Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple Announces Her Retirement

I've been hearing this rumor for months (actually years) now, but today it's official: State Senator Mary Margaret Whipple (D-Arlington) is retiring. Here's Del. Patrick Hope's (D-Arlington) statement. Today, we honor the service of one of Arlington's most dedicated and admired public servants.  I know I join Arlingtonians in thanking Senator Mary Margaret Whipple for over three decades of hard work, dedication, and service.  She will surely be missed but her legacy will be long-lasting, not only to her constituents but to our entire great Commonwealth.My wife, Kristen, and I wish her and her husband, Tom, the very best in their future endeavors as they travel and enjoy time with their daughters and grandchildren. According to Project Vote Smart, Whipple had a 100% pro-choice rating, a 100% Equality Virginia rating, a 100% AFL-CIO rating, and an "F" from the NRA. Sadly, Whipple exits following a harsh blow to reproductive freedom in Virginia, sustained yesterday in the State Senate as Republicans pulled off a last-minute sneak play. Not the greatest note to say goodbye, but I wish Mary Margaret Whipple a happy retirement, and thank her for her service. Now, I expect a multi-candidate race for her seat, the only question being how many.P.S. Names I've heard mentioned as possible candidates for this seat include Bob Brink, Patrick Hope, Barbara Favola, Mike Signer, Alan Howze, and a cast of thousands! :) P.P.S. My attitude towards open seats in "blue" districts is simple: get the strongest, most progressive candidate elected. Period. Why wouldn't we? That's what conservatives do in "red" districts; we should settle for no less. UPDATE: Nicholas Benton points out that Mary Margaret Whipple was the "lst woman to hold a leadership position in State Legislature."