Delegate Jim Scott's

Richmond Report

A Gentle Landing

Although we have extended the session beyond the deadline in three of the last five years, this year’s extension was less acrimonious than the previous two.

Except for the many constitutional amendments passed the House, and largely killed in the Senate, the tenor of the session was relatively peaceful.

While the anti-gay legislation drew much attention, also important were the amendments that would have sharply restricted the ability of the Commonwealth to react to fiscal emergencies by sharply restricting revenue-raising authority.

Sen. Potts from Winchester

One of the more interesting political developments was the announcement by Sen. Russell Potts that he was running for Governor as an independent while refusing to relinquish his Republican ties.

Many people have offered theories about his motivation, and Senate Republicans discussed removing him from Senate committees-without success.

I have known Senators Potts for more than a half century. We continue to be friends although our political perspectives differ. He and I grew up and attended public schools in the City of Winchester.

We recently celebrated the decision of the City Council to renovate Handley High School, our alma mater, instead of building a new high school. I know of no more passionate advocate for public education in the General Assembly.

Sen. Potts began his legislative service on the same day my service began—in January 1992. Even though we have disagreed sharply on some issues, I have increasingly found common ground with him. For example, while not an abortion supporter, he has demonstrated an ability to consider proposals on their merits. He has sharply disagreed with the direction of his party.

His willingness to buck the tide in his party comes from strongly held convictions. I suspect he will draw support from voters of both parties.

Since the Senate, unlike the House, is not up for election this year, the Senator will not have to give up his seat while running for Governor.

A departing colleague

With great regret, I read a letter I received Saturday from my seat-mate, Delegate Albert Pollard. He has decided not to run for re-election.

Before his election to the House, Albert served as Delegate (now Secretary of Natural Resources) Tayloe Murphy’s aide. As a Democrat in a Republican district, he has won handily.

He has become a respected leader on environmental issues, and I have looked to him for advice. I have enjoyed serving with him. His knowledge, energy and political wisdom will be missed. From a partisan perspective, his seat will probably change hands.

Like his forbears (including former Lt. Governor Fred Pollard), Albert has made substantial contributions to public service in the Commonwealth. While the demands of a young family and his business commitments are appropriately his priorities, I hope and expect him to return to elective office in the not-to-distant future.

I wish the Pollard family well and look forward to seeing Albert in the coming months at legislative and political functions.

Delegate Jim Scott represents the 53rd District in the Virginia House of Delegates. He may be emailed here.