Friday, October 23, 2009
Editorial: Peggy Frank in the 7th
Incumbent Del. Dave Nutter's moderate glow has faded.
From the RoundTable blog
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Two years ago we endorsed Republican Del. David Nutter over Democrat Peggy Frank in the 7th House of Delegates District. In this year's rematch, Frank is the more compelling candidate.
The 7th District includes the southern half of Montgomery County, Radford and Southeast Pulaski County.
In 2004, Nutter earned a reputation as a moderate lawmaker when he broke party ranks and supported a tax increase to salvage the state budget. Nutter has ridden that reputation to re-election twice, but he no longer is the moderate problem-solver he once was.
Within the strictures of his ideology he has tried to get things done, but that ideology and party loyalty have squeezed more tightly over the years. Since 2004, he has voted against progress, equality and open government.
He now declares he will support no additional revenue to address state budget shortfalls and needed transportation improvements. He at least acknowledges life will be tough in Virginia as a result.
Meanwhile, Frank grasps the foolishness of no-tax pledges. She is appropriately dubious about increases while the economy languishes, but she at least would entertain the idea and engage in bipartisan discussions.
She also favors expanding the governor's opportunity fund for attracting new businesses to Virginia. She sees that as particularly valuable for Southwest Virginia, where universities and colleges turn out an educated work force and offer the chance for public-private economic partnerships.
Frank offers the collaborative, moderate voice that Nutter once did, and voters would do well to send her to Richmond.
Shuler v. Cornett
In the 12th House District, incumbent Democrat Jim Shuler faces opposition from Paul Cornett. We endorse Shuler based on his record of success in the House of Delegates. His opponent, a Virginia Tech student, does not appear to be actively campaigning.
