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I could ever raise. ”
Giving his “thumbs-up” sign, he threw his weight of support to Mr. Wilder, strengthening the Democratic unity. Following Sen. Bird’s announcement, Mr. Wilder responded, “I understand and respect Sen. Bird’s decision today to withdraw from the gubernatorial race. Fortunately for Virginia, his decision will not end his productive and successful representation of the interests of the 38th Senatorial District, southwest Virginia and the Commonwealth.”
Thus far, Mr. Wilder has raised nearly $1 million in campaign funds.
Four Republicans will battle for the GOP nomination to oppose Wilder: J. Marshall Coleman, a former Virginia attorney general; Del. Raymond R. “Andy” Guest Jr., R31st District; U.S. Rep. Stan Parris, R-8th District, and former U.S. Sen. Paul S. Trible Jr. All were considered by Wilder to be formidable rivals.
The current lieutentant governor has come a long way over the years. The grandson of slaves, Wilder grew up in Richmond’s Church Hill section.
Waiting on tables and doing odd jobs, he worked his way through Virginia Union University. He served in the Army in Korea from 1952 to 1953, earning a Bronze Star for heroism in ground combat.
He then went on to graduate from Howard University Law School. In 1969, Mr. Wilder was elected to represent Richmonders in the State Senate, becoming the first black legislator to serve in the Virginia Senate since Reconstruction.
A lawyer in the firm of Wilder, Gregory and Martin, Mr. Wilder was elected lieutenant governor in 1985. His position has established him as the highest-ranking, black elected state official in the nation.
Although he has made history as a black with each hurdle he has leaped, Mr. Wilder said he hopes the issue of race will play only a small role in the election. “I’m running because 1 feel I’m the best candidate,” said Mr. Wilder, who submitted his leadership and experience as proof of this statement!
Concluding his speech, Mr. Wilder joined hands with Gov. Baliles and Attorney General Mary Sue Terry. With linked hands raised, the three sought to portray unity for the Democratic Party as Willy Nelson’s country tune “On the Road Again” mingled with the crowd’s cheers.
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