WASHINGTON, Aug. 16 (UPI) -- United Press International's daily roundup of notable news and events shaping politics and public policy in Washington and the world.
Snub! -- The United Mine Workers of America, historically an important part of the winning coalition for Virginia Democrats statewide, have snubbed the party's candidates for lieutenant governor and attorney general by declining to endorse them. The UMW stamp of approval is usually a "gimmee" for the Democrats, but this time, while the union did endorse gubernatorial candidate Mark Warner, it did not come out for Richmond Mayor Timothy M. Kaine, who is running for lieutenant governor, or Del. A. Donald McEachin of Henrico County, the candidate for attorney general. Observers say Kaine's support for gay rights and McEachin's strong anti-gun stand were the critical factors in the decision.