Earlier today, in an announcement on Facebook, Rep. Tom Garrett disputed much of what has been alleged about him and his family over the course of the last week, virtually all of which has been attributed to anonymous sources.
In his emotional statement, Garrett took pride in having never knowingly spoken an untruth to his constituents, but acknowledged there was one truth he had left unspoken: his personal problem with drinking. The announcement caps a long week of controversy for Garrett, which involved the departure of his chief of staff and hyperbolic sounding accusations by unidentified former staffers that Garrett and his wife had sometimes used staff to perform personal chores.
Garrett has been a stalwart conservative and dedicated public servant throughout his first term representing Virginia’s 5th Congressional District. Tom is a good man, and his presence in Washington will be missed, but we have no doubt we have not seen the last of Tom Garrett. This announcement took tremendous courage, and is in keeping with the Tom Garrett we know: a man of principles, and of a deep and and well-guarded integrity.
Our support, and our prayers, are with Tom and Flanna Garrett as they begin their transition into a healthier and happier family. And we thank Tom for his tremendous service. We know Tom does not fail, and this new chapter in his life will be no different.
Now, the 5th District Republican Committee faces the unenviable task of choosing a new candidate to replace Garrett on this November’s ballot. Names being floated include Sen. Bill Stanley (R-Franklin) and Sen. Jill Vogel (R-Fauquier), as well as possible Del. Rob Bell (R-Albemarle). Whoever is chosen will have some large shoes to fill.
