The wife of former Democratic Governor Tim Kaine says his commitment to small business helps make him the best choice for United States Senate. Anne Holton stumped for her husband Thursday in downtown Staunton, where local merchants power the economy.
Two years out of the governor's mansion, Kaine is seeking his party's nomination for U.S. Senate, and at this point is the clear front-runner. He has until next month to collect 10,000 signatures to secure a place in the primary, and his wife is helping make sure that happens.
Holton spent much of her morning touring stores, restaurants and visitor attractions in Staunton's historic downtown. She asked questions about how business has been going during the recession, and what her husband might do to help.
Holton says the energy and enthusiasm of these entrepreneurs are the heart of what she calls the "talent economy." She said, "These folks working so hard to make this a lively community with jobs and opportunities for so many folks. We're just proud of what you've done here and would love to take this kind of example to the rest of the state and nation."
During her Staunton trip, Holton realized she had yet to sign the petition to get her husband's name on the ballot. She remedied that right away, putting her signature to paper inside a downtown cafe.
Despite her husband's frequent runs for office, Holton is new to this political role. She was a Richmond city judge during Kaine's past statewide races, which prohibited her from campaigning for him.
