The Washington Post’s Virginia Politics blog highlights the fluid nature of the primary.
Former state Sen. Joseph V. Gartlan Jr., for 28 years one of the most liberal voices of the General Assembly, has endorsed Gerald E. Connolly, chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, for the Democratic nomination in the 11th Congressional District.
The endorsement provides a boost for Connolly in an area where he needs it: among liberal party activists, with whom his principal opponent, former state senator Leslie L. Byrne, has strong roots. Such voters will be crucial in the June 10 primary.
Things are happening rapidly as more and more Democratic leaders and activists in the 11th CD join the Connolly team.
Gartlan’s endorsement is notable for two reasons: As a liberal, he is ideologically close to Byrne. And that leads to point No. 2, which is that Gartlan had already endorsed Byrne, but he changed his mind after Connolly got in the race.
Senator Gartlan pointed out the rationale behind his decision.
“It was more a question of Gerry’s enormous capability. I think he’s probably been one of the most effective chairman of the board in the history of Fairfax County. And I think the Congress could use that kind of talent.”
