scott Rigell.
[Update: 4:24 PM] McDonnell is up now. Right to it.
[Update: 4:23 PM] we’re started. Jeff McWaters leading off.
[Update: 4:15 PM] Apparently Bolling is running late as well so waiting on him too.
[Update: 4:11 PM] Governor is here, waiting for his arrival.
[Update: 4:09 PM] Bill Bartel of VP just arrived. He states that the Governor left VP offices at the same time he did.
[Update: 4:03 PM]
Rigell has arrived. Family and friends are in the room. Greeting them now. Governor is running late at the Virginian-Pilot apparently.
I’m live on site at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott for the announcement that Scott Rigell has received the endorsement of both Governor Bob McDonnell and Lt Governor Bill Bolling.
Awaiting the arrival of Rigell, McDonnell and Bolling.
Tags:
Contribute for Conservatism!
Share this post
About the author
Clowns to the left of me, jokers to the right...entrenched on the right as a member of the Establishment, proudly tattooed member of the Republican Party, bartender by trade serving both sides the libations needed to continue the debate and discourse. College student, ten years late, majoring in Public Policy and Administration with an eye to serving the conservative and Republican movement in the public or private sector. ducit amor patriae You can find D.J.on facebook, Twitter, or contact via email at gosport.conservative@gmail.com. You can find D.J.on facebook, Twitter, or contact via email at gosport.conservative@gmail.com.
We're 75% there! Thank you to everyone who has so far contributed! Just $2000 to go!
Comments
90 Responses to "BD LIVE: Governor McDonnell and Lt Gov Bolling Endorse Scott Rigell in VA-02"
So what is the point of a primary? The man with the most money wins?
Congratulations to the apparent chosen winner. Kenny was right.
As Jason from Scott Rigell’s Campaign stated in the Pilot Article, and I thought was an excellent point. The Governor doesn’t loose his Constitutional Right of Freedom of Speech just because he was elected. Just like the mechanic down the street has the right to put up a Rigell sign and tell his friends who he is supporting, so dies Bob McDonnell!
Bob McDonnell recognizes that Scott Rigell is a conservative, has business experience desperately needed in Washington, and he is thinks he’s the right person for Congress. He has the right to say it, as does any other supporter of any other candidate.
Taylor has no problem with Congressmen that live hundreds of miles away endorsing him, but he does have a problem with the Governor, who is from Virginia Beach, endorsing an opponent?
DJ, couldn’t you have use a flash so we could see some smiles rather than showing their dark silhouettes that reminds us of the 4 horsemen of the coming apocalypse?
Much better. Teri should have ironed Scott’s wrinkled sign.
Haha sorry, the first pictures were from my phone, hotel has Wi-Fi but you’d have to pay for it and I don’t love y’all THAT much, it just had to wait until I got home
Too bad Rigell can’t stand on his own. If it were such a slam dunk, why is the Governor’s endorsement necessary? This endorsement just made it impossible to repair the fractured 2nd District party. I can collectively see the slighted candidates’ supporters turning their backs on Rigell in November, if he prevails in the Primary. McDonnell’s nod sure didn’t help Randy Wright.
Isn’t the Marriot in the 3rd District? Anyone find it wierd that a candidate for the 2nd District receives his endorsement at a location outside of the district? What’s wrong with the Convention Center, Westin, VB Conference Center or any other hotel on the oceanfront?
What makes people think that when they enter the republican party the history of the party begins with them?
It’s true with history as well. People only understand the world from the point at which they enter it. Sadly too many Americans can’t look far enough back to Reagan, but I digress.
A reminder for all the candidates: the local party did not begin when you joined. It was here before you and will be here after you.
Scott Rigell had a twenty year head start. He had built trust and relationships with stalwarts within the party long before these other guys even thought about joining. He did this not because he wanted to run for office, but because he believed in republican principles. As Gov McDonnell said today, Bob lobbied Scott for 16 years to run for office. Scott declined repeatedly citing his family and business. How many times did the other guys decline running for office? It might not be relevant to you, but I think it reveals something about their ambition. It is in stark contrast to Rigell.
Getting back to Scott’s local history. Scott Rigell made friends with a law student who later became Governor of Virginia. What were the odds of that? They were friends when neither man had anything to offer-other than their friendship. And people are surprised that Bob endorsed Scott. Really? Seriously?
You guys seriously expect all of these people to forget that history? When Sal and Ron were LAs in Richmond- Scott Rigell was there.
They haven’t forgotten. I haven’t forgotten. Countless others have not forgotten either. The problem is Golden, Maulbeck, Taylor and Loyola seem to think that real friendships and respectful relationships turn with every political cycle. Sorry guys. You can’t come in and try to defame a man of integrity and expect all of his friends to line up behind you. They only word I can come up with is arrogance.
It takes a mountain of arrogance to think that you can make people abandon deeply held friendships with a palm card and a speaking appearance. It’s unbelieavable.
Wally-The Governor contacted Scott and told him he was going to endorse. Scott Rigell never sought the endorsement. Bob offerred it out of friendship and the deep conviction that Scott is the best representative.
