July 6th: Deadline day

It's official. The deadline for filing to run for office in 2010 has passed.

A number of people have jumped into the House of Delegates race in District 31 and as the first person in that race, I'd like to welcome them. Stan Janor has been in the race since 2009. Justin Towles jumped in in April. All three incumbents decided at the last minute that they would like to keep their jobs. Two other fellows, one Democrat and one Republican also decided, literally at the last minute, to jump into the race as well.

I don't understand the need to wait until the last minute. I mean, I understand that they are trying to avoid some of the paperwork of running for office and they hope to get noticed by the media. To me, running for office is serious business. It's important to get out there, put your cards on the table and say "here I am and this is the job that I want." This last minute shuffling feels artificial as if the incumbents and latecomers aren't sure if they want the job or they had more important things to do first.

Regardless, we're all in the race now. Voters start checking your mail and answering your doors, the candidates are coming for you. Ask us the tough questions. Check out our backgrounds. Make us earn your vote. And we won't stop trying until November 2nd when you pick me and two others!