Va. Gov Urges Action to Prevent Defense Cuts - WBOC-TV 16, Delmarvas News Leader, FOX 21 -

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Gov. Bob McDonnell is urging immediate action to prevent looming cuts in federal defense spending.

McDonnell made the appeal in a letter sent Monday to President Barack Obama and Virginia's congressional delegation.

He calls the cuts a "blunt and unnecessary instrument" that could devastate national security and force Virginia and other states into a recession.

McDonnell says Northern Virginia and Hampton Roads are at the greatest risk if the cuts are implemented.

He says it's critical to avoid what he calls an ill-conceived policy.