A VCU poll just released says many Virginians are more interested in issues than party affiliation and as Charles Fishburne reports, that could have election year repercussions.
The L. Douglas Wilder School of Public Affairs poll found 42 percent wanted Democrats to control the General Assembly, 33 percent wanted Republicans, but a significant 25 percent is undecided.
“Important distinction going into this General Assembly Session,” said Robin McDougle, Director of the Center for Public Policy. “But, when we asked them policy questions, they knew where they stood on policy issues. It is a populace that is wanting to see what happens.”
She says it could be a wakeup call.
“I think it could be. And I think it also says to the legislators and to the Governor’s office, ‘our citizens are watching.’”
All 140 seats are up for re-election this year. At present Republicans have a narrow margin, 51-49 in the House and 21-19 in the Senate.
Future polls will delve into those policy issues as the 2019 General Assembly is set to begin.