Question for you all-would any of the other guys have declined McDonnell’s endorsement? Absolutely not. It is not a barometer of the campaign. It’s a sign of mutual respect between the Governor and Scott.
Question guy-coordinating a press conference with the Governor and local media isn’t a matter of sending out a press release and having everyone bow down to your schedule. My guess is that the campaign held the press conference a mile from two local TV stations in hopes they would pick it up. Just a guess. But why would you care where it was? What’s your point?
This is an incredible endorsement for Rigell! On to victory June 8th!
According to McDonnell’s website…he is attending the Virginia Maritime Association 90th Annual Maritime Banquet…at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott this evening. Perhaps this is why the endorsement was given at the Norfolk Marriott.
JWM-
That makes more sense. Thanks for the info.
The annoying thing is that people are forgetting to think in order to attack Rigell. A press conference not in the 2nd-is that even close to a valid criticism? It’s desperation.
On a much brighter note. Bob’s endorsement is huge. It has national implications. I got a call from McDonnell. Does anyone know how many people got called?
I thought I heard the call was for 50,000 but not sure if that’s accurate or if I heard correctly
Maulbeck whining in the Pilot article that the Guv should stay out is preposterous – and it makes him look like a weak sore loser. I’m sorry, it just does. And Mizusawa’s campaign hack raising hackles is hysterical. The reason why you are losing is the man in the mirror. What makes some people think that despite the fact few people know me and I haven’t really done a whole lot for the party or the local community I deserve to be in Congress over people that have done these things? You all have no local support. This is a great day for the Rigell campaign. Our wonderful, conservative governor endorsed his friend of 20 years for Congress. That’s nice. Some people will care what the governor thinks, some won’t. Let’s have a primary in a couple weeks and get this backbiting over with.
JWM, this was damage control. Rigell was taking major hits in the national media for C4C and the campaign lost control. They panicked had to move up timing of the Governor’s endorsement to try and regain control of the message and the media. Other issues are starting to emerge from a poorly managed chat window during the Rigell Virtual Town Hall last night.
major media hit being a blurb in the USA today? come on now Tim. this has been in the works for at least three weeks. moved up because of the USA today? How does that affect primary voters?
Richard, I truly believe Scott Rigell would make a fine congressman
and I respect the governors endorsement of a long time close friend. It is his right to endorse whomever he wishes. On principle I do not agree with a sitting governor endorsing a candidate before the people have voted in a primary but again it is Bob’s right to endorse and I respect his freedom to speak his mind.
The problem is that I do not believe Scott Rigell can defeat the dems soapy boy unless Nye screws up real bad at open debates.. if there are any.
JI,-
What makes you think voters won’t vote for Rigell in the general? He has huge name ID. He will be able to raise money to get his messsage out. He is a conservative-more importantly-a fiscal conservative who built a thriving business adhering to fiscal conservatice philosophy. He has deep roots spread throughout th ecommunity through countless charitable work, church standing, and business ties. He will have the complete backing of a very popular GOvernor and the support of admittedly weak RNC and NRCC. Why would voters choose Nye over Rigell when every poll shows that voters are overwhelmingly anti-incumbant, favor the GOP, and dislike Congress as it is constituted today. I don’t understand why you portray Rigell as weak in light of all these facts.
As I read the press reports it seems pretty clear – this is one old friend helping out another, and McDonnell makes that fairly clear in the Pilot article. This as an endorsement of friendship, bestowed without real analysis, inquiry, or comparison of candidate’s qualifications or positions.
Unfortunately, many voters already feel the party elites overstepped and will view this as more of the same; others will celebrate; most won’t care.
@ Richard Jenkins, I understand friendships and that most who post on this blog have a personal connection to a candidate. However, again, most voters don’t have that connection, and don’t care. They do examine qualifications and who has the best resume and best preparation for the position.
@ Ron, please do your research and maybe try selling your guy on his merits? While Rigell wrote checks and sold cars, Mizusawa …
From 1995 to 1998, Bert was appointed to the Professional Staff of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee where he assisted the Republican Chairman with oversight of national defense. In 1996, he authored the national security platform adopted at the Republican National Convention. In 1998, Bert was appointed as one of the youngest and most senior (three-star level) Senior Executives in the Pentagon, where he oversaw the Army’s interagency and international affairs. – http://www.BertForCongress.com (about Bert)
I would say he’s done QUITE a bit for the Republican Party and Hampton Roads.
Yes, it’s a good day for Rigell. But it is, what it is … an endorsement based upon friendship, not merit. It doesn’t change the unfortunate reality that Rigell is one of the least qualified candidates in the field, regardless of his friends, TV commercials, or bank account.
Aunque la mona se vista de seda, mona se queda. / Although the monkey dresses in silk, a monkey it remains. – Spanish proverb
PS to DJ: http://voices.washingtonpost.com/plum-line/2010/05/time_for_another_support_group.html
Bert has done more for Fairfax (HIS HOME) than he has for the 2nd District. I never heard or saw Bert at a single Virginia Beach, Norfolk, 2nd District Meeting all the years I’ve lived here (and its been a LONG time).
