Virginia Politics - News and notes on politics in Richmond.

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 07/13/2012

Fairfax County, VDOT sue EPA over Accotink Creek watershed regulations

By Fredrick Kunkle

The suit accuses the Environmental Protection Agency of “massive” and expensive regulatory overreach.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 12:00 PM ET, 07/13/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax teams with Virginia to sue EPA

Posted at 06:33 PM ET, 07/10/2012

Fairfax County Board assesses storm impact, urges regional task force to study 911 failure

By Fredrick Kunkle

The county’s Board of Supervisors is pushing for a new regional task force to examine the breakdown.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 06:33 PM ET, 07/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County Board assesses storm damage

Posted at 06:44 PM ET, 06/07/2012

First lady Michelle Obama visits Northern Virginia to fire up president’s reelection campaign

By Fredrick Kunkle

Michelle Obama visited Northern Virginia on Thursday in her first solo public campaign appearance in the battleground state for husband Barack Obama’s reelection.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 06:44 PM ET, 06/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: First Lady Michelle Obama visits Virginia to fire up president's campaign

Posted at 12:55 PM ET, 06/06/2012

Pat Herrity renews Fairfax County board debate over affordable housing

By Fredrick Kunkle

By Fredrick Kunkle | 12:55 PM ET, 06/06/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County supervisor says county will spend $500 on affordable housing

Posted at 04:03 PM ET, 06/05/2012

Fairfax County supervisors ask for new audit of troubled Community Services Board

By Fredrick Kunkle

Board requested its auditor investigate fiscal and governance problems at the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 04:03 PM ET, 06/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County asks CSB audit

Posted at 07:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012

Ken Cuccinelli and Doug Wilder: Odd couple

By Anita Kumar

The Virginia attorney general and the state’s former governor meet regularly despite party differences.

By Anita Kumar | 07:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012

Cuccinelli: Tax credits likened to school vouchers OK

By Laura Vozzella

Opinion approves tuition tax credit, says it doesn’t break law banning state funds to private tuition.

By Laura Vozzella | 06:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012

Fairfax County supervisors clash over audit of troubled social services agency

By Fredrick Kunkle

By Fredrick Kunkle | 05:00 AM ET, 05/31/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County supervisors clash over social services agency audits

Posted at 06:04 PM ET, 05/30/2012

Michelle Obama to campaign in Northern Virginia next week

By Anita Kumar

First Lady Michelle Obama will campaign in Northern Virginia on June 7.

By Anita Kumar | 06:04 PM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:36 PM ET, 05/30/2012

George Allen launches Virginia tour ahead of Senate primary

By Ben Pershing

Allen will do multiple events with Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling on Thursday.

By Ben Pershing | 05:36 PM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:49 PM ET, 05/30/2012

ALEC is shunned by some Virginia lawmakers

By Anita Kumar

Thirty five legislators have cut ties with a conservative group under fire in recent weeks.

By Anita Kumar | 03:49 PM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:52 AM ET, 05/30/2012

Allen supporters question Radtke’s attacks

By Anita Kumar

Senate hopeful Jamie Radtke is attacking rival George Allen in the final days before the GOP primary.

By Anita Kumar | 11:52 AM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:15 AM ET, 05/30/2012

Virginia will play host to Tom Hanks movie

By Anita Kumar

“Captain Phillips,” expected to be released in 2013, will film in the Virginia Beach area.

By Anita Kumar | 11:15 AM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:34 AM ET, 05/30/2012

Artur Davis eyes run as Virginia Republican

By Ben Pershing

The former Alabama Democrat has a new home and a new party.

By Ben Pershing | 10:34 AM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:34 AM ET, 05/30/2012

Gov. Bob McDonnell blamed for transvaginal ultrasound bill

By Laura Vozzella

State Sen. Lucas blames governor for vaginal probe measure he first supported, then softened.

By Laura Vozzella | 09:34 AM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:00 AM ET, 05/30/2012

Virginia politicos roast longtime columnist

By Anita Kumar

Tim Kaine, George Allen poke fun at bow tie-wearing, professorial columnist Jeff Schapiro.

By Anita Kumar | 04:00 AM ET, 05/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:18 PM ET, 05/29/2012

Bob McDonnell says he never opposed gay judges

By Laura Vozzella

Virginia governor says stance on gay judicial nominees has not changed.

