With redistricting finally signed into law by the governor and heading towards the Department of Justice for what is hopefully a speedy review and approval, political activity in the new districts are beginning to take place.
Of particular interest to Bearing Drift followers is the new State Senate district from Goochland to Lynchburg – the 22nd.
Not only is it an open seat, and critical for conservatives to win, but it is also home-turf for BD contributor and Fluvanna County Supervisor Shaun Kenney, who has yet to decide if he will run for this seat or not (more on this in a moment).
Two candidates who have announced their intentions are Tom Garrett and Bryan Rhode.
Garrett, Louisa County’s Commonwealth’s Attorney, is a veteran of the U.S. Army and has been the county’s top prosecutor since 2007 when he defeated a two-term incumbent by 17%.
“First, we do not have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem,” writes Garrett in a press release announcing his campaign and the core principles that will drive his candidacy. “Second, the Constitution is as relevant now, if not more so, than the day it was drafted, all rights, including the Second Amendment and the Tenth Amendment should not be infringed upon. Finally, the family and the free enterprise system are the fiber of American society. Government interference, regulation, and intrusion stifle growth, prosperity and family cohesion.”
Garrett is a self-professed “Cuccinelli-conservative”; however, Cuccinelli’s political office stated that they have not, at this moment, endorsed in this race.
Rhode is a prosecutor for the City of Richmond and also a veteran, serving four years in the United States Marine Corps.
Rhode’s platform includes:
Reducing the Size and Scope of Government – “As your Senator, I will work to cut out unnecessary bureaucratic red-tape and return decisions to where they belong – with the small business owner, the farmer, the locality, and the individual citizen.”
Keeping Taxes Low – “I promise to avoid unnecessary government spending and to do my best to keep your money in your pockets.”
Improving Infrastructure – “State government has an essential role to play in ensuring that all Virginians have adequate infrastructure in their communities by reducing roadblocks and creating incentives for new development. I understand this role and will work to bring essential infrastructure improvements and maintenance to all citizens of the 22nd Senate District, regardless of where you live.”
Improving Education and Preserving Human Capital – “I promise to work to help all citizens of the 22nd District have educational and career opportunities within the District that capitalizes on the human wealth of our region.”
Fighting for Core Conservative Values – “I am pro-life, pro-Second Amendment, and pro-family values. The foundation of our society is the family. We must do everything possible to preserve the family and our traditional values. As your Senator, you can count on me to fight for these issues.”
Rhode also serves on the state’s Daycare Council and is an active member of Goochland’s Rotary Club, Chamber of Commerce, and planning committee for the Goochland Leadership Enterprise.
There are also rumors Claudia Tucker, Vance Wilkins’ former Chief of Staff, or even the former Speaker himself might enter the race. If you’ll recall, Tucker was under investigation by then Attorney General Jerry Kilgore for her role in eavesdropping on a Democrats conference call and Wilkins resigned over alleged sexual improprieties.
Finally, there’s Kenney.
Kenney is no stranger to those of us in the Virginia online community. A pioneer, he has been writing about politics, policy, and philosophy online since 2002.
The former communications director of the Republican Party of Virginia and campaign manager for the successful Musgrave for Congress campaign in 2006, Kenney also tried his hand at state politics in 2005 when he gave current Delegate Robert Orrock a run for his money in an extremely close primary, falling short by just under 400 votes. During that campaign, Kenney emphasized his pro-life, fiscally-disciplined positions.
Kenney has also served as the executive director of the American Life League, standing up for families and the right to life for soon-to-be-born babies.
Since joining the Fluvanna Board of Supervisors in 2009, Kenney has stood up for the first amendment over the use of the county seal – a case that brought national attention to Fluvanna and ensured first responders have been equipped with new radios. He is also seeking a $4 million Community Block Development Grant to restore the Town of Columbia.
In other words, Kenney is doing the hard work of legislating already, experience both prosecutors currently lack. Should the conservative Kenney decide to enter the race, it would certainly change the dynamic.
The new State Senate GOP District committee meets Saturday to determine if there will be a primary or convention.
Sorry, there are no polls available at the moment.