Del. Miller endorsed by teachers union, small business lobby

Del. Jackson H. Miller has been endorsed by the state teachers union and the Virginia chapter of the nation’s main small-business lobby.

The latter is not necessarily a surprise for a Republican, but the former might have seemed more of a stretch when this year’s campaign began.

Just look at the groups’ endorsements in the November governor’s race. The Virginia Education Association is backing the Democratic nominee, state Sen. R. Creigh Deeds, while the National Federation of Independent Business chose the GOP standard-bearer, Robert F. McDonnell.

Miller, however, hopes both seals of approval will help bring him a second full term in the House of Delegates representing Manassas, Manassas Park and part of western Prince William County.

“I feel like I’m just getting started in Richmond,” he said.

The 42-year-old faces Democrat Jeanette Rishell, whom he defeated in a special election in 2006 and again in 2007. The 50th District seat was left vacant in 2006 by the death of longtime Del. Harry J. Parrish.

Miller, a Prince William police officer and former Manassas city councilman, said he was particularly appreciative of the VEA endorsement because it was made at the recommendation of local union members.

“They saw that I had a record that was very strong for education,” he said.

The endorsement noted legislation he submitted to discourage gang activity near schools and to “adequately fund” English-as-a-second-language programs when the state decides how to divvy up money among local school districts.

He also sponsored a bill in this year’s General Assembly session that allowed localities to offer housing assistance grants to school division employees. It was signed into law by Gov. Timothy M. Kaine.

Miller said he looks at education as beneficial not only for students but for economic development. Businesses frequently examine the quality of schools when deciding where they want to locate their offices or plants.

Backing business also helped the incumbent get the nod from the NFIB, which represents nearly 6,000 small business owners in the Old Dominion.

His 2008-2009 voting record was 100 percent in line with the group’s concerns, NFIB state director Julia Ciarlo Hammond wrote in a letter to Miller announcing the organization’s support.

On another business matter, Miller said he supports the development of alternative energy sources.

For example, he sponsored legislation this year that aimed to make it easier for wind energy companies to do business in Virginia.

Overall, Miller said he wanted to run again to make sure that the region is “vibrant” and continues to improve.

“Suzanne and I are both committed to this community,” he said, noting his wife.

The couple has two sons, Jackson Jr. and Nathaniel, who attend Manassas schools.

Their dad is a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University and is active in real estate.

Staff writer Jonathan Hunley can be reached at 703-369-5738.