By Laura Vozzella | 05:18 PM ET, 05/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:09 PM ET, 05/29/2012

Fairfax County board member seeks audit of troubled social services agency

By Fredrick Kunkle

By Fredrick Kunkle | 03:09 PM ET, 05/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:26 AM ET, 05/29/2012

McDonnell says Romney not vetting him for VP

By Anita Kumar

Gov. Bob McDonnell said Mitt Romney has not asked him for documents to vet him for VP.

By Anita Kumar | 11:26 AM ET, 05/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:52 AM ET, 05/29/2012

Hunger strike at Red Onion prison has ended, state officials say

By Anita Kumar

Some inmates at Red Onion State Prison did not eat for days to protest conditions.

By Anita Kumar | 08:52 AM ET, 05/29/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:23 PM ET, 05/26/2012

Legal finding forces Falls Church to cancel water utility auction

By Fredrick Kunkle

City suspended planned Friday auction of water utility following ruling by federal agency.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 04:23 PM ET, 05/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Falls Church cancels sale

Posted at 02:57 PM ET, 05/26/2012

Red Onion prisoners are on a hunger strike, Virginia officials acknowledge

By Anita Kumar

Seven inmates remain on a hunger strike at the super-maximum prison in Southwest Virginia, officials say.

By Anita Kumar | 02:57 PM ET, 05/26/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia, Prisons, Red Onion State Prison

Posted at 05:06 PM ET, 05/25/2012

Democrats pounce as Allen won’t take position on pay discrimination bill

By Ben Pershing

Ex-governor and likely GOP Senate nominee refuses to take a position on pay discrimination bill.

By Ben Pershing | 05:06 PM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:31 PM ET, 05/25/2012

Bob McDonnell approves changes to the state budget

By Anita Kumar

Virginia governor signs, without vetoes, changes to the two-year state budget.

By Anita Kumar | 02:31 PM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:47 PM ET, 05/25/2012

Abortion-clinic regulations awaited in Richmond

By Laura Vozzella

McDonnell administration to propose permanent clinic regulations next week.

By Laura Vozzella | 01:47 PM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:53 AM ET, 05/25/2012

Republican Senate hopefuls debate Friday night

By Laura Vozzella

U.S. Senate hopefuls will face off for a third and final time in Falls Church.

By Laura Vozzella | 11:53 AM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:40 AM ET, 05/25/2012

Ex-delegate Paula Miller considering a run for lieutenant governor

By Anita Kumar

Former legislator Paula Miller (D) is considering running for lieutenant governor next year

By Anita Kumar | 09:40 AM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:00 AM ET, 05/25/2012

Alexandria finds money for pregnancy prevention program that state lawmakers cut

By Anita Kumar

The Gebneral Assembly left town without restoring funds for a pregnancy prevention program for teens.

By Anita Kumar | 07:00 AM ET, 05/25/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:33 PM ET, 05/24/2012

In victory for Cuccinelli supporters, Va. GOP will reconsider holding a convention for 2013 elections

By Anita Kumar

The format could aid AG Ken Cuccinelli’s odds in the governor’s race.

By Anita Kumar | 05:33 PM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia

Posted at 04:43 PM ET, 05/24/2012

Mitt Romney releases new TV ad in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

In a new TV ad, Romney says he will announce deficit reductions, end big government and stand up to China on trade

By Anita Kumar | 04:43 PM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:54 PM ET, 05/24/2012

Water war in Fairfax County roiled by legal opinion from federal agency

By Fredrick Kunkle

With Falls Church just days away from opening bids for its water utility, a recently issued legal opinion by the federal agency that supplies the water casta doubt on its plans.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 03:54 PM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County, Falls Church, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Posted at 12:10 PM ET, 05/24/2012

William Wampler, former congressman, dies at 86

By Laura Vozzella

The 86-year-old Republican represented Southwest Va. for 17 years.

By Laura Vozzella | 12:10 PM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:03 AM ET, 05/24/2012

Joe Biden headlines fundraiser for Tim Kaine

By Anita Kumar

Vice President Biden attends a fundraiser for U.S. Senate hopeful Tim Kaine in McLean.

By Anita Kumar | 11:03 AM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:59 AM ET, 05/24/2012

Tim Kaine has lead in new survey, as Sen. Tom Coburn endorses George Allen

By Ben Pershing

NBC/Marist poll has Kaine up 6 points, but other surveys show a closer race.

