It seems we still have former Sen. John Chichester to kick around.
The one-time Republican chairman of the Senate’s Finance committee, and continual thorn in the side of conservatives, has let the world know he still exists by endorsing Democrat “Toddy” Puller in the 36th Senate district contest against Republican Jeff Frederick:
Puller recently posted Chichester’s endorsement on her web page.
“We need more senators like Toddy Puller,” Chichester wrote. ” She is fair, has integrity, listens and has no agenda except to represent the people of Virginia in the best way possible. During my service in the Senate, Senator Puller did not approach issues as a Republican or a Democrat but considered what would work best for the people of Virginia. She carefully considers the facts about the issues and works to keep the state fiscally strong by ensuring Virginia is able to provide the core services government is tasked to do.”
It’s that nice.
This isn’t the first time Chichester has endorsed a member of his former party. Back in 2009, he urged people to vote for Creigh Deeds over Bob McDonnell. In 2007, Chichester and the inimitable Russ Potts joined forces to endorse Democratic Sen. Chuck Colgan over Republican Bob FitzSimmonds. And, lest we forget, Chichester also endorsed Mark Warner for Senate in 2008 over Republican Jim Gilmore.
Chichester’s plumping for Toddy doesn’t break the trend. But it does serve as a reminder as to how happy conservatives were when he finally decided to retire.
It will make them even more pleased should Frederick win.
