Many of Virginia’s top political dominoes could start falling into place for 2008 and 2009 on Friday afternoon when U.S. Sen. John W. Warner, R-Alexandria, stands on the Rotunda steps and makes an announcement about his political future.
Warner, 80, has scheduled his news conference in Charlottesville, a sentimental choice showing his fondness for the University of Virginia, and is believed by political leaders in both parties likely to retire.
Sources close to Warner in Washington said Thursday that he does not wish to tip his hand about his announcement prior to the 2 p.m. event on the north steps of the Rotunda.
Key Democrats said Thursday that former Gov. Mark R. Warner, an Alexandria Democrat, is expected to run for the Senate next year if the senior Warner, no relation, announces his retirement.
“I think that Mark will run for the Senate if John Warner steps aside,” said state Sen. R. Creigh Deeds, D-Bath County.
“Of course, John Warner could throw us a curve ball” and go for a sixth six-year term, Deeds said. “I don’t expect that he will, but he could.”
Deeds has been exploring a bid for governor in 2009, as has Del. Brian J. Moran, D-Alexandria.
On the Republican side, former Gov. Jim Gilmore and 11th District Rep. Thomas M. David III, R-Springfield, have made no secret of their intentions to seek the GOP nomination for the Senate seat in 2008 if John Warner retires.
As for 2009, Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling, Attorney General Bob McDonnell and possibly former Gov. George Allen are believed interested in the Republican nomination for governor.
http://www.inrich.com/cva/ric/news.apx.-content-articles-RTD-2007-08-30-0333.html
Poll
