Not the usual

If you've recently attended an event you think would be of interest to fellow readers, send your idea to Les Sillars at lsillars@worldmag.com.

I attended a legislative day last week presented by state Senator Thomas Norment (R-3rd district), who is the Senate's Minority Leader. This was the second annual legislative day offered to the Senator's third district constituents. I left thinking that I had not experienced politics as usual.

I was joined at the Capitol in Richmond by about 25-30 of my fellow constituents. We arrived mid-morning and were treated to a continental breakfast before gathering in a conference room.

Our first speaker was the Honorable James S. Chang, Secretary of Commerce and Trade. He intended to speak to us about the jobs initiative within the state; including services available to businesses and new companies arriving in Virginia. He seemed surprised that he was not able to get through his prepared remarks as people interrupted with questions and concerns. One constituent asked for the return on each dollar expended. Another expressed concern that services were being given to businesses without an appropriate investment by the business or an appreciation for the service. Yet another small business owner complained about lost contracts due to a law that North Carolina enforces and Virginia ignores.

The next speaker was Susan S. Gaston, a professional lobbyist with 20 years of experience at the Capitol. Much skepticism was expressed about the role of lobbyists, although Gaston did everything she could to emphasize her integrity. Once again, the discussion was lively, and people in attendance seemed engaged and well-informed.

This seemed to surprise the organizer of the event, Sen. Norment's legislative assistant. Although professional, his attitude seemed to suggest that we should let the decisions be made by the politicians because they know what is best.

Finally we heard from Sen. Norment himself, who covered much of the activity of the Senate and General Assembly, including the Budget amendments, and took many questions on education. The day concluded with a visit to the Senate gallery, where we were recognized, a tour of the Capital and lunch.

Sen. Norment, although well-established, is already facing a primary challenge from the right. Local tea party activist Mark Frechette has declared his candidacy and his platform includes advocating for a 5% flat income tax, ending legal abortion, term limits, and limiting federal influence in education.

Any current or future politician who believes that things are the same as they were even two years ago, does so at the peril of his political career.

Heather Cordasco lives in Williamsburg.

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