Looks like more good news is coming our way as Virginia continues on its blue-trending trajectory– Rep. Tom Davis, a somewhat moderate Republican who was at one point considering running for senate, is retiring from his district. For the record, he has already declared that he will not run for senate, either.
Northern Virginia is a growing Democratic region. This seat should definitely be at the top of everyone’s list as a potential pickup. So, the question remains . . . who are the top-tier contenders who could bring this seat into our column?
I don’t believe the Republicans have a candidate available yet. Even with the candidate they find, it’s going to be a steep climb for that person in the Democratic-trending district. Congressman Davis’s wife badly lost her re-election to the state senate in November, even though Tom put a bunch of his money into the race.
As far as the Democrats go, we have former US Rep Leslie Byrne. She also ran for Lt. Gov. back in 2005 but came up just a little short. She was defeated for re-election by outgoing Rep. Tom Davis in 1994. Politically, she’s pretty progressive.
There’s also Fairfax County Board Chairman Gerry Connolly. I’d probably put my money on him at this point. He was re-elected to County Chairman this past November so his name recognition should still be high.
This is great news for northern Virigia Democrats. From all the friends of mine living in the area, this will be an easy pickup.