Author’s Note: My original column and it’s information was corroborated by a senior Republican elected official, who spoke with us only on the condition of anonymity.
Forbes Spokesman Dean Patrone Fires Back: Liar, Liar Pants on Fire, Scotty Taylor!
The outrageous and irresponsible accusations that Randy Forbes attempted to cut a deal with the Governor are patently false – Congressman Forbes never sent an emissary to talk to the Governor or his staff – nor has he ever spoken to the Governor or his staff about it. This is just the latest in a series of deceitful ploys used by a politician desperately seeking relevance. Over one and a half million people have had their congressional districts changed by the actions of two liberal judges and a California law professor. Those actions are currently under review by the United States Supreme Court. Congressman Forbes’ involvement in that case has been and continues to be as one member of the collective Virginia republican congressional delegation.”
Davis Says He Went Rogue, Denies Forbes Involvement in Deal
Former U.S. Rep. Tom Davis (R-Fairfax), who was at the helm of the Republican National Campaign Committee (RNCC) in 2001 when U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes was first elected to Congress, told me earlier today that his effort to broker a district deal with state Democrats and Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D) was his initiative alone.
Randy was not involved and we had no direct discussion. I was trying to make sure the 2nd District was solidly Republican in exchange for making the 4th District solidly Democratic. It was a one for one deal. A lot of people I talked to liked the idea. But let me be clear: Randy was not involved in our discussions.
McEachin: I Wouldn’t Know Tom Davis If He Jumped In My Lap And Called Me Daddy
When reached for comment, Democratic State Senate Caucus leader Donald McEachin (D-Henrico), an expected candidate for U.S. Congress in Virginia’s newly configured 4th congressional district, said, “I don’t know Tom Davis, and I did not meet with Randy Forbes during this 2016 General Assembly session.”
McEachin is expected to announce his candidacy for Congress shortly after the General Assembly adjourns. The new district will include Petersburg, parts of Henrico, and all of Richmond city, making McEachin the early frontrunner.
LEWIS: What? Me Worry? It’s Valentines Weekend!
Statement from State Sen. Lynwood Lewis on Scott Taylor allegations
I can confirm that the Governor and Scott had a conversation yesterday and the topic was his congressional race. I was not, however, in earshot after the first few seconds, and I cannot confirm or deny the subject matter of their conversation.