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As one might expect, the state budget dominates state news today and will, most likely, from now and throughout the General Assembly’s short session, which commences January 14. We have it covered below, with a few political articles of interest thrown in, as well as an eye-popping commentary by Brian Kirwin from Bearing Drift. And, could there be an upset in the special election for Brian Moran’s recently resigned House seat in heavily liberal Alexandria? A Washington Post reporter says it’s possible.

News:

Kaine would double cigarette tax (Richmond Times-Dispatch)

Kaine expected to push for hike in cigarette tax (The Daily Press)

Kaine proposes cuts, cigarette tax increase (Fredericksburg Free Lance-Star)

Gov. Kaine to propose big cuts, doubling of cigarette tax (Norfolk Virginian-Pilot)

Kaine’s budget plan is divulged (Roanoke Times)

Md., Va. Eye Even Deeper Cutbacks (Washington Post)

Richmonder eyes lieutenant governor race (Richmond Times-Dispatch)

Lawmakers, Business Leaders Sound Alarm (Harrisonburg Daily News-Record)

Legislators foresee tough fiscal future (Winchester Star)

Norfolk delegate to lead caucus (Richmond Times-Dispatch)

Opinion/Analysis:

Bearing Drift on Patrick Muldoon’s LG campaign (Bearing Drift)

Tim Craig Sees Potential Upset In 46th Dist. Race (Virginia Virtucon)