Candidate Endorsements — How, When, and Why?
Many have asked what kind of process the VALCV Board uses to determine candidate endorsements.The answer is simple but the process is not. In an effort to establish a fair, nonpartisan procedure based on conservation issues, VALCV has adopted a multi-step process.
First we look at a candidate's voting record. If the candidate is an incumbent, we look at their Scorecard records which hold them accountable for conservation votes during the General Assembly. If a candidate has served on a local governing body, we check those public records. Voting records are the best indicator of a legislator's past performance.
We next invite each candidate – regardless of party affiliation – to complete an issue questionnaire that covers a host of policy issues ranging from transportation reform to Chesapeake Bay preservation. A candidate will be considered for a personal interview if he or she completes and returns the questionnaire. That signals to us that the candidate is interested in obtaining our endorsement and is the best indicator of a potential legislator's future performance.
Personal interviews are scheduled in late July and throughout August. Volunteer interview teams are organized in or near the candidates' districts. This provides an opportunity for the candidate to explain questionnaire responses and note campaign highlights. The interview teams make recommendations for the Advisory Council and the Board of Directors consideration.
In addition to the team recommendations, the Board reviews a candidate's viability before making an endorsement. They also make decisions on which races rank as priority "targeted" races where we determine our involvement may make a real difference in the outcome of the election. PAC resource allocation decisions for targeted candidates may include in kind voter contact activities such as direct mail or staff assistance in the campaigns.
We highlight our candidate endorsements and political news on our websites and in press releases. Endorsements are comprised of candidates who were endorsed for the June 12 primaries and the November 6 general elections, including "friendly incumbents" who have maintained a 75% + voting record. Participation on a candidate interview team is open to any interested VALCV member who has not made campaign contributions to the candidate in a given race. VALCV needs and welcomes more member participation. Sign up now and you can participate in our endorsement process next time around.
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