Wednesday, July 25, 2012

McDonnell sets date for State Senate 5 & House District 45 special elections

RICHMOND – Governor Bob McDonnell has set September 4, 2012, as the date for the special election to fill the seat of the late Senator Yvonne Miller, who passed away on July 3, 2012, and Delegate David Englin, who announced his resignation from the Virginia House of Delegates effective August 31, 2012.

Speaking about the special elections, Governor McDonnell remarked, “Senator Yvonne Miller was a tremendous public servant and fearless advocate for the interests of her constituents and all Virginians. She will be missed. Delegate Englin has served his district ably since 2006. It is critically important for all citizens of Virginia to have full representation in the Virginia General Assembly. To ensure that is the case, I believe we must hold these special elections as quickly as is possible under Virginia law. Having these special elections on September 4th will allow for the citizens of these districts to have full representation and give the new Senator and Delegate time to fully prepare for the 2013 legislative session. Additionally, having the special election in September will allow for a subsequent special election should it be necessary after the Senate election.”

The Governor will not issue the writ of election until July 30, 2012, in order to give political parties time to prepare for the nomination process. After the issuance of the writ, pursuant to § 24.2-510 of the Code of Virginia, parties will have five days to nominate a candidate. Should the parties or prospective candidates have any questions, they should contact the Virginia State Board of Elections at 1-800-552-9745 and ask for ‘Special Election Information.’

No comments: