New Leadership Needed on Transportation

When it comes to the transportation crisis here in Northern Virginia and in the Hampton Roads area, we need new leadership. As last week's editorial endorsing Bob McDonnell pointed out, McDonnell has shown with specifics, how he will lead in Richmond to attack the gridlock that is choking these two economic engines of our state. Creigh Deeds, on the other hand, has only shown specificity in one area - a dedication to raising taxes. Otherwise, Deeds' transportation plan consists of calling for a commission to come up with solutions, and "considering" various proposals. He says vote for him now, and he'll get back to you later with his program. Deeds' intent to raise taxes follows the same strategy democrats have used for years to fatten the budget - holding the taxpayer hostage to gridlock.

One of Bob McDonnell specifics will make a one-time infusion of new funding to jump-start our transportation rehabilitation by selling Virginia's liquor stores. He will also push for off-shore drilling as long-term source of new funds for building new roads and maintaining the ones we have. McDonnell will also prioritize our budget and use the general fund to properly fund Virginia's core responsibilities - roads, education, and public safety - to insure that we have the infrastructure to move our economy and our state into the 21^st century.

We have seen the results of irresponsible tax and spend policies have done to California. It is bankrupt, and the debt will burden California families for decades. Deeds and the Democrats would have us ignore that object lesson. Bob McDonnell and the Republicans offer us the responsible leadership we need to move Virginians forward, now, and to build a better, safer Virginia for our children.