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Democratic candidates react to E.W. Jackson’s GOP Nomination

Posted at 11:39 PM, May 23, 2013
and last updated 2013-05-23 23:48:57-04

RICHMOND, VA (WTVR) -- It was a political shocker few insiders saw coming, the selection of EW Jackson as the Lt. Governor Nominee in Virginia.

"Virginia is looking for someone who will inspire people and unify people," Jackson said during an interview with CBS 6 political reporter Joe St. George last week.

"What really makes me different is that I have not spent my lifetime in politics," Jackson said.

But some critics of Jackson's argue that what makes him "different" is his past statements on homosexuality and planned parenthood. Jackson has not apologized for calling homosexuality a sin, nor has he expressed regret over comparing planned parenthood to the KKK.

"Planned Parenthood has been far more lethal to black lives than the KKK ever was,"Jackson said in a 2012 video.

The two men vying for the Democratic Nomination for Lt. Governor - State Senator Ralph Northam and former Obama Advisor Aneesh Chopra - both told CBS 6 political reporter Joe St. George their feelings on Jackson's nomination.

"It is pretty clear to me that the Tea Party has corrupted the Republican Party of Virginia," Chopra said.

"I have heard and watched some of what he said and I think it is very offensive," Northam said.

The Democrats will hold their primary to decide their slate of candidates on June 11.