Bert lives in DC suburbs of Fairfax. Why doesn’t he run for Congress up there? Why is he running in a district HE DOES NOT EVEN LIVE IN. He chooses to raise his children inside the beltway, not in Hampton Roads
if this were the 11th, 10th or 8th you might have a point
how many subscriptions to individuals/businesses in the 2nd district do you think there are? couple thousand, if that? then the actual number of people with a subscription who are likely to vote in the 2nd primary? hundreds, at best
this announcement wasn’t rushed due to ‘national media’ fallout
for that logic to be true, they’d have rushed it out after the Pilot and WVEC, where C4c nonsense might actually had an impact on voters
I personally like how the Governor did say that he was endorsing because Rigell is the best candidate, but because of a long term friendship.
Jay D-
Bert is very impressive. He is my #2. Not because of his resume, but because of the way he has conducted himself on the campaign trail. He makes strong arguments and speaks from a perspective that demonstrates his knowledge and wisdom. He is a fine candidate and an American hero. I have a great deal of respect for General Mizusawa.
We are all tasked with finding the best choice to represent us. Bert is a great choice for many voters; however, he has a key weakness. His weakness is that he lives in a tiny sliver of the district. He will have a much more difficult task in unseating Nye than Rigell will. Call it bad luck, but Bert’s home base isn’t strong enough. If he wins the primary I will back him with as much zeal as I currently back Rigell (maybe a little less zeal).
The friendship angle isn’t the only reason McDonnell endorsed Rigell. McDonnell views this election as most other conservatives and independents across the country view it. This election is a stand against socialism. McDonnell understands this. He endorsed because of the gravity of this election and his friendship, but you can’t simply say he did it because he’s friends with the guy. Otherwise Kenny Golden would have the endorsement of George Allen. I understand trying to deflect the weight of the endorsement, but there is more to it. Read the words of McDonnell. He means those words. Bob isn’t just paying lip service to an od friend. He believes what he says and he is doing it because McDonnell truly believes in Scott Rigell as a leader. He truly believes Scott is our best choice. Those are his words-like it or not.
DJ, I know you don’t consider Wally’s Virginia News Source a credible media outlet and probably a lot lower than USA Today and the Washington Post, but this item was posted over on his blog this evening:
“Just saw this over on vbdems.org regarding questions during last night’s Rigell town hall:
Another question that popped up in the chat panel and then quickly disappeared was a question about Rigell’s Volvo connection to China. Ford sold 100% of Volvo to China who now controls the Volvo franchises world-wide.
To paraphrase the question “Scott, if you get elected as our Congressman, how can you be objective when voting on bills regarding China since you are currently in business with the Chinese?” The speed with which the comment was deleted means that Rigell has another car problem with his candidacy.”
This goes against #7 of his 9 point “Reform Plan”. What is going on with Rigell and who is he really????” end of quote.
@Richard Jenkins: Bert doesn’t live in a “tiny sliver” of the district (Hampton). He lives in MacLean Virginia, part of Fairfax Virginia. His wife is a DC Lawyer, his kids go to school in DC.
That is his problem. Fairfax already has a Congressman, it doesn’t need another one. Hampton Roads need a Congressman who actually lives here, not someone who chooses to live up outside of DC
Ladies and Gents, had a great conversation with the Governor last night as he remembered my kept promise to him he wanted to call and spend some time as he endorsed his old friend. I congratulated Scott later and the process moves on. One comment on knowing about the any party being here before or after any candidate, service to our country is more than just party activity and some of us have been limited because of that. Freedom is a great thing and allows us to make personal decisions which are best for each of us. I respect that decision for the Governor and I have experienced the same understanding from others for my decision and it is greatly appreciated. One thing I pledged to the Governor is, “Just because I have left the party, I will not abandon our Friendship”. I mean that for the Governor and my other friends.
If you are so inclined, please join Kinky Friedman and me at the Funny Bone at Va. Beach Town Center Monday night at 7pm. He’s a great deal of fun and I think everyone will enjoy his political banter. All the best…..yes even you Richard. r Kg
Kenny Golden since you read blogs, let me ask you a question.
How are you ANY different than Charlie Crist? You drop out of the race and run as an independent, hurting the Party that you claim you love.
In Crist’s case, he had all the endorsements and establishment support when he announced. He was endorsed by the outgoing U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, endorsed by the majority of the Florida GOP Delegation, and his Campaign Chairman was the State Republican Attorney General.
Despite all of that, rather than stay in the process and be chosen in the Florida Republican Primary, he withdrew and now puts what was a great potential Republican pick-up seriously in doubt.
I would love to see the candidates in a debate with all present. Why don’t they do that???
@Ashley,
They’ve done that, several times actually, where have you been? There was the Republican Women’s club forum, the Eastern Shore forum, the Tea Party forum, the Taxpayers Alliance forum…
And don’t forget the Bearing Drift forum!
Reading these heartfelt posts, I am struck by the fact that in a sense, Ridgell is actually the insider candidate, almost an incumbent if you will, a dedicated soldier who will do the bidding of the Governor and the Minority whip in Congress. Is that what the voters want? The polls seem to indicate that they want a change, yet Ridgell clearly is a throwback to the Bush administration. Nye, on the other hand, clearly is the anti establishment candidate who is willing to go against the party to vote his conscience. That attitude appears to be exactly what the majority of voters are looking for; that is, competence, integrity, intelligence, and independent thought. Frankly, Ridgell simply does not measure up on those criteria.
