With the U.S. Senate debate between Republican James S. Gilmore and Democrat Mark R. Warner starting in a few minutes, both men are squeezing in a last round of debate preparation.

Warner and Gilmore, both former governors, have already spent much of the last week huddled with staff engaged in mock debates. Richmond lobbyist David Hallock stood in for Gilmore during Warner's sessions.

Del. M. Kirkland Cox (R-Colonial Heights), the House majority whip, helped out Gilmore by playing the part of Warner.

"It's a lot of fun," said Cox, who often clashed with Warner when he was governor from 2002 to 2006. "I was there the whole four years, so I got to relive it."

Cox said he tried to replicate Warner's mannerisms, style, and speaking habits - even when he was not with Gilmore - over the past several days. Cox predicted Warner is going to be in for a tough time.

"Jim Gilmore is bright," Cox said. "He is quick. He got me mad several times."

By Tim Craig  |  July 19, 2008; 10:27 AM ET
Categories:  Tim Craig Share This:  E-Mail | Technorati | Del.icio.us | Digg | Stumble Previous: Joseph V. Gartlan Jr, a Former State Senator, Has Died
Next: The Early Word From The Homestead Debate

The comments to this entry are closed.