Wampler Announces Retirement from VA Senate

In a surprise, Sen. William C. Wampler Jr., R-Bristol, announced Friday that he plans to retire from the General Assembly after 24 years.

"Six terms is a long time," he said. "There have been many trips to Richmond and many nights away from home. There is a time for everything."

If Republicans gain control of the Senate in this fall's elections, Wampler would have been in line to become chairman of the Senate Finance Committee.

First elected in 1987, Wampler represents the 40th District. He is the senior Republican member in the Senate.

It is considered a safe Republican district, but, in a brief interview, Wampler said the district is competitive. He said he expects several Republicans as well as a Democrat to run.

"It is the 'Fightin' Ninth,'" he said, referring to the region's 9th Congressional District, long known for two-party competition.

Gov. Bob McDonnell praised Wampler on Friday as a legislator who never forgot about his constituents in Southwest Virginia. "Through his service on the budget conference committee, William consistently advocated for the best interests of the entire commonwealth," McDonnell said.

Wampler's father, Willam C. Wampler Sr., represented the 9th District in Congress for 16 years.

Sen. Mark D. Obenshain, R-Harrisonburg, announced Friday that he would seek re-election. Obenshain, who has represented the 26th Senate District for eight years, is considered one of the Senate's most conservative members.

"I have fought for jobs and economic growth, and the principles of limited government, individual responsibility and family values," he said.

from Tyler Whitley @ the Richmond Times-Dispatch