Democrat Tim Kaine lost the last election he ran in, as Vice President on Hillary Clinton’s ticket. But he’s hoping to win the next one: his reelection bid to the US Senate.
Kaine kicked off campaigning in Richmond Mondaynight at Maggie Walker High School, a building he worked to renovate during his terms as Richmond’s mayor in the late 90’s
“I look out and see the faces of friends and neighbors and church mates,” Kaine said to the crowd of a couple hundred.
The Democrat has also served as a Richmond city councilman, Virginia Governor and Lieutenant Governor. This go around, he says, he’ll be honing in on a clear pro-growth economic message.
“Good jobs for all, healthcare for all, education for all, security for all and equality for all. Those are the five pillars of this campaign,” Kaine said during his speech.
Speaking to reporters earlier in the day, Kaine says he’s looking forward to a smaller and more intimate campaign experience. He did say he learned one thing campaigning against Donald Trump, and that was the need for a “crisp” economic message.
“I was a mayor that was doing economic development deals, I was a Governor in a state that was one of the best states in this country for business. I know more about the Virginia economy and how to make it work than any of the people running against me,” Kaine said.
Republicans will choose who to run against Kaine in a primary this June. Candidates include Corey Stewart, a member of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, State Delegate Nick Freitas, and E.W Jackson - a minister.
Kaine’s first swing around the state includes 20 stops this week in Charlottesville, Blacksburg, Lynchburg and more.
This report, provided by Virginia Public Radio, was made possible with support from the Virginia Education Association.
