UPDATE: Del. Watkins Abbitt Announces Retirement

By Ken Falkenstein | Wednesday, May 18th, 2011 | Politics

Veteran Delegate Watkins Abbitt (I-Appomattox) announced today that he will not seek reelection.  Del. Abbitt was first elected in 1986 as a Democrat.  He later declared himself an independent and caucused with the Republicans.

Statement of Speaker William J. Howell on Delegate Watkins Abbits’s Decision Not to Seek Re-election

RICHMOND, VA - Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell (R-Stafford) today commented on the announcement by Delegate Watkins M. Abbitt, Jr. (R-Appomattox) that he has decided not to seek re-election to the Virginia House of Delegates for a 14th term in November 2011:

“Delegate Abbitt has been a strong and highly effective legislator for more than two decades. His leadership and vision will be missed in the 59th District and around Capitol Square in Richmond. His knowledge, experience and strategic understanding of the legislative process are underscored by so many accomplishments that have strengthened Virginia’s economy, enhanced agricultural production, improved educational achievement and benefited law enforcement and constitutional officers.

“Watkins ably has represented an extremely large and diverse constituency encompassing parts of Albemarle, Appomattox, Buckingham, Cumberland, Fluvanna, Nelson and Prince Edward counties. He always recognized the first and fundamental role of any elected lawmaker — represent and serve those who elected him. That he did without fail and without seeking attention or accolades for himself. Because of his hard work, he improved the quality of life for his constituents and all Virginians through such achievements as the development of High Bridge Trail State Park in Farmville. As Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government, Watkins has been a stalwart advocate for the law enforcement community. Indeed, his leadership and many talents are widely recognized with him having received a number of awards and distinctions, including being chosen as “Legislator of the Year” by the Fraternal Order of Police.

“Like so many, I join in congratulating Delegate Abbitt for his many years of commendable service to our Commonwealth. Now, he and his wife Madeline can enjoy other pursuits – including a wide variety of outdoors activities – beyond Capitol Square. I wish him continued happiness and success for many more years to come.”

UPDATE: Here is a statement by Gov. Bob McDonnell on Del. Watkins’ retirement:

Statement of Governor Bob McDonnell on Retirement of Watkins Abbitt from the General Assembly

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell issued the following statement today following news that Delegate Watkins Abbitt has decided not to run for re-election to the General Assembly.

“Watt Abbitt has dedicated his life to public service, following in the footsteps of his father who served in the U.S. House of Representatives.  For over 25 years, Watt has devotedly served the people of Appomattox and Virginia. A public servant with keen political instincts, Watt always worked with both parties to get things accomplished for his district and the Commonwealth.  He served on the House budget where he has been a strong voice for fiscal responsibility and restraint.  He was also an outspoken advocate for wildlife and conservation issues – that was his passion.  I will truly miss working with Watt. He’s a longtime friend and he will be missed in the General Assembly.  I wish him and his family all the best as he retires from 25 successful, accomplished years serving the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

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