Catesby Jones, running for the Republican nomination for the 98th District House of Delegates seat, is adding his name to a no-tax increase pledge sponsored by Americans for Tax Reform. Jones is one of four GOP candidates in the district looking to replace retiring Del. Harvey B. Morgan, also a Republican. Morgan has held the seat for over 30 years.
“Increasing taxes is not the way to solve Virginia’s budget problems or America’s,” Jones said in a statement from his campaign office. “If we are going to create jobs and grow our economy again, we need to keep taxes low.”
The pledge, espoused by prominent conservative Grover Norquist's organization since the 1980's, has become a conservative litmus test. At times it has also caused future headaches for candidates elected to office when politics and the realities of governance clash.
If Jones' name isn't familiar, you might be familiar with his company, Peace Frogs Inc., based in Gloucester. Its logo, a frog displaying a peace sign, has become a ubiquitous staple at tourist shops and convenience stores.
Also lined up to run in the 98th District race on the Republican side are Sherwood H. Bowditch, Ken Gibson, and M. Keith Hodges.
Andrew Shoukas, of Tappahannock, is the sole Democrat to file paperwork to run in the district.
The 98th District includes Mathews, Gloucester, Middlesex and Essex counties and parts of King and Queen and King William counties.
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