Citing differences, Wilder refuses to endorse Deeds

Former Gov. L Douglas Wilder, who never has endorsed a Republican, also declined to back the GOP's Bob McDonnell

By: Tyler Whitley | Times-Dispatch
Published: September 24, 2009

Despite appeals from President Barack Obama and Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, former Gov. L. Douglas Wilder said today that he would not endorse Democrat Creigh Deeds for governor.

Wilder, who never has endorsed a Republican, also declined to endorse Republican Bob McDonnell. Deeds and McDonnell had met with Wilder this week, seeking his support.

Wilder, a Democrat who is also a former Richmond mayor, cited Deeds' stances on taxes and his opposition to the one-gun-a-month restriction that was a signature accomplishment of Wilder's term as governor from 1990 to 1994.

"This in no wise is intended to detract from Mr. Deeds in terms of character or commitment to the task of being governor," Wilder said in an e-mail statement. "I find that he, as well as Mr. McDonnell are fine and honorable men and well suited to that task."

In explaining his reasoning, Wilder said "This is not the time in our commonwealth to talk about any kind of tax increase."

Deeds has said he would sign a tax increase to pay for transportation if it emerged from a bipartisan consensus and was directly related to transportation.

Jared Leopold, Deeds' spokesman, issued a one-paragraph statement:

"We respect Governor Wilder’s decision. While Creigh and he may not agree on every issue, they share a fundamental commitment to keeping Virginia the best managed state in the nation, as Governor Wilder first made it in 1992. As governor, Creigh intends to seek Governor Wilder’s counsel often, and looks forward to working with him.”

Tucker Martin, McDonnell's spokesman, issued this statement:

“Bob McDonnell and Governor Wilder have worked together well on issues ranging from combating gangs to promoting programs to help the homeless in Richmond. They share the same commitment to fiscal responsibility and keeping taxes low. They both understand that during these tough economic times public servants have to focus on the real-world situation of working families and small businesses who are struggling to make ends meet. The last thing they need is another tax increase that makes their burdens heavier and dries up job opportunities."