Unlike the Republican Party in Virginia the Democrats will hold a primary in 2013, not a convention to decide their statewide candidates.

This decision was made at a Democratic Party of Virginia quarterly meeting.  Party Chairman Brain Moran said the decision “reflects the commitment to maximize engagement, inclusion and transparency…” 

The only Democrat to make any indication he might run for Governor is Terry McAuliffe, the former Democratic National committee chairman.  He ran for the nomination in 2009 and was unsuccessful.  Three names have come out for attorney general.  Current state senator Mark herring, former federal prosecutor Justin Fairfax and Northern Virginia attorney Mike Signer.  Signer was unsuccessful in 2009 when he ran for the party’s nomination for lieutenant governor.  One name is the nomination for lt. governor and that is former secretary of technology under Governor Kaine, Aneesh Chopra.  He is currently the White House Chief Technology Officer.

More names are certain to come out, as folks decide to run or not.  Stay tuned…