Ken Cuccinelli: Difference between revisions
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Cuccinelli was involved in the [[exoneration]] of [[Thomas Haynesworth]].<ref name="NYT09252011">[http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/25/us/man-cleared-of-rapes-but-a-court-balks-at-full-exoneration.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 Cleared of Rape but Lacking Full Exoneration]</ref> Cuccinelli argued in court for Haynesworth as attorney general. Cuccinelli also hired him to work in his office as a clerk.<ref name="NYT09252011"/><ref name="WAPO09272011"/><ref name="passion"/> Haynesworth said Cuccinelli was "an extraordinary guy", having "put it on the line for me."<ref name="WAPO09272011"/> (Haynesworth still works in Cuccinelli's office.<ref>[http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/faces-of-thomas-haynesworth/article_ff9d0542-331f-5bec-8192-7ea235a3a730.html Faces of 2012: Thomas Haynesworth]</ref><ref>[http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2013/08/01/Ken-Cuccinelli-service-in-Virginia Cuccinelli's Long Record of Serving the Old Dominion]</ref>) |
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Thomas Haynesworth was imprisoned for 27 years. He consistently maintained his innocence. In 2011, based on new evidence, Cuccinelli advocated for Haynesworth’s release from prison and his [[exoneration]].<ref name="NYT09252011">[http://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/25/us/man-cleared-of-rapes-but-a-court-balks-at-full-exoneration.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 Cleared of Rape but Lacking Full Exoneration]</ref> Cuccinelli said, "The proper conservative is careful about the exercise of government power—even judicial power."<ref name="WAPO09272011">[http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2011-09-27/local/35276094_1_cuccinelli-thomas-haynesworth-dna-evidence Cuccinelli tries to help convicted felon Haynesworth clear his name]</ref> |
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After Haynesworth’s release, Cuccinelli hired him to work in his office as a clerk. Haynesworth said Cuccinelli was "an extraordinary guy", having "put it on the line for me".<ref name="WAPO09272011"/> <ref>[http://www.timesdispatch.com/news/state-regional/government-politics/faces-of-thomas-haynesworth/article_ff9d0542-331f-5bec-8192-7ea235a3a730.html Faces of 2012: Thomas Haynesworth]</ref> |
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==2013 run for governor== |
==2013 run for governor== |
Revision as of 19:16, 21 August 2013
Ken Cuccinelli | |
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![]() | |
46th Attorney General of Virginia | |
Assumed office January 16, 2010 | |
Governor | Bob McDonnell |
Preceded by | Bill Mims |
Member of the Virginia Senate from the 37th district | |
In office August 2002 – January 12, 2010 | |
Preceded by | Warren Barry |
Succeeded by | David Marsden |
Personal details | |
Born | Kenneth Thomas Cuccinelli II July 30, 1968 Edison, New Jersey, U.S. |
Political party | Republican |
Spouse | Teiro Cuccinelli |
Children | 5 daughters 2 sons |
Alma mater | University of Virginia George Mason University |
Website | Official website |
Kenneth Thomas "Ken" Cuccinelli II (/ˈkɛn ˈkuːtʃiˈnɛliː/ KOO-chi-NEL-lee; born July 30, 1968) is the current 46th Attorney General of Virginia and the Republican candidate for Governor of Virginia in 2013. From 2002 until January 16, 2010 he was a Republican member of the Senate of Virginia, representing the 37th district in Fairfax County. He was elected Attorney General in the November 2009 general election. He holds degrees in engineering, law and commercial policy, and co-founded a small law firm. On May 18, 2013, he won the Republican Party’s gubernatorial nomination at the state party convention.[1]
Early life, education, and early career
Cuccinelli was born in Edison, New Jersey, the son of Maribeth (née Reilly) and Kenneth Thomas Cuccinelli.[2] His father is of Italian descent and his mother is of Irish ancestry.[3] He graduated from Gonzaga College High School in 1986,[4] and received his B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Virginia, a J.D. degree from George Mason University School of Law, and an M.A. in International Commerce and Policy from George Mason University.[5]
Cuccinelli served on state commissions including:[6]
- Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Project
- Public / Private Partnership Advisory Commission
- Commission on the Prevention of Human Trafficking
- Joint Subcommittee to Study Liability Protections for Health Care Providers
- Virginia Supreme Court Commission on Mental Health in the Justice System
He co-founded a small, general practice law firm in Fairfax City, Virginia.[7]
While living in a group house in college, Cuccinelli heard a woman shriek when an intruder climbed into her bed. After the incident, Cuccinelli established a peer-to-peer sexual assault prevention group on campus, and became a confidant for survivors of sexual assault.[8] He collaborated with feminists in convincing the university to create a full-time sexual assault education coordinator position.[8][9]
Virginia Senate
Elections
Cuccinelli ran for the state Senate in the 37th District in an August 2002 special election. He defeated Democrat Catherine Belter 55%-45%.[10][11] In 2003, he was re-elected to his first full term, defeating Democrat Jim E. Mitchell III 53%-47%.[12] In 2007, he barely won re-election to his second full term, narrowly defeating Democrat Janet Oleszek by a 0.3-point margin, a difference of just 92 votes out of about 37,000 votes cast.[13][14]
Tenure
During his time in the Senate Cuccinelli took conservative positions on abortion, gay marriage, illegal immigration, taxes, government spending, property rights, and the Second Amendment, while advocating law enforcement and increased care for the mentally disabled.[15]
Committee assignments
- Courts of Justice
- Local Government
- Rehabilitation and Social Services
- Transportation[16]
Attorney General of Virginia
Cuccinelli was inaugurated on January 16, 2010.[17]
The Attorney General's office reviews each bill passed by the General Assembly for Constitutionality and consistency with other existing laws.[18]
On August 23, 2010, Cuccinelli issued a legal opinion concluding that the Virginia Board of Health had the power to require abortion clinics to meet hospital standards, even though the General Assembly had rejected legislation to achieve the same result. Under the law at the time abortion clinics could perform first trimester abortions, while second and third trimester abortions were performed in hospitals. From 2002 to 2008, bills were introduced that sought to treat abortion clinics as "ambulatory surgery centers" and require them to meet hospital-type regulations, but the bills did not pass.[19]
2009 election
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/09/Ken_Cuccinelli_%26_David_Keene_by_Gage_Skidmore.jpg/220px-Ken_Cuccinelli_%26_David_Keene_by_Gage_Skidmore.jpg)
In 2009 Cuccinelli was selected as the Republican nominee for Attorney General,[20] going on to win 58% of the vote (1,123,816 votes). Republican Bob McDonnell became Governor, and Bill Bolling was re-elected as Lieutenant Governor.
