Delegate Tom Gear (R-Hampton), resigned, effective today, from the House of Delegates, creating a vacancy in District 91. The Caucus wishes Delegate Gear the best as he continues to deal with Multiple Sclerosis and supports close family members suffering from major illnesses.

The Daily Press has coverage of Delegate Gear’s career of public service.

Because the General Assembly is not in session, Governor McDonnell has authority to issue a writ of election for a special election in the 91st District. Vacancies occurring when the House is in session are filled in special elections called by the Speaker of the House.

At present, two seats in the House are vacant. The Caucus looks forward to welcoming Greg Habeeb to the House on January 12 after the Special Election in District 8 to fill the vacancy created by Morgan Griffith’s election to the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Caucus stands ready to assist the Republican nominee in the special election called to fill the vacancy caused by Delegate Gear’s resignation. Republicans in the 91st District, including portions of Hampton City and York County and the City of Poquoson. The official call for the nomination will be issued by the 91st Legislative District Committee and, once issued, will appear on the RPV website.