Transcript: Virginia State of the Commonwealth

The prepared text of Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine's first State of the Commonwealth address:

Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, Members of the General Assembly, My Fellow Virginians:

Two days ago, we gathered in Williamsburg for the first inauguration in that city since Thomas Jefferson took the oath of office in 1779. I spoke about our commitment to keep The Promise of Virginia strong.

Today, I stand before you to begin four years of common work, conducting the people's business. I am filled with optimism and resolve, with respect for your service and sacrifice, and with high expectations that we will work together and deliver results for the millions of Virginians who are depending upon us.

It is fitting to note that this Commonwealth address is given on the day when Virginians, and all Americans, celebrate the legacy of an American hero, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr. King had the courage to ask why a powerful Virginia value, Jefferson's equality principle, did not apply to all Americans. That question continues to inspire us toward today "the more perfect union" our forebears envisioned.

Dr. King was not alone in his work. Brave Virginians sacrificed, and still sacrifice, to promote the cause of equality. In their honor, I signed an executive order Saturday to continue the work of the Civil Rights Memorial Commission recognizing those Virginians who worked to break down racial barriers. Thanks to the initiative of former First Lady Lisa Collis, we will build the first monument in Capitol Square honoring African-Americans. I join with you in supporting this project and vow to see it through.

Over the past four years, we have made substantial progress in improving our Commonwealth. You have played a critical role in that progress. Because of your commitment, and because of the extraordinary work of Governor Mark Warner, Virginia has been named the Best Managed state in America. You deserve thanks from all corners of Virginia for putting such a high premium on effective management of government.

But, as hard as we've worked to improve Virginia, building on that success will require us to work harder yet. Tonight, I want to share my thoughts about the path ahead for the next four years, and the immediate steps we should take to make sure that Virginia continues to lead the way.

Administration

To begin, I pledge an administration that will seek constantly to manage better and more efficiently. I don't view Best Managed State in America as an accolade; I embrace it as a challenge.

We will demand high-performance from, and celebrate it in, our state employees. I have traveled across Virginia, and I know the value of dedicated public servants. We have a right to expect much from them, and they have a right to expect our strong support.

Education