Two weeks after taking office, Cuccinelli drew questions for continuing to represent a private client in a court proceeding, although this was not illegal.[21]
Healthcare
In 2010 Cuccinelli filed a lawsuit in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia challenging the constitutionality of the Federal Health Care bill passed on March 21, claiming that it exceeded the Federal government's power under the interstate commerce clause of the Constitution.[22] After a series of court decisions and appeals, on September 8, 2011 the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, in a decision issued by Judge Diana Gribbon Motz, overturned Judge Hudson's decision on the basis that Virginia lacked subject-matter jurisdiction—Virginia could not pass a law to supersede or nullify a federal law.[23] The Supreme Court had previously refused Cuccinelli's request to appeal directly.[24]
Immigration
On July 14, 2010, Cuccinelli joined eight other states in filing an amicus brief opposing the federal government's lawsuit challenging an Arizona immigration enforcement statute.[25]
On August 2, 2010, Cuccinelli issued a legal opinion authorizing law enforcement officials to investigate the immigration status of anyone that they have stopped; previously this was done only for those arrested. Cuccinelli noted that the authority to investigate the immigration status of a stopped person should not "extend the duration of a stop by any significant degree." Critics note that the opinion circumvents changing the policy by legislation and that bills to make this change have died in the General Assembly.[26] In November 2010, Cuccinelli rendered a legal opinion requested by Delegate Scott Lingamfelter (R-Prince William) regarding a legislative proposal from Prince William County Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey Stewart to expand an anti-immigration county ordinance into a state-wide law. Cuccinelli expressed the opinion that some provisions would be redundant, given existing laws, and others would be unconstitutional.[27]
Gay rights nondiscrimination policy
On March 4, 2010, at the request of several state universities, Cuccinelli issued an official opinion to "Presidents, Rectors, and Visitors of Virginia’s Public Colleges and Universities" that stated, "It is my advice that the law and public policy of the Commonwealth of Virginia prohibit a college or university from including ‘sexual orientation,’ ‘gender identity,’ ‘gender expression,’ or like classification, as a protected class within its nondiscrimination policy, absent specific authorization from the General Assembly.”[28]
Virginia Democratic State Senator John Edwards said that Cuccinelli was "turning back the clock on civil rights in Virginia."[29] The American Association of University Professors and the University of Virginia also criticized the opinion.[30] Cuccinelli defended the legal opinion: "Our role isn't in the political arena on this subject. Our role is to give legal advice, to state what the law is."[31] The Washington Post said previous attorneys general of both parties held that local governments could not enact nondiscrimination policies for the same reason that Cuccinelli cited.[8]
Governor Bob McDonnell supported the legal reasoning in the opinion.[32] However, he issued Executive Directive One to all state agency heads stating that he would not allow them to discriminate based on sexual orientation.[32][33]
Environmental policies
On February 16, 2010, Cuccinelli filed a request with the United States Environmental Protection Agency to reopen its proceeding regarding EPA's finding that greenhouse gases endanger public health. He also sought judicial review of EPA's finding in Federal court. His press statement explained, "We cannot allow unelected bureaucrats with political agendas to use falsified data to regulate American industry and drive our economy into the ground".[34] On March 19, Cuccinelli announced that the total number of states supporting Virginia’s position had reached at least 15.[35]
On April 1, 2010, Cuccinelli announced he would challenge the March 2010 standards for fuel efficiency for cars and trucks finalized by the Obama administration and Environmental Protection Agency under the Clean Air Act.[36][37][38]
On June 26, 2012, a three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejected Cuccinelli's arguments, unanimously ruling in Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that the EPA has the authority to regulate greenhouse gas emissions as part of a strategy to address anthropogenic climate change and that the EPA's finding that "greenhouse gases in the atmosphere may reasonably be anticipated both to endanger public health and to endanger public welfare" was well-founded in science and public policy.[39]
Litigation with University of Virginia
In April 2010, Cuccinelli served a civil investigative demand on the University of Virginia seeking a broad range of documents related to Michael E. Mann, a climate researcher now at Penn State who was an assistant professor at UVA from 1999 to 2005.[40][41] Cuccinelli based his demand on the 2002 Virginia Fraud Against Taxpayers Act, although no evidence of wrongdoing was given to explain the invocation of the law.[42] While climate change skeptics have raised allegations in challenging Mann's work, the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and Penn State investigations cleared Mann of any wrongdoing.[43] The Washington Post quotes Rachel Levinson, senior counsel with the American Association of University Professors (AAUP) as saying Cuccinelli's request had "echoes of McCarthyism."[44] A. Barton Hinkle of the Richmond Times-Dispatch criticized Cuccinelli for "employing a very expansive reading of Virginia’s Fraud Against Taxpayers Act."[45]
Among the groups urging the University of Virginia to resist producing the data were: a letter published in Science signed by 255 members of the United States National Academy of Sciences, the American Civil Liberties Union and the AAUP.[41] Also in May 2010, the University of Virginia Faculty Senate Executive Council wrote a letter strongly rebuking Cuccinelli for his civil investigative demand of the Mann records, stating that "[Cuccinelli's] action and the potential threat of legal prosecution of scientific endeavor that has satisfied peer-review standards send a chilling message to scientists engaged in basic research involving Earth’s climate and indeed to scholars in any discipline."[46] In 2011 in response to the escalating attacks from the Virginia AG's office, the Union of Concerned Scientists published a defense of scientific integrity and "Timeline: Legal Harassment of Climate Scientist Michael Mann".[47]
On May 27, 2010, the University of Virginia began legal proceedings challenging Cuccinelli's investigative demand. The school's petition states that Virginia's "Fraud Against Taxpayers Act" (FATA) cited by Cuccinelli is not applicable in this case, as four of the five grants were federal, and that the fifth was an internal University of Virginia grant originally awarded in 2001. The filing also states that FATA was enacted in 2003 and is not retroactive.[48][49]
