Democrats take heed. McDonnell is helping Republican candidates' with their talking points on this issue. Be assured they will use these words on the election trail this year.
So what do you think? And how might the Democratic candidates counter (or establish their own position) on the yet-to-be finalized Transportation Bill?
Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell on Governor's Amendments to GOP Transportation BillRichmond - Attorney General Bob McDonnell released the following statement today regarding the Governor's amendments to the GOP Transportation Bill:
"When Republican leaders began meeting on transportation reforms last year, we knew the road to success would be a long one. Throughout the General Assembly session Republican leaders, led by Speaker Bill Howell, worked tirelessly to advance the GOP compromise transportation plan. The GOP plan, as passed, represents the most significant improvements for transportation in Virginia in more than a generation. The next step in this process is the consideration of the Governor's amendments. An initial look would appear to demonstrate that some of his suggested changes are clarifying and helpful, while others will require a detailed analysis.
"The Governor has maintained the important reforms in land use decisions and the delivery of transportation services. He has abandoned his previous request for a large, statewide tax increase. He has added to the Republican plan to use more bonds and surplus revenues to fund transportation. Finally, he has dropped his opposition to the use of General Funds, and, while decreasing the amounts in the near term, provides a growth mechanism to increase future funding and reduce the growth in spending in other budget areas.
"Over the next few days legislators will review all of the Governor's proposed amendments carefully, and consider their impact on the underlying bill, which the Governor left intact.
"Virginians want a transportation solution. Republican leaders in the General Assembly have provided one. The Governor has now lent his recommendations to the effort. Republicans will work to ensure that the bill in its final form will protect the reputation of Virginia as the best state in the Union in which to do business and raise a family."