Stewart Wants to be Lt. Governor

Woodbridge, Va. — One of the most polarizing faces in Prince William County says he wants a shot at state office.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Corey A. Stewart, At-large, announced on a Charlottesville radio station his intent to become Virginia’s next Lieutenant Governor.

The Republican is best known for his anti-illegal immigration stance, and, in 2007, for his national media attention when Prince William officials passed a resolution allowing police to target those suspected to the in the country illegally. The move sparked outrage among citizens and the implementation of the plan proved too costly, and that resolution was later changed to a more watered down version of its original form.

Last year, Stewart hinted he would seek the nomination to become Virginia’s next Senator, but later endorsed Republican and former Virginia Governor George Allen for Senate in his race against former governor Timothy M. Kaine.

“There are some things that I’ve done here in Prince William County that I would like to extend statewide, Virginia Rule of Law is one of them, but I would be privileged, greatly honored to serve in that capacity, and I think I’m ready for it,” Stewart told WINA-AM Radio.

Stewart’s Rule of Law campaign would allow police to check legal status of a person before making an arrest, target roadside gatherings of illegal immigrant workers, and outlaw the transport of illegal aliens in the state.

Stewart said he plans to make an official announcement about his candidacy soon.

This comes after Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli said he plans to seek the nomination to replace Gov. Robert F. McDonnell at the end of his term in 2013. That move would bypass current Lt. Governor Bill Bolling could also run for the position.