THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, August 1, 1996 TAG: 9608010008
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A14 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Editorial
LENGTH: 45 lines
Little in nature abhors a vacuum so much as a political campaign.
Thus, it's no surprise that the hole created by the departure of Richmond attorney Richard Cullen from next year's GOP race for attorney general has been filled by Chesapeake state Sen. Mark Earley. Secretary of Public Safety Jerry Kilgore is considering joining him, as are several others.
After flirting with several previous campaigns, Earley says the time finally is right both personally and politically to reach higher. That is a wise decision. It is possible to wait in the wings so long that the mantle of ``rising star'' passes one by.
A Democrat turned Republican, Earley has been on the list of prospective statewide candidates almost since his election in 1987. He won then with the support of organized labor as well as traditional Republican forces, creating the aura of a candidate whose appeal extended beyond the usual GOP circles.
In the current race for the party nomination, Earley will have some explaining to do about those labor links. Sen. Kenneth Stolle of Virginia Beach, who took over the title of ``front-runner'' with Cullen's departure, is already raising questions.
Earley has disavowed past support of ``agency shop'' legislation, which requires nonunion employees to help pay the cost of union representation. Moreover, his legislative expertise extends well beyond labor issues to welfare reform, juvenile justice and various matters dear to social conservatives.
Social issues, including Earley's very vocal opposition to abortion and support for parental notification when minors seek abortions, are more nearly what give immediate definition to his campaign.
Stolle and Northern Virginia attorney Gil Davis, the other announced candidate, may not choose to combat Earley on those positions. The state Republican Party is dominated by individuals who share Earley's views.
The support of GOP anti-abortion activist Anne Kincaid hints at the esteem in which Earley is held by pro-life forces. Indeed, the lack of a statewide candidate strongly identified with the religious right was one factor arguing for Earley's candidacy.
Given the strength of that group within the party, it would be remarkable if none of next year's nominees came from the ranks of Christian conservatives. Earley will voice their concerns ably. by CNB