Results in from Mt. Vernon Democrats Straw Poll

Virginia Del. Scott Surovell (D-44th) took a clear lead in the primary Saturday night with a commanding victory over his opponent in the first Democratic straw poll of the season for the open 36th District State Senate seat.

Surovell won with more than 60 percent of the vote at the annual Mount Vernon Mardi Gras event hosted by the Mount Vernon Democratic Committee.

Tim Sargeant won the first Democratic Primary straw poll for county supervisor.

The poll tests the early strength of Democratic primary candidates and often predicts the winners.

Here are the straw poll results for Mt Vernon Supervisor:

• Tim Sargeant: 108
• Jack Dobbyn: 62
• Dan Storck: 36
• Candice Bennett: 21

For State Senate 36th District:

• Scott Surovell: 134
• Mark Cannady: 87

The votes were cast by secret ballot after the candidates made short speeches. Candidates were encouraged to bring their followers to the event, which draws Democrats mainly from Mt. Vernon District.

Surovell took 134 votes while his opponent claimed 87. Surovell chaired that same committee during the Obama-McCain election of 2008 and originally developed the idea for a local event during primary season.

“I never thought when I first came up with the idea of the Mt. Vernon Mardi Gras straw poll that I would ever be participating in it as a candidate,” Surovell said. “This victory clearly shows that our community wants strong, progressive leadership that is going to shake things up in Richmond and fight for our area. It has been an honor to serve as State Delegate and I am thrilled to have this overwhelming support for my Senate run.”

Surovell declared his intention to run for the 36th District Senate Seat after Sen. Toddy Puller (D-36th) announced her retirement after 23 years of service in the Virginia General Assembly.

He is currently serving his third term in the House of Delegates and is former chair of the House Democratic Caucus. More information on his background and issues can be found on his website at www.scottsurovell.org.