News

~ Commissioner of the Revenue Frye Endorses ~

BRISTOL – Brian Moran, Democratic candidate for Governor, was endorsed by Terry Frye, Bristol’s Commissioner of the Revenue today. Frye announced his support at Moran’s event at Java J’s coffee shop in Bristol. At that event, Moran also unveiled a key component of his Healthy Virginia Plan, a focus on rural health care and insuring every Virginia child.

“Brian Moran’s spent a career fighting for the people of Virginia,” Frye said. “He’s fiscally responsible and knows how to help families in these tough times. Brian has a vision for where to take this state and the experience to get it done.”

Moran will fight for every region of the Commonwealth, starting with making health care available to every single Virginia child. Moran’s “Healthy Virginians” plan expands health-care access and affordability, especially in rural areas.

“I’m proud to have Terry’s support,” Moran said. “Leaders like him know what it takes to win in rural Virginia. Access to affordable health care, especially dental care and children’s health care, is a serious challenge here. I’m dedicated to fighting for these hard working Virginians in the Governor’s office.”

Today, more than 10 percent of children in Virginia are uninsured, making Virginia 32nd out of the 50 states. Moran’s Healthy Virginia plan would put the Commonwealth in the top 10 states, making us a national leader in children’s health insurance. Over 200,000 Virginia children are uninsured.

Brian Moran’s Healthy Virginia Plan for Rural Health Care

• Address the rural health care workforce shortage. Moran’s plan provides retention incentives for providers to remain in rural communities. He will work with the community college system to train more nurses and technicians in these high-demand areas.
• Expand rural health clinics. Moran’s plan expands state support for this successful model in underserved areas so that Virginians don’t have to travel miles and miles to be seen by a doctor.
• Dental care through Medicaid. Virginia is one of very few states that leave dental care out of Medicaid coverage. Brian Moran’s plan ends that. Poor oral health has been linked to many health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Moran attended the Remote Area Medical Clinic at the Wise County Fairgrounds last year and wrote an article outlining his commitment to rural health care: http://www.brianmoran.com/2008/9/26/more-must-be-done-to-provide-better-rural-health-care.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Moran Will Fight for All of Virginia~

MARION – During a meet and greet at Garden Party in Marion, Virginia, Brian Moran received the endorsement of former Delegate John H. Tate, Jr. Tate represented the county of Smyth, and parts of Tazewell and Grayson counties, in the House of Delegates from 1996 to 2001. Earlier in the day, Moran received the endorsement of prominent Democratic leaders in Pulaski County.

“I’m proud to have John and Jane’s support,” Moran said. “Serving with John in the House, I know he’s a man of conviction and principle, who only supports those who will fight for Southwest Virginia.”

John H. Tate, Jr. released the following statement of support:

“I met Brian Moran just after I was elected to the General Assembly. He and I were elected at the same election and were assigned adjacent seats on the floor of the House of Delegates. We were always consulting each other on issues, large and small, to try and find the best solutions for the people of Virginia.

Jane and I met Karyn Moran when they were engaged, and have remained friends since this first meeting. Even after I left the General Assembly, we have followed their lives as they had their two children and Brian continued to serve in the House of Delegates.

Brian has always cared for people, and been concerned for the working families of Virginia. Jane and I know his dedication to his family, and his concern for Karyn and his children. He has always shown the same concern for the families and the children of Virginia.

Brian has a good understanding of the problems of families all over Virginia, and of the issues we face in Southwest Virginia. We know a governor who hails from Northern Virginia has been able to fully understand, and work to solve the problems we face in the great Southwest. Brian Moran is from the same mold, and Brian has the right vision and values to lead the entire Commonwealth forward I these challenging times.”

Brian Moran grew up the youngest of seven in a traditional middle-class family. He worked construction and as a gas station attendant to put himself through college and law school. For the past seven years, he’s traveled Virginia as the House Democratic Caucus Chair and worked as chief legislative partner to Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Cite Commitment to Every Region of Virginia~

PULASKI – On the first stop of Brian Moran’s trip to Southwest Virginia, he was endorsed by important Pulaski and Radford Democratic elected officials. Pulaski Commonwealth’s Attorney Mike Fleenor and Sheriff Jim Davis announced their support for Moran, along with Radford Commonwealth’s Attorney Chris Rehak, during an event at the Pulaski County Library. Fleenor is also a former Chair of the Pulaski Democratic Committee.

“Brian has fought alongside us for over a decade; he’s no stranger to Pulaski Democrats,” Mike Fleenor said. “He fought alongside Mark Warner and Tim Kaine and is ready to fight for the hard-working men and women of this region in the Governor’s office.”

The endorsers cited Moran’s long record of fighting for Virginians, including his efforts to raise the minimum wage, expand the Governor’s opportunity fund, and provide expanded health care in the regions that need it most. Moran’s Healthy Virginia plan includes incentives to improve rural access to health care and dental care, and his Green Virginia environment and energy plan will create thousands of new jobs in every region of Virginia.

“I’m honored to have the support of great Democratic leaders here in Pulaski,” Moran said. “They believe, as I do, that this campaign should be built with grassroots support, community-by-community. People all over Virginia are joining our campaign because they believe we need someone who wakes up every morning to fight for Virginia families.”

