Politics & Government

Local Sierra Club Chapter Supports Both Mayoral Candidates

The Mount Vernon Chapter of the Sierra Club said it is supporting but not endorsing both incumbent Democratic Mayor Bill Euille and challenger Andrew Macdonald, an independent.

The local chapter of the Sierra Club is supporting but not endorsing both Mayor Bill Euille (D) and challenger Andrew Macdonald, who is running as an independent for mayor on the November ballot.

“We have made this decision in recognition of the strong commitment both Mayor Euille and Mr. Macdonald have made to the city in addressing Alexandria’s environmental challenges, and believe they would continue to do so as mayor of Alexandria,” the Mount Vernon Group of the Sierra Club said in a statement.

The group cites Euille’s strong leadership on complex issues such as green buildings and transit “particularly at Potomac Yards.” It also cites his support for the Eco-City charter and for "innovative ideas" such as providing affordable housing over the new Potomac Yard firehouse.

Find out what's happening in Old Town Alexandriawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

But Macdonald also gets the group’s nod of approval because of his “active commitment to the environment and willingness to challenge the status quo” on a range of issues including smart growth, transit and air and water quality.

The “support but not endorsement” tag means the chapter can communicate with club members about both candidates’ candidacy, recruit members to work as volunteers on their campaigns and encourage club members to write letters to the editor supporting both candidates.

Find out what's happening in Old Town Alexandriawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The Mount Vernon chapter said its support of both candidates reflects how the council and mayoral races “are among the most challenging local elections” it has considered.

The group recently endorsed Democrats John Chapman, Tim Lovain, Del Pepper, Paul Smedberg, Justin Wilson and Republican Bob Wood who are running for City Council.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here