Is the Washington Post Looking for Independents?

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2009

Recently, the Washington Post endorsed Jody Wagner for lieutenant governor. Much of the column focused on job-creation and attacked her opponent, current lieutenant governor BIll Bolling. But check out this little paragraph:

"Unlike the usual run of officeholders in Richmond, she is more pragmatist and problem-solver than partisan political warrior. As the only one of the six statewide candidates to have had hands-on experience with the state's budget, she would be uniquely well placed to serve as a resource for whichever candidate is elected governor."

Innocent right? The phrasing is deceptively simple, yet designed to attract the crucial independent-voters bloc.

Three reasons why this statement is effective. The first is the rejection of partisanship, an obvious but important issue for independent voters.

The second is the mention of the budget. State office-holders are not like congressmen and senators. Folks that are sent to state capitals are much more elected for basic administrative functions (budgets, taxes, roads), while representatives are more often than not chosen based on partisan appeal and flashy issues (war, healthcare, abortion). Such a mention of "a hand's-on experience with the state's budget" focuses on Wagner's administrative abilities, and not on her party label.

Finally, the allusion to how well Jody would work with any governor is important. The Post does not tie Wagner to the listless Creigh Deeds. It instead promises that she can work across the aisle in a bipartisan manner (a magic word for independents) to deliver effective reform.

This election, like many others in Virginia, will be decided byswing-voters and independents. And if the Wagner campaigntakes a hint from the Washington Post, it will focus itsenergies on having across-the-board support