Delegate Ramadan has issued this statement about his decision to not seek re-election,[read_more]
“Serving in Mr. Jefferson’s Capitol has been the greatest honor of my life. For the past three and a half years, I have worked as hard as possible to represent my constituents and give back to the community, the Commonwealth and this great nation that has given me so much since I immigrated in 1989.
Serving in the House of Delegates has been a privilege, but it also has presented incredible challenges for my career and my family. The 87th District is one of the most Democratic districts held by a Republican in the entire Commonwealth, which means that my next election will be incredibly expensive and time consuming, just as my previous two have been.
Yesterday, I returned from an overseas business trip. There is no question that my business interests have suffered over the past few years, since my time and attention has been solely focused on my role as a Delegate.
Waging another successful campaign would require me to raise more than half a million dollars again this year. While I firmly believe that I would once again be able to win my race, it has become clear to me that the amount of time and effort that it will take to raise the funds needed will require me to continue to neglect my business for the next seven months. Unfortunately, this is just not sustainable for me and my family.
I am very proud of what I have been able to accomplish during my two terms. Richmond can be a tough place for a new Delegate, especially one with such a different background than what many here are used to. However, I was able to author and pass several pieces of legislation that are now law on various important issues such as education, public safety, business development and transportation. I’m particularly thankful to be able to pass a Constitutional Amendment providing survivor benefits for the widows of military members who were killed-in-action.
I worked hard to bring transportation solutions to our area, and helped forge agreements and obtain funds to widen Route 606 and build the Braddock-Pleasant Valley roundabout. I also put together a comprehensive case against the outrageous tolls on the Dulles Greenway, a fight which is still ongoing. As a private citizen, I will continue this effort, even if it means taking it to the Virginia Supreme Court.
Winning my first two campaigns against all odds and all my accomplishments wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t for the help and trust of many friends, neighbors, and constituents. I’m blessed by the love of so many and humbled by the support you have given me since 2011 –Thank You!
I take pride in serving in a bi-partisan manner and representing all of my constituents in the 87th while holding on to my conservative principals. Public service is the duty of every American; I’m very fortunate to have been able to serve.
I will continue to be an active participant in the public process, and if my circumstances change in the future, I will certainly consider seeking elected office once again. In the meantime, I will continue to work hard to represent my constituents’ right up until the end of my term.”
We at The Bull Elephant are sad to see Delegate Ramadan leave public service and hope that he will return to it very soon.
