Cuccinelli opens a window to his private side with new ad

Ken Cuccinelli has gone public in a new television spot with a side of himself that I thought would forever remain private.

In 2006, just a couple of months after the conclusion of the General Assembly session Ken Cuccinelli's close friend MPO Michael Garbarino was gunned down in a one man assault on the Sully District police station in Western Fairfax County.

For nine days, MPO Garbarino remained in intensive care until he succumbed to his wounds.  During that time, Ken Cuccinelli visited constantly, and upon passing served at the funeral of his friend.  This was time he spent away from politics and his busy law practice.  This was time he spent away from his own family.  I can tell you he was visibly shaken up and subdued during this time.  You can see it in the video.

MPO Garbarino left behind a wife and two daughters as shown in Ken Cuccinelli's new ad.  When I met Suzanne Garbarino a year later I was astounded how she was such a rock for her children.  In order to honor Mrs. Garbarino's wishes Ken Cuccinelli's involvement was to remain private.  He honored those wishes.

This is why this video is important to me.  It has been seven years since MPO Garbarino was gunned down in cold blood.  Ken Cuccinelli's reaction in this matter is the reaction of a private and sincere individual.  That Mrs. Garbarino has allowed these private events to become public is important because it shows the genuine human being Ken Cuccinelli was and continues to be.  I am happy that Mrs. Garbarino has allowed this video to be taken.

He may be an extreme caricature in the media, but this is a moment to reinforce that Ken Cuccinelli, for all his perceived faults, is a genuine, honest, and good man.  For these reasons alone, he deserves your consideration.

As noted in 2011 there is always more than meets the eye.