The Virginia Informer

Last Updated:5/15/09 Section: News

Media Credit: Alec McKinley Democrats duke it out: On Sunday, April 19, the three candidates for VA Governor debated taxes, marriage, campaign contributions, and qualifications.

On Saturday April 19 the three democratic candidates for Governor of Virginia debated each other in the Sadler Center. The candidates explained their positions and traded criticisms during the debate. Journalist Andrea Mitchell served as moderator.

The three candidates competing in the June 9th Democratic primary are State Senator R. Creigh Deeds, Former Delegate Brian Moran, and former Chairman of the Democratic National Committee Terry McAuliffe.

Mr. Deeds, currently a State Senator from Bath County, has served in elected office 1991, first as a member of the House of Delegates. In 2007 he ran for state Attorney General against Bob McDonnell, and lost. Mr. McDonnell is the Republican nominee for Governor.

Mr. Deeds made clear from the beginning his opposition to Mr. McDonnell's positions. "It's clear that Bob McDonnell has the wrong agenda for Virginia" said Mr. Deeds. The state senator also stressed the importance of the current state of the economy to Virginia, citing Williamsburg's 19.3 percent unemployment rate. "We've got to take dramatic steps to restore hope to people" Mr. Deeds said.

He also pledged to invest into energy research. Mr. Deeds left it unclear, however, as to whether he would support an increase in the gas tax. The senator also made the commitment to close the gun show loophole as governor, and stated his belief that the issue of marriage should not be in the realm of public policy. He also criticized Delegate Brian Moran for taking campaign contributions from companies that have had relations with his brother.

Delegate Brian Moran served for seven years as prosecutor in Arlington County, and was elected by his Alexandria district to the House of Delegates in 1995. He resigned his seat in late 2008 to focus on his run for governor. He is the younger brother of Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA 8).

Mr. Moran also stressed the current economy and his aspirations to serve the people of Virginia. "We need a governor who cares more about the family dinner table than the corporate boardroom" said Delegate Moran. He also noted his role in the fight to reform Virginia transportation policy.

Continued...

Page 1 of 2 next >

Article Tools