Garrison Coward, who is running for the Republican nomination for 68th House of Delegates seat, picked up a heavyweight endorsement early in the 2019 statewide elections. Former Republican majority leader of the U.S. House of Representatives Eric Cantor announced Tuesday morning that he will endorse Garrison’s campaign, which promises to be “energetic, results-oriented,” and “community-driven.”
“I am excited to endorse Garrison Coward for the House of Delegates,” said Cantor in press release. From 1992 to 2001, Cantor, a Richmond native, represented the 73rd House District in the Virginia General Assembly, then was elected to Congress from Virginia’s 7th District from 2001 to 2014, serving as GOP majority leader from 2011 to 2014.
“Garrison will fight for improved education, safer communities and lower taxes. We need his conservative voice representing our values in Richmond,” Cantor added.
Responding to the former U.S. House majority leader’s endorsement, Garrison stated, “Whether a delegate in the Virginia House, or as Majority Leader in the U.S. House of Representatives, Eric Cantor has always been a leader with a long-term vision for our Commonwealth and nation.”
“I’ve always known him to fight for causes he believes in, and for a new generation of leaders. I’ll forever be thankful for his mentorship and leadership. I am honored to have his support,” Garrison added.
The millennial Republican has picked up other endorsements in the early days of his campaign.
Young Republican Federation of Virginia (YRFV) Chairman Kishore Thota said, “I wholeheartedly endorse Garrison for the Virginia House of Delegates. His energy, passion, and drive is exactly what we need in Richmond. He will be a wonderful asset to our Commonwealth.”
4th Congressional District Republican Chairwoman Carey Lynn Allen stated, “I am honored to endorse Garrison Coward for the House of Delegates representing the 68th District. Garrison is hard working civic leader in our community, and would be a great addition to the House of Delegates.”
Clover Hill District representative on the Chesterfield Board of Supervisors Chris Winslow added, “Garrison is an extraordinary talent. His diligence, tenacity and affable personality are well known, and I am pleased to offer him my highest endorsement.”
Henrico County’s Pastor Joe Ellison Jr. of the All Faith Leader Clergy remarked, “I have always found Garrison to be someone who got along with everyone, regardless of political party or faction. He is a man of integrity and treats everyone with the utmost respect. I fully endorse Garrison’s candidacy and wish him well.”