Published: October 30, 2009 05:22 pm      

Virginia votes — Cast a ballot in Tuesday’s key races

Voters in Virginia will have a say Tuesday in key races across the Commonwealth. The gubernatorial contest between Democrat Creigh Deeds and Republican Bob McDonnell is being closely watched by many political experts.

Some believe the outcome of the gubernatorial races Tuesday in Virginia and New Jersey could serve as a indicator of things to come during the 2010 congressional elections. Some also see Tuesday’s contest as a referendum on the popularity of President Barack Obama and the new Democratic majority in Congress.

Obama, who won Virginia with more than 52 percent of the vote in 2008, has been actively campaigning for Deeds.

In Southwest Virginia, voters will decide a multitude of contested races Tuesday, including the Third and Sixth Delegate District races.

In the Third District House of Delegates race, incumbent Democrat Dan Bowling, D-Tazewell, is being challenged by Republican Will Morefield. In the Sixth District House of Delegates contest, incumbent Delegate Anne B. Crockett-Stark, R-Wythe, is being challenged by Democrat Carole Pratt.

Several contested school board and board of supervisor races also will be determined in the region Tuesday, including those in Tazewell and Bland counties.

Unfortunately, voter registration officials across the region are predicting a light voter turnout Tuesday. It is our hope that those estimates are incorrect.

Given the many challenges facing Virginia, including the ongoing budget crisis in Richmond and the possible impact of the federal cap-and-trade legislation on the coalfields of Southwest Virginia, we believe it is imperative for all voters across the region to cast a ballot Tuesday.

All individuals who have ever complained about a county or state government issue, or debated how officials could improve the quality of life for citizens, have a responsibility to learn about the candidates and cast a vote for the future growth and well-being of their community and their state.

If you are a registered voter of Virginia, don’t neglect to cast a ballot Tuesday. Make your voice heard and have a say in future of the Commonwealth of Virginia, and far Southwest Virginia.