Moran has previously received the endorsement of House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong from Martinsville, Martinsville Sheriff Steven Draper, Martinsville Democratic Committee Chair Lorene Martin and former 5th District Congressman L. F. Payne. He has received other endorsements from every region of Virginia.

“Brian Moran started out fighting for victims and to uphold the law in our court rooms, then moved on to fight along-side Mark Warner and Tim Kaine in Richmond,” said Chris Rehak, Commonwealth’s Attorney for the City of Radford. “He’s worked to strengthen law enforcement, improve public education and make sure opportunity exists in every region of Virginia. He’s has the vision for where to take Virginia and the ability to get it done.”

Brian Moran grew up the youngest of seven in a traditional middle-class family. He worked construction and as a gas station attendant to put himself through college and law school. For the past seven years, he’s traveled Virginia as the House Democratic Caucus Chair and worked as chief legislative partner to Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.

“Brian’s worked hard to strengthen law enforcement and provide resources to our first responders,” Sheriff Jim Davis said. “As a former prosecutor, Brian understands how to keep our community safe.”

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ A Champion of Civil Rights, a Leader and a Mentor~

PORTSMOUTH – Brian Moran released the following statement after Delegate Kenny Melvin announced his retirement from the House of Delegates. Moran served with Melvin from 1996 through 2008.

“When I was a new member of the General Assembly and the Courts of Justice Committee, Kenny Melvin became a friend and a mentor. He has been a fighter for those who didn’t have anyone else fighting for them. His advice and counsel were invaluable to me, and he will be deeply missed. There was no stronger champion for civil rights or more strident defender of those less fortunate. For nearly 25 years, Kenny Melvin has served the people of Virginia, and our Commonwealth is a better place for his service.”

Delegate Ken Melvin was elected to the House of Delegates in 1985 and is a senior member of the House Finance, Courts of Justice, and Commerce and Labor committees. The 80th House District encompasses parts of Portsmouth, Chesapeake and Norfolk.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Receives more votes than opponents, combined ~

MOUNT VERNON – Brian Moran overwhelmingly won the annual Mount Vernon Democratic Committee straw poll on Saturday. The straw poll is a key test of grassroots strength in a critical part of Fairfax County, the home district of Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell.

“Our campaign has grassroots support all over Virginia,” Campaign Chair Mame Reiley said. “Brian believes this election is about the future of the Democratic Party and that we will win if we continue to build from the bottom up. He’s honored to have the support of so many of Mount Vernon’s Democratic leaders. While winning this straw poll is a welcome testament to the strong support for Brian’s proven record of fighting for Virginians, we are going to keep our focus on the poll June 9th.”

Moran received more votes than his two primary opponents combined, garnering 83 votes. Creigh Deeds received 43. Terry McAuliffe got 33. McAuliffe lives in Fairfax County.

As reported by the Falls Church News Press, Moran was also the overwhelming winner in a recent straw poll at the Falls Church Democratic Committee meeting.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Bagby: Virginia needs a fighter for public education ~

RICHMOND – Henrico School Board Member Lamont Bagby announced his support of Brian Moran for Governor. Bagby represents the Fairfield district in Henrico’s East End.

"As a member of the Henrico County School Board and former school teacher, I believe Brian Moran is the right kind of leader the Commonwealth of Virginia needs, who understands the needs of public schools. Brian has been named the Child Advocate of the Year by the Virginia PTA and a true of friend of public education. I am confident he will make education and youth support services a top priority."

In the last two weeks, Moran has announced the support of Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones and Commonwealth’s Attorney Mike Herring along with the overwhelming majority of elected Democrats in Petersburg.

“It’s terrific to have Lamont join our campaign,” Moran said. “He is the type of grassroots Democratic leader that powers this campaign. I look forward to working with Lamont and other local education leaders to make education a priority as Governor.”

Lamont Bagby is a graduate of Henrico High School. He has been an educator in Henrico County Public Schools since graduating from Norfolk State University.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Bold Reform to Protect the American Dream ~

~ Plan Compliments Pres. Obama’s Federal Action ~

LOUDOUN – Today, standing in the driveway of a foreclosed home in suburban Loudoun County, Brian Moran proposed a “Homeowners’ Bill of Rights” to help homeowners stay in their homes and out of foreclosure, stop deceptive loans, and protect neighborhood home values. Moran is the first candidate for Governor to propose a plan to protect homeowners. There were 5,000 foreclosure fillings in Virginia last month alone. Moran’s proposal works in concert with the recent proposal from President Obama.

“Virginia’s families are getting squeezed. Our next Governor needs to keep fighting for the family dinner table, not the corporate board room,” Moran said. “The Bush Administration and politicians like them have spent all their time focused on Wall Street. I’m extending a lifeline to Main Street. This Homeowners’ Bill of Rights will help more Virginians live their American dream.”