By Ben Pershing | 10:59 AM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia

Posted at 08:27 AM ET, 05/24/2012

Bob McDonnell, Ken Cuccinelli help Scott Walker in Wisconsin recall

By Anita Kumar

Virginia’s Republicans are aiding Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker in the June 5 recall election.

By Anita Kumar | 08:27 AM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:07 AM ET, 05/24/2012

Radtke begins airing radio ads across Virginia

By Anita Kumar

Tea party activist Jamie Radtke attacks rival George Allen in new statewide radio ad

By Anita Kumar | 07:07 AM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Jamie Radtke

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/24/2012

‘Kinship care’ bill vetoed by McDonnell

By Laura Vozzella

The governor says a bill easing school enrollment for kids in relatives’ care cuts out crucial court oversight.

By Laura Vozzella | 05:00 AM ET, 05/24/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:24 PM ET, 05/23/2012

Obama releases two new TV ads in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

The ads focus on help for military families and senior citizens.

By Anita Kumar | 01:24 PM ET, 05/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:22 PM ET, 05/23/2012

Virginia families battling Justice Department closure of state institutions for disabled are monitoring funding woes for Fairfax services

By Fredrick Kunkle

The families believe the large institutions, with special facilities and round-the-clock care, are the best places for people whose disabilities can make them a danger to themselves or others.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 01:22 PM ET, 05/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Families see CSB troubles as evidence for blocking Virginia-DOJ settlement

Posted at 12:42 PM ET, 05/23/2012

Virginia ID law: State to spend $1.4M for new voter cards

By Anita Kumar

Gov. Bob McDonnell ordered new cards sent when he signed the controversial voter identification law that critics say could disenfranchise the poor, minorities and young people.

By Anita Kumar | 12:42 PM ET, 05/23/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:21 PM ET, 05/22/2012

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors approves tentative plan to fix budget woes at social agency

By Fredrick Kunkle

By Fredrick Kunkle | 07:21 PM ET, 05/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:50 PM ET, 05/22/2012

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors to set $30 million referendum on flood control for Huntington

By Fredrick Kunkle

By Fredrick Kunkle | 03:50 PM ET, 05/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Fairfax County to hold referendum on flood protection for Huntington

Posted at 11:58 AM ET, 05/22/2012

GOP Crossroads to air new ‘Basketball’ anti-Obama ad in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

A conservative group will begin airing a new TV ad attacking Obama’s policies on taxes and spending Wednesday in Virginia.

By Anita Kumar | 11:58 AM ET, 05/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:28 AM ET, 05/22/2012

Mark Warner: Bain Capital both a ‘successful business’ and ‘valid topic of debate’

By Ben Pershing

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.), a former venture capitalist, called Mitt Romney’s former firm “a valid topic of debate” but also praised it as “a very successful business.”

By Ben Pershing | 11:28 AM ET, 05/22/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:44 PM ET, 05/21/2012

Scott Rigell, Paul Hirschbiel trade ‘clean campaign’ challenges

By Ben Pershing

The incumbent wants a positive campaign, and his opponent wants a ban on anonymous outside spending.

By Ben Pershing | 05:44 PM ET, 05/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia, Scott Rigell, Paul Hirschbiel

Posted at 05:12 PM ET, 05/21/2012

Social issues cloud McDonnell’s ups and downs

By Laura Vozzella

Va. General Assembly gives governor victories, defeats and social-issues headaches.

By Laura Vozzella | 05:12 PM ET, 05/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:59 PM ET, 05/21/2012

Virginia Senate hopefuls differ on gay judges

By Laura Vozzella

Blocked Va. judicial appointment provides fresh issue as Republicans prepare for final debate

By Laura Vozzella | 03:59 PM ET, 05/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:30 PM ET, 05/21/2012

Virginia grants sales-tax holiday for hurricane prep

By Laura Vozzella

Sales tax on storm supplies takes a holiday

By Laura Vozzella | 02:30 PM ET, 05/21/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:48 PM ET, 05/19/2012

Arlington awards $13.7 million in infrastructure work

By Patricia Sullivan

Improvements across Arlington County to start this summer.

By Patricia Sullivan | 03:48 PM ET, 05/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Arlington County

Posted at 03:08 PM ET, 05/19/2012

Alexandria appeals its own board decision

By Patricia Sullivan

A city says it’s appealing a decision by one of its boards, not suing itself.

