Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe reinvents image as state CEO

RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe is leaving office after a largely successful four-year term that saw his image reinvented from fundraiser to accomplished administrator.

Known as a top Democratic money man and close friend of Bill and Hillary Clinton, McAuliffe has notched a series of successes as governor of the nation’s 12th largest state. They range from major transportation deals to an overhaul of the state’s juvenile justice programs.

McAuliffe has been mentioned as a potential 2020 presidential contender. He has stepped into the national spotlight as a liberal voice on some social issues, including gun control.

But McAuliffe couldn’t get his top legislative priority — Medicaid expansion — passed. And it’s too early to judge his effectiveness at creating jobs and diversifying the state’s economy.

He leaves office Saturday.