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And, frankly, we were astounded by Wilder’s response to a question about the possible conflicts posed by a presidential primary campaign during next winter’s General Assembly session. The governor said the legislature’s business doesn’t really demand his full attention on a day-to-day basis. We’re glad to hear that he has such absolute faith in the capabilities of our state legislators, but we’d still rather he stayed in Richmond during the 60-day General Assembly session.
Then there are the recent controversies that have swirled around the governor. Gov. Wilder portrayed himself as the victim in the latest installment of his epic feud with U.S. Sen. Charles Robb, but was publicly embarrassed when the State Police superintendent told investigators that a probe targeted at Sen. Robb was requested by the governor’s office — after Gov. Wilder had repeatedly denied he had anything to do with the aborted investigation.
There have been news reports, most recently including the resignation of his press secretary, Laura Dillard, that some members of his staff feel Gov. Wilder is spending too much time on a possible presidential bid and not enough time on the people and problems of Virginia.
And, Gov. Wilder has been criticized for his comments that Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas, a Catholic, might owe his allegiance to the Pope rather than the law on the question of abortion — as well as his suggestion that assassination might be an acceptable method to deal with Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein.
Though some dismiss these as minor mistakes, for others they raise important questions about the breadth of Gov. Wilder’s political expertise. Though he has shown himself capable in the arena of state politics, some more experience might leave him better prepared for national office.
Finally, there’s the promise he made back when he was running for governor in 1989. Questions about his ultimate ambition were raised even then, but Gov. Wilder assured those concerned about his dedication to Virginia that, if elected, he would serve his full term. Anyone can argue, and many do, that circumstances change and with them plans and promises, but we think this is a promise Gov. Wilder should keep. He certainly knew what he was getting into.
By his meteoric ascent in state politics, Gov. Wilder has become a rising political star on the national scene. Only 60 years old, perhaps he should allow time to temper his rise, lest it end in a flash and disappointing burnout.
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