Fairfax County Republican Committee Chairman Matt Ames sent the following message today:

Fellow Fairfax Republicans:

Earlier this year my wife, Ann, asked me not to run for a third term as Chairman. Actually, that’s not right. To be precise, she said that she would prefer that I not run for a third term. Ann has supported my involvement in the FCRC without question or complaint since I became Providence District Chairman, nearly ten years ago. All she’s ever asked is that I let her know what time I’ll be home. The only way I can thank her for her loyalty and love all through the past four years is to make her preference reality.

I also owe much to my law partner, Art Hubacher, who has been patient and understanding as my political activities have gradually taken more and more time away from our law practice. I need to get back to work full time.

So, as many of you already know or may have guessed, I will not be a candidate for reelection in 2018. In January, the Executive Committee will recommend to the membership of the FCRC a proposed call for the 2018 County Convention, laying out key dates and the basic procedure for electing the next Chairman. The Convention will most likely be held in March.

We all know that our country is divided and faces many significant problems. The future seems uncertain, and we wonder whether leadership in Washington is up to the job. These deep concerns about the direction of the country naturally affect perceptions and desires here in Fairfax, and add to the challenges our next Chairman will face.

In such a troubled time, it is more important than ever that whoever leads the FCRC has a sound understanding of our role and capabilities. The next Chairman must also be able to work with everybody in the Party to keep the whole team focused on those things we can control. We are fortunate to have a strong local organization and the support of dedicated volunteers who can put aside their frustrations with the national scene to keep working where they are, to change what they can. With their help, I’m sure our next Chairman will find the job rewarding, and a little less challenging.

Thank you all for your many contributions to our Party and our candidates. I’ll have more to say about the 2017 election and the future of the GOP in Fairfax County and Virginia between now and March.

Most sincerely,
Matt Ames
Chairman, Fairfax County Republican Committee