Virginia Republicans say they are excited by Sen. John McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate.
Attorney General Bob McDonnell, the presumed Republican nominee for governor in 2009 and chairman of the Virginia delegation at the Republican National Convention in Minnesota, said the selection of Palin as the first woman on a Republican ticket "is another milestone in the life of our nation."
Palin's opposition to abortion, and her reputation in Alaska as a foe of corruption and government waste demonstrates that she is "a proven and consistent conservative," McDonnell said.
"Our phones down here are ringing off the hook," said Gerry Scimeca, communications director for the Republican Party of Virginia.
"This is a very accomplished woman. It says a lot about John McCain's confidence in his leadership that he can pick a woman like this, who will work with him to shake up the status quo."
Alaska is " as far away from Washington as you can get," Scimeca said. There was no immediate comment from Rep. Eric I. Cantor, R-7th of Henrico, who was vetted for the No. 2 spot by McCain. He was reported to be in his Richmond area office meeting with constituents.
Palin will complement McCain as a running mate, and presents "a unique opportunity for Republicans to broaden their appeal," says John H. Hager, a former lieutenant governor of Virginia.
"I've got strong respect for the senator and his choice," said Hager, who also is a former head of the Republican Party of Virginia. "She's conservative, an outsoorswoman, a member of the NRA and a mother," he said from Minnesota, where Republicans will kick off their national convention Monday.
"I think it's an attempt by Senator McCain to appeal to female voters," Hager said. "If they happen to be disaffected Hillary (Clinton) voters," they're welcome, he said.
Regarding the fight for Virginia's 13 electoral votes, "I think it strengthens his appeal, especially in Northern Virginia," Hager said.
"She's young, she's energetic."
Hager said he is unconcerned about Palin's background, noting that she brings executive experience as a governor.
"Anybody who has been a governor has been through plenty of tests," he said. "Senator McCain is the man with the experience" on foreign policy. "She brings other strengths."
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