THE HOMEOWNERS’ BILL OF RIGHTS (HOBR)

• Ban the worst practices of deceptive lenders. The proposal bans predatory mortgage lending, where lenders trick homeowners into refinancing; stops deceptive mortgages, which strip people of home equity; prevents mortgage brokers and lenders from taking advantage of homebuyers; and prohibits pushing families into bad mortgages when the borrower qualifies for one that is less expensive. Virginia will join 25 states that have banned negative amortizing mortgages.
• 90-day foreclosure delays. The plan expands default protection for delinquent homeowners to a 90-day period so people can catch up on payments. It will also freeze the foreclosure process for military families until 90 days after they return from deployment.
• Expand education for borrowers. The HOBR will ensure that people know the dangers of subprime loans before agreeing to them, require mortgage servicers to send notice and information on alternatives, educate senior citizens about financial scams, and strengthen penalties for those that prey on our most vulnerable citizens. We will deploy a foreclosure prevention program with a hotline, website and other information sources to reduce foreclosures.
• Protect neighbors and renters. Under this plan, Virginia would require that the owners of foreclosed homes (often banks) maintain properties to reduce blight and prevent other home values from declining unnecessarily. HOBR will also provide relief to renters by requiring 60-day notice upon the foreclosure of a rental building so renters can have adequate time to find new places to live.

“We can’t wait and expect the crisis homeowners are facing to go away,” Moran said. “Urgent action is needed now because the family dinner table is in jeopardy, literally. I’m going to fight hard to enact this Bill of Rights on day one as Governor.”

Moran’s plan compliments the initiative announced by President Barack Obama this week. President Obama’s plan focuses on providing much-needed new funding to stabilize home ownership and loan modifications for those on the verge of foreclosure. Moran’s plan focuses on regulatory reform, homeowner protection and expanded education programs.

“Brian Moran is building a sustainable plan for Virginia's homebuyers and homeowners that is so practical and comprehensive that it just may work,” Rev. C. Douglas Smith from the Virginia Interfaith Center for Public Policy said. “We should all thank Brian for helping Virginia see some very practical ways of keeping our families stable and our neighborhoods together.”

FORECLOSURE FACTS

Statewide

• There were 5,000 foreclosure fillings in Virginia in January, 2009 alone.
• Virginia ranked 25th in foreclosures in 2007 but has jumped to 11th in 2008.
• By the end of 2008, more than 25,000 homes had been foreclosed.
• The second biggest surge of foreclosures nationally was in Woodbridge (next to the Marine Corps Base in Quantico), which spiked 414%. Foreclosures in Norfolk increased 155% and foreclosures in the cities surrounding Norfolk Naval Base tripled.
• Nationally, foreclosures in towns where soldiers live are increasing at a pace almost four times the national average.
• Predominantly African-American neighborhoods had foreclosure rates that were three and a half times greater than predominantly white neighborhoods in Hampton Roads and five times greater than predominantly white neighborhoods in Richmond.

The full Bill of Rights is available at http://brianmoran.com/assets/2009/2/20/Home_Owners_Bill_of_Rights.pdf

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~Moran Will Win Bellwether Prince William~

DALE CITY – Prince William County’s elected Democratic leadership overwhelmingly backed Brian Moran for Governor during a press conference today at a volunteer fire station in Dale City. The Washington Post has called Prince William County the state’s “bellwether,” noting that candidates who win in Prince William win statewide. The endorsements came from nearly every local elected Democratic leader in Prince William, as well as the former Board of Supervisors Chair and other former elected officials.

The leaders cited Moran’s 20-year record as a fighter for the people of Virginia. Moran has fought for quality education, teacher pay, expanding access to health care, and equal opportunity for every Virginian. They noted Moran’s recent announcement that he plans to ensure health care for every Virginia child.

“I’ve known Brian for nearly 20 years and he’s always fought hard to strengthen his community and improve people’s lives,” said John Jenksins, Neabsco District Supervisor. “He’s worked hard for our children by leading the fight for the largest investment in public education in Virginia history. Our community will have no better advocate than Brian.”

Moran received the backing of:

• Supervisor John Jenkins (Neabsco)
• Supervisor Frank Principi (Woodbridge)
• Delegate Paul Nichols
• Mayor Earnie Porta (Occoquan)
• Democratic Committee Chair Pete Frisbe
• Former Board of Supervisors Chair Kathleen Seefeldt
• Former Delegate David Brickley
• Former Supervisor Hilda Barg (Woodbrdige)
• Former County Attorney Sharon Pandak

On November 12, 2008, the Washington Post called Prince William the state’s “bellwether” after the county voted overwhelmingly in support of Barack Obama. Prince William’s conservative Republican Board of Supervisors Chair said: “We've proven that, as goes Prince William, so goes Virginia.”

“I’m proud to have these supporters in the critical county of Prince William,” Moran said. “This is another community that shows they want someone to fight for them in Richmond. I’ve been fighting for Virginia for 20 years, and I won’t let them down.”

The Prince William leaders join other prominent Virginia leaders who have announced their support of Brian Moran for Governor: the Chairman of Mark Warner’s campaign for Governor and former Congressman L. F. Payne; House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong from Martinsville, along with the Martinsville Sheriff and Democratic Chair; the majority of elected Democrats in the City of Petersburg and Loudoun and Arlington Counties; the mayors of Richmond, Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News and Portsmouth; and the majority of the members of the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Steering Committee.

