Kaine–Stewart campaign less vicious than expected, according to Virginia Tech political expert
The much anticipated vicious and brutal campaign between Corey Stewart and Tim Kaine never really materialized, according to Virginia Tech political expert Bob Denton.
As the U.S. Senate race in Virginia comes down to the final weeks, one thing seems surprisingly clear. The much anticipated vicious and brutal campaign between Corey Stewart and Tim Kaine never really materialized, according to Virginia Tech political expert Bob Denton.
“What I find rather interesting is, we anticipated some tough negative aspects of this campaign, we’ve seen more of that from Kaine than we have from Stewart. Kaine’s recent TV ads have begun to punch back, trying to define Stewart as one who doesn’t have the temperament, who’s not competent to serve in the Senate,” said Denton.
Recent polling shows Kaine leading in the Senate race by nearly 20 points.
Denton says he’s eager to see in the coming days what the Kavanaugh effect might be on this election, whether Virginia Republicans or Democrats are truly energized by the recent battle over the Supreme Court nominee.
Denton adds that it seems unlikely President Trump will come to Virginia in the final weeks of the race to campaign for Stewart, choosing instead to focus on red states where races are more closely contested.
Bob Denton is a recognized expert on Virginia politics, political communication, the presidency and political campaigns. He is the founding director of the Rice Center for Leader Development and department head of the Virginia Tech Department of Communication. He is the author, co-author, or editor of 30 books and has written numerous scholarly articles, book chapters, and presented over eighty convention and professional papers
Expertise featured on WFIR Radio and WDBJ (CBS affiliate).
To secure a live or recorded video interview with Bob Denton from the Virginia Tech campus, contact Bill Foy in the Media Relations office at 540-231-8719 or 540-998-0288.
Our studio
Virginia Tech's television and radio studios can broadcast live HD audio and video to networks, news agencies, and affiliates interviewing Virginia Tech faculty, students, and staff. The university does not charge for use of its studios. Video is transmitted by LTN Global Communications and fees may apply.
