How the Bob-O-Meter works

We gave the Bob-O-Meter six levels. The first three provide a broad picture of whether Bob McDonnell is making progress; the final three indicate whether he kept the promise:

Not Yet Rated — Every promise begins at this level and retains this rating until we see evidence of progress — or evidence that the promise has stalled.

In the Works — This is our broad category to indicate the promise has been proposed or is being considered.

Stalled — There is no movement on the promise, perhaps because of limitations on money, opposition from lawmakers or a shift in priorities.

Promise Broken – The promise has not been fulfilled. This could occur because of inaction by the legislature or other group that was critical for the promise to be fulfilled.

Compromise — Promises will earn this rating when they accomplish substantially less than McDonnell's original statement with the goal of his original promise.

Promise Kept — They’ll earn this rating when the original promise is mostly or completely fulfilled.