Is it really that hard to spell Rigell? I mean it’s right at the top of the page as well as in every comment.
Don’t worry, we got it Mike. You’re a Democrat who won’t be voting for Ridgell, Rigell or anyone else with a R behind their name. Go Nye. Got it.
Polling in the 2nd show Rigell with a substantial lead (one campaign had him at 60%) still early, but noteworthy. Prospective voters indicate Rigell. Not Ridgell. No one wants him.
Tim J,
Yes, VNS is not a credible news outlet. I’m sure however VNS’ 50 readers (the VBTA) were tickled pink by the deletion and mention on VBDems. I’m sure they follow VBDems religiously, after all, that’s who they endorse.
GG,
We like to not mention the BD forum around here
haha was missing a vital component
Richard Jenkins – I always enjoy your posts. Yes, Hampton is a tiny sliver of the district – thanks to Republican gerrymandering for Ed Schrock’s benefit. And it’s still a sore spot amongst sliver old timers – a.k.a. primary voters – who resent being bundled with VB strictly to satisfy party interests.
Thelma Drake also lived in a sliver – East Ocean View in Norfolk – but was welcomed w/ party backing. Same for Chuck Smith, drafted this year by D3 leaders, even though he resides outside the district. This ‘issue’ is a red herring cop-out; when the party’s interests are at stake, residence becomes moot and inconsequential.
In my opinion, Rigell’s status as one of the frontrunners shows support but is ALSO a natural outcome from possessing financial resources to 1) start early, 2) campaign full time, 3) call in favors, 4) self-finance and, if Golden and Malbeck are to be believed, 5) having the VB party stall and roadblock other entries into the field while Scott herded up cash and endorsements.
I don’t fault Scott for taking advantage of a beneficial climate, ‘friendships’, or utilizing his personal fortune – this is a contest; he’s running to win. Bert Mizusawa appears to be the only other candidate to find a work-around to the resource inequity, and I believe, unless there is a big surprise before or on June 8th, this is a contest between these two gentlemen.
I agree this election is a stand against socialism, and much more…
We have a very short window to stop the hemorrhage, at a time when we can’t grow our way out of the unsustainable debt hole.
As Thomas Friedman said recently, The tooth fairy died.
We’ve all been living beyond our means for a long time. We can’t bail our way out of this. We can’t stimulate our way out of this. The only way we get out of this is by innovating our way out. We have to find a different way to grow.
For the last half century+, being a political leader was, for the most part, about giving things away to people. We’re entering a new era where the shift will move from giving things away to taking things away; that’s the real challenge.
The new test of leadership will be: can they sell sacrifice … to generations that have never known sacrifice? And concurrently find reasonable and workable solutions to energy independence, border control, immigration policy, financial regulation, environmental sustainability, poverty reduction, failing education standards, domestic program overhauls, and compete with China for dominant position in the next high-tech/industrial innovations and markets?
As you say, we are all tasked with finding the best choice to represent us. Personally, I want far more than representation; I want someone who can actually contribute to the national dialogue, make a difference, and sell the hard choices to D2 and the nation.
While I totally respect that others have different criteria and bars, I personally feel that Scott, while extremely well suited for Richmond (either as delegate or governor), presents with nothing in his history, his experience, his education, or his preparations, that tell me he has the ability to lead at the national level.
Consequently, in spite of the Govenor’s endorsement, which McDonnnell admits was a ‘special case’ based on a ’20-year relationship’ (including $134,000 worth of campaign contributions), I find it hard to believe anything remotely close to an objective evaluation of the field was undertaken, which reduces McDonnell’s ‘endorsement’ to a meaningless (but nice) acknowledgement of friendship.
Politics is supposed to be the second-oldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first. ~Ronald Reagan
Jay D,
Minor quibble regarding the ‘Golden and Maulbeck to be believed’ point. Kenny was the Chair of the VB party at the time Maulbeck has been complaining about, that would imply that Golden was roadblocking against his own interests in running, which I don’t believe to be the case.
Maulbeck’s repeated anti-Byler story hasn’t gotten a lot of traction for the simple fact that it seems to be a stretch. Loyola entered in August 2009 (roughly) Taylor in September 2009, Rigell around the same time frame. Golden and Sandlin are the only ones who entered after the November 3rd election. While Gary made no bones about his desire to have Scott run, I met with him repeatedly last summer and never heard a ‘our candidate’ reference regarding Rigell.
Just #5 being the issue, well, the Chuck Smith reference also but I’m letting it slide
Before, JR had stated that Bearing Drift would be endorsing a candidate in May. Any idea of when this may happen?
JR said we might endorse in the race, not definitely going to…however
Probably not going to happen; I asked him about the process we may use in March and he told me it probably wouldn’t happen
DJ, I’ll take the quibble with #5 – fair point!
Bryan R sez (to Golden):
“How are you ANY different than Charlie Crist? You drop out of the race and run as an independent, hurting the Party that you claim you love.”
