Morgan Griffith to Challenge Rick Boucher in VA 9th

Roanoke NBC affiliate WDBJ and others are reporting that House of Delegates Majority Leader Morgan Griffith plans to challenge Congressman Rick Boucher for his 9th District seat in Congress. The day after the announcment came out, the NRA endorsed Boucher for re-election. The endorsement was not unexpected given that Boucher is an incumbant, though the timing indicates Boucher likely believes that Griffith will give the sitting congressman a run for his money.

The 9th District has elected Democrat Boucher for the last 28 years while at the same time giving its votes to Republicans Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bob Dole, George W. Bush, and John McCain. While Boucher is a reliable vote for the pro-2nd Amendment community, his challengers have always pointed out that he votes against his constituients' views on other issues. It is believed that the NRA Endorsement has made the difference in this very pro-gun district.

But what Boucher's previous challengers have not had that Griffith does, is a voting record. And Griffith's voting record in the House of Delegates is spotless. He has been the go-to-guy on the Militia, Police, and Public Safety Committee to shepherd legislation through subcommittee and the full committee. What Griffith brings to this race is the ability to match Boucher head-to-head on the firearm rights issue - thus allowing voters worried about their gun rights to look at other issues important to them knowing their 2nd Amendment Rights are safe with either candidate.

Boucher has a full war chest and Griffith cannot begin raising money until the end of the General Assembly. However, this will be a very interesting race to watch.