From Kate Wilder:
Nearly three weeks ago Raising Kaine started a `Draft Kate Wilder' movement to encourage me to run for Delegate in the 42nd District against the Republican incumbent, Dave Albo. The outpouring of support was overwhelming and extremely flattering, to say the least. And because of so many people's strong desire that I should jump into this race, I promised RK and everyone supporting the `draft' movement that I would seriously consider it, but I needed time to see if I could make this thing work.During the last few weeks, I've met with many key people and have had intense discussions about this. And on several occasions I almost decided that I'd do it. But in the end, after weighing all the pros and cons of jumping into a race so late, as well as not being able to rearrange personal plans, I've come to the difficult conclusion that I just can't make it happen this year.
I want to thank Raising Kaine, the blogging community and everyone who poured out your support to me. The "Draft Kate Wilder" web site that was put up and the petition drive, with all of the signatures and kind words of support, were not only very flattering but truly humbling. And all the offers from people to volunteer for me or to donate money was a candidate's dream come true. Believe me, it was very hard to have to turn it all down. I truly wish that I could have made this all come together this year. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.
Oh, by the way, I can guarantee Dave Albo that one way or the other, he will not run unopposed two years from now.
Thanks for considering this, Kate. We still love ya! :)
The local Democratic Party should get someone who meets the residency requirements to file and get his/her name on the ballot, and run a net-only, newspaper-only campaign.
Otherwise, Albo will be able to give his money to other campaigns, no?
And I think all the door knocking has limited effect. I'd spend any money raised on advertising in local papers (Connection, Times) clearly explaining why Albo must go.
Thanks for considering it Kate!
Despite her decision, this draft effort may not be for naught if it demonstrates how much hunger there is for a candidate to challenge Dave Albo.
Time to put out an all points bulletin -- ISO top-notch candidate in the 42nd District ready, willing and able to topple an out-of-touch Republican! We know you're out there -- if you're even considering it, let's hear from you!
If the Mount Vernon District Democratic Committee has anything to say about it, there will be a candidate. The MV Dems are some of the most energized grassroots Democrats in all of Fairfax County and the 42nd District is a Democratic district. We need to recapture it.