Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Ware prevails in 11th House of Delegates district
His Republican opponent, Troy Bird, was an unconventional candidate.
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As expected, Del. Onzlee Ware, D-Roanoke, defeated Republican opponent Troy Bird on Tuesday to win re-election for what will be Ware's fourth term representing the 11th House District.
"I'm glad it's over," Ware said. "It's been a long haul."
Bird, who ran a decidedly low-key campaign, could not be reached for comment.
The 11th District stretches from Roanoke's Northwest neighborhoods through working-class Southeast and includes some of Roanoke County and Vinton. Bird won in the county precincts; Ware in the city.
Ware said he is ready to adapt to whatever new mix of politicians convenes in Richmond.
"I'll continue to work both sides of the aisle," he said.
Ware said he intends to continue efforts to restore voting rights for nonviolent felons who have completed their sentences. He said new economic development strategies must emerge to attract new businesses, support small businesses and create jobs. He said transportation needs must be addressed, even if doing so requires new revenue sources, and that education must be adequately funded.
Ware, 55, a lawyer, was first elected to the seat in 2003.
Bird, 27, is a freelance graphic artist. In the 2007 House election, he received 60 write-in votes, but this was his first organized run for political office. His campaign agenda centered on school choice and opposition to taxes.
A fiscal and social conservative, Bird acknowledged he was a less-than-conventional Republican candidate -- at least in terms of appearance -- with his goatee, ponytail and tattoos. He said his unconventional style affected fund-raising.
From Jan. 1 through Oct. 21, Ware raised $68,363 and spent more than $60,000. He still had $22,388 on hand. During the same period, Bird raised $4,461, spent $3,226 and had $1,233 left.
Ware's campaign for re-election drew criticism from an intraparty rival, Mark Powell, who alleged Ware had misreported and misused campaign funds. After his re-election Tuesday, Ware said he hopes to introduce legislation to clarify related reporting rules.