By Patricia Sullivan | 03:08 PM ET, 05/19/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Alexandria

Posted at 04:07 PM ET, 05/17/2012

Chap Petersen will not run for governor

By Laura Vozzella

Fairfax senator, who’d explored statewide run, will not seek AG’s post either

By Laura Vozzella | 04:07 PM ET, 05/17/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:30 PM ET, 05/16/2012

Fairfax County now has 10 companies on Fortune 500 list

By Fredrick Kunkle

In the running cross-border rivalry between Md. and Va., Fortune magazine has just added another 500 points to the Old Dominion’s score.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 05:30 PM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:24 PM ET, 05/16/2012

Bob McDonnell evolves on gay judges

By Laura Vozzella

Virginia governor, who led ouster of gay judge in 2003, says sexual orientation not relevant to judicial appointments

By Laura Vozzella | 02:24 PM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:01 PM ET, 05/16/2012

Flabby? Cuccinelli’s Skechers suit has your backside

By Laura Vozzella

Virginia attorney general reaches settlement for Skechers-wearers untoned by rocker-bottom shoes.

By Laura Vozzella | 02:01 PM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:53 PM ET, 05/16/2012

Fairfax County wants volunteers to write more parking tickets

By Fredrick Kunkle

Revenue-hungry Fairfax County considers expanding the use of volunteers to write parking tickets after a five-year decline in the citations issued and revenue collected.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 01:53 PM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:45 AM ET, 05/16/2012

Jim Webb, Debbie Wasserman-Schultz to appear at Virginia Democrats’ convention

By Ben Pershing

Virginia Democrats will gather June 1-2 at George Mason University.

By Ben Pershing | 11:45 AM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:24 AM ET, 05/16/2012

Crossroads GPS launches $1.4M anti-Obama ad campaign in Virginia

By Ben Pershing

Pro-Republican group is matching the ad spending of the president’s re-election effort.

By Ben Pershing | 10:24 AM ET, 05/16/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/15/2012

House of Delegates rejects gay judge Tracy Thorne-Begland

By Laura Vozzella

The Senate, on the last day of session, avoids voting on the appointment of Richmond prosecutor Tracy Thorne-Begland to the bench.

By Laura Vozzella | 05:00 AM ET, 05/15/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:10 PM ET, 05/14/2012

Tom Davis endorses Chris Perkins in GOP primary to face Gerald Connolly

By Ben Pershing

The moderate Northern Virginia Republican has picked Perkins to face Gerald Connolly in the race for his old seat.

By Ben Pershing | 05:10 PM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:05 PM ET, 05/14/2012

ACLU, Libertarians challenge Virginia ballot rules

By Ben Pershing

Groups file suit against state law allowing only Virginia residents to collect signatures.

By Ben Pershing | 03:05 PM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:56 PM ET, 05/14/2012

Va. Senator-mom Jill Vogel in session with newborn

By Laura Vozzella

Virginia state Sen. Jill Vogel back in session with 18-day-old baby in tow.

By Laura Vozzella | 02:56 PM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:05 PM ET, 05/14/2012

Money for Silver Line leads to name calling

By Dana Hedgpeth

Virginia Secretary of Transportation’s calling legislators and their staff “idiots” gets response

By Dana Hedgpeth | 01:05 PM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:22 AM ET, 05/14/2012

Virginia delegate vows to block gay judge

By Laura Vozzella

Gay rights, a hot topic in the presidential campaign, crops up in a key swing state.

By Laura Vozzella | 11:22 AM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:23 AM ET, 05/14/2012

New Obama ad in Virginia attacks Romney’s Bain record

By Ben Pershing

The television spot calls Romney a “job-destroyer.”

By Ben Pershing | 10:23 AM ET, 05/14/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:59 AM ET, 05/12/2012

Gay judge nominee Tracy Thorne-Begland challenged in Virginia

By Laura Vozzella

Tracy Thorne-Begland was booted from the Navy 20 years ago after coming out as a gay man to challenge the military’s “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.

By Laura Vozzella | 06:59 AM ET, 05/12/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:16 PM ET, 05/11/2012

Herman Cain to headline pair of Virginia Beach Republican events

By Anita Kumar

Former presidential hopeful Herman Cain will speak at two Virginia Beach event this weekend

By Anita Kumar | 01:16 PM ET, 05/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:51 AM ET, 05/11/2012

George Allen to debate Senate Republican primary foes in Virginia Beach

By Ben Pershing

Time is running out for George Allen’s foes to stall his momentum.

