30th District Candidates Meet in First Forum

The Democratic candidates vying for Patsy Ticer’s 30th district seat in the Virginia State Senate squared off for the first time Monday at the in a forum hosted by the Del Ray Business Association.

Answering questions from neighborhood entrepreneurs, candidates Adam Ebbin, Libby Garvey and Rob Krupicka expressed many similarities in their respective platforms but also sought ways to differentiate themselves by stating their priorities and plans for leadership.

Ebbin, currently state delegate in the 49th district, put the focus on his eight years of experience in Richmond and the legislation he has introduced and sponsored.

“We need our businesses strong and we need our unique businesses to thrive,” Ebbin said. “I have been sensitive to the needs of business, whether it be helping Cheesetique get its liquor license or introducing a common-sense bill to make sangria legal in Virginia.”

He also highlighted his work to counter human trafficking and end discrimination in the state. He spoke of a desire to continue Northern Virginia’s progressive tradition as well as his ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans to move legislation.

“Ticer is leaving after 16 years,” he said. “We are losing some clout. But from Day 1, I will be ready to hit the ground running in the state senate.”

With Ebbin and Krupicka more familiar to the Alexandria crowd, Garvey used the opportunity to discuss her personal background and work as a longtime member of the Arlington County school board.

She highlighted education and transportation as her priorities for the senate, stating a desire to develop a transportation plan for the region and a dedicated stream of funding for projects.

If elected, Garvey said she also planned to travel around the state and tour different districts to gain familiarity with what works and what isn’t working in terms of transportation and other issues. She also said traveling would help “build common ground” with other senators.

“I know when to challenge the system, when to work within the system and when to work around the system,” she said.

Garvey again pointed to transportation when asked how she could help area businesses, as well as reducing health care costs.  

Krupicka, a current member of the Alexandria City Council and the State Board of Education, touched on his campaign's theme of taking “creative ideas and innovation” from the community to Richmond.

The former president of the Del Ray Citizens Association said he wanted “to make Virginia No. 1 in education in the country.” He also spoke of his work within Alexandria government to create the Eco-City initiative and a desire to “improve the lives of veterans who are returning from Virginia from conflicts around the world.”

In terms of helping area businesses, Krupicka said “small businesses have always been a priority for me since I was elected to City Council.”

He said maintaining tax fairness was one way he could help businesses as a state senator, as well as providing incentives for business owners to make their buildings more energy efficient.

The Democratic primary is set for Aug. 23.