The announcement was made at Volunteer Fire Station #13 in Dale City.

Relevant Quotes

“Virginia needs a Governor who has a record of fighting for the people. A person who understands the needs of Prince William and is willing to fight for them in Richmond. We need leadership that is willing to fight for better development, better transportation and better neighborhoods. Brian is the one that can move us forward and find solutions that work” - Frank Principi, Board of Supervisors (Woodbridge District)

“I am proud to lend my support to Brian Moran a great public servant and true fighter for Virginia’s values. Having grown up in a middle class family, Brian knows the importance of fully funding education, ensuring that our children have access to health insurance and fighting to keep a competitive business climate in Virginia.” - Delegate Paul Nichols

““I served with Brian in the House and know that he shares the values of those in this community. He will fight to provide health care for every single Virginia child. I know he’s a tireless advocate for the public schools and he’s worked to raise the minimum wage. He’ll take us on the right course as Governor.” -David Brickley, former member of the House of Delegates

“Brian Moran has my enthusiastic support for the democratic nomination for Virginia’s next Governor. In his years of public service and party leadership he has clearly shown an understanding of the issues and needs of all Virginians. Please join me in helping him win this crucial election.” - Kathleen K. Seefeldt, former Chairman, Prince William Board of County Supervisors.

“Virginia needs a Governor who fights for people. We need someone who looks out for those who are less fortunate by increasing the minimum wage and raising teacher pay. Brian has always been there for us and we’ll be there for him.” - Hilda Barg, former Supervisor (Woodbridge District)

"Our next Governor should be grounded in Virginia and know how to fight for what Virginians need. Brian understands what local government requires to be successful where the rubber meets the road. He is the type of individual I want leading us in Richmond." - Earnie Porta, Mayor of Occoquan

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Nutrition and Exercise, Not Treatment in the ER~

NORFOLK – At Old Dominion University’s College of Health Sciences, Brian Moran announced “Healthy Virginia: Prevention First,” an element of his health care plan that represents a new paradigm in quality health care by focusing on early childhood vaccinations, reducing infant mortality and tackling the obesity epidemic. Keeping Virginia’s families healthy is one of the most effective ways to reduce health-care costs and chronic illness. The plan includes expanding childhood vaccinations, banning transfats in school cafeterias, increasing prenatal care to reduce infant mortality, and creating new incentives for nurses and doctors. Last week, Moran announced his plan to ensure every Virginia child has health care.

Moran’s Healthy Virginia: Prevention First plan includes:

• Expand Childhood Vaccination Services. His goal is to make Virginia the best state in the nation for child vaccinations by the end of his term. Vaccinating children keeps them healthy, avoids expenses down the road, and improves school performance.
• Reducing Infant Mortality. Moran will expand access to prenatal care for pregnant women and launch a new coordinating effort of community and faith-based organizations to educate new parents about healthy starts.
• Tackling the Obesity Epidemic. This plan will ban transfats in schools, increase physical education and expand health screenings of our kids.
• Strengthening Virginia’s Health Care Workforce. Brian will increase support for scholarships, incentives and loan repayment for doctors, nurses and support professionals. He will increase capacity for nursing education and remove barriers for retired state nurses to re-enter the workforce. Under Brian’s plan, our colleges and community colleges will refocus to train for these high-demand fields.

“We need a new paradigm for health care where we focus first on preventing diseases rather than treating them in the emergency room,” Moran said. “We have a true moral crisis and a potential health care tragedy with infant mortality, especially in our cities. Virginia starts to look like a third-world country, and we can do better than that.”

RELEVANT STATISTICS TO “HEALTH VIRGINIA: PREVENTION FIRST”

• According to Trust for America’s Health, every dollar invested in prevention yields five dollars back in savings.
• Virginia ranks 33rd in the infant mortality rate among the 50 states. Almost eight out of every 1,000 children born in Virginia die in infancy.
• The infant mortality rate in Richmond alone is higher than that of Ukraine.
• Approximately 60 percent of Virginia’s children are overweight or obese.
• There are as many as 35 chronic diseases associated with the obesity epidemic, including heart diseases, diabetes, high blood pressure and cancer.

Moran also pledged to continue investing in smoking cessation programs and will continue to support banning smoking in public places like restaurants and hospitals.

Brian Moran was a long-time member of the Health, Welfare and Institutions Committee in the House of Delegates. He served on Governor Kaine’s Health Care Reform Task Force in 2007. Moran sponsored the Infant Mortality Reduction Act and has worked to expand childhood vaccinations and early detection.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Cite 20-Year Record of Fighting for Virginians ~

PETERSBURG – Petersburg’s elected Democratic leadership overwhelmingly backed Brian Moran for Governor during a press conference today. Petersburg voters gave the third highest percentage to Barack Obama of any locality in the country during the 2008 general election campaign. The leaders cited Moran’s record of fighting for quality education and raising teacher pay, for expanding access to health care, and for equal opportunity for every Virginian.

“We face tough challenges in the next few years and we need someone with a proven record of fighting for people as our next Governor,” Mayor Annie Mickens said. “As a local Government leader and a teacher, I know the best person to be our next Governor is Brian Moran. He has been working to raise teacher salaries to the national average and made a career about fighting for people.”

