In a turbulent political climate where public officials believe themselves to be above the law, and act in accordance to that belief, the rules and values our country relies on for order begin to falter. Such presumptuous self-importance is indecent, and Amanda Chase’s behavior shows that indecency has spread to our local political discourse in the Virginia legislature. When our elected officials begin to act out against the public servants and officials that make the protection of the public and the defense of justice possible, it undermines our safety and security.
It is not my candidacy for the State Senate that shapes my perception of these events, but my unique understanding of its implications after a lifetime of service in the United States Army, paired with a 30-year law career dependent on respect for law and order. I was appalled and outraged by Chase’s behavior towards a Capitol Police Officer when she was told she was not allowed to park in a secured area of the Virginia Capitol behind a barricade. After directing disrespectful and profane remarks at Officer Ashley Berryman of Virginia Capitol Police, Sen. Chase then attempted to justify her actions by accusing Officer Berryman of being a “democratic operative”, using partisanship to try and invalidate the official police report.
As an attorney for almost four decades, I understand the respect for law and order is an essential element to the proper functioning of a democracy. As a legislator, I question why Amanda Chase does not understand the gravity of her actions when her publicly elected duty is to write legislation in the interest of upholding the rule of law. Sen. Chase should be aware that she could have been charged with a crime for interfering with the officer as she performed her job functions. But again, Officer Berryman exhibited professionalism and performed her duties, alerting her supervisor and the Clerk of the Court, who stood behind the protocol- thus ensuring the security of the Capitol.
Amanda Chase sought specialized accommodations because of her status as a senator. I would encourage Senator Chase to remember the true image she holds is as a representative and public servant of a hard-working district of Virginians that she disappointed and embarrassed with her actions at our Capitol.
I am running against Amanda Chase to help bring respect for the rule of law back to Senate District 11, and to seek justice for all Virginians. It is impossible for an elected representative to defend the rule of law if she offends the rule of law because she couldn’t park where she wanted-What hubris.
I have the professional experience, a lifetime of involvement in my community, and service to my country that qualify me to beat Amanda Chase this November. Visit my website to learn more about me and my team.
-Sincerely, Wayne Powell
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