Former Va. Attorney general Robert McDonnell officially kicked off his campaign for governor Saturday at the Annandale Firehouse in Fairfax County.
Entering to the song “Up Around the Bend” by Creedence Clearwater Revival, McDonnell hit upon a host of issues in his speech, including the economy, energy, transportation, education, and public safety.
“I want you to know that I’m ready to lead, if you are ready to win,” he told the estimated several hundred people in the crowd.
Other state Republicans at the event included former Congressman Tom Davis, U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf, and current Lieutenant governor Bill Bolling, who is running for re-election in the fall.
The battle for the seat to be vacated by Democrat Tim Kaine has already drawn national attention, with former Democratic National Committee Chairman Terry McAuliffe vying with state lawmakers Brian Moran and Creigh Deeds for their party’s nomination. Kaine — himself one of President Barack Obama’s earliest supporters — is currently serving as part-time chair of the DNC as he finishes out his term as governor.
Those in attendance praised McDonnell and his chances for victory in November.
Deborah Muñoz — wife of “Tito the Builder” of Prince William, who rose to prominence during last year’s presidential election — said she has met with McDonnell three times, and has a very positive impression of the former Virginia Attorney General.
“This is McDonnell’s day,” she said. “I think he’s got what it takes to win, absolutely.”
Kathy Farrell of Annandale said that McDonnell’s remarks in his speech about protecting life — both born and unborn — rang true to her as those of a pro-life supporter.
“You can’t go away from basic rights and values,” she said.
Though McDonnell is the GOP’s presumptive nominee, Virginia Republicans are currently in a battle over Republican Party of Virginia Chairman Jeff Frederick, who could be ousted in a vote on April 4. Several Frederick supporters held up signs outside the event Saturday.
Federico Morales, former Chairman of the National Republican Hispanic Assembly of Virginia, sent an email to members of the Republican State Central Committee dated March 12 urging them to reject the effort to remove Frederick and quell the potentially divisive controversy.
“I don’t want to hurt the party, but the party’s already hurting,” he said Saturday.
