An unlucky child in a crosswalk this morning, thrown into the air when struck by a motorist, had the good fortune that Dr. Ralph Northam was approaching the scene. Jumping from his car, coming to the child's aid, determining that there were no life threatening head or neck injuries, he moved the child from busy Granby Street, calming him (and his accompanying father), ensuring his continued safety while they waited for the Norfolk EMT (which responded within three minutes). All the while a reassuring presence, with his folksy bedside manner. This early morning incident provides a measure of Ralph Northam's character.
The good news is that despite being hit by the car, apparently pulling onto Granby Street in Norfolk from a side street, the young man is already home from the emergency room being cared for by his father. The report is that he suffered no serious injuries.
It's expected that the candidate for Virginia's 6th Senate District, a pediatric neurologist, would be able to handle the diagnosis and give immediate aid. What is more telling are his decisions after acting as the first responder. First, moving the child and his father from further danger. Then, when one of the witnesses' cars wouldn't start as a result of a dead battery after the police had taken their statements, he nonchalantly gathered his jumper cables and helped get the motorist on the way before continuing his own routine.
This gives you a sense of the character he exudes. Not only is he competent, you sense he is genuinely concerned and capable. With turmoil going on around him, he acts effortlessly. This is the kind of person who can make a positive mark in Richmond. This is the right candidate to represent Virginia's 6th Senate district!
Cross posted at VBDems.org - Blogging our way to Democratic wins in Virginia Beach! Go RK!