Bowerbank gets three Dem endorsements

Story by Chris Graham
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Three of the four candidates for the 2005 Democratic Party lieutenant-governor nomination have endorsed Southwest Virginia pol Jon Bowerbank for the 2009 Democratic LG nod.

’05 nominee Leslie Byrne and state senators Chap Petersen and Phil Puckett all endorsed Bowerbank, a sitting member of the Russell County Board of Supervisors who is the only announced candidate for the second spot on the Democratic Party ticket in 2009.

A Washington Post blog last week reported that Jody Wagner, the secretary of finance in the Tim Kaine administration, is going to resign that post in the coming weeks so that she can begin a campaign for the nomination.

Bowerbank, 48, got his campaign for the lieutenant-governor post off the ground in the spring. And the energy businessman has some important support lined up already.

“Jon Bowerbank represents the kind of Democrat who will bring practical results for all Virginians, and who will always fight for what is right in Richmond. I am proud to support him,” Byrne said.

“Jon and I share many common values,” Petersen said. “These include economic fairness, environmental protection, educational excellence, and standing up for the people against the powerful special interests. I am confident that Jon will make an outstanding lieutenant governor of Virginia.”

“I have known Jon for several years now and consider him a good friend.” Puckett said. “Jon is an extremely impressive and well-qualified candidate for the position I sought in 2005, lieutenant governor of Virginia. I strongly endorse his candidacy.”