Grateful for Emmett Hanger

Richmond is as dysfunctional as Washington, some claim. We in the Shenandoah Valley can be proud that State Sen. Emmett Hanger, R-Mount Solon, is not part of the problem.

Low on bombast and high on integrity, Hanger was challenged in a primary this year, thanks to his support for Medicaid expansion. Though most in his conservative district probably disagree with that stance, he received 60 percent of the vote.

Here’s why: People trust him. Citizens appreciate hearing a voice of reason, especially during such polarized times.

Take for example the infamous Augusta County Republican Committee “Preserve our Christian Heritage” ad published during the November election. When interviewed about it, Hanger’s response was polite and straightforward. He explained that he had supplied his photo but not approved any ad copy and that that “Christianity is not the property of a political party.”

That’s the kind of man Hanger is. Kind. Measured. Able to see both sides of an issue and unafraid of the voters or even the media. A rarity in politics.

Hanger’s quiet, steady leadership is appreciated statewide. State senate Republicans recently named him co-chair of the powerful Finance committee. He got the job after infighting between other Republicans, among them Sen. Thomas A. Garrett Jr. (R-Buckingham).

“Emmett Hanger is fair and is an honest broker,” said Garrett after the Republican caucus named Hanger co-chair. “Emmett Hanger is a good man.”

We remain concerned about low voter turnout and poor representation in gerrymandered Virginia. However, today and every day, we are grateful for Emmett Hanger.

Our View represents the opinion of the newspaper’s editorial board, Roger Watson, president and publisher; David Fritz, executive editor; and Deona Landes Houff, community conversations editor.