Moran received the backing of:

• Mayor Annie Mickens
• Vice Mayor Horace Webb
• Council Member Brian Moore
• Council Member Carl Mike Ross
• Council Member David Ray Coleman
• Delegate Rosalyn Dance
• Sheriff Vanessa Crawford

“I’m honored to have this leadership team in Petersburg behind my campaign for Governor,” Moran said. “This campaign will be about grassroots, community-by-community support from people who believe we need someone as Governor who will fight for them. I will wake up every day as Governor to fight for the people of this community.”

The Petersburg leaders join other prominent Virginia leaders who have announced their support of Brian Moran for Governor: the Chairman of Mark Warner’s campaign for Governor and former Congressman L. F. Payne; House Minority Leader Ward Armstrong from Martinsville along with the Martinsville Sheriff and Democratic Chair; the majority of elected Democrats in Loudoun and Arlington Counties; the mayors of Richmond, Norfolk, Hampton, Newport News and Portsmouth; and the majority of the members of the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Steering Committee.

The announcement was made at Old Towne Catering in Petersburg.

Relevant Quotes

“I’m proud to support a candidate for Governor who believes in the values of our party. We are a grassroots party of the people and Brian Moran has been fighting for people for 20 years. Just like Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, Brian Moran has earned the trust and loyalty of Virginians.” - Vice Mayor Horace Webb

“Brian Moran has gotten to know our Petersburg community. He’s fought for us in the legislature and worked with us in his campaign. He’s the right person to lead Virginia forward in the tradition of Mark Warner and Tim Kaine.” - Councilman Brian Moore

“Virginia needs a leader who won’t walk away from the tough fights and who stands by what they believe. That’s Brian Moran. He has a long record of serving the public and fighting for our values.” - Councilman David Ray Coleman

“Brian has been my Democratic leader in the House and my friend. He shares our values and is someone with a proven record of fighting for people. I know his ability to lead and get things done. He’ll make a great Governor.” - Delegate Rosalyn Dance

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Herring: Grassroots, People-Focused Fighter Needed for Governor ~

RICHMOND – Richmond Commonwealth’s Attorney Mike Herring announced his support of Brian Moran for Governor today. Herring was elected Richmond’s Commonwealth’s Attorney in November of 2005. Herring attended the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Jefferson-Jackson Dinner and heard Moran’s speech on the values of the party and the politics of the future.

“This weekend Brian Moran made his case to lead our party and defined what’s at stake in this election,” Herring said. “He believes we are the party of the people and the grassroots. He has been fighting for Virginia for over 20 years, and I know he’ll fight for us as Governor. His experience as a prosecutor and his work to strengthen local law enforcement make it clear that he will lead this Commonwealth forward.”

Herring is the second city-wide elected official in Richmond to endorse Moran. Last week, Richmond Mayor Dwight Jones announced his support.

“I’m honored to have Mike’s support,” Moran said. “He is the type of local leader who shares my vision for a grassroots party powered by people. He believes we need someone who will fight for the hard-working men and women of Virginia.”

Prior to his election as Commonwealth's Attorney, he was a partner at the law firm of Bricker & Herring and an adjunct professor at the University of Richmond School of Law. Mr. Herring served as the first African-American president of the Richmond Bar Association in 2005 and was Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Criminal Law Section of the Virginia State Bar in 2004 and 2005.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Make Virginia a Top Ten State for Insuring Kids~

ALEXANDRIA – At Alexandria’s Queen Street Clinic for the uninsured, Brian Moran announced his “Healthy Virginia: Cover Every Kid” plan, the first part of a comprehensive health care plan. Today, more than 10 percent of children in Virginia are uninsured, making Virginia 32nd out of the 50 states. Moran’s four-point plan would put Virginia in the top 10 states, making us a national leader in children’s health insurance. Over 200,000 Virginia children are uninsured.

“Insuring every Virginia child is a moral imperative and an economic necessity,” Moran said. “We can expand health insurance and cover every child, giving them a healthy start to life. Virginia can and should be a national leader in protecting and providing care to our kids.”

HEALTHY VIRGINIA: Cover Every Kid

• Raise eligibility to Virginia’s Family Access to Medical Insurance Security Plan (FAMIS) program from 200 percent of the federal poverty level to 300 percent
• Allow families above the 300 percent level to buy into FAMIS
• Eliminate the four-month waiting period for children who lose insurance to enter the FAMIS program
• Automatically enroll all children from qualifying families in children’s health insurance at birth

FAMIS is Virginia’s implementation of the federal State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP).

Brian Moran believes that every child deserves quality health care. He worked with Governors Mark Warner and Tim Kaine to increase the number of children eligible for health insurance, and he opposed President Bush’s veto of children’s health insurance expansion.

Moran pledged an aggressive effort to enroll all eligible children in this expanded health insurance program. Warner and Kaine made expanded enrollment top priorities of their administrations.

