By Bob Gibson
Charlottesville political blogger
One of the students in the Sorensen Institute’s College Leaders Program class of 2008 sent a fascinating email to the rest of the class today, noting that former Delegate Dickie Cranwell is considering a bid for lieutanant governor in 2009.
Matthew Ogren noted to his 29 fellow classmates that Cranwell acknowledged in a news story that he is mulling such a bid.
The piece by Peter Vieth in Virginia Lawyers Weekly states, “Meanwhile, another lawyer may venture into the statewide elections next year. Former Del. C. Richard Cranwell confirms that he is considering a bid for lieutenant governor. Currently chairman of the Democratic Party of Virginia, Cranwell served for 30 years in the House of Delegates. He practices with Cranwell, Moore & Emick in Vinton.“
“If he runs, Cranwell will face Southwest Virginia businessman Jon Bowerbank, who is actively campaigning and has raised more than $220,000 for his bid for the 2009 Democratic lieutenant governor nomination. Jody W. Wagner, secretary of finance under Gov. Tim Kaine, also has been mentioned as possible lieutenant governor contender.“
Vieth, in his fine report on Delegate Steve Shannon, D-Fairfax County, running for attorney general, did not note that Wagner is leaving the finance secretary job with that goal apparently in mind.
Cranwell, of Vinton, is one of the stronger floor debaters and strategists the Democrats have had in the House of Delegates in the past 30 years. He was redistricted out of his seat seven years ago by the GOP majority, just as George Allen had been by Democrats (from the 7th District congressional seat) in 1991.
Sometimes, redistricting comes back to bite the crafty hand that draws first blood.