On August 20, 2010, Albermarle Circuit Court Judge Paul Peatross heard argument on when Cuccinelli should get the requested data, including emails between Mann and his research assistants, secretaries and 39 other scientists across the country.[50] On August 30, 2010, the judge ruled that while the Virginia Attorney General could investigate state grants awarded to scientists, Cuccinelli and his staff failed to demonstrate that such an investigation was warranted in this case. "The nature of the conduct is not stated so that any reasonable person could glean what Dr. Mann did to violate the statute," the judge wrote.[51][52][53]
On September 29, 2010, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli sent a new civil subpoena to the University of Virginia renewing a demand for documents related to the work of Mann. Cuccinelli narrowed his request to documents related to a grant that funded research unrelated to climate change. The demand also sought emails between Mann and 39 other climate change scientists.[54] Cuccinelli filed a notice of appeal of the case to the Virginia Supreme Court, which ruled that Cuccinelli did not have the authority to make these demands. The outcome was hailed as a victory for academic freedom.[55][56]
Campaign contributions controversy
Cuccinelli received $55,500 in campaign contributions from Bobby Thompson, a director of the U.S. Navy Veterans Association (a veterans group under investigation). Thompson was Cuccinelli's second-largest campaign donor.[57][58] After receiving the contribution, Cuccinelli met with Samuel F. Wright, a USNVA representative on February 15, 2010, to discuss legislation which had passed the State Senate that would exempt the group from having to register with Virginia regulators.[59]
After an investigative report in the St. Petersburg Times in March 2010 raised questions about the Navy Veterans Association and Thompson, all other Virginia politicians, including Gov. Bob McDonnell, donated contributions from Thompson to other veterans' organizations. Cuccinelli refused to do so, despite calls from Virginia Democrats. Cuccinelli's spokesman said "if Mr. Thompson was convicted of wrongdoing relative to the misappropriation of funds, and contributions to our campaign came from money that was supposed to go to active duty military or veterans, we would donate those contributions to military support organizations here in Virginia."[58] Sen. Don McEachin asserted that the standard for donations should be "much higher than that."[60] A month later in June, a Cuccinelli spokesman said $55,500 would be set aside in a restricted account pending the outcome of the investigation into Thompson and USNVA.[61] On July 28, 2010, Cuccinelli announced that he will donate the $55,000 to veterans charities in Virginia. Cuccinelli stated that his decision was prompted by statements from Thompson's lawyers indicating that Thompson can no longer be located.[62]
Virginia seal
Cuccinelli caused a controversy in May 2010 when he used a historical state seal which shows Virtus, the Roman goddess of bravery and military strength, carrying a breastplate to cover her left breast on lapel pins he provided as gifts to his office staff.[63][64] The current official seal shows Virtus holding a spear and her left breast is exposed. The original state seal was designed by George Wythe, a signer of the Declaration of Independence, and adopted in 1776.[65] Cuccinelli's spokesman, Brian Gottstein, said lapel pins with the breast covered were paid for by Cuccinelli’s political action committee, not with taxpayer funds. Two days later On May 3, following media coverage, Cuccinelli announced that he was dropping his "family friendly" version of the seal.[66]
Combating usury
Since 2007, the Virginia Attorney General's Office has negotiated settlements with eight auto-title lenders to provide refunds or interest rate reductions of almost $8 million.[67][68] The office filed a lawsuit on May 18, 2010 against CNC Financial Services, Inc., doing business as Cash-N-A-Flash, a Hampton-based auto "title lender," for charging interest rates of 300 percent or more on its loans. This rate is alleged to exceed the 12 percent limit in the Virginia’s Consumer Finance Act. However, effective October 1, 2010, Virginia's interest rate limit increased to 264 percent.[67][68][69]
The Attorney General's Office filed two separate lawsuits against two Virginia Beach-based mortgage modification companies for charging customers up to $1,200 in illegal advance fees in exchange for allegedly helping to prevent foreclosure.[70]
Advocacy for veterans
In 2010, Cuccinelli announced plans to introduce a new level of veterans advocacy to the Attorney General’s office, including training state agencies how to use the law to better advocate for their clients when it comes to obtaining federal veterans benefits. Cuccinelli said that one of the most important things he could do for veterans was to help speed up the process for them to obtain the services they are eligible for from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Other priority issues include ensuring that veterans have opportunities to become and stay employed in Virginia and working with the Virginia judiciary to determine how best to educate judges on how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injury issues affect veterans.[71][72]
Antitrust enforcement
A $173 million settlement was reached with six international manufacturers of computer chips. The settlement resolved claims that the companies engaged in a price-fixing arrangement that cost government purchasers and consumers millions of dollars in overcharges for their chips. Cuccinelli and 32 other state attorneys general participated in the investigation and the settlement of a court case that was first filed in Court in 2006, before Cuccinelli took office.[73]
Extradition of Jens Soering to Germany
Jens Soering, 43, the son of a German diplomat and former Jefferson scholar at the University of Virginia, was convicted in 1990 and sentenced to two life terms for the 1985 first-degree stabbing murders of his then-girlfriend's parents, Derek and Nancy Haysom, in their Bedford County home, and held at the Buckingham Correctional Center in Dillwyn, Virginia. Former Gov. Timothy Kaine, on the last day of his administration in January, 2010, approved a request from the German government and asked the Justice Department to transfer Soering back to Germany to complete his sentence. Newly-elected Gov. Bob McDonnell, along with Cuccinelli, adamantly opposed the transfer. McDonnell formally notified the Justice Department just three days after taking office that it was imperative that Soering serve his time in Virginia and not in Germany, where a US news report said that he could have applied for parole after two years, although parole is only applicable after a minimum 15 years according to the German penal code.[74] On July 7, 2010, U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder announced that he would not consider transferring Soering to a prison in his home country without the state's "clear and unambiguous" consent.[75][76]