By Ben Pershing | 10:51 AM ET, 05/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:50 AM ET, 05/11/2012

Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling can vote on budget amendments

By Anita Kumar

Virginia’s governor will help Republicans have the last word on the state budget

By Anita Kumar | 08:50 AM ET, 05/11/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia, Virginia politics

Posted at 05:17 PM ET, 05/10/2012

Clean air rules create jobs, TV ads from environmental groups claim

By Laura Vozzella

Environmental groups tout green jobs in Virginia and other swing states.

By Laura Vozzella | 05:17 PM ET, 05/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:43 PM ET, 05/10/2012

The Silver Line to Dulles: Is McDonnell trying to hold up money for the project?

By Anita Kumar and Dana A. Hedgpeth

Gov. Bob McDonnell has proposed amending the state budget to prevent money from being sent to the regional airpots authority until Va’s new board members are seated.

By Anita Kumar and Dana A. Hedgpeth | 02:43 PM ET, 05/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Metro, Silver Line, Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Posted at 10:30 AM ET, 05/10/2012

NRA endorses George Allen ahead of GOP Senate primary

By Ben Pershing

Former governor and senator Allen got a key conservative endorsement for the second day in a row.

By Ben Pershing | 10:30 AM ET, 05/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:02 AM ET, 05/10/2012

President Obama airs new TV ad in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

Obama’s new TV ad in the swing state of Virginia touts auto industry success.

By Anita Kumar | 10:02 AM ET, 05/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:51 AM ET, 05/10/2012

What Alexandria Democrats didn’t ask

By Patricia Sullivan

Given the chance to ask other candidates tough questions, Alexandria Democrats took a pass.

By Patricia Sullivan | 12:51 AM ET, 05/10/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:58 PM ET, 05/09/2012

Obama to open two more campaign offices in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

President Obama will soon have 15 campaign offices in the swing state of Virginia.

By Anita Kumar | 01:58 PM ET, 05/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:12 PM ET, 05/09/2012

Pro-Romney PAC airs new TV ad in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

Restore Our Future PAC airs pro-Romney ad in swing state of Virginia.

By Anita Kumar | 12:12 PM ET, 05/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:07 PM ET, 05/09/2012

George Allen gets backing of American Conservative Union

By Ben Pershing

The group calls him “the best choice for conservatives who want to win” Virginia’s Senate race.

By Ben Pershing | 12:07 PM ET, 05/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:45 AM ET, 05/09/2012

Ken Cuccinelli supporters want to hold a convention for 2013 governor’s race

By Anita Kumar

Cuccinelli supporters try to change the nomination contest for 2013 governor’s race to a convention.

By Anita Kumar | 10:45 AM ET, 05/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia, Virginia governor's race

Posted at 05:55 AM ET, 05/09/2012

Prince William County funds rural area study

By Jeremy Borden

County funds ‘Rural Crescent’ and Route One studies.

By Jeremy Borden | 05:55 AM ET, 05/09/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:58 PM ET, 05/08/2012

Millions in ad dollars pour into Virginia Senate race

By Ben Pershing

National Democrats have bought $7.4 million worth of airtime to help former governor Tim Kaine.

By Ben Pershing | 04:58 PM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Tim Allen, George Allen, Virginia Senate race, Virginia

Posted at 02:09 PM ET, 05/08/2012

Queen Elizabeth pens a letter to Governor McDonnell

By Anita Kumar

The state helps celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

By Anita Kumar | 02:09 PM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:26 AM ET, 05/08/2012

Tim Kaine pressed on gay marriage stance

By Ben Pershing

The Virginia senate candidate said gay couples should have equal rights, but won’t say whether they should be allowed to marry.

By Ben Pershing | 11:26 AM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:14 AM ET, 05/08/2012

Bill Bolling crosses the (state) line

By Laura Vozzella

Two days after mocking his rival’s out-of-state travel, Virginia’s lieutenant governor crosses the state line — but only one.

By Laura Vozzella | 10:14 AM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 10:13 AM ET, 05/08/2012

George Allen, Tim Kaine join up to roast longtime columnist

By Anita Kumar

The roast will be of Richmond Times Dispatch columnist Jeff Schapiro, a longtime figure in the Capitol press corps.

