Connolly Endorses Krupicka for State Senate

Touting his leadership experience at the local level, U.S. Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-11th) endorsed Rob Krupicka for state senate at the Alexandria city councilman’s campaign kickoff Saturday at .

Krupicka is seeking the 30th district seat held by Patsy Ticer, who will retire at the end of her current term. Krupicka is pitted against and in the Democratic primary set for Aug. 23.

“This race has attracted three worthy and capable candidates,” Connolly said. “Rob is the standout. He has the experience, energy and character to be an effective leader in the state senate.”

Connolly tabbed Krupicka a “progressive champion” in the region and pointed to his leadership in green and transportation initiatives in Alexandria as well as his work with the State Board of Education.

Krupicka, who completed a half-marathon earlier in the day, took the stage following an introduction from his wife, Lisa.

During his remarks, the 40-year-old Del Ray resident pulled his two daughters on stage.

“You just don’t get me, you get the whole Krupicka clan,” he said. 

Krupicka spoke of walking his daughters to school every morning down Mt. Vernon Avenue, passing trees planted by the Del Ray Citizens Association, the green roof on , people waiting for public transit, open spaces and the efforts put forth by citizens and government to create these sights and sounds.

“In that 20-minute walk, I pretty much experienced all the reasons to run this race,” Krupicka said.

The councilman also spoke of his distaste for the “political blame and divisiveness we see all over” and his desire to give everyone a seat at the table in working to move Virginia forward.

“The best ideas don’t come from Richmond,” Krupicka said. “They come from right here in this room.”

The kickoff attracted more than 200 people, including Alexandria Vice Mayor Kerry Donley, Councilwoman Del Pepper, former City Manager Vola Lawson and Del. Dave Englin (D-45th).

Alexandria Mayor Bill Euille, who endorsed Krupicka in early March, introduced Connolly.