Lewd texts, charges of professional misconduct and a smattering of negative press in the week running up to Election Day would sink your average political campaign.
Not Joe Morrissey’s.
Polls have shown Morrissey, a former commonwealth’s attorney and state delegate, in a strong position throughout the race. After his October surprise, though, some political observers have questioned his chances of winning the mayoral election outright or even making it to a run-off as undecided voters commit to his better-funded opponents with less personal baggage. And while the negative publicity certainly couldn’t have helped him, it hasn’t necessarily sent all of his core supporters searching for an alternative.
Several voters at two precincts in the battleground 5th District said the bad publicity — recent or otherwise — didn’t lead them to reconsider their decision to vote for Morrissey.
Kathi Pritchett, 50, cast her ballot for him at George Wythe High School despite considering Stoney and Berry, she said.
“I know a lot about [Morrissey] and I kind of trust him even though he’s kind of had some issues,” Pritchett said. “He’s always kept it up front with us. As far as his personal life, he didn’t hit and run. He stuck by her. He stood his ground. He was forthcoming with the information so I didn’t hold it against him.”
Kent Whitehead, 56, is a city employee who also voted in the 5th District. He said he believed Morrissey would “come to bat” for city workers because of promises he made on the campaign trail. As for the negative press, he says he didn’t pay it any mind. “I feel like everybody got a little dirt on them, but they bring his out because of who he is,” Whitehead said. “That’s my personal view about it.”
Over at Swansboro Elementary, another 5th District polling place, several voters shared a similar view.
“I think he’s a good guy. He’s done had some problems, but who ain't had no problems?” said Kevin McNeil, 48, who voted for Morrissey. “Things happen.”
Lashenia Pair, 33, says Morrissey knocked on her door a few weeks back. His personal troubles did not lead her to reconsider her support, she says. “You can’t go by what people say. People make mistakes all the time. He says he’s learned from the mistakes. That’s what matters,” she said.
A few voters said they did pass on Morrissey in favor of another candidate, but not necessarily because of his most recent headline-grabbing situation.
Corey Ellis, 40, said he considered Morrissey, but ultimately chose Stoney after seeing his commercials and assessing his qualifications.
“I like Joe, but I think [Stoney] is more likely better for the position,” he said.