Democrats Organize Caucus to Choose Delegate Nominee

Just days after Gov. Bob McDonnell , Democrats in Alexandria, Arlington and Fairfax have laid the groundwork for a last-minute caucus to choose a nominee.

The 45th District includes Alexandria, parts of southern Arlington County including Fairlington, and a portion of the Huntington-Belle Haven area of Fairfax County. The seat is being vacated by Del. David Englin, effective Aug. 31.

On Thursday evening, the nominating committee decided to offer two opportunities for registered voters to participate in the caucus.

• 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday at , 530 South St. Asaph St. in Alexandria
• 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 4 at , 25 W. Reed Ave. in Alexandria

Craig Fifer, chairman of the 45th House District Nominating Committee, said he would have prefered to include caucus locations in Fairfax and Arlington counties, but time constraints and space limitations have restricted options.

According to state election laws, the Democratic party must declare a candidate by 5 p.m. Aug. 6. To be included in the Democratic caucus, candidates must fill out paperwork and submit a $500 filing fee to Fifer by 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Democrats  and  are both running for the nomination.

Many Democrats have expressed frustration at McDonnell's decision to call for the special election outside of November's general election. Fifer said holding this election concurrently with the general election on Nov. 6 would have saved the jurisdictions roughly $50,000.

"He's also screwing the Republicans because they have just as much time to scramble," Fifer said.

No Republican candidates have emerged, to date.