Education Policy
On November 24, 2010, Cuccinelli issued a legal opinion that police, school administrators, and teachers could search students' cell phones on the basis of reasonable suspicions in order to deter cyberbullying and "sexting". The ACLU and the Rutherford Institute said that Cuccinelli's opinion was in error, lacking a legal foundation.[77][78]
On January 28, 2011, Cuccinelli issued a legal opinion saying that school systems could not charge students the $75 testing fee when students take Advance Placement (AP) tests. Typically, AP courses are offered to academically advanced high school students to teach college-level materials. At the end of the course, students take a nationally-administered AP test, and can receive college credit if the test score meets a specified level. Cuccinelli said that public schools were required to provide a free education, so schools could not charge students taking the AP class the exam fee.[79]
Donor Intent
In February 2012, Cuccinelli filed a brief in the case of seven Anglican parishes that had left the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia as part of the Anglican realignment, including The Falls Church and Truro Church.[80] Cuccinelli took the side of the departing Anglican churches, arguing that they should be entitled to keep personal property amounting to several million dollars that was donated to the parishes between 2003 and 2007 and marked by the donors as for the use of parishes only, not for the diocese. Cuccinelli made this argument on "donor intent" grounds.[81] "That donor intent is paramount," Cuccinelli argued, "and governs the disposition of property, both real and personal, by one entrusted with its management, is a principle beyond dispute and interwoven throughout the law governing charitable trusts." The Fairfax County Circuit Court should not rule, Cuccinelli concluded, “in violation of the clearly expressed intent of the donors."[82]
The court sided with the diocese, ruling that the properties must be handed over.[83]
Star Scientific tax dispute lawsuit
In March 2013, Cuccinelli's role in a tax dispute case came into question when media reported on a lawsuit between the state of Virginia and Star Scientific, a nutritional supplements company.[84][85] The Washington Post reported that Cuccinelli had failed to disclose investments in Star Scientific for a year; after realizing the oversight, he corrected it and disclosed the holdings.[86] Cuccinelli has disclosed $13,000 in gifts from Star Scientific's chief executive, Jonnie R. Williams.[86] He said he could not return them because they were dinners, vacations, and flights; things that could not be returned.[87] He has sold his stock in the company.[88]
The Washington Post found no evidence that Cuccinelli sought to personally intervene in the lawsuit.[86] In April 2013, Cuccinelli recused himself from the case, hiring private attorneys to defend the state.[89] Cuccinelli subsequently announced that he had discovered the equivalent of $4,500 in additional gifts from Jonnie R. Williams that he had not previously disclosed, including free use of Williams' Smith Mountain Lake vacation lodge in 2010 and 2012.[90] In response, Cuccinelli asked the Commonwealth’s attorney to review his disclosure filings.[91] On July 18, 2013, a state prosecutor announced that he had found no evidence that Cuccinelli had violated the law, saying Cuccinelli did not appear to be attempting to conceal the relationship with Williams and he did not intentionally mischaracterize any gifts.[88]
Sodomy law
In March 2013, a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals struck down Virginia's anti-sodomy law in a case involving William Scott MacDonald, a 47 year old man who solicited sex from a 17 year old girl. On June 25, 2013, Cuccinelli filed an appeal with the United States Supreme Court, asking the Court to uphold the law, saying the appeals court ruling would release MacDonald from probation and "threatens to undo convictions of child predators that were obtained under this law after 2003."[92][93] Cuccinelli said the law is important for prosecutors to be able to "obtain felony charges against adults who commit or solicit this sex act with minors," and noted that the law "is not - and cannot be -- used against consenting adults acting in private."[92][94]
Sex trafficking
Cuccinelli has been a staunch advocate against human trafficking during his time in office, describing it as "one of the most egregious human rights violations".[95] He has slammed popular media for portraying prostitution and other forms of selling sex as "just another career choice".[95] While in the state Senate he created a plan, which he has implemented as attorney general, to crack down on trafficking on the state and served on the Senate Human Trafficking Commission.[96] As attorney general, he has devoted full time staff in the attorney general's office to prosecute human trafficking,[97] and in May 2013 one of his assistant attorneys general was honored by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children for breaking up and prosecuting a sex trafficking ring in Fairfax County.[98] The advocacy group Polaris Project named Virginia one of the most improved states in cracking down on human trafficking in 2010 under Cuccinelli's leadership.[99] He made human trafficking legislation his priority in his efforts during the 2013 General Assembly session, teaming up with Democratic and Republican lawmakers in support of three anti-human trafficking bills,[100] all of which were passed and signed into law.[101][102][103][104]
Exoneration of Thomas Haynesworth
Thomas Haynesworth was imprisoned for 27 years. He consistently maintained his innocence. In 2011, based on new evidence, Cuccinelli advocated for Haynesworth’s release from prison and his exoneration.[105] Cuccinelli said, "The proper conservative is careful about the exercise of government power—even judicial power."[106]
After Haynesworth’s release, Cuccinelli hired him to work in his office as a clerk. Haynesworth said Cuccinelli was "an extraordinary guy", having "put it on the line for me".[106] [107]
2013 run for governor
After his election as Attorney General, it was speculated that Cuccinelli was a potential candidate for governor in the 2013 election[108] or for the United States Senate in 2014. Cuccinelli himself stated that he was considering running for the Senate.[109] Two days later, one of his aides said, "We haven't ruled out anything. He's not actively considering a run for any particular office at the moment. Ken is operating under the assumption that he will run for reelection [in 2013]. He hasn't ruled out any option besides running for president, which he has no desire to do."[110]