By Anita Kumar | 10:13 AM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/08/2012

Cuccinelli has a name ID advantage over Bolling, McAuliffe in 2013 governor’s race

By Anita Kumar and Peyton Craighill

If having people know who you are is half the battle in politics, then the state AG has a leg up.

By Anita Kumar and Peyton Craighill | 05:00 AM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:55 AM ET, 05/08/2012

Alexandria passes budget without tax increase

By Patricia Sullivan

The Alexandria City Council passed a $588 million budget for the next fiscal year Monday night without raising the property tax rate, although the average homeowner will see $52 increase in their tax bills because of higher property values.

By Patricia Sullivan | 02:55 AM ET, 05/08/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Alexandria

Posted at 05:48 PM ET, 05/07/2012

On statewide tour, Bob McDonnell visits Joe May’s company

By Anita Kumar

The first stop of Gov. Bob McDonnell’s campaign-style tour across the state Monday took him to Danville, where he celebrated the expansion of a company owned by Del. Joe May.

By Anita Kumar | 05:48 PM ET, 05/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:08 PM ET, 05/07/2012

Pelosi helps Fairfax Democrats bring in guests, cash

By Anita Kumar

U.S. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi was a big draw at the Fairfax County Democratic Committee’s fundraiser Sunday night.

By Anita Kumar | 01:08 PM ET, 05/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:21 AM ET, 05/07/2012

Obama airs new ad in Virginia, other swing states

By Anita Kumar

President Obama today began airing a new ad, “Go,” which touts the administration’s record and reminds voters what things were like in 2008.

By Anita Kumar | 09:21 AM ET, 05/07/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia

Posted at 12:44 PM ET, 05/05/2012

Fairfax County Board of Supervisors chairman heads to Turkey for cultural exchange

By Fredrick Kunkle

Sharon S. Bulova (D) and others were scheduled to leave Friday for a 10-day visit.

By Fredrick Kunkle | 12:44 PM ET, 05/05/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 06:14 PM ET, 05/04/2012

McDonnell plans campaign-style tour across Virginia

By Laura Vozzella

Democrats call it a publicly funded bid to enhance his vice presidential prospects, but the governor says he’s only spreading good news

By Laura Vozzella | 06:14 PM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:17 PM ET, 05/04/2012

Democratic super PAC ad hits George Allen

By Ben Pershing

The new Democratic spot attacks Allen’s fiscal record as governor and senator.

By Ben Pershing | 05:17 PM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:23 PM ET, 05/04/2012

Alexandrians crowd election ballots

By Patricia Sullivan

Three Republicans, 14 Democrats and an unknown number of independents want to run for Alexandria City Council.

By Patricia Sullivan | 04:23 PM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Categories: Alexandria

Posted at 02:01 PM ET, 05/04/2012

Ken Cuccinelli looks at foreclosures in Manassas neighborhood

By Jeremy Borden

The Virginia attorney general agreed to meet with a group of interfaith leaders to talk about housing issues.

By Jeremy Borden | 02:01 PM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:48 PM ET, 05/04/2012

Bill Bolling to Ken Cuccinelli: Have a nice, long trip

By Laura Vozzella

Lieutenant governor wishes his rival for Virginia governor a nice trip to Iowa — and wishes he would stay out of the state.

By Laura Vozzella | 01:48 PM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 11:03 AM ET, 05/04/2012

Kaine, Smart join Obama at Richmond rally

By Anita Kumar

Virginia Commonwealth University basketball coach Shaka Smart, who gained a national following after his team’s unexpected success the past couple years, will join Obama.

By Anita Kumar | 11:03 AM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/04/2012

McDonnell aims to help Romney in Virginia, on or off the ticket

By Laura Vozzella

Asked about his vice presidential prospects, McDonnell says he’s happy being governor but he’d consider running as VP

By Laura Vozzella | 05:00 AM ET, 05/04/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:51 PM ET, 05/03/2012

Democrats question Romney’s views on women as he campaigns in Virginia

By Anita Kumar

Demcrats are doing what they can to stress that Romney has a women problem as he campaigns in a state which saw large protests this year over abortion and health care.

By Anita Kumar | 02:51 PM ET, 05/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:50 PM ET, 05/03/2012

Romney’s campaign hires Virginia director Sara Craig

By Anita Kumar

Now that the primary is all but over, presumed Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney is ramping up his campaign in Virginia.

