Here is an excerpt of an email I received from Delegate Rob Bell, 58th District.
For the last few years, the Republicans have held a majority in the House, while the Democrats have held a 22-18 majority in the Senate.
This is an important election! All the state delegates and senators are up for election. With a net pick up of only 3 seats, Republicans can gain a majority in the Senate, and even 2 seats would give us a tie (with Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling ready to cast tie-breaking votes).
How would this matter? Here are just some of the measures that have passed the House in recent years, only to be defeated in the Senate:
Right to Work: HJ 500 (2011) Would have put Virginia’s right to work law into the Virginia Constitution. House: Passed. Senate: Failed.
Pension Reform: HB 1500 (2011) Would have allowed state employees the option of a “defined contribution” retirement plan, rather than requiring them to enroll in the current VRS “defined benefit” plan, which has developed very substantial shortfalls. House: Passed. Senate: Failed.
Elimination of Sanctuary Cities: HB 1421 (2011) Would have forbidden any locality within the Commonwealth from limiting or restricting the enforcement of federal immigration laws. House: Passed. Senate: Failed.
School Choice: HB 2314 (2011) Would have created educational scholarships to increase access to quality educational opportunities for students throughout the Commonwealth. Specifically, these programs allow tax credits for corporations that sponsor scholarship programs to children. House: Passed. Senate: Failed.
In sum, by holding our majority in the House and by taking a Republican majority in the Senate, we can give Governor McDonnell the working majority he needs to pass wide-ranging reforms that will make Virginia better, safer and more prosperous. We only need three seats!
I would encourage you to do everything you can over the next four weeks to get those seats we need. Our candidates are working very hard, and need your help. If you live in a competitive area, please contact your local GOP or candidates. If not, I would encourage you to make a trip to a competitive area or work to make phone calls.