Bryan: If anyone hurt the party, it was the elected officials who unleveled the playing field by endorsing an unqualified elitist, faux conservative who has done nothing for the party but buy political influence, on both sides of the aisle, to enhance his own self interests. Rigell may verbally spout conservatism in his platform, but his past actions have indicated that he is fiscally left of moderate. I challenge anyone of you kool-aid drinking groupies to site a conservative position Rigell has exhibited prior to his announcement.
Wally,
I understand where the faux conservative comment might come from, but what is the basis for calling him an “elitist?”
Well, let’s see kingsmoothie
e·lit·ism
1. practice of or belief in rule by an elite.
2. consciousness of or pride in belonging to a select or favored group.
Somehow the only Republican thing Rigell did was dole out money to candidates in special insider and closed door groups and finance 50 percent of his campaign. Never saw him hang out with campaign workers, bang a sign, attend or belong to the city committee, attend an advance, join the 120 club. You know, hang out with us regular folk. Now all of a sudden he can identify with us regular folk. Why do you ask?
Wally,
Just trying to understand why you consider him an elitist. From what I have been told, he did do some campaign work, a while back, going door to door for Del. Bob McDonnell. Based on what I have been told (mostly by his supporters) he didn’t start out as an elitist. He may have had help, but he worked hard to get where he is now. It seems like he was readily available to employees and customers. I generally think of an elitist as someone who thinks he knows better than you and that you are beneath him, as well as associating only with certain people. I have spoken with him on several occasions and I don’t get that “vibe” from him. I suppose it could be a front, but I don’t think so. I am still undecided for on who I will vote for in the primary.
If a candidate has to have been on the city committee, attend an advance, and be in the 120 club to get your vote I guess you are sitting out the primary and voting for Kenny.
KingSmoothie
Guess you missed the point of the post. It had to do with finger pointing as to party fracturing. “Politics is all about favors” principle is in effect here. Rigell endorsements have absolutely nothing to do with ideology, capability, and electability. It’s all about favors and the buying of a position. If one can’t see or recognize that aspect, they are denying the obvious and are accepting the status quo that lost the House in the first place.
Our Governor of Virginia endorsed Scott Rigell to be his pick above all the other candidates to be the best for our next Republican Congressman for this district. They became friends in the 80′s when they both moved here to go to CBN to complete a higher education, way before either one of them considered running for office.
Bob is the kind of man who will never forget his friends, and will pick his friends wisely. I do know that about Bob.
Providence, nothing and no one in our lives are by chance is it? Like a finely woven lace.
I can only imagine how the other candidates feel now. I personally will feel very proud of anyone of them who will fight to the finish. God bless them all. It’s great to be an American, freedom of speech, freedom to run for office, freedom to vote, all the above bought through blood shed for us by others.
It is truly unfortunate that so many great people are running at the same time as Bob’s very close friend that has Bob’s complete support. If they knew ahead of time, they may not have wasted their time and money. But maybe they all still have a dream and a hope in their heart like most Americans that if you have a passion to make a difference for your country, no matter who you are or where you came from, or how much money you have, you can. You truly can make a real difference.
Bryan R, whoever you are, I made my decision based on the almost complete decision by the leadership in the local Republican Party to endorse one candidate over their past Chairman before the race actually started. This is not an accusation but a fact. Check out the dates of some of Scott’s first articles listing his endorsements. I have never asked for any, repeat any endorsements from any of our leadership but rather I have just asked for support in finance and with lists. Even here only one current leader helped. For his support I am eternally grateful. When the state party decided not to help at all and never even returned phone calls the decision was inevitable.
I’m sure Governor Crist has his reasons, they are his own. Mine are clear; I believe I have more experience, than either Nye or Rigell and if fortunate enough to be elected, I can do a better job. As far as loving anything, I have never stated a love for the Republican Party but rather my Country and my state and the wonderful district I am fortunate enough to live in. My life of service and that of my family has demonstrated just that. To date, my wife, my daughter, and myself have a total of 67 years of service. I’ll let that record speak for itself. RKg
@Kenny Golden: I was in the room when you called Peter Schmidt a “traitor” at the Virginia Beach Republican city committee and again at the breakfast for leaving the Republican Party to run against Bob Purkey.
Furthermore, you comments illustrate the fact the Crist-Rubio race demonstrate that ENDORSEMENTS DO NOT MATTER. Let me repeat, Crist had the endorsement of the outgoing Republican US Senator Mel Martinez, virtually the entire Republican Congressional delegation, the OFFICIAL endorsement of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, and his campaign chairman was the Florida Republican Attorney General.
Marco Rubio had nothing. Yet who has now dropped out of the race? You are mad that the endorsements from some elected officials didn’t come your way. You are mad because your worked hard for them as party chairman when they were running for re-election.
IS THAT NOT YOUR JOB? TO WORK HARD TO GET ALL REPUBLICANS ELECTED?
When you became Party Chairman, was there some fine print that says “I will work to help our elected officials get re-elected, and in EXCHANGE for my service, when I QUIT my position as Party Chairman before my term even expires, THEY MUST SUPPORT ME IN RETURN. If they do not, I will get angry, mad, and leave the party.”
Was that in the text, Mr. Golden?