By Anita Kumar | 01:50 PM ET, 05/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:00 AM ET, 05/03/2012

Romney fundraiser draws Virginia dignitaries

By Anita Kumar

Several of Virginia’s Republican dignitaries came out for a fundraiser for likely presidential nominee Mitt Romney at the Pentagon City Ritz Carlton Wednesday night.

By Anita Kumar | 05:00 AM ET, 05/03/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:21 PM ET, 05/02/2012

Mitt Romney, Newt Gingrich appear in Northern Virginia

By Anita Kumar

Gingrich brought his 2012 presidential campaign to an end at event in Arlington, while Romney continued hunting for votes nearby.

By Anita Kumar | 05:21 PM ET, 05/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:02 PM ET, 05/02/2012

Obama, Romney each have raised close to $1 million in Virginia this year

By Laura Vozzella

In the first quarter of this year, the president and the likely Republican nominee each raised close to $1 million in Virginia

By Laura Vozzella | 04:02 PM ET, 05/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 01:48 PM ET, 05/02/2012

Obama will speak to students in Arlington on Friday

By Anita Kumar

It turns out President Obama is coming to Virginia once before his campaign kickoff Saturday.

By Anita Kumar | 01:48 PM ET, 05/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 08:43 AM ET, 05/02/2012

Bolling begins to campaign for governor

By Anita Kumar

Eighteen months before Election Day, Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling will hold his first campaign event of the 2013 gubernatorial race.

By Anita Kumar | 08:43 AM ET, 05/02/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 04:02 PM ET, 05/01/2012

NARAL grades Virginia lawmakers on abortion-related legislation

By Laura Vozzella

NARAL ranks lawmakers on their voting records in the past session.

By Laura Vozzella | 04:02 PM ET, 05/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:31 PM ET, 05/01/2012

Romney holds a series of events this week in Va

By Anita Kumar

Likely Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney will make several stops in Virginia this week.

By Anita Kumar | 03:31 PM ET, 05/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:13 PM ET, 05/01/2012

Democrat Brian Moran’s employer has ties to conservative group ALEC

By Anita Kumar

Brian Moran, chairman of the Va. Democratic Party, is a top ranking executive with a for-profit college group that is a member. He says he has “very different views” from ALEC.

By Anita Kumar | 03:13 PM ET, 05/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)
Tags: Virginia Democrats, Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities, higher education

Posted at 12:00 PM ET, 05/01/2012

Tim Donner endorses George Allen in GOP primary for U.S. Senate

By Anita Kumar

The wealthy businessman who once ran against George Allen for the GOP primary for U.S. Senate race, has endorsed him.

By Anita Kumar | 12:00 PM ET, 05/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 07:08 AM ET, 05/01/2012

Va. Gov. McDonnell still weighing voter ID bill

By Laura Vozzella

State Sen. Garrett pushes for legislation on national TV, as governor says he’s on the fence.

By Laura Vozzella | 07:08 AM ET, 05/01/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 05:04 PM ET, 04/30/2012

Webb, Kaine campaign together in Tysons Corner

By Ben Pershing

Sen. James Webb campaigned Monday with ex-Gov. Timothy Kaine, the man he hopes will succeed him on Capitol Hill.

By Ben Pershing | 05:04 PM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 03:14 PM ET, 04/30/2012

McDonnell has wonky time at White House Correspondents’ Dinner

By Laura Vozzella

Va. governor rubs elbows with Harvard physicist, Google exec and home-state senator.

By Laura Vozzella | 03:14 PM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 02:24 PM ET, 04/30/2012

McDonnell signs bills meant to fight cancer

By Laura Vozzella

Legislation includes a pair of bills requiring that women be notified if their mammograms show they have dense breast tissue.

By Laura Vozzella | 02:24 PM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 12:38 PM ET, 04/30/2012

Virginia Chamber of Commerce issues report cards for legislators

By Laura Vozzella

Republicans fare much better in business-friendliness ratings.

By Laura Vozzella | 12:38 PM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Posted at 09:31 AM ET, 04/30/2012

Obama invokes Virginia’s social-issues ‘nonsense’

By Laura Vozzella

At McLean fundraiser, Obama suggests Virginia’s battle over abortion and other social issues will play into presidential campaign.

By Laura Vozzella | 09:31 AM ET, 04/30/2012 | Permalink | Comments ( 0)

Virginia Politics: July, 2012