Collegiate Times

Returning to the conventional wisdom, it would appear that Potts has positioned himself to take liberal republican votes from Kilgore, thereby handing the governor's mansion to Tim Kaine. It isn't that simple however when you take into account some of the statements Potts is making. His rhetoric smacks of over-the-top liberalism, and if they serve to do anything, it will only be to back Kaine into a corner.

To be honest, I even thought Potts posed a serious hurdle for Kilgore until I discussed it with a friend of mine the other night who should quit his job as an attorney and become a political strategist. After our discussion, I realized it is not Kilgore that Potts presents a challenge for, it is Kaine.

Kaine is a liberal democrat who supports tax increases, though he would never admit to it because of the political ramifications; you can bet Kaine would bring back the car tax given the slightest opportunity. Kilgore is 100 percent against reinstating the car tax. But, enter Potts who pledged Friday to reinstate the car tax, saying, "I'd put it exactly where it was before Jim Gilmore was governor."

Potts has inadvertently maneuvered Kaine into a corner, especially if the Kilgore camp seizes the initiative, as I expect they will. Kilgore can frame the race as a contest between a true conservative and two liberals of varying degrees. Kilgore must demand Kaine publicly state his position on the car tax. If Kaine were to come out in favor, he could kiss moderates and conservative democrats goodbye (recall Gilmore winning many moderates and democrats with his pledge to abolish the car tax). If he comes out against the car tax, it could be Potts collecting the votes of pro-tax democrats. Clearly, Kaine is in a tough position.

If Potts diverts votes from anyone, which I doubt, it will likely be from Kaine. This is because liberals who are disappointed that the lieutenant governor won't advocate bringing back the car tax will jump ship to support Potts, who apparently has never seen a tax increase he doesn't like. Don't expect to see too many republicans buying Potts's agenda.

It should be an interesting election. A lot could still happen, and the party tickets won't even be set until June. Nonetheless, Virginia's GOP should be thankful for Potts and his lust for tax increases.

Continue Reading:  « Previous12