Burgeoning Black Caucus

(photo courtesy of Brandon K. Borne)

Virginia’s Legislative Black Caucus touted its work and increasing political muscle Friday at a news conference at which it is was evident that expanded influence has come with some growing pains.

Despite election turnover, the caucus steadily has gained seats in the General Assembly since 2002, when it had 15 members. Now at 18 – 13 in the House of Delegates and 5 in the Senate – the caucus is as large as it’s been in modern history.

The group is led by Kenny Alexander, a Democratic delegate from Norfolk. He’s one of 10 members who represent Hampton Roads.

During the 2010 General Assembly session, caucus members were perhaps most vocal in their opposition to Gov. Bob McDonnell’s education reform agenda, including bills to ease the creation of charter, laboratory and virtual schools.

But they failed to block the package. In fact, two caucus members co-sponsored pieces of it.

Despite those differences, Portsmouth Democratic Sen. Louise Lucas said the caucus isn’t a fractious group.

“What you may perceive as infighting is not that at all,” she said, noting that caucus members have varied views on issues. “We’re not monolithic.”

During the news conference, members also took turns speaking about issues important to them, from education and transportation funding, to the environment, poverty and legal protections for gays and lesbians.

“We now have a voice. It is loud. We are using it,” said Del. Jennifer McClellan, D-Richmond.

-- Julian Walker

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