NORFOLK, Va. - With Thursday marking the end of the Democratic National Convention, Virginia Democrats say they'll be working hard over the next 75 days.
"Because of COVID and the shattered economy, people are really paying attention," former Gov. Terry McAuliffe said of the convention. "It's been a great convention. People are hurting. They're looking for leadership and you watch this convention and you know that's what Joe Biden is going to deliver."
Democrats held a virtual watch party ahead of the convention. "We've got a lot riding on this and has others have said, we can't take anything for granted," said Sen. Mark Warner (D-Virginia).
McAuliffe says Biden helped in Virginia and Hampton Roads when he was in the White House as Vice President. "When I was governor - everybody in Hampton Roads show know this - we had no better friend," he said.
McAuliffe made headlines again on Thursday, when his Political Action Committee filed additional paperwork allowing PAC money to be spent on a campaign. McAuliffe said he hasn't made up his mind about a potential re-run for governor. "This is just a paperwork addition that we've done," he said. "I have said consistently I'll make a decision immediately after the presidential run."
Also commented on local issues including regarding Sen. Louise Lucas (D-Portsmouth). McAuliffe has come to Lucas' defense after she was charged with two felonies this week. Police allege she was involve in the destruction of the Portsmouth Confederate Monument.
McAuliffe created a petition to show support for Lucas. "To see these two arrest warrants, which makes absolutely no sense, we need to raise awareness," he said. "This can't go on without people standing up, standing at her side."
Republicans will get their turn at a convention next week.
