Former Gov. Mark Warner announced yesterday his candidacy for the United States Senate seat currently held by retiring Sen. John Warner, fueling speculation that Democrats might widen their slim lead in the Senate.
"The way I can contribute most to getting our country back on the right track is to serve in the United States Senate," Warner announced in a video posted yesterday on his campaign Web site.
Gov. Tim Kaine expressed his support for Warner in a statement prepared for the press.
"Gov. Kaine is confident that there is no better leader to help move our nation forward at a time when we face real challenges," Kaine's spokesperson Jeff Tiller said. "Mark's experience, record of bipartisan accomplishment and results-oriented focus will make a real difference in Washington at a time when our country needs it most."?
Politics Prof. Larry Sabato said Warner's candidacy is a logical step in his political career.
"It makes a lot of sense for him," Sabato said. "He has an excellent chance to win the open Senate seat -- those opportunities don't come around very often."
Politics Prof. James Ceaser echoed this prediction.
"He was a very popular governor," Ceaser said. "Democrats could be gaining in Virginia, especially when the Democrats are moderate democrats."
Warner cited his bipartisan work and his gubernatorial success in Virginia as experiences that would enhance his service in the Senate.
"Six years ago, we brought a bipartisan agenda of change to Virginia," Warner said in the video release. "It's time to bring that same approach to Washington and our nation."
According to Ceaser, this bipartisan approach could easily put him on the road to Washington.
"He's running as a moderate and will be appealing to independents," Ceaser said. "It's the necessary way for a Democrat to run in Virginia. It worked when he ran for governor."
Sabato questioned, however, Warner's ability to make a smooth transition from the state executive branch to the national legislative branch.
"He might share the frustration of other former governors in the Senate," Sabato said. "It's not a place to be if you want to get things done rapidly."
Ceaser said Warner's business background might lead to further aggravation.
"He's used to taking charge and running things," Ceaser said. "In the Senate you're just talking."
Warner said he will make his candidacy official after this November's legislative elections.
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