Southwest Virginia's delegation to the Virginia General Assembly is known for sticking together, regardless of party. Democrats and Republicans from Southwest Virginia have a reputation for putting region above party, presenting a united front to ensure that money and resources make it to their end of the state. It is often remarked that the region is closer to several other states' capitals than it is to the Virginia state capital of Richmond—and thus, they need to work together if they hope to be heard. As a largely rural and relatively poor area of the state, Southwest Virginia is often at odds politically with wealthier, more urban parts of Virginia, which naturally have different priorities. Even so, several leaders from the region have gone on to have significant statewide or national influence.