On Wednesday evening Reed Smith LLP hosted a reception with Governor Tim Kaine, for George Barker. We had a wonderful crowd with over 80 in attendance to hear speeches by Andrew Hurst, Senate Minority Leader Dick Saslaw, and Governor Kaine. Several other notable names were in attendance to show their continued support including, Del. Brian Moran, Del. Vivian Watts, and Del. Jim Scott. At the conclusion of the speeches George presented Governor Kaine with a basket of blueberry muffins, to represent that George and all of his supporters were going to turn the 39th State Senate District blue.
Many thanks go out to everyone who attended the event, or contributed in other ways. Remember that this Saturday at 11am a Joint campaign volunteer event, with Del. Mark Sickles and Lee District Supervisor Candidate Jeff McKay will take place at our headquarters (6320-A Backlick rd., Springfield). This coming Thursday, August 23rd, there will be a reception with Sen. Toddy Puller for George as well. Stay tuned to www.barkerforsenate.com for more details about upcoming events, or contact the office at (703)451-4514.
Mr. Gill is extremely unpopular. To see why, simply google "Faisal Gill."
If there was some way to promote an awareness of Gill's shortcomings as a candidate and Paul Nichols' (the Dem in HOD-51) strengths then Faisal's negative coattails could drag down O'Brien too.
O'Brien went to the HOD-51 Republican Convention last June and begged the conventioneers not to nominate Gill. It is likely that they didn't, but due to overvotes and corrupt practices the convention nominated Gill anyway.
The Republicans have handed Barker a great gift. I would consider printing sample ballots which show one or two of the Republican candidates grayed out, and the name "Faisal Gill" should be prominently visible.
Negative word of mouth about Gill is strong in PWC. Resentment among the Republican base is high. Barker needs to leverage it.