For Release: Aug. 31, 2007
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: tucker.martin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell on Decision of Senator John Warner Not to Seek Reelection
Attorney General Bob McDonnell issued the following statement regarding today’s announcement by U.S. Senator John Warner that he will not seek reelection in 2008:
“John Warner has devoted his life to the service of Commonwealth and Country. His life has placed him at the center of historic events that have helped shape our world. As a teenager, 62 years ago, John Warner volunteered to serve in World War II, and thereafter in Korea. He is one of the few remaining veterans of World War II still serving in the United States Senate. He continued his service to our country when he was appointed by President Nixon as Undersecretary of the Navy, and then Secretary of the Navy, during the Vietnam War.
“In the summer of 1978, tragedy struck the Republican Party of Virginia with the death of Senate candidate Richard Obenshain. At a time of grief and loss, John Warner brought a devastated party together with grace, humility and courage, and won the Senate seat he holds today. In the United States Senate he has been a leading authority on the military and foreign affairs, and a strong working partner with three different Republican Presidents. Throughout his time in Washington, Senator Warner has spoken his mind, and done what he believed best for the state and nation. While I have not always agreed with Senator Warner on certain political and policy matters, he is a Virginia gentleman, who believes in finding solutions and disagreeing amicably. He has accomplished enormous good for Virginia during his 5 terms in the U.S. Senate.
“While Virginians would have benefited from John Warner’s continued service in the Senate, no one can fault the Senator for today’s decision. A lifetime of public service stands as the Senator’s legacy. Senator Warner will be missed, and I wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”
