Politics & Government

VA Elections 2013: Who Cares? (You Do, Apparently)

You Said it! Patch readers tell us they're voting in November, whether they like it or not.

We asked Patch readers if they were ready to vote in Virginia's statewide gubernatorial race and the answer was a strong, "Yes!" But the reasons they're voting and the candidate they're supporting differed.

Election Day in Virginia is Nov. 5, 2013. Get more information on the Virginia election.

Will you vote this year? Tell us in comments below — with your reason for trekking to the polls or not.

Michael H. told us he'll "most certainly be voting" and supports Republican Ken Cuccinelli for governor. "I will vote for a man who actually lives here, works here, raised his family here: Ken Cuccinelli," he wrote.

Democrats like Laurie are also enthusiastic. "Those who want Virginia to move forward should come out on Nov. 5 to support the Democratic ticket," wrote Laurie.

Others blamed their lack of interest in the race on the choices in front of them. Martin wrote, "Pathetic candidates result in pathetic voter turnout."

Another, Michael K., added, "Perhaps if there was a candidate to vote FOR rather than vote against, people might be interested. The choices are pitifully bad."

Reader "GRYLgroove" gave a reason why the candidates are struggling to find enthusiasm. "I will vote but one gripe I have is that the political ads that I've seen say nothing about how the candidate will improve the state."

T Ailshire pointed out that there is another option: "As long as the media persists in mentioning only two of the three candidates, Virginia voters do not get to hear about a third option, Libertarian Robert Sarvis."

And Olga noted that this election isn't just about the governor's mansion. "Not voting in this election is not just about the Governor's race but the entire House of Delegates," she wrote. "Those are the people who decide on transportation, school, education, healthcare and public safety funding. You better care if you live here."

Finally, Margaret shared a cautionary tale after 2009's gubernatorial election: "I didn't vote in the last governor's race and have spent the last few years regretting my lack of interest."


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