Jerry Kilgore, Republican candidate for governor, discussed many issues and started off saying he views higher education as a public good.
“I know a little bit about what a college education can do,” he said mentioning it was an opportunity he was lucky to have, one that has opened many doors.
Kilgore, like his opponents, agreed that one thing that will open doors for Virginia colleges is research money.
“I’ll be the governor that will be willing to sit around the board room table to convince that business to conduct their research right on one of our colleges and universities campuses,” he said.
The dramatic increase expected in the number of students who pursue a higher education will present challenges for Virginia. Kilgore understands the changing climate and wants to ensure students have the opportunity he did.
Part of his plan to deal with the coming challenge is to treat colleges and universities like businesses.
Kilgore says he wants to appoint people to boards of visitors who know how to run a business.
“I want people who know what they’re doing on day one and step up to the plate,” he said.
Kilgore was upfront about his commitment to ensure affordable education for Virginia residents, and he minced no words when he addressed illegal immigrants. Kilgore said illegal immigrants should not receive instate tuition.
“I believe that government should never subsidize the illegal behavior of those illegally in this county, because when government does this there are consequences,” Kilgore said.
In closing Kilgore again referenced the opportunities afforded to him after attending college. When asked what he would tell college voters Kilgore pointed out something that sets him apart from the other candidates.
“I’m the one candidate educated at a Virginia public college,” he said.