On November 30, 2011, The Washington Post reported that Cuccinelli would announce within days that he was running for governor in 2013; the next day, Cuccinelli confirmed that he would run.[111] Cuccinelli said he would continue serving as Attorney General during his run. He is the first Attorney General since 1985 to remain in office while seeking the Governorship, a "custom" that the last six Attorneys General to run for Governor have adhered to.[89]
Political views
Abortion
Cuccinelli supports the right to life from conception to natural death, and is endorsed by the Republican National Coalition for Life.[112] In November 2008 he was named the Family Foundation of Virginia "Legislator of the Year."[113] Cuccinelli sponsored a number of bills to discourage abortions, including requiring doctors to anesthetize fetuses undergoing late term abortions,[114] altering the licensing and regulation of abortion clinics,[115] and requiring that a doctor save the fetal tissue when performing an abortion on a woman under age 15, for forensic use.[116] As a state senator, he advanced legislation to make abortion clinics subject to the same health and safety standards as outpatient surgical hospitals.[112]
Immigration
During his Senate career, Cuccinelli introduced bills urging the United States Congress to amend the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution to revoke citizenship rights for children of illegal immigrants who are born in the U.S.,[117] to allow businesses to sue others that hire undocumented immigrants,[118] and to establish inability to speak English in the workplace as cause for disqualification to receive unemployment benefits.[119]
Second Amendment
Cuccinelli’s support of the Second Amendment brought him an endorsement by the National Rifle Association (NRA).[120] He sponsored legislation to repeal the prohibition on carrying a concealed handgun in a restaurant or club,[121] for Virginia to recognize concealed handgun permits from other states,[122] and to shield concealed handgun permit application data from Freedom of Information Act requests.[123] Under Cuccinelli’s proposal a person could only be disqualified for such a permit by a court ruling based on the applicant’s past actions.[124] In the 2009 legislative session, a bill Cuccinelli introduced was passed that, for the purposes of granting a Virginia concealed handgun permit, required the state to accept as proof of "handgun competence" any certificate from an online handgun safety course featuring an NRA-certified instructor.[125]
Taxes
Cuccinelli opposes higher taxes.[126] In 2006, Cuccinelli sent out a fundraising letter that criticized the Virginia Senate’s Republican majority for passing a gasoline tax increase. The letter elicited rebuke from fellow Republican Tommy Norment.[127]
Eminent domain
In the 2005, 2006 and 2007 legislative sessions, Cuccinelli worked to pass eminent domain (compulsory purchase) laws that prevented local and state governments from taking private homes and businesses for developers’ projects.[128] In April 2010, Cuccinelli told the Roanoke Chamber of Commerce that he wanted to add stronger property rights protection to Virginia’s Constitution. “There is no consistency on the application of eminent domain throughout Virginia," he said.[18] In 2012, Cuccinelli championed a constitutional amendment prohibit eminent domain from being used to take private land for private gain, thus restricting it to being used only for public gain. The amendment was placed on the ballot for a voter referendum in the 2012 general election, and was passed 74%-26%.[129]
Law enforcement
In 2005, Cuccinelli was the chief patron of SB873,[130] legislation that entitled law enforcement officers to overtime pay from local governments for hours worked while on vacation or other leave.[131]
Sex education
Cuccinelli has been a strong advocate of the abstinence-only sex education programs with state funding. He stated "The longer you delay the commencement of sexual activity, you have healthier and happier kids and more successful kids.".[132]
Homosexuality
In 2004, Cuccinelli stated "homosexuality is wrong."[133] During his 2009 campaign for attorney general, he stated "My view is that homosexual acts, not homosexuality, but homosexual acts are wrong. They’re intrinsically wrong. And I think in a natural law based country it’s appropriate to have policies that reflect that. ... They don’t comport with natural law. I happen to think that it represents (to put it politely; I need my thesaurus to be polite) behavior that is not healthy to an individual and in aggregate is not healthy to society."[134]
Electoral history
Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Republican | Ken Cuccinelli | 10,041 | 55.01 | |
Democratic | Cathy Belter | 8,193 | 44.89 | |
Independent | Write-in candidates | 18 | 0.10 | |
Total votes | 18,252 | 100 |
Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Republican | Ken Cuccinelli | 16,762 | 53.31 | |
Democratic | Jim Mitchell | 14,658 | 46.62 | |
Independent | Write-in candidates | 23 | 0.07 | |
Total votes | 31,443 | 100 |
Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Republican | Ken Cuccinelli | 18,602 | 50.02 | |
Democratic | Janet Oleszek | 18,510 | 49.77 | |
Independent | Write-in candidates | 73 | 0.19 | |
Total votes | 37,185 | 100 |
Party | Candidate | Votes | % | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Republican | Ken Cuccinelli | 1,124,137 | 57.51 | |
Democratic | Steve Shannon | 828,687 | 42.39 | |
Independent | Write-in candidates | 1,772 | 0.09 | |
Total votes | 1,954,596 | 100 |
Personal life
Cuccinelli is married to Teiro Davis, whom he met when she moved into his neighborhood in high school. He took her to prom, but they went their separate ways after high school until Cuccinelli called her during college, and they were engaged in their last year of college. They have seven kids (two boys and five girls).[135][136] They live in Prince William County (they chose not to move to Richmond after his election as attorney general, choosing to commute instead).[137][136]
See also
References
- ^ "Virginia AG Cuccinelli wins GOP gov nomination". Washington Times. Retrieved 18 May 2013.
- ^ "Macon Telegraph: Search Results". Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "Ken Cuccinelli - roots and wings". Mommy Life. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "Attorney General Cuccinelli". Retrieved 2010-04-03.
- ^ "Virginia Attorney General Biography".
- ^ "Cuccinelli.com".[dead link]
- ^ "Cuccinelli & Day, PLC - Attorney Profiles". Retrieved 2010-04-03.[dead link]
- ^ a b c Va. Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli: The rise of the confounding conservative
- ^ In first attack ad, Virginia Democrats go after Ken Cuccinelli's female support
- ^ "VA State Senate 37 - Special Race - Aug 06, 2002". Our Campaigns. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "Barry quits Senate for Liquor Board post; Va. Legislator Cites Financial, Health-Care Needs". Washington Post. 2002-06-05. p. B.1.
