Washington Post Delegate Endorsements

Well, you win some and you lose some. With regard to the Washington Post's delegate endorsements, I agree with two and disagree with two. Here's my reaction, district by district.

35th District: Citing Mark Keam's "compelling life story" and "impressive resume," the Post concludes that "Mark Keam deserves to be the nominee" to replace Del. Steve Shannon, who is running for Attorney General. I strongly agree with this one, having endorsed Mark Keam myself. Excellent choice by the Washington Post on this one - Go Mark!

38th District: The Post gives the slightest edge to Bob Hull over Kaye Kory (actually, they all but admit it's a tie between the two), who I support, based on Hull's "experience." The problem with that "experience," which the Post doesn't note, is that Hull is not well liked by his Democratic colleagues in Richmond (actually, from the ones I've spoken with, that's an understatement). In addition, Hull has some questionable votes and views (e.g., that Dominion "Global Warming Starts Here" Virginia Power is a responsible, responsive company!). As to Kaye supposedly not having "a clear vision of what she would do in Richmond," that's utterly ridiculous. On all of those points, see my endorsement writeup and you'll understand what I mean. Go Kaye!

47th District: This one is the Post's biggest mistake, with the Post overlooking the two "most liberal candidates" in the race, Miles Grant (who I support) and Adam Parkhomenko, both because they "lack legislative experience" in Richmond. What the Post overlooks is the fact that the candidate they end up endorsing, Patrick Hope, has no legislative experience in Richmond either and will also "face a steep learning curve." In fact, the only 47th district candidate the Post cites as having Richmond experience is Alan Howze, yet they don't endorse him.

The bottom line here is that the Post doesn't really seem to understand the candidates in this race, probably hasn't had a reporter at any of the debates or forums (I've attended three of those so far and have followed this race very closely), and most likely just went with the candidate supported by elected officials they know and like (e.g., Mary Margaret Whipple). In sum, if you're an undecided voter in the 47th district, the Post endorsement is completely unhelpful in making up your mind. Instead, I urge you to read their interviews online (here is the one I did with Miles), to check out their websites, to read their literature, and to watch the videos I've taken of their performances at debates. Then, you can make an informed choice, not just go with the Post's muddled "reasoning." Oh, and GO MILES!!!

52nd District: The Post endorses Luke Torian over Mike Hodge in this race for Jeff Frederick's vacated seat (Frederick is retiring). Although both Torian and Hodge are impressive people, everything I've heard is that Torian is the strongest candidate to win in November (and also will win the primary easily). The fact is, as the Post writes, either Torian or Hodge "would be a major upgrade from Mr. Frederick." In the end, I don't feel strongly about this primary, largely because I haven't focused on it or spoken with the candidates, but I have no problem with the Post's endorsement of Torian.

P.S. By the way, in 2005, the Post favored Jim Lay, a former Republican (the Post loves "moderate" Republicans!) and possibly Libby Garvey over David Englin (who they dissed as a "novice") in the 45th House of Delegates disrict primary. We can all see how that one worked out. Also, I'd just point out that the major 2008 Democratic presidential candidate with the least experience in Washington, DC was probably Barack Obama. Certainly, Hillary Clinton had more, as did Bill Richardson, Chris Dodd, Joe Biden, and John Edwards. We can see how that one worked out as well! :)

47th House of Delegates Debate: Photos and Highlights

Prior to the Arlington County Democratic Committee (ACDC) debate tonight in the 47th House of Delegates district, I took a photo (click to "embiggen") of the 5 candidates in the race to succeed Del. Al Eisenberg. From left to right, they are: Patrick Hope, Miles Grant, Andres Tobar, Adam Parkhomenko, and Alan Howze.

I mainly concentrated on video, which should be available soon, but for a pretty good photo of Adam Parkhomenko speaking, click here. For one of Alan Howze, click here.

I'd say there were about 150-200 people in attendance tonight, potentially indicative of a large turnout on June 9. I talked to a bunch of people after the debate, and the strong - nearly unanimous - consensus seemed to be that Miles Grant, Alan Howze and Patrick Hope (not necessarily in that order) did very well tonight. I tend to agree, but hopefully you'll be able to judge for yourself from the video as soon as it's uploaded...

UPDATE: Del. Adam Ebbin tweeted the debate. Also, see Brian Devine's tweets.

UPDATE #2: While I'm waiting for the videos to upload, here are a few comments made tonight that caught my attention.



*Alan Howze said his political role model is Mark Warner. Patrick Hope mentioned Bob Kerrey and Hubert Humphrey. Miles Grant pointed to Henry Waxman and Paul Wellstone. Adam Parkhomenko said Hillary Clinton. Andres Tobar named a number of people, including Walter Tejada and Emma Violand-Sanchez.

*Alan Howze cited electric power decoupling in California as an example of something another state has done well. Howze said we need to turn Dominion Power from an adversarial relationship to one where they're playing a constructive role.

*Patrick Hope pointed to a success story with health care in North Carolina, citing $260 million per year in savings on Medicaid expenditures by spending $10 million.

*Andres Tobar said that drivers licenses are a public safety issue, not an immigration issue.

*Alan Howze said coal is the "wrong approach" and emphasized the need to reduce power demand by providing energy efficiency incentives for homeowners and businesses. Patrick Hope said that coal is our past and our present but it does NOT have to be our future. Hope added that we need mandatory renewable portfolio standards, and we need to be a world leader on alternative energy. Andres Tobar said we get half our energy from coal, so we can't move away from it right away.



*Patrick Hope gave a strong answer to a question on women's issues, noting that he's a father of three girls and wants them to have the same opportunities that he's had. Hope says he would be a leader in this area.

*Andres Tobar noted that Arlington has many dynamic, elected women on the school board, county board and in the State Senate. He joked that he's delighted they "gave us guys a chance here" to run for House of Delegates.

*Miles Grant said he was raised to fight for women's rights; he's even got a photo of him when he was a little boy wearing an "ERA Yes!" t-shirt at a rally with his mother. He said he strongly supports a woman's right to choose, and noted with horror that there's a pharmacy in Leesburg that's refusing to fill birth control prescriptions. "We need to take Arlington values to Richmond."

*Adam Parkhomenko pointed to his 6 years working for Hillary Clinton, plus the support of State Sen. Patsy Ticer and Alida Black - as evidence of his commitment to women's issues.

*Alan Howze related that his mother was the victim of sexual discrimination on her job, and said that we need to strengthen workplace protections for women.

*Miles Grant said that universal health care coverage has to be the goal, and that we need to rally people in Arlington and around the state behind national health care.

*Alan Howze called for expansion of electronic medical records, SCHIP, and primary care coverage.

*Patrick Hope stressed the importance of expanding Medicaid eligibility, making it strictly income based. He disputed Miles Grant, arguing that Massachusetts is NOT the model because there's no cost containment.

*Adam Parkhomenko argued that we need a full-time delegate, but none of the other candidates agreed with him. Patrick Hope said that some day, Parkhomenko will settle down, buy a house, and his life will change so that he can't afford to be a full-time delegate. Hope and the other candidates disputed Parkhomenko and said that the position of delegate is designed to be a part-time citizen legislator position. They also emphasized the value of experience coming from working in their "day jobs"

UPDATE: Here's video of Miles Grant talking about the Massachusetts health care situation.

47th District Debate Tonight

Tonight, from 7 to 9 pm at the NRECA Building in Arlington (a couple of blocks from Ballston Metro), the Arlington County Democratic Committee (ACDC) is holding a 47th House of Delegates district candidates forum (aka, "debate"). The forum/debate will be moderated by ACDC Chair Peter Rousselot, with written questions from the audience and also the chance for each candidate to pose a question to the other candidates. The candidates for this seat are Miles Grant, Patrick Hope, Alan Howze, Adam Parkhomenko, and Andres Tobar. The winner of the Democratic primary on June 9 is almost certain to be the next delegate from this solid-blue district, replacing Al Eisenberg, who is retiring.

