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McAuliffe tackles Medicaid, same-sex marriage ban

Posted at 12:42 PM, Jan 30, 2014
and last updated 2014-01-30 12:42:52-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) - Newly-elected Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe made his first appearance on WRVA's "Ask the Governor" call-in show Thursday morning.

During the show, Governor McAuliffe addressed and variety of topics including same-sex marriage and potential difficulties he may face fulfilling his campaign promise to expand Medicaid eligibility to more Virginians.

"Twenty-six states are now using our taxpayer dollars to provide healthcare for their citizens, keeping their healthcare costs lower. So this is our money," the governor said. "Whatever you like on the Healthcare bill, that's over. We've got to pay it in. Let's bring this money back.  It's our money."

When asked about Attorney General Mark Herring's recent announcement that he planned to change Virginia's position on the state's same-sex marriage ban, the governor said Virginia must be opening and welcoming to everyone.

"I stressed this every day on the campaign. If you can come to Virginia and start a business and help us grow our economy and create jobs, we want you here," he said.