Voters in Virginia’s 74th district apparently weren’t bothered by democratic delegate Joe Morrissey’s questionable past in office – including a recent alleged sex scandal involving his 17-year-old receptionist – because last night, he was re-elected in a special election to fill his own seat.
Despite his sentence and a past of controversial moments as delegate, Morrissey reclaimed his seat in last night’s special election. Just hours after his resignation took effect, the lawmaker won 42 percent of the vote.
Now he’ll have to face others in the General Assembly who have been critical about his decision to re-run. Republican House speaker William Howell said Morrissey seeking re-election was a "despicable, arrogant political stunt that should disgust each and every citizen of Virginia.”
But Morrissey – who has adamantly maintained his commitment to his constituents – will join his peers in Richmond at the behest of those he serves today as the 2015 legislative session kicks off. Other lawmakers could seek to reprimand him, or expel him from his post through a vote, which hasn’t happened since 1876.
