ENDORSEMENT: Scott for delegate in Va. House District 30

» In the race for state delegate, Republican incumbent Ed Scott stands out as the natural choice.

Republican Ed Scott has served six years in the Virginia House of Delegates, representing Orange, Madison and Culpeper counties. He’s a solid, down-to-earth guy who’s more hardworking businessman than self-promoting politician.

He appears at community events almost to a fault and never misses an opportunity to mingle with constituents, but not in a glad-handing way. People respect Scott’s subdued style, and his conservative ideals by and large match the leanings of his district.

In his campaign for a fourth term, Scott faces independent Matt Carson, an enthusiastic newcomer to the political scene. Both men are well accustomed to the district, having grown up and raised families in the area.

Scott, 44, is a graduate of Culpeper County High School who formerly managed the Culpeper Farmers Cooperative and now directs a septic system business while living in Madison. Carson, 33, is a graduate of Fauquier County High School who lives in Rixeyville and owns two Internet startup companies.

We like Carson’s confidence, and his entrepreneurial skills seem to serve him well. He’s a long shot, but in these days of disenchantment with both parties, Carson could post a better showing than the typical Libertarian-minded independent who pops up on any given ballot.

And let there be no doubt, Carson is about as Libertarian as they come — conservative on fiscal issues, liberal on social issues and doggedly “get out of my business, federal government” on personal liberty issues. Fair enough, but the problem with his candidacy is that his top priority is having Virginia repeal the Patriot Act.

Say what? Regardless of how people feel about George W. Bush’s federal initiative to combat terrorism, voters aren’t going to rally behind that one. That’s a matter best left for the U.S. Congress to resolve.

Back in the real world, Scott continues to plug away in the House, each year becoming a more important member of the GOP. His committee work has grown to include such areas as agriculture, general laws, science, technology, natural resources and the all-important matter of transportation.

Scott remains the right man for the job.

On a different note, it’s a real shame the Democratic Party, once again, can’t even put up a candidate in this race. Scott ran unopposed in 2007 and 2005 and only faced an independent in 2003. In fact, the last time a Democrat even ran in our district was 1999. Yikes!