Peter Schmidt launches campaign in Virginia Beach
By Joel McDonald • May 5th, 2009 • Category: Blog, Campaigns & Elections
Peter Schmidt launched his campaign for the 82nd House district this evening in Virginia Beach. The launch was hosted by the Runnymede Corporation, who hosted an event for Brian Moran last month, with the host committee including Phil Kellam, Bobby Mathieson, Joseph Bouchard, Harry Diezel, Jan & Jim Anderson, Craig Cope, Andrew Fine, Mike McCabe, Mike Barrett, Ret. Adm. Jack Dantone, Morris Fine, Allan Parrott, Carlton Bennett, Helen Dragas Tom Frantz, Louis Ryan, Bill Bischoff, Jack Drescher, Richard Glasser, Bill Shelhorse, Jeff Breit, Doug Ellis, John Malbon, Sonny Stallings, Jack Carter, John Ellis, Vince Mastracco, and John Wynne.
For more pictures of the kick-off and Schmidt’s campaign, click here.
Schmidt was introduced by Virginia Beach Councilman Harry Diezel who called Schmidt the kind of conservative Democrat who can win in the 82nd. In his remarks to the large crowed of supports gathers, Schmidt explained that his running for the House of Delegates isn’t about politics, but about public service. He understands that the economy is central to getting anything done, as it takes money to invest in transportation and green energy. He believes that Hampton Roads needs an improved infrastructure to move goods and services more efficiently.
Schmidt is known for his work as the former director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality. On the issue of energy, Schmidt was unequivocal in his stand against offshore drilling, saying that the reserves off the shore of Virginia, and down the east coast are likely not worth the expense of searching for and drilling for the oil that may be there. Instead, he stressed his support of a larger nuclear footprint.
Since Brian Moran’s has promised to work to repeal the Marshall-Newman amendment if elected, an amendment which prevents the recognition of any civil union or similar contract between same-sex couples, I asked what Schmidt thought of the amendment and the issue. While stopping short of saying that he supported marriages between same-sex couples, he said that he believes that all people should be with anyone they chose, and that same-sex couples should have the opportunity to enter into unions where they have the same rights as heterosexual couples, and that he would support repealing any discriminatory language in the constitution.
Peter Schmidt’s campaign launch was a success. It’s obvious that he has the benefit of a wide range of support. He faces Bob Purkey, who has represented the 82nd district in the House of Delegates since 1986. It’s going to be a difficult race, but Peter, his campaign, and his supporters seem energized and optimistic about the race against Purkey to turn the 82nd district blue.
At the very least, Peter Schmidt has promised that he would not fall asleep on the job.
Related posts:
- Peter Schmidt’s new ad
- A Year of Virginia Beach Progressives
- Scott Taylor launches campaign for 2nd district congressional seat
Joel McDonald has been following Virginia politics since February 2008, starting with the Democratic Presidential Primary. Since then, he has been the primary new media contact for progressive district and statewide campaigns.
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Mr. Schmidt seems like a nice man who has commitment issues. Republican, Democrat. If political affiliation speaks to the core values of an individual I have two questions: 1) Which is it, Democrat or Republican, and 2) WHAT ARE THE VB DEMS THINKING????
All the die-hard republicans who are finding it politically expedient to become Democrats are troublesome. I don’t know which is more telling: whether it is Mr. Schmidt’s ability to completely transform his values or the Democrats who are willing to back anyone they think can beat Purkey.
“Determination and perseverance move the world; thinking that others will do it for you is a sure way to fail.” Marva Collins
Pissed Progressive,
I can understand where you are coming from, and the concerns you have. Schmidt is a moderate with a solid record of pragmatic leadership. I don’t think he fully fits in with Republican or Democratic ideology, but I do think he’s left of center. I have confidence that Schmidt will represent the 82nd far better than Purkey.
I first met Peter at a reception for Brian Moran in December. I found him to be personable and very intelligent. As I was just getting into Virginia politics, I wasn’t aware of his background at that time. Being aware of it now does not give me pause in supporting Schmidt and his campaign. I live in the 82nd, and would be proud to have him as my Delegate.
I highly recommend reading some posts from Dan Sullivan over at VB Dems.
http://www.vbdems.org/diary/2936/great-enthusiasm-for-schmidt-against-purkey
http://www.vbdems.org/diary/2918/a-voice-of-reason-counters-bob-purkey
Joel,
Of course Dan would find a republican dressed in Democrats’ clothing appealing.
As I said, I’m sure Mr. Schmidt is a nice man. However he may have been mistreated (did they water board him?) by the republicans for challenging the aristocracy he still has close ties among republicans. I totally agree that switching back and forth to whichever team is winning is pragmatic. Have you been following Arlen Specter’s debacle?
It’s too bad the Dems have no bench; they have failed to recruit, train and develop candidates
So, we have Mr. Schmidt.
Schmidt is so proud to be running as a Democrat and I am glad all of his signs and banner indicate that proudness.
I just saw this and was shocked —
http://tinyurl.com/nh77zc
It looks like Del. Bobby Mathieson can’t spell his own name. What an embarassment. The Dems chances of reclaiming the house are slipping away…
We get it Sarah, you can spell. Now go to your convention and embarass your own party.