Local representatives are not included

A. Vic Poillucci
Published: August 18, 2008

Arguably one of the best leaders this country ever saw was the late great Speaker of the House from Massachusetts, Thomas Phillip O’Neill, Jr. (Tip). A fun loving, affable gent liked by most with the
ability to hotly debate issues on the House floor with his opponents and then go have a beer with the very people who opposed his legislation earlier. I dare say - we don’t see much of that these days.

In his book “All Politics is Local,” the speaker emphasizes the problems and concerns of towns and cities around the country and how they affect the actions of their representatives and senators. With
the November elections fast approaching, I’m interested in seeing how many voters will be concerned with the local issues impacting each of us, instead of the hype, mud slinging and negative advertising
that we can expect starting after Labor Day in September and continuing right up to voting day in November.

One of the races, which hasn’t received much attention in the media, and one in which both candidates have demonstrated a modicum of sanity, is that between Keith Fimian (R) and Gerry Connelly (D).
Both are vying for the seat vacated by Tom Davis in the 11th District. Whichever candidate succeeds will have a tough act to follow. Davis was well liked by most in his district, was a hard worker and had
a track record dating back to his experience in high school as a page on the House floor. He will be missed.

Fimian, a relative newcomer to Northern Virginia politics, offers a fresh approach, carrying no baggage and to the best of my knowledge, no back-room shady deals. It’s surprising, to me — that’s the way
the framers of the Constitution meant it to be — no career politicians. Connelly on the other hand, has been well entrenched in Northern Virginia politics for several years and has earned the respect of
Fairfax voters through his election and reelection bids.

If I had to interview both candidates for the job of representing me on local issues as suggested by “Tip” I would opt for the “fresh blood” and new ideas, a “new” slate if you will. Your thoughts are?

A. VIC POILLUCCI

Woodbridge