Take Back the Virginia House in 2009!

This year, Democrats have a chance to take back majority control of the Virginia House of Delegates. Coupled with our existing majority in the state Senate, and (hopefully) continued control of the Governor’s mansion, this would significantly open the door to sensible, progressive legislation for the first time in more than a decade!

As part of that effort, Alexandria Democrats need to be sure we hold on to the 3 House of Delegates seats currently held by Adam Ebbin, David Englin, and Charnielle Herring. But Democrats need to pick up 6 additional seats to have a majority, and those new Democratic seats must necessarily come from outside of Alexandria. Thus, we’re encouraging Alexandria Democrats in addition to their efforts here in Alexandria to "adopt" a Delegate candidate outside of our city and do something (volunteer, contribute, etc.) to help them get elected.

Working with our own Delegates, plus the House Democratic Caucus, we will be identifying races in which your help could make the most difference. Where possible, these candidates will be introduced in person at an ADC monthly meeting. In addition, the following listing - which will grow over time - will direct you to the "key races" where your help can make the most difference.

Tom Osborne,
Project Chairman

Greg Werkheiser is running in the 42nd District (Springfield and southern Fairfax County) against incumbent Republican David Albo. He ran against Albo 4 years ago and came within less than 4 percentage points of winning then - in a district that is trending even more strongly Democratic now. Democrats see no way we can take back the majority if we can’t win this district - it’s our most likely pickup, but it will require hard work to generate turnout. Greg was introduced at the ADC’s March meeting. Contact his campaign at info@gregfordelegate.com, by phone at 703-436-1977, or by mail at Werkheiser for Delegate, PO Box 2543, Springfield, VA 22152. His website is now live at www.gregfordelegate.com.

John Bell is running in the 13th District (parts of Prince William and Loudoun Counties) against incumbent Republican Bob Marshall. Marshall is notorious for (among other things) the Marshall-Newman anti-gay-marriage amendment to Virginia’s constitution. John is a first-time candidate for this seat. He is a retired Air Force Major with strong progressive values and a commitment to common-sense transportation and economic solutions. The 13th District is increasingly Democratic - Obama carried it by 50.3% and Sen. Warner won it with 59.1%. Still, it is very much an uphill climb as Marshall has a dedicated following of rigid right-wingers who can be depended upon to turn out for him. John was introduced by David Englin at the April ADC meeting (during the legislative wrap-up session.) Visit his website at http://johnbell2009.com or find him on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/people/John-Bell/1667150159?sid=0.