The apparent defeat of Del. Bradley P. Marrs, R-Chesterfield, shows that "the politics of hate do not work in Virginia," says the gay businessman Marrs insulted in a controversial fundraising letter that became a weapon for challenger Katherine B. Waddell.
George M. "Mac" Pence III wrote in an e-mail yesterday that the outcome in the Richmond-Chesterfield County 68th House District race "reflects that voters want to support candidates who conduct themselves with honor, who listen to constituents and who focus on good government."
In a rare upset of an incumbent by an independent, Waddell edged Marrs for a third term by 44 votes, according to the State Board of Elections' unofficial results. More than 26,000 votes were cast in the affluent, James River-spanning district Marrs has represented since 2001.
It could not be determined whether Marrs plans to seek a recount. He cannot do so until after the results are certified by state election officials in late November -- about six weeks before the opening of the 2006 General Assembly.
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