Popularity based on credit for saving state's finances
Mark Warner is a rare sight in American politics - a popular Southern Democrat. Having left office with an over 70 percent approval rating, Warner can do something no other politician can do: hand the Democrats the Commonwealth of Virginia. Even if the
Republicans run Sen. George Allen, it is doubtful Virginians will forget who saved their state's finances. On top of that, Warner is a very articulate speaker, has business connections available to few if any other Democrats and is not afraid to utilize
his personal fortune for his campaign. Since finishing his tenure as governor, Warner has been flying around the country trying to drum up support for his candidacy and elicit campaign donations. However, Warner has no foreign policy experience.
With security concerns and the Iraq War topping voters' priorities in the 2004 elections, it is highly doubtful that a one-term governor can look tough on terror. This makes Warner the ideal vice-presidential candidate.
Close the largest budget shortfall in Virginia's history
We have closed the largest budget shortfall in Virginia 's history - more than $6 billion. We have reduced state agency spending by 20% on average. We have eliminated more than 50 agencies, boards, and commissions - and thousands of positions in state
government. And we are fundamentally changing the way we do business in government to achieve maximum efficiency and savings. After twenty years in business, I understand the importance of low taxes - but also of investing for the future.
Source: State of the Commonwealth address to the General Assembly
Jan 14, 2004
Must not lose AAA bond ratings
I will not accept a budget that uses inflated revenue estimates or accounting gimmicks, that endangers the Virginia Retirement System or other employee benefit programs, that fails to preserve Virginia 's long-term fiscal integrity and protect our
AAA bond rating, and that fails to meet Virginia 's commitment to education. If we fail to do so, it may be a decade or more before we regain our AAA bond rating - because once you lose it, you can't get it back for a long time.
Source: State of the Commonwealth address to the General Assembly
Jan 14, 2004
Fiscal conservatism: taxpayer money is sacred
Mark Warner knows that Virginians work hard to earn a living and support their families. That’s why he believes that taxpayer money is sacred, because it’s not the government’s money - it’s the people’s money. Mark will bring to state government
the businessman’s bottom-line approach that has made him successful in the private sector. He believes that state government can and should live within its budget without increasing the tax burden on Virginians. As Governor, Mark Warner will:
Promote fiscal conservatism. Mark will maintain Virginia’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and a balanced budget.
Cut the car tax. Virginia made a commitment to Virginia’s families to eliminate the burden of the car tax, and Mark will continue
the job.
Restructure Virginia’s Tax Code. Mark will consider this issue and the recommendations from a bipartisan citizen commission.
Improve accountability and management.
Promote “e-government.”
Source: Campaign web site, MarkWarner2001.org/issues
Nov 6, 2001
Promote traditional businesses; small business, & tourism
As Governor, Mark will serve as Virginia’s chief economic development officer. His top economic priority will be to nurture a quality workforce and a good quality of life in every corner of the Commonwealth -
while helping Virginia’s regions maintain their unique character.
Build and retain a quality workforce.
Strengthen quality of life.
Maintain a strong business climate.
Attract regional economic cooperation.
Develop a strategic economic plan.
Strengthen cooperation within the Governor’s Cabinet.
Implement a Governor’s Economic Crisis Strike Force.
Promote rural economic growth.
Target investment efforts.
Protect Virginia’s traditional industries.
Grow existing Virginia small businesses.
Attract new businesses.
Promote tourism.
Source: Campaign web site, MarkWarner2001.org/issues
Nov 6, 2001
