CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. (AP) - A leading Senate opponent of University of Virginia Rector Helen Dragas says lawmakers seeking to oust her face a difficult fight.
Several lawmakers have said they would oppose Dragas' reappointment following the Board of Visitors' failed attempt to fire President Teresa Sullivan last summer.
The General Assembly will consider the reappointment when it convenes this month. Legislators have until Feb. 8 to confirm her June reappointment by Gov. Bob McDonnell.
Sen. Creigh Deeds said that blocking the reappointment is going to be an uphill battle and that the fight is distracting lawmakers from focusing on the university itself. Deeds serves on the Senate Privileges and Elections Committee and opposes Dragas' confirmation.
Dragas has held the seat since former Gov. Timothy M. Kaine appointed her in 2008.
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