A view of the political landscape from Rep. Gerry Connolly

A view of the political landscape from Rep. Gerry Connolly

Rep. Gerry Connolly (D-VA), a seasoned member of U.S. the House of Representatives, was invited to sit at the head table at the WANADA Annual Meeting as a supporter of regional dealers.

–We will continue to be receptive to the dealersê agenda,” Connolly told the crowd. –Youêve got a lot of friends in the U.S. Congress.” He noted that 300,000 new cars and trucks would be sold in the Washington metropolitan area this year, with national sales on track to set a record of 17.5 million and that –the automotive sector is vast and important.”

On the political front, Connolly said Hillary Clinton would likely win the presidency, with –paper-thin majorities” in both houses of Congress. The Senate would likely come under Democratic control (former Sen. Brown disagreed). As for the House, Connolly said the Republicans should retain control, but he suggested that dealers send a –sympathy card” to Paul Ryan, who will have the Freedom Caucus –breathing down his neck.” Connolly added, –Itês shaping up to be a very unstable situation.”