Relevant Facts

• According to the Kaiser State Health Facts, there are 207,780 uninsured children in Virginia.
• The current income eligibility standard for FAMIS is $35,200, 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
• Three quarters of uninsured children live in families with at least one full-time worker

In 2007, Brian Moran was named “Child Advocate of the Year” by the Virginia PTA.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of fighting for the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

ALEXANDRIA – Former Democratic Governors’ Association (DGA) Executive Director Chuck Dolan announced his support for Brian Moran today. Dolan was executive director of the DGA and is a long-time political activist. He was Virginia Chair of the Clinton-Gore campaign in 1992 and 1996.

“In every race there is one individual who stands out as the best in field,” Dolan said. “It is my judgment that in this election the candidate that stands out as the person who can win the nomination and the general election is Brian Moran.”

Dolan served as a presidential appointee during the Clinton Administration.

“Chuck Dolan knows what it takes to win a campaign for Governor and I’m proud to have him see me as the best candidate,” said Brian Moran. “Chuck has been fighting for Virginia Democrats since the early 1980’s, and I’m honored that he respects my service to the Democratic Party.”

Dolan joins other endorsers across the Commonwealth, including the majority of the members of the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Executive Committee.

“Brian has been working for Virginia for the last 20 years - winning elections, building bipartisan coalitions, and helping build a stronger Virginia for the next generation,” Dolan said.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

# # #

~ Moran Is the Only Candidate to Oppose Plant; Preserve Environment~

ALEXANDRIA – In their Sunday editorial titled “For the future, coal is not the answer,” the Virginian-Pilot wrote in opposition to the proposed coal mega-plant in Surry County. Brian Moran announced his opposition to the plant last month and is the only candidate for Governor to have done so.

For the future, coal is not the answer
Virginian Pilot Editorial, February 8, 2009

“Virginia needs power. Its businesses and its people, growing for decades and likely to grow more in coming years, need electricity to keep the lights on, the computers humming, the machinery working. But there simply isn't enough juice to go around.

In the Surry County town of Dendron, the Old Dominion Electric Cooperative would like to do something about that shortage. The nonprofit, which largely serves the state's growing rural areas, wants to invest as much as $6 billion in a 1,500-megawatt power plant fueled by coal. It would be among the state's largest and would dwarf Dominion Virginia Power's facility under construction in Southwest Virginia.

Despite the fact that the Dendron plant would do much to satisfy the state's need for electricity, despite the fact that coal is among the cheapest sources of power, and despite the fact that it would bring good jobs to a community that needs them, it is simply not a wise response to Virginia's power shortage.

Worse, it would deepen problems that the world and America are already struggling to solve.

There is no such thing as clean coal. Given ODEC's reputation, the Dendron plant would probably be as environmentally responsible as possible. But the result still would be nowhere near clean enough for the air and water in Hampton Roads or the world.

A coal plant of that size, along with the prevailing winds, would make smog worse here. It would release particulates that exacerbate respiratory ailments, particularly among the young and the elderly.

And, regardless of how advanced the technology might be at the Dendron plant, it would release mercury, which would land in Hampton Roads, among other places.

Mercury is a neurotoxin that can hinder the mental development of children and harm the nervous systems of adults. Power and industrial plants to our west have rained so much mercury on Hampton Roads that almost every body of water and the fish in them are already poisoned.

The plant also would release untold tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere each year, at a time when the world needs to reduce them. That's especially important to Hampton Roads, which is vulnerable to even minor changes in sea level, but it's important in every corner of the planet.

The Dendron plant would do all this for a very long time. With the kind of investment it is considering, ODEC would have no choice but to operate the plant as long as it runs. One day there may be new technology that permits the burning of coal without also poisoning the air and water and changing the climate, but it's nowhere on the horizon we can see.

Given all that, coal simply isn't the solution. It can't be, if we value our environment and our health - and when there are real alternatives.

Boosting conservation and efficiency is cheaper than building power plants and can free up tremendous amounts of energy, but it requires difficult human engineering, including in the General Assembly.

Natural gas is clean but hugely expensive. Renewable energy - from wind, sunlight, plants, garbage, even the tide - could help satisfy some of Virginia's needs. Unfortunately, all have problems of their own, including capacity and unreliability.

A nuclear plant is costly and carries its own environmental dangers, particularly when it comes to storage of radioactive waste.

Once built, however, a nuclear plant provides vast amounts of energy reliably and at low cost. It can do so without contributing to global climate change, to smog, or to mercury contamination in Hampton Roads.

ODEC owns part of the North Anna nuclear plant, where officials are hoping to build a third reactor. It should continue that pursuit, with all its energy. Concentrating efforts on conservation and on building more capacity at North Anna are, in the end, much better alternatives to a new, dirty facility in Dendron.

While nuclear power is hardly benign, it will have to do until the world finds a source that is.”

LINK: http://hamptonroads.com/2009/02/future-coal-not-answer

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

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~ Speaks to Annual Jefferson Jackson Dinner of the Democratic Party~

~ Calls McDonnell a Roadblock to Progress~

RICHMOND – In his speech to the Democratic Party of Virginia’s Jefferson Jackson dinner, Brian Moran defined the stakes for Virginia Democrats in this race for Governor. He said that Virginia must have a Governor with a proven record of fighting for people.

“The politics of the future isn’t about the politicians. It’s about the people we’re fighting for. It is grassroots driven, honest and principled. And it’s powered by real ideas,” Moran said in his remarks. “We must decide what our party stands for… Will our party be dominated by big money and those who raise it, or will we be the party of the people?”

