Local, state primaries near conclusion

After Tuesday, two politicians will disappear from TV commercials across Virginia.

In Lynchburg, one candidate’s name will fade from yard signs.

Creigh Deeds, Terry McAuliffe and Brian Moran have been running hard for four months to be the Democratic nominee for governor. Tuesday’s statewide primary election will leave just one of them to oppose Republican Bob McDonnell next fall.

In Lynchburg and Madison Heights, two primaries are being held — one Democratic, the other Republican.

People in those two communities can choose between voting for a potential governor, or for a potential House of Delegates member to represent the 23rd District.

The Republican primary will remove one name from the candidates’ yard signs that have appeared the past two months featuring Scott Garrett and Jeff Helgeson.

Garrett and Helgeson are competing for the Republican nomination to run against Democratic Del. Shannon Valentine in the November general election.

Garrett has outspent Helgeson 2-1 in the past two months, according to campaign finance reports.

Their campaigns have consisted of knocking on doors, mailing colorful fliers to voters — and putting up yard signs.

Both candidates are members of Lynchburg City Council.

Garrett spent about $60,000 in April and May, according to expenses reported on VPAP.org. About $40,000 was invested in direct-mail efforts.

Helgeson reported using about $30,000 worth of campaign materials, much of it listed as in-kind services from businesses that provide direct-mailing services.

He also spent $3,500 with a company that makes campaign signs.