Politics & Government
McAuliffe Talks Jobs, Transportation, Education With Local Chamber of Commerce Members
He told local business leaders he supports jobs and early-childhood learning.
Editor's Note: Patch has received many questions about Terry McAuliffe's statement to the Chamber regarding his position on the bi-county parkway. We asked McAuliffe's camp to clarify his statement, and they responded that he supports the repair or replacement of the bridge across the Potomac before it becomes unusable, but takes no position on the bi-county parkway at this time.
Democratic candidate for governor Terry McAuliffe recently met with members of the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce, and discussed key issues of this year’s election.
Members of the Chamber’s board of directors, committee heads, and Dranesville District Supervisor John Foust packed the Chamber's conference room to hear McAuliffe’s views on issues such as jobs, education and transportation.
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“I’m focused all on economic development, all on job creation. I am a fiscally conservative, pro-business Democrat who is socially very progressive," he described himself.
McAuliffe also cited transportation and education as among his top priorities.
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“We’ve got to think long-term, and strategically [about transportation projects],” said McAuliffe, who said he supports a bridge across the Potomac, but currently takes no position on the bi-county parkway.
McAuliffe linked education to Virginia’s future workforce, referring to retention of both teachers and graduates.
“We’ve got to have the best workforce,” he said. “We’ve got to convince employers … that we’re going to have that workforce for many years to come.”
“Education is an investment,” he added, citing a particular interest in pre-kindergarten learning and preparing students for 21st-century jobs.
“The earlier you can get that mind thinking creatively and cognitively, the more return you’re going to get on your investment,” McAuliffe said.
During his visit with Chamber members, McAuliffe fielded more than 45 minutes of questions, including queries about sequestration, incentives for new businesses and technology, and public transportation.
“It was an intimate and candid discussion about issues vital to our region,” said Eileen Curtis, president and CEO of the Dulles Regional Chamber.
“As a leading voice on economic development and workforce initiatives in Northern Virginia, it is critical to offer our members an opportunity to speak to someone who may have a huge voice in the future of their business and community,” Curtis said of the candidate's visit.
Chamber representatives said they will also be hosting Republican gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli later this month.
What do you think of some of McAuliffe's remarks? Tell us in the comments below.
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