Your logic that the party “insiders” somehow “denied” you when this primary is going to be decided by 25,000 primary voters, not party bosses.
Charlie Crist had the “party insiders” and has left the party. You were the “party insider” by being party chairman, and are still leaving party.
Bryan R, The party left Golden and the remaining republican primary candidates for Rigell’s money, promises and favors.
Take a close look at congress today. The US congress is a members only country club. Friends doing favors for friends and keeping each other cozy. The country pays the bills. Appearances are not always reality Bryan but in this case it appears that way.
Ignorance is bliss and satisfies those who never expect much.. Many potential voters will resent our primary’s lack of transparency because whomever they have the choice to elect, most of them know the candidates were the party leaders “chosen one”. Systemic influence of party leaders behind the scenes stinks and there are a lot of conservatives who want their party back.
Next time there is a primary there won’t likely be one.. the party won’t want to repeat this usurping of their authority again.
Country FIRST 2010
DJ, discounting the sources doesn’t beg the question. The question still remains…
“Scott, if you get elected as our Congressman, how can you be objective when voting on bills regarding China since you are currently in business with the Chinese?”
Bryan R, Here is a challenge for you to get you back on topic concerning Rigell past fiscal conservative positions. I reiterate, “Rigell may verbally spout conservatism in his platform, but his past actions have indicated that he is fiscally left of moderate. I challenge anyone of you kool-aid drinking groupies to site a conservative position Rigell has exhibited prior to his announcement.
I’ll go further, for each you can name, if any, I’ll show you two, no three, of his stated positions that were left of center. Heck, his past fiscal actions are left of Nye!
Save the GOP, vote NYE. Better to have a conservative democrat than a rino.
Glenn Nye’s tools reveal their general election strategy against Rigell
Tool? Tool? I don’t think so! Answer the challenge D.J.
Bryan R, whoever you are, I left the party for two reasons as I have repeated said, one, the party has decided months ago who they wanted as the Republican Nominee even after I asked them to hold back on endorsements to keep the playing field even. They did not. I simply asked for help, none was offered or given save one. One Delegate even went so far as to say the decision to stay on as Chair was my fault and wrong even as I kept my promise to the Governor. He was the same one who told me to run while I was still Chair, I refused.
I did my job as Chair for all the candidates running for Second District and all ten running last November. On Scott Rigell I spent 3 hours helping him put his campaign together as he started. I don’t regret that work, Scott was and is my friend as they all are. I simply feel my leadership ability, proven over 37 years and my International and Washington legislative experience make me the best candidate. There are no other reasons for running.
On Peter, my attitude towards him was based on his effort to unseat the very Gent who helped put him on City Council. That was wrong and even though we are still friends he knows why I worked so hard for Bob in both of his races, the primary defeat and last years election. I have no one to answer to on my efforts on behalf of the Republican Party. It is my right to run and run I shall. r Kg
DJ, so the “fix” is in and Scott has already won the primary and is moving on to campaigning for the General election. Every conservative who has a slight reservation about Rigell or questions the Republican Cantor/McDonnell “cabal” will be defined and propagandized as a Glenn Nye “tool”.
It is good to know how the Rigell campaign feels about those of us who have some questions about his business relationships and his values which have been focused primarily on business and his ability to show his bipartisanship by donating lots and lots of money to politicians. Even in his tantrum the other night, it all came down to money when he was challenged by Maulback and Taylor, and then Rigell’s disgusting move of playing the “money” card against Taylor. Money is “the root of all evil” in our current political state, and using it as a campaign weapon or in an argument with a challenger shows that there are some deep and troubling issues with this candidate.
After you discounted the sources and the question referenced above that apparently slipped through Car Dealer/Candidate Rigell’s virtual town hall, I started poking around about the Rigell-Chinese-Volvo connection. Car Dealer/Candidate Rigell is keeping some odd bedfellows with the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group who now owns Volvo and Car Dealer/Rigell’s franchise. Also some interesting comments in various articles that are popping up about the Volvo Chinese sale: http://www.swedishwire.com/business/3545-chinese-volvo-deal-signals-new-world-order
“he (Wallner) said he was nonetheless “saddened that a large Swedish car company has landed in the hands of the Chinese Communist dictatorship.” …. “China has no tradition of unions, co-determination and respect for workers … it is a hierarchical society.
“The deal, he (Wallner) pointed out, was being financed largely by the Chinese state and regional governments and banks, along with the European Investment Bank. “No matter how good intentions were when the deal was signed yesterday, the conditions can change extremely quickly, especially for a company that gets its loans from banks controlled by a dictator regime,” he said.”
Maybe this is Rigell’s foreign relations training program to give him some street “cred” when it comes to dealing with Communist Dictator regimes? Or maybe he will be moving to the next level to get a Chinese PAC donor base with lots and lots of money for his next campaign? With that kind of backing, who needs us little people… except to vote.
Its pretty dispicable for someone to anonymously challenge someone’s values as Tim J has about Rigell:
It is good to know how the Rigell campaign feels about those of us who have some questions about his business relationships and his values which have been focused primarily on business and his ability to show his bipartisanship by donating lots and lots of money to politicians
Tim J, I have news for you. No one gives a rat’s ass how you feel. You all are just so pathetic. To bing up a Chinese company’s decision to buy Volvo and then try to link that to Rigell? You people are crazy.