He highlighted the work Mark Warner and Tim Kaine had done for Virginians before they ran for Governor. Moran made clear that he is the best standard bearer to continue the work of Warner-Kaine and to win in November against Bob McDonnell.

Moran challenged the audience of Democratic committee members to live up to the best values of our party, saying “Will our party be built from the bottom up or the top down? Will our party be about public service or about personal gain? Will our party be dominated by big money and those who raise it, or will we be the party of the people?”

Brian Moran believes that the Democratic nominee must be someone who’s been fighting for Virginians. Moran began fighting for people as an Arlington Prosecutor 20 years ago and has served as Delegate and as Democratic Leader. He has fought to increase teacher pay, increase the minimum wage, expand healthcare, protect a woman’s right to choose, among other priorities.

Moran focused his remarks on his Republican opponent, Bob McDonnell. “Bob McDonnell may be a good man, but we’re not going to govern this century with the worn out ideas from the last one.”

The presentation began with a video interview with Brian and Karyn Moran talking about Brian’s middle-class background, his values, and the work he’s done with Warner and Kaine. http://www.brianmoran.com/sneak-peek

He spoke to an annual event at the Richmond Convention Center.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

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~ Proposal Will Protect Environment, Build Energy Economy ~

ARLINGTON –Brian Moran promoted his Green Virginia energy and environment plan today at a tour of a solar-, wind- and fuel cell-powered office building of the Stella Group, a green energy consulting firm and home of Stella Group President Scott Sklar.

Moran’s Green Virginia plan will make Virginia a nationwide leader in renewable energy and create tens of thousands of new jobs. It is the boldest commitment any candidate for Governor has made to preserve the environment and build lasting economic growth.

Paul Ferguson, the Arlington County Clerk of Court and former Board of Supervisors Chair, joined Moran at the event. Ferguson is credited with many of Arlington’s Green Initiatives in recent years and announced his support for the “Green Virginia” Plan.

The highlights of Moran’s plan

• A commitment to offshore wind and solar power to meet future energy needs with clean renewable technology
• Investments in “smart grid” technology to increase efficiency and bring our infrastructure into the digital age
• Creation of a Center for Innovative Green Technology to coordinate statewide investments and planning
• Requiring that 25 percent of Virginia’s energy come from renewable sources, doubling Virginia’s current voluntary goal and making it mandatory
• Opposition to offshore drilling and to the proposed coal mega-plant in Surry County.

“Virginia can and must become a leader in renewable energy and get our economy moving,” Moran said. “The time for leadership on this issue has come, and I’m committed to bold action. This plan will create tens of thousands of jobs in growing industries. These investments will produce returns for years in the form of new technologies and new jobs.”

“As a local government official, Brian Moran was always someone I could count on in the General Assembly to assist on environmental issues,” Ferguson said. “Brian has taken courageous stands to support policies which would mitigate climate change and lead to the creation of more green jobs.”

The complete Green Virginia plan includes:

• Protecting our Environment: Restoring the Chesapeake Bay, increasing land conservation, opposing the Surry coal mega-plant and opposing offshore drilling
• Investing in Renewable Energy: Requiring that 25 percent of Virginia’s energy come from renewable sources by 2025, investing in wind and solar energy, exploring biomass and waste-to-energy
• Developing Green Energy Technology: Jumpstarting university research, creating a Center for Innovative Green Technology, and founding Energy Technology Parks
• Increasing Energy Efficiency: Creating incentives for efficiency through utility “decoupling,” investing in green buildings, building smart grid technology, winterizing homes, and creating incentives for high-mileage vehicles
• Creating Green Jobs: Promoting energy technology small businesses, coordinating workforce training, and creating tax and financial incentives for investment in energy technology.

“Moran shows his leadership in proposing a clean energy agenda that reduces energy imports, cuts unhealthy emissions and pollution, and creates the green economy that our new President has also been calling for,” Scott Sklar said. Sklar is President of The Stella Group, Ltd in Arlington and hosted today’s tour.

Moran will hold a series of events in different regions of Virginia to announce the Green Virginia plan, including stops in Culpeper and Charlottesville.

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FAIRFAX – Brian Moran released the following statement after Sharon Bulova was elected Chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Fairfax is the largest jurisdiction in the Commonwealth. Moran represented a part of Fairfax when he served in the House of Delegates.

“Tonight is a great victory for the people of Fairfax County. They have picked a principled leader who can bring the county through tough times and ensure a brighter future for Fairfax. Local government is where the rubber meets the road and Chairman-elect Bulova knows what it takes to govern effectively and efficiently. I look forward to working with her as Governor.”

Moran’s campaign recruited volunteers for the Bulova campaign and numerous staff members volunteered. In addition, Karyn Moran recorded an automated phone message distributed to thousands of voters.

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, the served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

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ALEXANDRIA – Over the last two weeks, Brian Moran has laid out the boldest environmental plan of any candidate and is rallying Virginians across the state who support his vision. The plan is available at: http://www.brianmoran.com/issues/energy-environment

Below are some news clips about the rollout of Moran’s Green Virginia plan.

