One intriguing occurrence across the Commonwealth has been Aaron Rouse's Lieutenant Governor candidacy. When I saw the headline on my phone, I blurted out, “Aren’t these dudes friends?” Instantly, frustration welled up. Why focus on the LG race NOW when there are bigger fish to fry? This isn't just about personal preference (although, I do have a favorite); it's about why this should have been a November 6th headline.
This election marks the first time in the Commonwealth's history where local elections coincide with a presidential ticket. Previously, local elections were held in May. This change, led by Chesapeake's CDC chair, David Washington, was a sensible decision by the State Senate and the General Assembly. However, it introduced a new dynamic – a significant down-ballot that needs support amidst media coverage of Virginia’s Congressional District 2 and the Biden–Trump Bruhaha 2.0.
Congressman Bobby Scott – contrary to popular belief - isn't invincible; he can't carry the down-ballot races in Congressional District 3 alone. A network of regional and local voices is essential. Engaging in a Rouse–Stoney conversation now distracts from the crucial races needing attention. This election cycle requires a focus on down-ballot races and significant joint effort. THAT is what needs attention now.
The down-ballot races in each city in the 757, if not overshadowed by the presidential race, are “Must See TV” on their own. Hampton’s down-ballot is a hot mess, captivating those in local politics. Murmurs about the next cycle are already circulating, mostly under the radar as they should be. Chesapeake’s battle between Don Carey and Rick West is a melodrama with twists rivaling Scott Taylor–Elaine Luria battles. Clint Jenkins’s mayoral race in Suffolk, after a debilitating loss last cycle, would dominate our regional news cycle if the presidential race weren't a “Real Housewives of the White House” season on its own.
We must prioritize discussions about local races. Let the DNC and the RNC spend their millions on media buys and digital campaigns. This is where my frustration with the Stoney and Rouse candidacies arises. It's akin to a '90s movie with Michael Douglas and Demi Moore called “Disclosure.” A character named “A Friend” was the insider to Michael Douglas’s character who could see what he couldn't. “Solve the problem.” To be seen as a good Lieutenant Governor candidate, solve the problem of the lack of attention to local races. Show commitment to local races this cycle, so come November 6th, the favor can be returned in kind. This is the time to show leadership and guide the Commonwealth in the right direction so that the trickle-down effect in regional races is swift and substantial.
Every interaction with a candidate leaves a lasting impression. For me, each candidate has provided a distinct memorable moment. When President Biden visited Booker T. Washington High School, Levar Stoney welcomed him to Norfolk. He wasn't Norfolk's mayor; he was a Commonwealth leader ensuring the President felt welcomed. My memorable moment with Aaron Rouse was at an event for “Catalyst for Change” in Virginia Beach. Over beer and policy discussions, I instantly liked Aaron and Jenn for their candor about their vision for Virginia Beach. In these instances, I saw why Stoney and Rouse are leaders in their communities.
While the likability quotient has been met, now is the time for decision-making. We can't unring the bell of the announcements of their candidacies, but we can assess whether each candidate can operate with humility and provide service to others. Host fundraisers, be keynote speakers on subjects vital to our communities NOW, not in the next cycle. Lay the groundwork for even more positive perceptions of you as community leaders who will steer the Commonwealth positively. Local impacts regional, which impacts state, which impacts federal, each level with its own timeline dictating priority. “Show me the money!” – show me what you're willing to do now that will yield dividends later.