P.S. Miles Grant's letter to Arlington activists is in the comments section.

47th House of Delegates Interview: Andres Tobar

The following is the fifth (and last) in my series of interviews with the five Democrats - Miles Grant, Patrick Hope, Alan Howze, Adam Parkhomenko, and Andres Tobar - running to replace Del. Al Eisenberg in the 47th House of Delegates district. This Q&A is with Andres Tobar. Thanks to Andres for answering my questions, and to all the other candidates in the race (Note: Adam Parkhomenko's interview is available here; Miles Grant's is here; Patrick Hope's is here; and Alan Howze's is here).

Q. Why, in your own words, have you decided to run for the Virginia House of Delegates from the 47th district at this time? What specific qualifications do you bring to the table?
I was a lucky man when I made Arlington County my home more than 30 years ago after transferring from California to a new position with the U.S. Department of Education. During that time, I’ve found Arlington to be a forward looking, caring community that allows its residents to take an active role in their community and government. I jumped into such activism feet first, and was part of a variety of activities, causes, and organizations. I learned that one person can make a difference, whether it’s serving on a county commission or school committee, volunteering for a non-profit dedicated to helping those in need, or helping a worthy candidate become elected to office.

My activism has led me beyond Arlington’s borders, and I have been honored to meet other Virginians who care about the Commonwealth and want to solve problems. I have learned that progress can be made and solutions found by reaching out to those with opposing views and engaging them in conversation, rather than simply drawing a line in the sand. I have been active in the plight of immigrants, many who are Latino, but I also have gone to Richmond to advocate for issues of social justice. I believe that my 30 years of civic activism in Arlington County and beyond have led me to seek this seat in the House of Delegates. I know it well and I would be honored to serve the people of the 47th District.

I am an American of Latino heritage, one who did not learn English until I was 5 years old. My own experiences have led me to focus on education opportunities and helping those struggling to achieve what all of us want: good employment, decent housing, food and health care, and the ability to support one’s family.

If I am successful in the June 9th Democratic Primary and the general election in November, I will be the first Latino in the history of Virginia to serve in the Virginia State Legislature. I believe that I could make an important contribution toward bridging this cultural divide in Richmond. I am fully bilingual in English and Spanish, and would be able to engage the 80,000 Latino registered voters who live in Virginia to hear the message of the Democrats and what we want to accomplish in Richmond. I also believe that I could rally this important voting bloc to advocate for legislative priorities important to the Democratic Caucus and the 47th District in Arlington.

I would also utilize the extensive Latino media to rally the Latino voters in Virginia to vote for the Democratic ticket to win the 6 additional seats needed in the House of Delegates to elect a Democrats majority and regain control of the House of Delegates.

Q. How would you describe your political philosophy - progressive, moderate, conservative, or - to paraphrase Jim Webb - "the old political labels no longer apply?"
I am a progressive, especially on social issues, but I can be a fiscal moderate. I believe that there are social challenges that are too great for individuals, partners, or families to overcome, thus requiring government assistance. At the same time, I realize there is a finite quantity of resources available to address these issues. I am concerned about the fees and other funding mechanisms used in legislation that may unfairly burden those at lower income levels, such as retirees and families. I would seek less regressive ways of funding programs and projects.

Q. What is your attitude regarding bipartisanship, aka "reaching across the aisle?" Is this a high priority for you, or are you more interested in pushing hard for what you believe over compromising with conservative Republicans in the House of Delegates?
I believe that much can be accomplished when working in a bipartisan manner, but it is hard to judge real bipartisanship in the current General Assembly. With House Democrats in the minority, it is difficult for Democrats to get legislation passed, and what does go forward must receive Republican approval. In many cases, worthy Democratic bills do not see the light of day because of Republican blockage. I am one who is more than willing to find common ground and attempt to pass legislation that addresses concerns on both sides, but I have not observed such practices in the years of Republican control. For this reason, I believe it is imperative that the Democrats win back control of the House, as well as win the Governor race.

