The issue is that we in the 5th district do not appreciate a national party leader from outside the district publicly coming out in support of one candidate in a primary field of seven, especially when that candidate’s has a past record of supporting big Democratic government spending.

Up until the last few days, Sen. Hurt’s positions have been somewhat of a mystery. His website has just been updated, but it included not a single position, nor any reason for seeking the office, nor any reason to support him. He and his staff have finally corrected that omission. The positions he takes on his website now are strong, conservative positions.

I do congratulate Senator Hurt on co-sponsoring the 10th Amendment bills this year. He needs to show more aggressive and principled leadership on issues, because what voters demand today is someone who will put the brakes on our abusive, out of control, Federal government. He needs to do much more to convince me that he can fill that role. He could begin by explaining his votes for the biggest tax increases in Virginia history. That record calls into question his commitment to the principles he espouses on his website.

Michael McPadden is not a politician, but a citizen candidate who has entered this race because of his lifelong devotion to the principles of constitutional, limited government, as envisioned by our Founders. His life and his commitment are the embodiment of the proverb “acta non verba”, deeds not words. He served his country 22 years as a Navy pilot, and he now he is again campaigning for our American principles at great personal cost. He believes, as he says, “Liberty Wins”, but it is not free. We need to reassert the concept of government that rules only “with “the consent of the governed.” This evening, I am especially encouraged by the lesson taught in Massachusetts by a man who was able to rally the People to let their Voice be heard.