Statements to the Arlington Civic Federation
On Tuesday night, September 2, 2003, the Arlington Civic Federation held its annual Candidates Night. Al gave the following statements:
It's great to be back here--for the 23d time.
Most of you know me. I'm a lifelong Virginian, an Arlingtonian since 1974. We've raised our family in South Arlington and then Clarendon, our home for 22 years. We've two sons, one out of college and the other just starting--and three cats, who haven't thought about college. We've devoted our lives to Arlington, to give something back for the blessings she's given us.
I'm running to secure Arlington's and Virginia's best future. To get there, requires an experienced leader with strong community ties, and a record of service that represents Arlington's mainstream. That's what this election is about.
Our state faces tough times. Transportation is grid-locked. The state has short-changed education by half a billion dollars a year and we're dead last nationally in environmental funding. Food is taxed higher than tobacco. Poor families pay a bigger share of taxes than the wealthiest. The right-wing General Assembly would rather peek into bedrooms than build classrooms, neglecting real needs. Our people deserve a different course.
I've proven my leadership. I haven't just promised. I've delivered. In 15 years as an Arlington County Board member and chairman, I led Arlington to low taxes, a double triple A bond rating, national renown for economic power and smart growth, and as one of America's safest and best educated communities. On U.S. Senate staffs, with two national non-profits, as a Deputy Assistant Secretary at US DOT, as a Board of Trade Vice-President, and on some 25 commissions, and task forces, I have crafted key initiatives for civil rights, better housing, distressed neighborhoods, more parkland, and new transportation solutions. In 1992, I received the region's highest award for public service.
I know Arlington's and the state's challenges because I have confronted them. By experience, achievement, and vision, I'm best qualified to be your delegate. In Richmond, I'll fight for the kind of state our children deserve, and together we can achieve it.
Thank you for allowing to be with you again, seeking to serve you again.
In the General Assembly, I'll bring my experience and knowledge to bear for a better Arlington, a better Virginia.
I'll make education and teachers pay and retirement top priorities
I'll work for a tax system that's modern, fair and gives greater fiscal autonomy to local government so we can broaden the tax base, lower property taxes and chart more of our own course.
I'll support civil rights, including a woman's right to choose, and entrance to all our public colleges and universities.
I'll work for more transit options, and replacement of dangerous bridges.
I'll support economic development initiatives so all areas prosper.
And I'll work to protect our environment and promote smart growth.
I am honored to have the endorsement of the entire Arlington General Assembly delegation, firefighters, teachers, and scores of civic federation members. I have the qualifications to serve you best. If you elect me, I will work hard for you as I always have, and once again make you proud of my service.
For more information, please contact his Campaign Manager, click here.