Q. If elected, what would your top three priorities be when you get to Richmond? Why these and not others?
My priorities are based on my passions and what I believe I can do the most good. I also believe they play to my strength. I would work hard to help my colleagues pass equally deserving priorities that they are championing.

The first would be Education. As I have said in answering other questions, I believe that the success of the Commonwealth of Virginia relates to the education of its citizens and residents. I support universal preschool for all children. It was a priority for Governor Kaine and although funding barriers blocked its enactment, a lot of work has been done on its feasibility and I hope to continue this effort. I also want to ensure that No Child Left Behind does not penalize hard-working schools that are making progress, and I want every student to graduate with the ability to go on to higher education or a good job.

Second would be working on Virginia’s Economic Recovery. I believe that the challenges that face this country – industry and manufacturing job losses, environmental destruction, rising energy costs – can be improved by encouraging “green collar” jobs, supporting development of new technologies, and ensuring our community colleges and other institutes of learning to provide training for such technologies.

Lastly, I want to change the tone in Richmond. I want to stop legislative efforts that attack the most vulnerable in our society. I welcome the opportunity to discuss these issues that have generated such legislation and work to build respect and understanding.

Q. What is your position on Dillon Rule , which severely limits the power of local government vis-à-vis the state? Should it be weakened to allow a progressive county like Arlington to move ahead on things like human rights, energy efficiency, environmental protection, and other areas?
I support more flexibility in the Dillon Rule. Local government officials, accountable to the voters, should be able to adopt policies on issues that reflect the values of the community.

Q. What will you do to fix the traffic mess in Northern Virginia? Specifically, what is your stance on "smart growth," extending Metrorail to Dulles airport, and I-66 widening?
Arlington has historically opposed the widening of I-66. To widen the highway would encourage more people to drive on this already congested route and increase the delays. I support that view. I support conducting a comprehensive multi-modal study that would evaluate traffic flow on I-66. I support greater incentives to encourage people to use public transportation and encouraging employers to permit telecommuting and public transit benefits. I fully support the extension of Metro rail to Dulles airport. My intension would be to work hard with the Northern Virginia delegation to find a regional plan that addresses traffic matters, without widening I-66.

I endorse the use of smart growth and would support measures to accomplish such policies. Although Arlington has worked at land use planning to promote smart growth for decades, more is needed for the farther, emerging suburbs, as it affects all communities in Northern Virginia.

We should amend land use planning that keeps sprawl in check, particularly areas not yet developed. Sprawl creates government spending on infrastructure, new schools, emergency services, and so forth. By limiting what can be built on such land, and also requiring the developer to pay for infrastructure costs such as roads, curbs, gutters, as well as contribute to building costs of new schools, in and of itself could limit such sprawl. Planned communities should have a public transportation scheme or strategy that builds in ways to take residents to their work place without adding more traffic (such as commuter buses or trains). Encouraging low-transportation systems such as bike paths helps as well.

Q. What are your beliefs regarding gun control? For instance, do you favor banning so-called "cop killer bullets" and "assault weapons?" What about closing the so-called "gun show loophole?"
I support banning assault weapons and cop-killer bullets. Any gun loopholes that allow weapons to be sold without a full background check and waiting period should be closed. The background check system must be fully integrated to disclose if a person has been referred for mental health treatment due to contact with law enforcement or the courts. I also believe that local jurisdictions should have the right to ban persons, even persons with concealed weapon permits, from bringing guns into public entities such as libraries, recreation centers, restaurants, concert halls, colleges and universities, and so on.