- ^ "VA State Senate 37 Race - Nov 04, 2003". Our Campaigns. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "November 6, 2007 General Election results". Virginia State Board of Elections. Retrieved 2009-03-17.
- ^ "VA State Senate 37 Race - Nov 06, 2007". Our Campaigns. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "Cuccinelli.com". Archived from the original on 2007-10-26.
- ^ "Senator Ken Cuccinelli, II; Republican - District 37". Senate of Virginia. Retrieved 2008-11-25.
- ^ NBC12′s Complete Coverage of the 2010 Inauguration
- ^ a b "Cuccinelli keeps his promise to challenge an overreaching government – videos". Roanoke Free Press. 2010-04-06. Retrieved 2010-05-09.
- ^ Kumar, Anita (August 23, 2010). "Va. allowed to toughen abortion clinic rules". Washington Post. p. A1.
- ^ Abruzzese, Sarah (2006-05-20). "Cuccinelli nominated by Virginia GOP for Attorney General". Washington Times. Retrieved 2009-08-23.
- ^ Jackman, Tom (Feb. 1, 2010). "Lawyers question Va. attorney general's role in private case". Washington Post. Retrieved 2010-03-04.
{{cite news}}
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(help) - ^ "Virginia Attorney General to file suit against Federal Government over passage of Health Care bill". Retrieved 2010-03-25.[dead link]
- ^ Diana Gribbon Motz (2011-09-08). "Fourth Circuit of Appeals Decision" (PDF). Retrieved 2011-09-08.
- ^ Kendall, Brent (2011-02-04). "Health Foes Try Divergent Tactics". Wall Street Journal. Retrieved 2011-02-06.
- ^ "Cuccinelli joins group backing Arizona immigration law". Augusta Free Press. July 15, 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-23.
- ^ Anita Kumar and Rosalind Helderman (August 3, 2010). "VA. permits wider police immigration status check". Washington Post. p. A1.
- ^ Sherfinski, David (November 29, 2010). "Stewart, Cuccinelli exchange fire over immigration policy". Washington Examiner. Retrieved 2010-11-30.[dead link]
- ^ "Letter from Kenneth T. Cuccinelli II, Attorney General to Presidents, Rectors, and Visitors of Virginia's Public Colleges and Universities" (PDF). Commonwealth of Virginia Office of the Attorney General. March 4, 2010. Retrieved November 29, 2012.
- ^ Graham, Chris (March 6, 2010). "Civil-rights groups respond to AG letter on nondiscrimination policy". Augusta Free Press. Retrieved November 29, 2012.
- ^ de Vise, Daniel (March 9, 2010). "Students irate at Cuccinelli over gay-rights policies". Washington Post. Retrieved December 4, 2012.
{{cite news}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ "NBC12 Decision Virginia- Cuccinelli responds to McDonnell Directive". NBC12 News. March 12, 2010. Retrieved November 29, 2012.
- ^ a b "Va. Gov. McDonnell prohibits bias against gay state workers". Washington Post. March 11, 2010. Retrieved December 4, 2012.
- ^ "Executive Directive 1 (2010)" (PDF). Virginia Department of Human Resource Management. Retrieved August 21, 2011.
- ^ "Cuccinelli Petitions EPA and Files for Judicial Review" (Press release). 2010-02-17. Retrieved 2010-02-24.[dead link]
- ^ "Press release". Retrieved 2010-04-02.[dead link]
- ^ "Cuccinelli challenges fuel standards". Washington Post. April 1, 2001. Retrieved 2010-01-04.
- ^ "Cuccinelli challenges fuel standards". Washington Post. Retrieved 2010-04-02.
- ^ Broder, John M. (Dec. 19, 2007). "Bush signs Broad Energy bill". New York Times. Retrieved 2010-01-04.
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(help) - ^ Coalition for Responsible Regulation v. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, June 26, 2012
- ^ Retrieved 2010-05-04.[dead link]
- ^ a b Helderman, Rosalind (May 9, 2010). "U-Va. urged to fight Cuccinelli subpoena in probe of scientist". Washington Post. p. C5.
- ^ "Science subpoenaed". Retrieved 2010-05-12.
- ^ Foley, Henry C. (3 February 2010). "RA-10 Inquiry Report: Concerning the Allegations of Research Misconduct Against Dr. Michael E. Mann, Department of Meteorology, College of Earth and Mineral Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University" (PDF). The Pennsylvania State University. Retrieved 7 February 2010.
{{cite web}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ Helderman, Rosalind (May 4, 2010). "Cuccinelli demands files from U-Va.: sought under fraud law". Washington Post. p. B1.
- ^ Hinkle, A. Barton (2011-03-18) An Overreaching Attorney General, Reason
- ^ "Faculty Senate.pdf". Voices.washingtonpost.com. Retrieved 2011-11-21.[dead link]
- ^ "Timeline: Legal Harassment of Climate Scientist Michael Mann | Union of Concerned Scientists". Ucsusa.org. 2002-04-17. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ "University of Virginia seeks to protect Academic Freedom, petitions to set aside Civil Investigation Demands". Virginia.edu. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ "University of Virginia legal petition" (PDF). Retrieved 2011-11-21.[dead link]
- ^ Kumar, Anita (August 21, 2010). "Judge to rule on Cuccinelli probe of climate study". Washington Post. p. B1.
- ^ Ruling. Retrieved 2010-08-31.
- ^ Helderman, Rosalind (August 31, 2010). "Judge rejects Cuccinelli's probe of U-Va". Washington Post. p. B1.
- ^ Sluss, Michael (August 30, 2010). "Judge denies Cuccinelli's demand for climate scientist's records; AG not backing down". Roanoke Times. Retrieved 2010-08-31.[dead link]
- ^ Helderman, Rosalind (October 5, 2010). "Climate research legal fight heats up: Cuccinelli wants papers from U-VA". Washington Post. p. B1.