Gubernatorial Candidate Moran Dons Green to Stand Out
Virginian-Pilot, 1/30

Gubernatorial candidate Brian Moran unveiled a "Green Virginia" plan Thursday in Norfolk, pledging increased support for renewable energy, clean technology and new jobs related to both.

Among the specifics, Moran said he would press for a mandatory requirement that 25 percent of Virginia's energy come from renewable sources, such as wind, solar and biomass, by 2025. […]

Moran, a former Alexandria delegate vying for the Democratic nomination for governor, pledged to develop wind farms off the Virginia coast and on mountaintops in the western part of the state, and to create a Center for Innovative Green Technology at an unspecified site. […]

Bob Burnley, former director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, appeared with Moran at a news conference at the Ernie Morgan Environmental Action Center in Norfolk.

"No other candidate in my 37-year career has a commitment to the environment like this one," Burnley said.

Gubernatorial hopeful tackles energy issue
Daily Press, 1/31

Making Virginia a national leader in renewable energy and creating tens of thousands of jobs were at the core of former Del. Brian Moran's environmental plan released Thursday. […]

The environment and energy plan, Green Virginia: Building the 21st Energy Economy, supports offshore wind and solar power, investing in "smart grid" technology and creating a Center of Innovative Green Technology.

"We can't solve 21st-century problems with 19th-century solutions," Moran said during a press conference at the Ernie Morgan Environmental Action Center.

Moran Continues to Go Green
Washington Post, 1/30

Former delegate Brian Moran, a Democratic candidate for governor, released an ambitious plan to create tens of thousands of new jobs by positioning Virginia as a leader in efforts to protect the environment.

At an event in Norfolk, which was followed by a conference call with reporters, Moran called for a major expansion of wind and solar power. As governor, Moran said he would also push to require that 25 percent of the state's energy comes from renewable sources by 2025 and offer extensive incentives to companies and individuals who invest in green buildings and high-mileage vehicles. He also proposed the creation of The Center for Green Technology to "jumpstart" university research and help launch energy technology parks.

"It certainly will be the most progressive, innovative job creating plan you will see in this campaign," said Moran, who later added, "the connection between energy and our economy has never been so profound."

Instead of allowing drilling off Virginia's coast, Moran said he wants to place windmills offshore to generate more electricity. Moran, who opposes a new coal-fired power plant proposed for Surry County, said windmills can also be constructed in Southwest Virginia.

Brian Moran releases environmental plan
Richmond Times Dispatch, 1/30

Brian Moran, a Democratic candidate for governor, today released an environmental plan that he says would make Virginia a national leader in renewable energy and create "tens of thousands" of new jobs. […]

"Virginia can and must become a leader in renewable energy and get our economy moving," said Moran, a former delegate from Alexandria who is one of three Democrats seeking the party's nomination for governor.

"The time for leadership on this issue has come, and I'm committed to bold action. This plan will create tens of thousands of jobs in growing industries," Moran said. "These investments will produce returns for years in the form of new technologies and new jobs."

Moran Vows to Oppose Coal-Fired Power Plant
Washington Post, 1/23

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Brian Moran vowed Thursday to fight a proposal to build a coal-fired power plant in southern Virginia, breaking with political leaders who have tried to shore up the once-powerful mining industry.

In a news conference near the state Capitol, Moran said the proposed plant in Surry County would contribute to global warming, worsen air quality in Richmond and Hampton Roads, and contribute to nitrogen pollution in the Chesapeake Bay.

"The approval of this plant will occur under the watch of Virginia's next governor. I think it is important for Virginians to know where their governor stands on this issue," Moran said. "We should be investing and developing clean sources of energy. We need to harness the energy of wind and solar." […]

"His campaign is starting to take on a definable shape. He spent the last week saying he's the greenest of them all," said longtime Virginia political analyst Robert D. Holsworth. "He is trying to position himself as the grass-roots, progressive alternative to the big-money status quo guy."

Moran says he would block coal-fired plant in Surry
Richmond Times Dispatch, 1/23

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Brian J. Moran of Alexandria said today he is opposed to a proposed coal-fired power plant in Surry County.

The plant is "dangerously close to the Chesapeake Bay watershed," Moran said at a news conference in front of the Department of Environmental quality headquarters in downtown Richmond.

He also is worried that the plant is too close to the major population centers of Richmond and Hampton Roads and that it will increase global warming.

Moran says he opposes coal-fired plant in Surry
Virginian Pilot, 1/23

For the second time in about one week, Democratic gubernatorial candidate Brian Moran is taking a hard environmental stance to distinguish himself from his opponents.[…]

Added Moran: “2009 should be the year that we make unprecedented commitments to clean, renewable energy that can preserve our planet and create thousands of new jobs all over the Commonwealth.”

Article XI: Environmental Blog
Lowell Feld, 1/29

After reading this, I'd say that Brian Moran has now become the clear leader on environmental issues among candidates for 2009 statewide office. Impressive!

Brian Moran has a 20-year record of service to the people of Virginia. He was Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus and a Delegate from Alexandria City and Fairfax County. Prior to that, he served as a prosecutor in Arlington County.

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