Q. Do you believe that gays and lesbians should have full marriage rights in the Commonwealth of Virginia? If not, why not?
I believe that gays and lesbians should have every right that is afforded to all people in Virginia, including full marriage rights in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Q. Do you support an aggressive move to slash Virginia's power consumption, particularly for fuels that emit carbon dioxide or cause environmental destruction (e.g., mountaintop removal coal mining) in their production? Would you press for "decoupling," "smart metering," and mandatory "renewable portfolio standards" if you get to Richmond?
It is imperative that Virginia develops a serious plan to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions, particularly with the anticipated federal legislation advocated by the Obama administration and currently under consideration by Congress, which includes a proposal to reduce carbon emissions by 25% by 2025. I will support measures that promote energy efficiency and protect the environment. Such standards will require aggressive action to accomplish. I would support those technologies that do this, such as those highlighted above, but it is important to ensure that such technology are supported by regulations that maximize its benefits. “Decoupling” promises to encourage utilities to be more energy efficient, but I want to make sure that excessive rate increases are not passed along to consumers. I am impressed by the promise of “smart grid” technology (and the smart metering) and I understand that economic stimulus funds were designated for such initiatives. Following initial demonstration projects by Dominion Virginia Power for smart meters, the utility has recently asked the State Corporation Commission for rate increases to make smart meters more widely available. I want to make sure that consumers are not forced to pay higher rates that could be paid for by Federal or corporate funds.

I oppose the methods of mining coal through moutaintop removal, strip mining, or any other system that harms the natural resources, the environment, or the surrounding communities.

Q. On a related note, will you pledge to take no money from Dominion Power or other companies that act in ways that harm workers, the environment, etc?
I would not accept money from any entity whose policies and practices are harmful to Virginians, whether it is, for example, a utility company or the tobacco industry. Also, if a major decision were expected to come before the General Assembly in the coming year, I would not accept contributions from the involved parties (even if they are “good guys”) to avoid any conflict of interest.

Q. Which one issue are you most passionate about and why?
Education. I have written about this in other questions, but I reaffirm that I believe all children deserve to be able to enter school ready to learn with the tools necessary to succeed. Universal preschool should be enacted for all Virginia children. I also believe that students who have successfully graduated from Virginia public high schools and have met other requirements as proposed in the “DREAM” Act, introduced in the U.S. Congress, should have the opportunity to attend a State college or university with in-state tuition.

I know the opportunities that education gives a person. Continuing education throughout one’s adult life is an important component to a successful career and life for today’s students, and Virginia’s education system needs to evolve with the times.

Q. Can you give us a few reasons why people should vote for you instead of your Democratic opponents?
I have extensive experience in community service to Arlington, and my work has helped me understand the values and concerns of those who live here. I bring 20 years of experience from my career at the U.S. Department of Education, and my involvement in politics, from the schoolhouse to the White House, has given me the opportunity to meet and understand the views of many individuals in Arlington County, Northern Virginia, and the Commonwealth.

I have initiated forums to bring people together to discuss and brainstorm on a number of issues: addressing alcohol abuse, providing services to the poor, ensuring equal employment opportunities for county and federal workers, and promoting greater tolerance and understanding of diversity among students. I lead an organization that helps our local police find and convict criminals and another organization that provides community service to Arlington residents.

Lastly, I believe that I can make a difference in the General Assembly as the first Latino member in history elected to the House of Delegates. I want to change the tone in Richmond by working against legislation that seeks to single out and harm certain groups in our community. I want to promote greater understanding and tolerance for diversity in the Commonwealth.

47th House of Delegates Debate

Tonight was the first debate in the Democrats' five-way, 47th House of Delegates district (Arlington) primary to succeed the retiring Del. Al Eisenberg. I wanted to go, but I had a date with my wife to see this play, which was superb. Anyway, I've gotten a bit of reporting from my sources.

