Va. Senate GOP developments: Wampler to retire, Obenshain seeks another term

In a surprise announcement, long time state Sen. William Wampler Jr. Friday morning revealed he won't run for a seventh term in the state Senate this fall.

A Bristol Republican, Wampler has served in the Senate since 1988. His father is a former member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

Given the younger Wampler's standing as a respected budget negotiator, he had been viewed as a candidate for chairman of the powerful Finance Committee in the event of a Republican takeover of the Senate after November.

"It has been a high honor to represent the citizens of Southwest Virginia for 24 years," Wampler, 51, said in a statement. "Six terms is a long time. There have been many trips to Richmond and many nights away from home. There is a time for everything."

Now we'll have watch the scramble of those who line up to replace him -- be sure to visit the Roanoke Times' Blue Ridge Caucus blog, as our colleagues there are likely to have details about potential successors.

In a related development, incumbent Republican Sen. Mark Obenshain of Harrisonburg announced Friday that he will seek re-election.

One of the more conservative members of the legislature, Obenshain is vocal member of his caucus who isn't hesitant to advocate for fiscal austerity or deliver floor speeches in favor of restricting abortion.

He also is considered a potential candidate for statewide office in 2013.

-- Julian Walker

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