Virginia Realtors Association Backs Comstock in Re-Election Bid

Incumbent state Del. Barbara Comstock has picked up an endorsement from the Virginia Association of Realtors in her re-election bid.

Comstock, R-McLean, faces Democrat Kathleen Murphy, a veteran political consultant, in November.

The race has piqued the interest of a liberal group founded by former Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean that is trying to swing red districts to blue across the country.

And it's become one of the more costly races in Virginia this election cycle. More than $255,000 has been spent in this House race so far, compared to the average of about $101,000 spent in similar races across the state, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

"I am pleased to once again receive the endorsement of the Virginia Association of Realtors," Comstock said in a statement. "The housing industry is a vital part of our economy and revitalizing the housing market is essential to a full economic recovery. Expanding home ownership also provides stability and prosperity in communities throughout the Commonwealth. I look forward to continuing to work with the real estate agents in my District as well as the Virginia Association of Realtors to keep our real estate market strong and prosperous."

The Virginia Association of Realtors also is backing Democrat Terry McAuliffe for governor after siding with Republican candidates during the last two gubernatorial contests.

Comstock was in the minority of House members who opposed this year's massive transportation overhaul, saying it would cause a strain on taxpayers. McAuliffe, on the other hand, made it a point to lavish Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell with praise for pushing the bill through.

Comstock's opponent, Murphy, also favors the transportation bill, according to the Loudoun Times.

"Since Delegate Comstock was first elected in 2009 she has received bi-partisan support from a broad cross section of business and community leaders, individual realtors, and various groups across the political spectrum," Comstock's campaign manager, Susan Falconer, told Patch in an email. "Today's endorsement is one more recognition of Delegate Comstock’s common sense, results oriented legislative successes that have focused on a healthy economy, high quality schools and improving our quality of life.  As the former Chairman of the Housing Subcommittee in the House of Delegates, Barbara understands the importance that home ownership and our housing industry play in revitalizing our economy.  She will continue to work with all of her constituents to expand home ownership and protect what is the most valuable asset of most families."

Comstock was first elected to the state House of Delegates in 2009 by a little more than 400 votes. She was re-elected in 2011 by a comfortable 55-45 margin.