Correction: This report originally stated that Kaine said the delegation would issue a statement supporting backing Herring, based on a Washington Post report. However, Kaine did not say that the statement would be one of support for Herring, and we have updated the story to reflect that.
As Virginia Democrats continue to grapple with scandals faced by the top three Democrats in the state, the Virginia Democratic congressional delegation is preparing a statement on state Attorney General Mark Herring, who recently acknowledged that he once wore blackface to a party.
Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA) told reporters on Capitol Hill that will address Herring’s apology and outreach to state leaders.
“We are likely to come out with a statement soon on the Herring case that, I think, we feel that we are generally in the same position – that he reached out to each of us individually, very apologetic,” Kaine told reporters on Capitol Hill after meeting with other members of the delegation, per the Washington Post. “He is in dialogue with the legislative black caucus and African-American leadership in the state, and they have been impressed with his sincerity while they’ve been very disappointed with what happened.”
Kaine said that the delegation has not changed its mind on Gov. Ralph Northam, who recently admitted to wearing blackface years ago. The delegation previously called for Northam to resign.
CNN’s Manu Raju also reported that members of the delegation expect to issue a statement on Herring.
McEachin says there should be hearing and probe of Fairfax allegations. He said that AG Herring called him and was “on the verge of tears.” The Hill Va delegation met today and is expected to issue a statement of support for Herring, members say https://t.co/dhZfRgQuyi
— Manu Raju (@mkraju) February 7, 2019
They should fill the vacancies with women legislators… and then have Herring step down as well.
Clean sweep.
Good.
Stay tuned for week 2 of black history month.
Are they calling for Fairfax’s resignation? If not, then I don’t see how they get to Herring taking over as Governor. If so, are they comfortable with someone being forced out over allegations where the victim is (so far) unwilling to press charges and there is no corroboration?
I find Dr. Tyson’s statement to be entirely credible, but there is precedent to consider here.
Probably the right move even though I’m not sure Northam should step down. Northam’s backtrack and flirtation with becoming an independent almost disqualified him in my eyes, but his record has been pretty good from what I know. He should have apologized and made amends. Instead, he showed a lack of leadership. Fairfax has also handled the allegations against him horribly, unfortunately. Fairfax should have been contrite even if he felt it was consensual. Of course if the allegations are true, he should be removed. If he actually said “fuck that bitch,” as two people have reported, his political career may be over.