- ^ Kumar, Anita (2 March 2012). "Va. Supreme Court tosses Cuccinelli’s case against former U-Va. climate change researcher - Virginia Politics". The Washington Post. Retrieved 2 March 2012.
- ^ Goldenberg, Suzanne (2 March 2012). "Virginia court rejects sceptic's bid for climate science emails : Environment". The Guardian. Retrieved 2 March 2012.
- ^ Testerman; Martin (22 March 2010). "Charity leader's sideline: politics". St. Petersburg Times. Retrieved 23 May 2010.
- ^ a b Casey; Sluss (16 May 2010). "Fla. contributor to Va. campaigns raises questions". The Roanoke Times. Retrieved 23 May 2010.[dead link]
- ^ Sluss, Michael (May 27, 2010). "Staffer: Cuccinelli made no pledge to Navy Vets". Roanoke Times. Retrieved 2010-09-12.
- ^ Helderman, Rosalind (20 May 2010). "Democrats repeat call for Cuccinelli to donate contribution". The Washington Post. Retrieved 24 May 2010.
- ^ Helderman, Rosalind (19 May 2010). "Cuccinelli will open special account to hold funds from troubled charity director". The Washington Post. Retrieved 23 June 2010.
- ^ Helderman, Rosalind (July 29, 2010). "Cuccinelli will give up questionable donations". Washington Post. p. B5.
- ^ "Cuccinelli staff's state seal lapel pins cover up traditional Virtus". Roanoke Times. May 1, 2010. Retrieved 2010-05-04.
- ^ Altman, Alex (May 22, 2010). "Bob McDonnell in Va.: From Conservative to Pragmatist". Time Magazine. Retrieved 2010-05-29.
- ^ Walker, Julian (2010-05-01). "Cuccinelli opts for more modest state seal - The Virginian-Pilot, May 1, 2010". Hamptonroads.com. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ "More modest version of Va. seal unveiled". Washington Post. May 1, 2010. Retrieved 2010-05-01.
- ^ a b Reddy, Sudeep (July 19, 2010). "States to Protect Borrowers Who Turn to Cars for Cash". Wall Street Journal. p. A3.
- ^ a b "Cuccinelli sues Hampton auto title lender". Virginian-Pilot. May 19, 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-10.
- ^ "Attorney General Cuccinelli sues Cash-N-A-Flash of Hampton for excessive interest charges". May 18, 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-10.[dead link]
- ^ "Va AG sues VB-based mortgage companies | WAVY.com | Virginia Beach, Va". WAVY.com. 2010-07-20. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ "Attorney General Cuccinelli announces stronger advocacy for veterans during military tele-town hall". June 25, 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-10.[dead link]
- ^ "Cuccinelli pushes for stronger veteran advocacy". Virginian-Pilot. June 27, 2010. Retrieved 2010-07-10.
- ^ "Cuccinelli announces $173 million settlement in computer chip case". www2.dailyprogress.com. Richmond Times-Dispatch. June 24, 2010. Retrieved May 21, 2012.
- ^ Sentencing Guidelines and Practices in Germany, Dr Bernd Bösert, Head of Division, Division for the Criminal Code (General Part), German Federal Ministry of Justice, Berlin "Life imprisonment: after a period of 15 years of imprisonment the court may order the offender’s release on parole. In addition to the requirement of a positive prognosis of the conduct of the convicted person (no reoffending) the particular seriousness of the convicted person’s guilt must not require its continued enforcement (Section 57a of the Criminal Code). In practice a life sentence is executed on an average of nearly 19 years. The probationary period is at least two years." See Life imprisonment in Germany
- ^ "U.S. Attorney General rules Jens Soering will have to serve rest of his sentence in Virginia". WDBJ7 News. July 12, 2010. Retrieved December 5, 2012.[dead link]
- ^ "Jens Soering to Remain in Custody of Commonwealth" (Press release). Virginia Governor's Office. July 7, 2010. Retrieved December 5, 2012.
- ^ "Virginia Attorney General says teachers can take students' cell phones, read texts". Fox News. 25 November 2010. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- ^ Mcneil, Brian (24 November 2010). "Cuccinelli opinion: Teachers can seize, search students' cell phones". The Daily Progress. Retrieved 26 November 2010.
- ^ Helderman, Rpsa;omd (January 29, 2011). "Cuccinelli:Fee on AP students illegal". Washington Post. p. B2.
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: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link) - ^ Gryboski, Michael (February 24, 2012). "Va. Attorney General Intervenes for Breakaway Anglicans in Property Battle". Christian Post. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
- ^ Sparks, Evan. "Cuccinelli: "Donor intent is paramount"". Philanthropy Daily. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
- ^ "Briefly Noted: "Donor Intent Is Paramount"". Philanthropy. Spring 2012. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
- ^ Benton, Nicholas (May 23, 2012). "Anglicans Hand Keys of Historic Falls Church to Episcopalians Read more at FCNP.com: http://www.fcnp.com/news/11885-anglicans-hand-keys-of-historic-falls-church-to-episcopalians-.html#ixzz1x1GuKskO". Falls Church News-Press. Retrieved 6 June 2012.
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- ^ Lewis, Bob (March 22, 2013). "Tax lawsuit raises questions about possible Cuccinelli conflict; spokesman dismisses criticism". The Washington Post. Retrieved April 2, 2013.[dead link]
- ^ S. Helderman, Rosalind (March 30, 2013). "Va. Gov. McDonnell on two-way street with chief executive of struggling company". The Washington Post. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
{{cite news}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ a b c S. Helderman, Rosalind (March 30, 2013). "Va. Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli's disclosure of stock holdings was delayed". The Washington Post. Retrieved April 2, 2013.
{{cite news}}
: Unknown parameter|coauthors=
ignored (|author=
suggested) (help) - ^ "Cuccinelli won’t return his gifts."
