By WMAL.com
Following Dany Snyder acquisition of a 200-acre plot in Virginia, speculations of the Commanders move to the Commonwealth have hit a fever pitch. However, yesterday, two key Virginia lawmakers in Richmond voiced their concerns over a multi-million tax incentive package to lure the team to Virginia. The General Assembly is expected to return to Richmond next week to vote on a budget proposal to fund the state, as well as consider the tax incentives package.
Democrat Senator Chap Peterson (Fairfax), who has been staunch advocate for the team in the past, is changing his tune, announcing that he does not intend to support the incentives package on the grounds that he has lost “confidence in the Washington Commanders as a viable NFL franchise.” His concerns are not without warrant, as the Commanders and owner Dan Snyder have been at the heart of a multitude of scandals over the past decade. Despite changing their name and attempted culture changes within the organization, scandals have continued to plague the franchise that routinely fails to win games and fill their stadium.
Republican colleague Stephen D. Newman (Bedford) joined Peterson in voicing concerns over the viability of the organization, saying that the controversies surrounding the team and owner could threaten to kill the incentives package. “Most people would like to have the team here. The question that still remains is whether or not there is any political will to move forward this year given some of the difficulties surrounding the owner,” Newman said in an interview with The Washington Post. “I’ve heard from a number of fellow senators who are concerned.”
In a statement issued by the Commander President Jason Wright, he appeared optimistic about working alongside lawmakers to negotiate a deal to bring the team to the Commonwealth. “We are incredibly eager to continue our work with legislative leaders in Virginia and other jurisdictions. The bill being crafted in the Virginia General Assembly would pave the way for us to engage in meaningful discussions with state and local leaders in the Commonwealth on their economic development goals and how our new venue can dramatically support those objectives.”
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