Bell takes House 20 victory

STAUNTON –  Veteran Staunton City Councilman and Republican Richard “Dickie” Bell won convincingly Tuesday in the state House District 20 race, besting Democrat Erik Curren.

Bell captured 71 percent of the vote to Curren’s 29 percent.

“I am a little surprised,’’ Bell said of the margin. “I never have a good feel for that. We sort of put our head down and worked hard and let the results take care of themselves.’’

Bell said he is ready to go to Richmond. He has confidence in the Republican team led by Gov.-elect Robert F. McDonnell.

“I think this team has a plan and I think they have an idea of where we need to go and how to get us there,’’ Bell said.

Curren said he was disappointed but glad he waged the campaign fight.

“There was so much energy, enthusiasm, hopes and dreams in this campaign,’’ Curren said.

Curren said because he wants what is best for District 20, “I have asked everybody here to support Mr. Bell. If he is going to be our delegate, I want him to succeed.”

Bell entered the race late after popular incumbent Del. Chris Saxman stunned supporters earlier this year by withdrawing his re-election bid.

The dismal economy quickly emerged as the main issue in the district, which covers Staunton and Highland County and parts of Augusta and Rockingham counties.

But Bell said experience also was key.

“Everybody is not sure of what is going to happen,’’ Bell, a four-term councilman, said during an election day stop in Stuarts Draft. “They have some confidence that an experienced person will be able to help them a little more and a little faster.”

Bell said he also has heard much about President Barack Obama during his campaigning.

“People are disappointed about what is happening. But I don’t know that they are ready to give up on this president and this administration,’’ he said.

Both candidates said their bids for a House seat taught them much about the political process.

Curren said the months of campaigning turned his life upside down.

“But in another sense, it’s the best thing I’ve ever done … You learn so much about the way our society works. You broaden your horizons. You get out of your circle and open yourself up,’’ he said.

Bell said running for a House seat is a far cry from serving on Staunton City Council.

“The issues are broader,” he said. “Everybody is interested in their locality and also the district and the state. It’s quite a bit different.”