In a candid and thought-provoking conversation on the “Listen Up” podcast, Merle Rutledge Jr., a former gubernatorial candidate for Virginia, shares his vision for the state and outlines his unique political perspective that transcends traditional party lines. As an NSU graduate with a background in political science, Rutledge brings a refreshing approach to politics that prioritizes people over partisanship and challenges the status quo of both major political parties.
Rutledge’s motivation for entering politics stems from his observation that too many elected officials become enamored with money and power rather than focusing on the needs of ordinary citizens. “My motivation was seeing past governors that had the opportunity for change and decided not to do anything with it because they were too busy being political compared to speaking for the ordinary Virginian or American,” Rutledge explains. This disillusionment with the political establishment led him to run as an independent voice, willing to challenge both Democrats and Republicans.
One of the most compelling aspects of Rutledge’s platform is his innovative “Family Business Act,” designed to encourage entrepreneurship in communities where young people often see limited opportunities. The program aims to cut red tape for home-based businesses and create pathways for talented individuals to build wealth without being forced into traditional educational routes. Rutledge passionately argues that we should allow academically gifted students who receive substantial scholarship money to have the option of investing in their own businesses rather than being required to spend it exclusively on college education. “We have so many scholars that are out there that can’t use this money, and they go to college and they’re struggling,” he notes, suggesting that entrepreneurship could provide an alternative path to success.
Rutledge also proposes ambitious economic development through expanding Virginia’s ports, which he believes could generate thousands of jobs and reduce costs for Virginians by creating more direct supply chains. By becoming a primary point of entry for goods, Virginia could reduce transportation costs and reliance on distant ports, ultimately benefiting consumers with lower prices. This vision aligns with Rutledge’s broader economic philosophy of finding revenue sources that don’t burden taxpayers.
Perhaps most radically, Rutledge advocates for eliminating state and local taxes entirely, proposing instead to tap Virginia’s natural resources including oil and gas reserves in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Appalachian Basin, and continental shelf. “We have so many different sources of revenue that doesn’t have to come off the taxpayers’ back,” he argues, positioning himself as a champion for working-class Virginians struggling with inflation and stagnant wages.
Throughout the interview, Rutledge repeatedly emphasizes his concern that politicians have become disconnected from ordinary citizens, speaking more to donors and special interests than to voters. “I can’t talk to politicians that no longer speak to me or no longer want me in the room unless I pay $1,000 for a plate,” he observes, highlighting the economic divide that separates elected officials from their constituents. This disconnect, he suggests, is why many citizens have become disillusioned with politics and why voter participation has declined.
As Rutledge continues his political journey through a write-in campaign, he offers a challenge to Virginia voters: look beyond party affiliations and consider which candidates actually address the economic realities facing ordinary families. “No need to worry about distractions or what the media tells you. Your paycheck and your life and your struggles is the reality,” he concludes, reminding listeners that politicians’ success in fundraising means little if it doesn’t translate to improvements in citizens’ daily lives.
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