RICHMOND -- A predictable outcome for an unusual race occurred yesterday as Republican incumbent Eric Cantor defeated Democrat Ben "Cooter" Jones in the 7th District Congressional race.
Cantor received 70 percent of the vote to Jones' 30 percent.
In a year in which much attention was focused on Congressional races because of the possibility of a shift in party control, the race drew national attention not because it was hotly contested -- Cantor was expected to keep his seat -- but because of Jones' celebrity. Jones is best known for portrayal of "Cooter" on the popular 1970s TV show, "The Dukes of Hazzard."
The mood at the Cantor victory party was expectant and enthusiastic last night as supporters watched the returns come in. Small children played with balloons and volunteers rallied attendees with signs as Cantor entered the gathering to the sounds of John Mellencamp's "Little Pink Houses."
In his acceptance speech, Cantor promised to focus his attention and effort on national security, the economy and healthcare for seniors.
"The global war on terrorism and the shaky economy affect all Virginians," he said. "We need to bring people together to work towards safety, security and prosperity, and make Virginia and America a safer place to live, work and raise families."
Cantor's campaign manager Matt Williams reiterated Cantor's plans.
"We need to create jobs by cutting taxes, show strong support for President Bush in focusing on national security, preserve and protect social security and create a prescription drug plan that gives seniors the flexibility to work with their doctors," Williams said.
The atmosphere was very different at the Jones party as dejected supporters milled around a semi-darkened room to the strains of bluegrass.
Bet Ludden, who voted for Jones, said she felt Jones would have better served the 7th District.
"I agreed with his ideas of representing the people not the corporations," Ludden said. "I believe Eric Cantor toes the party line."
Jones said he had expected to lose but had thought it was important to challenge Cantor.
"We were outspent 12 to one, but we knew what we were getting into," he said. "We can't let this kind of politics go without a scrap. We have served the country" by running.
Jones, who served three terms as a U.S. representative from Georgia, said he was unlikely to run again.
"I'm thinking this is my last rodeo," he said.
He encouraged young people to get involved in politics.
"We need to find young, energetic, folks who can jump the fence a little bit," he said.
Jones said he had no plans to congratulate his opponent.
"That guy slimed me," he said. "I'm not going to congratulate him."
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