Stuart

State Senate hopeful Richard Stuart celebrates grand opening of Stafford campaign office

BY TESS HAMILTON

Date published: 8/5/2007

BY TESS HAMILTON

They stayed under the tents as long as they could, venturing out into the boiling midday sun only to find refreshments. But yesterday's heat didn't keep Republican state Senate candidate Richard Stuart's supporters at bay.

A small crowd of campaign volunteers, fellow GOP candidates and supporters gathered outside Stuart's new Stafford County campaign headquarters, near the county courthouse complex on U.S. 1, to help celebrate its grand opening and Stuart's Stafford campaign kickoff.

Stuart, a former Westmoreland County prosecutor, will face Democrat Albert Pollard, a six-year member of the House of Delegates, in November's race for the 28th District seat. The 28th District runs from the Northern Neck to Stafford and Fauquier counties.

The new Stafford office will also serve as a campaign headquarters for other area Republican candidates.

Many of those candidates, including Stafford Sheriff Charles Jett, were at the rally to support Stuart's campaign. House Speaker Bill Howell, R-Stafford, also was on hand to introduce Stuart.

Rep. Tom Davis, a Republican representing Northern Virginia, was unable to attend the event as planned, because the House of Representatives remained in session yesterday.

The theme of the event was action.

"I am a doer," Stuart said, describing himself as a "strong, common-sense voice" for the district.

In a short speech, Stuart focused on his major plans for the area. At the top of the list: transportation.

"You only have to be [in Stafford] five minutes to know what your biggest challenges are," he said, referring to the county's heavy growth and related traffic woes.

He announced plans to ease county congestion through efforts such as improved VRE service and extended HOV lanes.

Stuart also stated his commitment to keeping taxes low, and he took a tough stance on illegal immigration.

"None of our tax dollars should go to promote illegal activity," he said, contrasting his views with Pollard's support of in-state college tuition breaks for undocumented students.

Yesterday was also the start of Stuart's widespread canvassing efforts in Stafford. His campaign planned to knock on 5,000 doors before the day was through.

As the speeches ended, Tom Petty's "I Won't Back Down" came on the sound system.

It's a fitting battle cry for Stuart in what many predict will be a competitive race, as the GOP tries to maintain a delicate balance of Republican power in the state Senate.

Tess Hamilton: 540/374-5000
Email: thamilton@freelancestar.com

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Date published: 8/5/2007