George,

I am pleased to say that I can enthusiastically back Creigh Deeds for the Democratic nomination to run for Governor.

As someone who faced Creigh Deeds, I know personally how effective a campaigner he can be. When he has the resources associated with running a race for Governor, McDonnell will find out as well.

As our nominee, Creigh will bring experience campaigning across the Commonwealth – and winning in areas where Democratic votes must turn out, and in other areas where Democrats don’t usually do well.

Creigh’s political journey mirrors that of the Democratic Party in Virginia in the past twenty years. He has broadened his base as he has matured and will find common ground with a majority of Virginians. Sure, there are some votes that he has taken with which I disagree – especially on gay rights – but he is strong in other areas that also matter.

Creigh is strong on conservation and areas that hit home for rural Virginians. His recently released Energy Platform shows that he understands the challenges facing us in a carbon constrained world and recognizes that rural Virginia is poised to thrive as America builds a green economy.

It is very difficult for a one-term Governor to succeed in Virginia, but Creigh’s long legislative experience – in both houses of the General Assembly – will give him a leg-up in bringing the GA along to solve Virginia’s problems and build a better future.

Al Weed (Electronic mail, May 26, 2009)