I was informed by a source very close to Delegate Rob Bell yesterday that Bell has decided not to seek the Republican nomination for Attorney General in 2009. Rob has built an impressive record as a tireless worker in the House of Delegates, and, as a former prosecutor, has sponsored legislation cracking down on sexual predators and other criminals. I believe he’s also been involved in legislative efforts to crack down on bullying in our schools. I’m sure we’ll be hearing his name as a potential statewide or congressional candidate again in the future.
His departure from the ’09 race is likely to intensify rumors that former Delegate Paul Harris will seek the AG nomination. Paul and Rob are very close and would not have been likely to run against each other. Paul Harris is an unflinching conservative who delivers a positive message in a manner that appeals to swing voters rather than coming across as personally frightening. If he chooses to run, I believe he would make an outstanding addition to our ticket next year and an outstanding Attorney General.
In any event, I also believe that anyone who wants to seriously challenge Ken Cuccinelli for the nomination probably needs to be in the race no later than the State Convention next month.
Filed under: 2009 Elections
I attended the Reagan Dinner in Roanoke last night. There was outstanding attendance and some wonderful speeches. Governor Gilmore did a good job and was very warm and funny. The crowd was impressed with his performance and very encouraged. Congressman Bob Goodlatte also did a good job and delivered his usual strong speech. I also thought the updates from Del. William Fralin and US Attorney John Brownlee were good. Brownlee was particularly impressive. Cuccinelli spoke for a very long 40 minutes and was a complete disaster. It was clear to most of us that Cuccinelli hates Republicans as much as he hates Democrats. Most of the crowd was very uncomfortable, and I heard several folks after his speech who were concerned that he is going to doom the ticket. Let’s hope someone else gets in the race and challenges Cuccinelli.
Any word about Ryan McDougle?
[...] Yesterday, Virtucon had a very interesting post about what Rob Bell’s decision to not seek the nomination might mean. [...]