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By MARY K. BLEWITT
Arundel Newspapers State Reporter
With the Republican Primary coming to an end, Virginia’s political bugs are looking towards the gubernatorial race. All seem to agree that as Republican candidate former Attorney General J. Marshall Coleman and Democratic candidate Lt. Gov. L. Douglas Wilder face off for the governor’s seat, the run is going to be a race worth watching. All seem to further agree that — no matter what the outcome — it is going to be a fast-paced, hard-fought race.
Over the next four and a half months, the candidates will be working hard to show that the only trait that they share is the use of their middle name.
“Both candidates are going to run a hard-fought race,” said Del. Leslie L. Byrne (D-38th District).
“It will be a spirited campaign,” agreed Del. Frank Medico (R-44th District). “Both candidates can articulate the issues. Both candidates are intelligent people.”
“It will be a long-drawn, fast-moving race,” said Sen. William A. Truban (R-27th District).
Although June, the spring of the political season, may be too soon to speculate on a victor, many are expecting a close race.
“I think everyone is expecting a hard-fought, tough race,” said Laura F. Dillard, press secretary for the Wilder campaign, “and one that we’ll have to go out and fight everyday.”
After the recent race for the Republican gubernatorial nomination, which was characterized by a series of person attacks on the candidates, Virginian’s are awaiting the tone of the gubernatorial campaigns during the summer and fall.
“Just a few short weeks ago Marshall Coleman ran one of the most negative campaigns in the history of Virginia politics,” said D.K. Starr. “I think we can expect a mean-spirited campaign.
"There is nothing wrong with comparative campaigning,” said Sabato. “It’s a necessary part of the process, and I think we’ll see a lot of comparative campaigning.”
After viewing the primary, Del. Kenneth R. Plum said he too expects to see more negative campaigning.
“There is too much evidence that [negative] campaigns tend to pay off,” observed Plum.
“[The Democrats] need to respond earlier and very directly,” to any negative attacks, said Plum.
“Candidates in office have to be accountable for what they do,” commented Medico. Although he considers personal attacks to be negative campaigning, Medico added that voting records are “fair game” for the opposition.
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