As a long time business and real estate covering 3 states (which includes
Virginia Beach area) I am looking for the opportunity for advising the
Governor what I think of his endorsing Scott Rigel, which appears to
be based primarily on prior political contributions. This sort of
political activity is exactly what this sate and country DOES NOT NEED.
Scott Rigel is no match for my business developments, but that is not quite the point. The Govenor endorsed one of the least 3 qualified
of 7 candidates running for the 2nd Congressional seat.Scott Rigel’s
motivation for running for political office is questionable in my mind.
Over the years I have managed to be right more than wrong in business
developments (real property), and I am just betting people will see
through Scott Rigel, and I am betting Ed Maulbeck is going be the true
“Dark Horse” in the current race. Ed Maulbeck’s and a few other candidates political interest are genuine. Scott Rigel’s political
interest are obviously something less. I can see it. So I may well
run into the Governor in time, I think he will recognize me, and these
remarks will come to heart. In short endorsing a money contributor
on this basis is not in the interest of the public.
Regards
Peter A Holmes
Virginia Beach, Va
genuine where Rigel’s interest are only for himself.
Ron, your turning into quite the “pit bull” for the Rigell campaign. The “challenge” that occurred during Scott’s “virtual town hall” meeting brought up this question, which caught my eye on several blogs as another question about Rigell putting business before the voters in the 2nd District. If Scott would have simply answered the question rather than immediately deleting it when it popped up in the chat window, “we” would know where he stood and “we” would be just fine.
Scott, in taking the question, could have even repeated the words that he used when asked about taking the C4C Stimulus money or the YouTube video about the Obama donation… It could go like “Scott Rigell said: I will have no ethical and moral issues, or a conflict of interest in my business dealings with the Chinese owners of Volvo, and running for 2nd District Congressman”. That short and simple answer would have been fine, we would know where Scott stood, and the question would have been answered. Or if Scott would deny that he owns a Volvo franchise and that Ford sold and the Chinese own 100% of Volvo, which would also be a great answer and easy to fact check by driving past the Volvo dealership at 4980 Virginia Beach Blvd., and by typing “Ford Volvo sale” into Google.
Ron, maybe you can answer the question for the Rigell Campaign… “Scott, if you get elected as our Congressman, how can you be objective when voting on bills regarding China since you are currently in business with the Chinese?” If you need some help and want to poach and paste the suggested answer above, feel free to do so and I guarantee “we” won’t complain about the Rigell campaign plagiarizing a quote.
Wally, yes, tool. Posting anonymously under a bs name is a tool. While we may disagree, you at least have the fortitude to post under your name.
Tim J, the Nye campaign has assuredly compiled folders/notes on at least 4 of the candidates in the primary, my comment was a reference to their notes on Rigell. In jest. Calm the f— down and stop taking everything literally.
Also ‘Tim’ you missed my point earlier. While I certainly discount the source, I never discounted the question. I’d agree it deserves discussion, believe it or not, although not in the poor way you phrased it to Ron.
Peter,
Kudos for standing up for Maulbeck. However, the rest of your disjointed letter is misguided at best. Also, it’s ‘Rigell’ and ‘Governor’ McDonnell. If you want to proposition the Governor to force your political opinion on him, it’s probably best you get his title correct.
DJ, I didn’t miss your point, but I didn’t see your answer. The “way” it was phrased: “Scott, if you get elected as our Congressman, how can you be objective when voting on bills regarding China since you are currently in business with the Chinese?” was copied from the blog entry which referenced the deleted question from virtual town hall chat window.
I’m glad you agree that the question deserves discussion and I hope that Rigell “mans up” to answer this time rather than sending out Jason “baby face” Miyares to whine and complain about another Rigell boo-boo.
Tim J, is your last name Johnson?
I’ll sell the next vowel for $500.
LOL. I was just thinking I met an angry individual the other day whose name was Tim Johnson and, well. Do you take PayPal?
Tim J, you have been a mystery to me. I haven’t been able to figure out who Tim J was gunning for this entire time. I definitely knew who he was against, but not for. Fictitiously speaking, if you are the notorious Tim Johnson, my mystery has been solved and I can sleep well tonight.
Tim J is not Tim Johnson. Tim Johnson is a friend of mine, and you, Tim J, are no Tim Johnson
everyone loves a little Mondale!
seriously though, Tim J is not Tim Johnson
Darn it DJ! No sleeping tonight. Tim J, can you just come out and tell us who you want us to vote for? Please.
Really, I think my wife or my daughter have YoVille characters which take PayPal, but I don’t understand nor do I have the time for that addiction. And no, we aren’t angry and I love sipping Earl Grey tea while I am enjoying this circus as an occasional diversion from my real business.
You know, I’m still waiting for someone to site a fiscally conservative position Rigell has stated or participated in prior to his announcement for Congress. It’s not that he wasn’t involved. He certainly has publicly taken positions before City councils and letters to the editor and contributions to causes. Where is all the defense? Where’s the beef????
So,
come June 9th is everyone going to rally around the Republican Nominee or are we going to do the Dems work by keeping up this political trash talk?
