Statement of Speaker Kirk Cox on Retirement of Justice Elizabeth McClanahan

Virginia House of Delegates Speaker Kirk Cox (R-Colonial Heights) issued the following statement Friday on the retirement of Justice Elizabeth McClanahan from the Supreme Court of Virginia:

“We all owe Justice McClanahan a debt of gratitude for her nearly two decades of service to the Commonwealth. She served as a chief deputy Attorney General, a member of the Court of Appeals, and most recently as the fourth female Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia. Her commitment to the law of the Commonwealth and serving its people has been steadfast and unwavering. While we are disappointed that she will be retiring in September, we certainly understand her desire to pursue other opportunities and thank her for her service.

“In looking for a Justice to succeed Justice McClanahan, we should look for someone who shares her commitment to the rule of law and a faithful reading of the Constitution and the statutes of Virginia as passed by the General Assembly. We must elect a Justice swiftly and ensure the public’s continued confidence in Virginia’s highest court.”

Background:
-Washington Post: Virginia Supreme Court Justice McClanahan to retire
-Richmond Times-Dispatch: Virginia Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth McClanahan announces Sept. 1 retirement