Virginia Democrats are on a roll.  

Six years ago, the press and pundits said Virginia wasnt going to be a competitive state.

In 2005, we elected a Democratic governor, Tim Kaine, who has continued to move Virginia forward.  In 2006, we defied the odds and elected Jim Webb to the United States Senate, giving Democrats control of Congress for the first time in 12 years. 

Last November, Virginia Democrats did it again, picking up 4 seats to win control of the State Senate and gaining another 4 seats to increase our numbers in the House.

Over the last few months, I’ve met thousands Virginians at rallies, parades, and fundraisers for about 40 candidates across the Commonwealth.  It’s clear from being out on the campaign trail that voters are responding to our record of progress and change.

Since 2001 our record speaks for itself Virginia was named the best managed state in America; the best place to do business with our AAA bond rating; and the best place for a child to be born in terms of educational opportunity. We made record investments in education and health care and fought to protect the Chesapeake Bay.  And we accomplished this all by working together for the future of Virginia.

In the U.S. Senate, I’ll work to bring the same bipartisan, results-oriented approach to the national level.  It’s no secret that our country faces enormous challenges; from a mismanaged war, to our declining stature in the world, and a dependence on foreign oil that threatens our national security.

I’m looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and working across party lines to get things done in Washington. Over the next year, well be out meeting and talking to Virginians, and working on solutions to get our country back on track. 

Mark Warner is the former governor of Virginia, and lives in Old Town.