*Apparently the only coverage was by a blogger, Kenton Ngo. There were no "traditional" media reporters were there, from what I'm hearing.

*There were about 40-50 people there, most supporting a candidate. The crowd was generally quiet, no applause until the end.

*The only elected in attendance was Walter Tejada. Also, former school board chair Elaine Furlow was there, as was top Kaine aide Alfonso Lopez.

*The general consensus after the meeting was that the 47th district will have a good delegate no matter who wins this race.

*Adam Parkhomenko was asked, "how will you have enough time to do this job?" His response was that he left his full-time job, is campaigning full time, and that with the issues facing our community we cant afford anything less then a full time delegate.

*Alan Howze talked a lot about Mark Warner, who he worked for as Political Director.

*Miles Grant did very well by all accounts.

*Patrick Hope repeatedly referenced the numerous commissions he's served on.

*Andres Tobar was strong on issues he's passionate about, like education.

*The next debate will be on April 21, sponsored by the Arlington County Democratic Committee.

47th House of Delegates District Update

A few items of note from the 5-way, 47th House of Delegates district race between Miles Grant, Adam Parkhomenko, Alan Howze, Patrick Hope and Andres Tobar.

*The first candidates debate will be held this Thursday, April 2, at the Barcroft School and Civic League Meeting. According to the groundrules, each candidate will have up to 2 minutes to make an opening statement. "Following the opening statements, questions will come from the audience with BSCL dues-paying members allowed to go first." I presume all the candidates will be at this debate, which is the first of several in the race to succeed retiring Del. Al Eisenberg.

*Looking at the candidates' voting records since 2003 (from the VAN), a few things jump out at me. First, Andres Tobar "does not show up in the 47th district voter file." Second, all the other candidates except for Alan Howze voted in the 2006 Webb-Miller primary. Third, none of the candidates listed in the voter file are shown having voted in a Republican primary since 2003. Finally, Adam Parkhomenko has voted in the most Democratic primaries (7) since 2003. Patrick Hope has voted in 6 Democratic primaries, Miles Grant and Alan Howze in 3 each.

*Alan Howze's website header is a bit odd, as he's got two pictures from outside the 47th House of Delegates district, where he's running. One photo is of the Air Force Memorial, located in the 48th district [correction: the Memorial apparently is just over the line into the 48th; my bad!]. Another photo appears to be a ride-on bus from Montgomery County, Maryland - not exactly in Virginia's 48th district. (note: I emailed to the campaign a couple of days ago to alert them to this, but they haven't responded or changed the website header)

*To date, I have received responses to my questionnaire from Adam Parkhomenko, Miles Grant and Patrick Hope. I have not received responses from Andres Tobar or Alan Howze.

*Adam Parkhomenko picked up endorsements from the Arlington Professional Firefighters and Paramedics Association and the SEIU/NAGE Local R3-05. I'm also hearing that another union in Arlington County is set to endorse Parkhomenko this week.

UPDATE: I was just informed that Andres Tobar was endorsed by current and former members of the Arlington School Board, Libby Garvey and Frank Wilson.

UPDATE #2: Josh Reubner, who has run twice for the Arlington County Board as a Green Party candidate, is rumored to be thinking about running this year for House of Delegates in the 47th. Reubner would have until June 9 at 7 PM to file as a Green or as an independent, but the deadline for filing to run in the Democratic primary is April 10 at 5 PM).

UPDATE #3: Following this story, Alan Howze's campaign changed the Montgomery County, MD Ride-On bus image on its website to one of an Arlington "ART" bus.

47th House of Delegates District Analysis Coming Soon...

I've gotta run out the door right now, but a full 47th House of Delegates analysis/preview is coming later this afternoon. In the meantime, things appear to be heating up, with one of the candidates, Adam Parkhomenko, having just announced an endorsement by Sen. Patsy Ticer (D-30th). More on this district, where incumbent Del. Al Eisenberg is retiring, coming later today...