Virginia House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell issued the following statement on the results of the 2015 General Assembly elections:
“Virginia voters made a clear statement about the future of our Commonwealth tonight, overwhelmingly re-electing a commanding Republican majority in the Virginia House of Delegates. House Republicans won contested races in corner of the Commonwealth, including at least 12 races in districts won by President Obama or Senator Tim Kaine in 2012, proving that our results-oriented governing philosophy is the best way to unite Virginians of all backgrounds and political persuasions.
“The Governor and his allies spent over $6 million to advance their partisan agenda with little to show for it. Voters said clearly tonight they want a governing vision that offers real ideas on jobs, K-12 education and transportation, not Washington-style rhetoric.
“On behalf of the entire House of Delegates, congratulations and welcome to our newest members: Chris Collins (HD29), Nick Frietas (HD30), Paul Krizek (HD44), Mark Levine (HD45), Lashrecse Aird (HD63), Steve Heretick (HD79), Jason Miyares (HD82), Jennifer Boysko (HD86) and John Bell (HD87) Serving in the House of Delegates, the oldest continuously-elected lawmaking body in the New World, is a distinct honor and privilege. But it also comes with a responsibility to serve our fellow citizens with the highest standards. To those who did not win, Republican or Democrat, I know you wished for different results, but the Commonwealth is grateful for your willingness to serve.
“Congratulations to Senate Majority Leader Tommy Norment, Glen Sturtevant and the Senate Republican Majority. Together the House and Senate form a strong governing majority that will continue to lead on the issues that matter most to Virginians. We look forward to working with a Republican Senate majority to craft a conservative, responsible budget proposal. In the coming weeks, House Republicans will outline policy proposals on healthcare, K-12 education and economic development. Our goal remains to offer real solutions that move Virginia forward. We are confident we will continue to deliver.”