John Amiral of Norfolk announced today that he will not seek the Republican nomination in the Sixth State Senate District citing that now is not the right time for him and his family to seek elected office.
“My family and I will continue to be involved in the conservative cause and will stay active in political processes,” said Amiral in a statement. “I look forward to supporting and campaigning with the candidate the party selects for Virginia’s Sixth District and I remain confident they will be an infinitely better representative than the freshman-incumbent Senator has been over the past four years.”
This now sets up a head-to-head match-up for the party’s nod between Dr. Joanne Lapetina and Ben Loyola. Lapetina will emphasize her long history in the area, medical experience, and community service. Loyola will tout his small business savvy, past as a Naval officer, and previous endorsements from the Tea Party and currently Rep. Scott Rigell.