Citizen for Civility calling other people’s opinions “trash”???
Not very civil.
C4C –
It depends upon the outcome. If Rigell is the nominee, I’ll likely move to Golden. There was a significant amount of mea culpas and promises made after 2008. What’s changed? The RNC & NRCC is still operating as party first and choosing ‘easy’ over ‘right’. This time, I’ll vote conscious and country first.
Ditto Country First Jay D. Speaking of endorsements, Kenny has quite an event going on this evening at Town Center.
In browsing through the candidate choices, I agree with Ms. Hurd’s reasons for endorsing Loyola. I think that Loyola is the only one who has a real chance at Nye and her assessment of Mr. Rigell as a candidate is spot on. There are no real discriminators I can see that the other candidates offer which can set them uniquely apart from Nye.
Loyola is a legal immigrant from a Communist country which is a discriminator, and has credentials that no other Republican candidate running has, given the huge Navy presence in our district. The most important economic asset we have in the 2nd District is our Carriers, and Loyola is the only Republican candidate who has put his neck on the line with a proposal to build some more. This means a lot to those of us who have served and want to maintain our industrial shipbuilding capability and our place as a world power though the growing malaise that is spreading through the current crop of politicians in Washington.
M. Montgomery, please…. there seems to be a love fest on-going here for with platitudes and rose petals being strewn across these pages for some of these candidates so, do you have anything more substantial to add?
By the way, there was an Adm. Montgomery who was a VP at Tracor Aerospace and then BAE years ago – any relation?
The same.
Sir, please, I meant no disrespect. I used to be one of your directors for R&D when I was at British Aerospace and am deeply grateful for your mentorship and guidance. It is great to know you are in the district, and again, and I respect the comments you made justifying your position on Loyola, although I have my own opinions. Thank You.
Tim, no offense taken and its good that you remember this old salt. Take care.
Wally, get in your car and drive to 1765 S. Military Highway, then to 7520 N Military Highway, then drive to 4980 VA Beach Boulevard. Presto, there’s your evidence Scott Rigell is fiscally conservative with his business.
@Tim J: So Volvo has a tentative sale to a Chinese company, it hasn’t even happened yet, Rigell has nothing to do with it, and this is an “issue” in the primary?
Isn’t that like blaming a McDonald’s franchise owner for the actions of and business decisions of McDonald’s corporate director?
How about we blame the BP franchise owners up on Independence Blvd for the oil spill in the Gulf, too?
What next, Rigell is the 2nd gunman on the Grassy Noll?
I remember Rush talking about “Bush Derangement Syndrome” when talking about how some of Bush’s detractors would become unglued just by the mere mention of his name.
Tim J is clearly an angry, angry man and now suffers from “Rigell Derangement Syndrome”
Brian, Rigell has enough problems with spreading the fruits of his “business” without a “China Syndrome” being added. Your right, Rigell just has to sit there and reap the fruits of Ford’s sale of Volvo to China which will be great for his business. I’m all for it and can’t wait to see and test drive the tiny little “Geely” cars on the Freedom Volvo lot.
But then there’s that other pesky little detail… he’s a Candidate for Congress who will have a franchise with what the article linked to above calls “a Communist Dictatorship”. Car dealer first, Candidate for Congress second. Business before Principle at the expense of the people. No Thanks.
Tim J, I could be wrong about this but isn’t there someone else running Freedom Automotive right now? I mean besides the Chinese. It could just be the voices in my head telling me this, or the flyer mailed out that named someone as the President of Freedom Automotive.
Second question, Tim J, in your mind if the Chinese do buy Volvo will we be able to order our cars by numbers? If so I’ll take a #11 with egg drop soup.
If I ran for congress, would it be a conflict of interest if I remained a major investor or owner in a company in any way affected or influenced by legislation my company was directly involved in or voted for? Asking, not leading the question..
If I ran for office, I would not simply put someone else in chasrge, I would divest so as to prevent the appearance of a conflict of interest.. All the more reason to elect mature retired professionals.. just sayin.
So Turbo, essentially you’re just saying that everyone in Congress should sell stocks that they own of any US company that has any ties to overseas countries?
You think they’d develop an easier way like say maybe just not vote on a bill if there is a conflict. Oh wait, they have.
“but isn’t there someone else running Freedom Automotive right now?”… so if Rigell isn’t running his business then why he is trying to convince us he is a business leader? It’s kind of sad watching the SS Rigell sinking beside the pier.
Because he ran it for so many years before he handed it off. When did he hand it over to someone else anyway? The flyer says James Church, when did James Church take over Freedom Automotive?
I drive a Volvo. Does that make me a communist? Just want to be sure.
Come on 9 June 2010!
Nope, your just another satisified Freedom Volvo customer who got a great deal on a car and is voting for Rigell. Congratulations!
Go Rigell! Milk-Toast for Congress. I don’t believe in endorsements and the Governor should have stayed out of it. It’s like telling the people, “You’re not smart enough to make a good decision on your own so I (or we, the party) will make it for you.” Not a lot of substance going on here. Milk-Toast, anyone. Breakfast of Champions?!!!
Leave your response