- ^ a b Ken Cuccinelli didn’t break law by not disclosing Star Scientific stock, prosecutor says
- ^ a b "Cuccinelli hires private attorneys to defend state in Star Scientific tax lawsuit over taxes". The Washington Post. 4 April 2013. Retrieved 12 April 2013.[dead link]
- ^ Szkotak, Steve (May 11, 2013). "Once celebrated chef at Va. governor's mansion now central figure in growing political drama". The Washington Post. Retrieved May 11, 2013.[dead link]
- ^ Vozzella, Laura (April 26, 2013). "Cuccinelli amends disclosure forms". The Washington Post. Retrieved April 27, 2013.
- ^ a b Attorney General Cuccinelli appeals to U.S. Supreme Court to uphold Virginia law used to prosecute child predators
- ^ Johnson, Luke. "Ken Cuccinelli Appeals To Defend Virginia's Anti-Sodomy Law At Supreme Court". Huffington Post. Retrieved 1 July 2013.
- ^ Cuccinelli challenges Virginia sodomy ruling in teen case
- ^ a b Cuccinelli, Kenneth T. (2013-01-15). "CUCCINELLI: The truth about sex trafficking". Washingtontimes.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "Cuccinelli Makes Human Trafficking Virginia's Top Priority in 2013". Washington.cbslocal.com. 2013-01-15. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ May 9, 2013 (2013-05-09). "ICYMI – Member of Va AG's Office Recognized". Cuccinelli.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
{{cite web}}
: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link) - ^ "Cuccinelli: Assistant AG recognized for breaking up human trafficking ring". Legalnewsline.com. 2013-05-10. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ OAG bio
- ^ "Attorney General, lawmakers focus on human trafficking". Wtvr.com. 2013-01-15. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "HB 1606". Richmondsunlight.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "SB 1015". Richmondsunlight.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "HB 1870". Richmondsunlight.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ "HB 1826". Richmondsunlight.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ Cleared of Rape but Lacking Full Exoneration
- ^ a b Cuccinelli tries to help convicted felon Haynesworth clear his name
- ^ Faces of 2012: Thomas Haynesworth
- ^ "The future of Ken Cuccinelli". Voices.washingtonpost.com. 2010-12-13. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ Kumar, Anita (2011-08-16). "Cuccinelli says he may challenge Warner for U.S. Senate in 2014". Washingtonpost.com. Retrieved 2011-11-21.
- ^ "Cuccinelli denies plans for Senate run". Washingtonexaminer.com. Retrieved 2011-11-21.[dead link]
- ^ Kumar, Anita (2011-12-01). "Ken Cuccinelli announces he will run for Va. governor in 2013". Washingtonpost.com. Retrieved 2013-07-29.
- ^ a b [1][dead link]
- ^ "Cuccinelli named Family Foundation Legislator of the Year". Retrieved 2009-08-27.
- ^ "SB 371, Abortion; procedure if performed after first trimester". 2004-01-04.
- ^ "SB 839: Abortion clinics; regulation and licensure". 2005-01-10.
- ^ "SB 315. Abortion; preservation of fetal tissue when performed on child under age 15". 2006-01-10.
- ^ "SJ 131 Birthright citizenship; memorializing Congress to amend Fourteenth Amendment of U.S. Constitution". 2008-01-18.
- ^ "SB 629 Illegal aliens; employment thereof, cause of action". 2006-01-06.
- ^ "SB 339 Unemployment compensation; employee's inability to speak English at workplace is misconduct". 2008-01-08.
- ^ "NRA Endorsement Letter to Ken Cuccinelli" (PDF). Retrieved 2009-08-27. [dead link]
- ^ "SB 579 Concealed weapons; abolishes prohib. on carrying in a rest. or club, excep. when alcohol consumed". 2005-01-15.
- ^ "SB 771 Concealed handgun permits". 2003-01-08.
- ^ "SB 332 Concealed handgun permits; access to personal information of permittees". 2008-01-08.
- ^ "SB 1266 concealed weapons permit; disqualifies person using negligently or unlawfully to endanger others". 2005-01-18. Retrieved 2009-08-27.
- ^ "SB 1528 concealed handgun permits; completion of firearms training, etc., may be done electronically".
- ^ "Ken Cuccinelli, fighting taxes & supporting businesses". Retrieved 2009-08-27.[dead link]
- ^ Lessig, Hugh (2006-05-20). "Writings frame bigger General Assembly rift: Two fellow Republicans cause Sen. Norment, R-James City, to say chamber civility is eroding". Daily Press. Retrieved 2009-08-27.[dead link]
- ^ "SB 1271 Local condemnation authority; definition of public uses". Retrieved 2010-04-02.
- ^ Virginia Approves Eminent Domain Amendment
- ^ "Commonwealth of Virginia Legislative Information System". Retrieved December 4, 2012.
- ^ Heinatz, Stephanie. “Bill grants officers overtime pay for hours worked while on vacation." Virginian-Pilot. 23 Feb. 2005: B5.
- ^ "Funding for abstinence-only programs eliminated". November 13, 2007.
- ^ Ginsberg, Steven (June 29, 2003). "In Wake of Sodomy Ruling, Va. Lawmakers Predict Bills on Both Sides". The Washington Post. Retrieved January 17, 2010.
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(help); Unknown parameter|coauthor=
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suggested) (help) - ^ "Steve Shannon for attorney general". The Virginian-Pilot. October 26, 2009. Retrieved January 17, 2010.
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(help) - ^ With Cuccinelli, Door to Door
- ^ a b The Passion of Ken Cuccinelli
- ^ Who is Ken Cuccinelli?
External links
- Official website
- Attorney General Cuccinelli official government site
- 1968 births
- Living people
- American people of Irish descent
- American people of Italian descent
- American Roman Catholics
- Environmental skepticism
- George Mason University School of Law alumni
- Gonzaga College High School alumni
- Northern Virginia politicians
- People from Edison, New Jersey
- People from Fairfax County, Virginia
- University of Virginia alumni
- Virginia Attorneys General
- Virginia lawyers
- Virginia Republicans
- Virginia State Senators