January, 2009

Spotlight: Delegate Delores McQuinn

Posted by vjp on Jan 23, 2009 in Richmond | 0 comments

Delores McQuinn was the first candidate endorsed by The Farm Team.

Delores McQuinn is an active, busy woman who is full of energy and enthusiasm for a life of community and public service.  She wants to make a difference!

Message from Delegate-elect Herring

Posted by vjp on Jan 19, 2009 in NoVA | 4 comments

The following message was received from Delegate-elect Charniele Herring today.

Dear Farm Team:

Thank you for all of your support.  I am proud that I am one of the first candidates that the Farm Team has supported.  Because of your financial contribution and volunteer hours, as well as other supporters, I was declared the winner of the January 13, 2008 special election for the 46^th House District.   The following morning my election was certified by the State Board of Elections.  I was prepared to be sworn into office when I was informed that the Clerk would not read my certification into the record.  Following a lengthy debate, it was decided by the Republican majority, that I would not be seated because my opponent was petitioning the court for a recount.   The day’s events were disappointing to me and members of my family who travelled to Richmond from California to witness the ceremonies.

Most importantly, it was disappointing because the people of the 46^th District do not have a voice in the General Assembly although my election has been certified.   We are facing grave issues.   People are losing their jobs, Virginia’s families have faced record foreclosures and are struggling to find housing and afford food for their tables.   Therefore, it is my intent to continue to do what I did last week.   Caucus with the members of my party, show up for the General Assembly session, personally record my votes on bills, and try to serve the 46^th District.   This matter will eventually resolve itself.   Until, then, I thank you again for your support and I will no doubt be asking for your support in the future.

Now and forever sincerely yours,

Charniele L. Herring

Delegate-Elecect-46^th District

REMINDER: RSVP to Statewide meeting

Posted by vjp on Jan 18, 2009 in Uncategorized | 2 comments

The deadline for registering for the statewide meeting to be held on January 26 is Tuesday, January 20 Friday, January 23. Click here to RSVP on line.

From Delegate-elect Herring

Posted by vjp on Jan 16, 2009 in NoVA | 0 comments

The letter below was sent to Delegate-elect Charniele Herring’s constituents today.

January 16, 2009

Dear Friend,

As you may have heard, I won the January 13, 2009 special election for the 46th District. After a close race, followed by the vote canvass required by Virginia law, the State Board of Elections certified the final results and presented the Clerk of the House with my Certificate of Election. Unfortunately, using their majority power, the House Republican leadership refused to let me be sworn in so I may vote on the issues affecting our community and our Commonwealth, leaving our district without representation for an indefinite time while a recount lawsuit moves forward.

I am deeply honored that the people of the 46th District have given me to opportunity to serve them, and I look forward to moving beyond the unfortunate situation currently preventing me from casting votes on legislation affecting our community. The challenges we face are too grave to be distracted by partisan bickering, but please know that I remain focused on doing what I have always done – getting up each morning and going to work for the good of our community.

Please call (703) 549-3367 with any concerns or questions you may have. You have sent me to Richmond to be your representative and I am here for you.
Best Wishes,

Charniele L. Herring

Armstrong request AG opinion on seating Herring

Posted by vjp on Jan 16, 2009 in Uncategorized | 1 comment

Minority leader Ward Arstrong has requested an advisory opinion from Attorney General Bob McDonnell regarding the seating of Charniele Herring, who was elected in the special election on Tuesday. The Republican majority in the House of Delegates has so far refused to seat Herring, citing, as this Washington Post story says, that they want to wait on the recount results.

Armstrong asks for an opinion “as promptly as possible.” The entire request is below the fold.