Continued Service
It is with much humility, and with a strong desire to serve, that I announce my decision to seek a second term as your Delegate representing the 55th House District in the Virginia House of Delegates (parts of Hanover, Caroline and Spotsylvania).
During my first campaign for the House of Delegates in 2013, I discussed numerous issues with the voters, but primarily focused my campaign on what I believed to be five critical issues: Jobs, Economy, Public Education Reform, Ethics Reform, Mental Health Reform and finally my opposition to Medicaid expansion. I made the decision during the 2013 campaign to embark upon what some citizens might believe is a radical course for an elected official and that was to keep my word to the citizens I am privileged to represent.
I am happy to report that I have held true to my word.
· With respect to jobs and the economy, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce has recognized my support for these important issues with an A+ Rating and their “Champion of Free Enterprise Award”.
· I have co-patroned, and supported numerous education bills which reduced the number of SOL tests, allowed for the expedited ‘retake’ of SOL tests, reformed the assessments and provided local school divisions with increased flexibility in meeting Virginia’s Standards of Learning.
· I have co-patroned, and supported, Ethics reform legislation that prohibits tangible, as well as non-tangible, gifts of over $100. I also supported the establishment of an Ethics Advisory Council, more frequent gift disclosure reporting, and greater transparency.
· I supported legislation that extends the time allowed for mental health emergency custody orders; and that create an “online” bed registry that will help find critical mental health services faster. I have co-patroned budget amendments that increase funding for Medicaid “waivers” for “intellectual” and “developmental” disabilities. I also support the continued transition from the “institutions” in favor of the community based model for mental health services.
· I have voted several times against legislative efforts to expand the current Medicaid system in Virginia in favor of allowing the Medicaid Innovation Reform Commission to find ways to make the system more efficient.
I believe that it is vitally important for elected officials to listen to the people they represent. Over the last two years, I have spent four or five nights a week attending as many meetings, gatherings, church services, clubs, and local events as possible. It is my utmost desire to represent every constituent of the 55th House District equally. We may not always agree on every issue, but I believe it is important to treat every constituent with respect, openness and honesty. It has been a privilege to serve the people of the 55th House District, and I would greatly appreciate your vote in 2015.
Again, thank you for your support over the last two years and I look forward to continuing to serve you as your Delegate for the 55th District.