First District Republican Chairman Eric Herr announced tonight that he is dropping out of the race to replace the retiring Pat Mullins at the helm of the Republican Party of Virginia, and is lending his support to Tenth District Chairman John Whitbeck. The move essentially clears the way for Whitbeck to become RPV’s next Chairman, barring entry of additional candidates.[read_more]
Citing the fact that there is very little difference on key questions between himself and Whitbeck (“In fact, on some issues you couldn’t drive a piece of paper between us”), Herr told a group comprising supporters of both men that unifying behind Whitbeck is the best thing for moving the Party forward.
I don’t think there is a better candidate than John Whitbeck. He will take us though a very treacherous year, where unity is going to be more important than ever in facing the challenges ahead of us.”
We join John Whitbeck in praising Eric for his leadership on this question:
I can’t say enough about the gentleman Eric is. It’s clear he wants to help the Party above all. He didn’t have to do this. He will be a great RPV chairman should he decide to do so in the future. He is one of the most important people I could ever want backing me.”
John Whitbeck faces two opponents, former Speaker Vance Wilkins and Virginia Beach Pastor Aaron Wheeler, for the contest to be decided by the RPV State Central Committee at a meeting scheduled for January 31, 2015. Whitbeck is far and away the front runner.
We join Eric Herr in heartily endorsing John Whitbeck!
UPDATE: Apparently we’re in good company backing John. We have now learned that Sen. Mark Obenshain has now publicly endorsed Whitbeck for RPV Chairman. Congratulations, John!
