Ralph Northam and Tom Perriello Continue Race to the Left
In the third Democratic primary debate, Lieutenant Governor Ralph Northam and former Congressman Tom Perriello reaffirmed for voters just how far left each of them is willing to go to get elected. From support for corrosive economic initiatives to doubling-down on healthcare policies that have driven major insurance carriers out of the state to opposing the development and production of more domestic energy that is crucial to job creation and energy security and reliability, it’s clear that Ralph Northam and Tom Perriello aren’t just in a race for governor – they’re in a race to the left, with no real solutions for how to help spur private sector job creation.
In stark contrast to his opponents, Ed Gillespie has put forward ideas that will benefit all Virginians, including a 10 percent across-the-board income tax rate cut that will create more than 50,000 new private-sector jobs and a 15-point ethics reform plan that levels the playing field, gives citizens a greater say, closes campaign finance loopholes, increases transparency, and fosters confidence in state government.
“Tom Perriello and Ralph Northam made clear tonight that their race to the left will continue, working to out-liberal one another on almost every issue under the sun,” said Pete Snyder. “All the while, Ralph and Tom are racing further away from the real needs of working Virginians. Ed Gillespie continues to put forward substantive policies that make life better for all of us. The choice in this race is crystal clear.”
Nancy Dye commented, “Tonight Virginians were reminded that Ralph Northam and Tom Perriello are simply out of touch with Virginia families. They touted support for the same economic policies that have driven the Commonwealth out of the nation’s top states for business and held back opportunities for job growth. Perriello and Northam continue to put party politics ahead of achieving results.”
“Virginians want a governor who will best represent our priorities and work tirelessly to produce results,” said Senator Glen Sturtevant (R-Richmond). “Tonight’s debate proved that neither of these candidates are focused on the issues that matter most to Virginians – another clear indication that Ed Gillespie is the only candidate in this race ready to be a governor for all Virginians.”