Posted on 09/16/2004 4:37:22 PM PDT by Pardon Me
A group of South Dakota veterans wants the state republican party chairman to resign.
The military members support Senate democratic candidate Tom Daschle. They're upset over a fundraising letter written by state GOP chairman Randy Frederick that they say accuses Daschle of treason.
Political fundraising letters often use language meant to fire up supporters, in the hope that they'll then open up their checkbooks to contribute to campaigns. But a group of veterans say a letter written in support of senate candidate John Thune goes too far.
"Tired of Tom?," the letter asks out of state donors. Then send a Daschle-defeating contribution to the South Dakota Republican Party. The writer, GOP party chairman Randy Frederick, goes on to say, "Daschle's three years as Complainer-in-chief have brought shame to the honor of his office, concern to our men and women in uniform and comfort to America's enemies."
That line made some veterans who support Daschle line up to protest.
Veteran Jack Gill says, "This is a disgraceful smear. It's the worst kind of dirty politics."
Veteran Roger Andal says, "It's hard to even address that kind of a charge. I don't know if Randy Frederick understands what he said in the letter."
Veteran Steve Engbretson says, "I'm outraged, and as a veteran and current military member, he's not speaking for me."
The veterans say by accusing Daschle of comforting American's enemies, Frederick implies the senator committed treason. The constitution defines treason as levying war against the U.S. or adhering to their Enemies, giving them Aid and Comfort.
In a statement, Frederick says he stands by his quote. He says he doesn't question Daschle patriotism but calls his poor judgement appalling.
Frederick says, "On the eve of war with Iraq, we needed everyone supporting our Commander-in-Chief. We needed national unity. We needed politicians acting as statesman and not someone leading partisan bickering. But Daschle once again played politics."
Frederick is referring to comments Daschle made before the war started that criticize President Bush for not finding a diplomatic alternative to combat. But the veterans say there's no excuse for the language, and they want candidate John Thune to call for his state's party chairman to step down.
Engbretson says, "I think he should be embarrassed that this letter ever got written."
The veterans say they received the letter from the Daschle campaign, after it was handed over by someone who was on the mailing list. The Thune campaign calls it a political charge to do Daschle's bidding and says Thune will not call for Frederick's resignation.
BULLSH*T!
I will loan these guys my muffler (gift of the tax cut) to mute their crying!
You unfairly impugn my reputation, sir. Let me categorically state that I have never, ever accused Kerry of NOT being a traitor!
These whiners need a big dose of "get over it"
Is that a FRiendly FReep? LOL
I understand what was said in this letter. As a result, I will send another $50.00 to Thune, and I am a KY resident. Nuts to Daschel.
I think that the 'Rats are becoming alarmed about Daschle's reelection chances. Two recent polls (Public Opinion Strategies, Rasmussen Reports) show Thune edging slightly ahead.
Are these "veterans" who fled to Canada?
A FRiendly FReep--sure. I do appreciate you allowing me to get my position on the record.
There are plenty of reasons why the GOP leadership in SD needs shaking up. This isn't one of them.
I should have known it was only a matter of time! LOL... Thanks you two!
What is disgraceful, Mr. Gill, is the way Tom Daschle has tried to stymie the President at EVERY TURN!! He has given aid and comfort to our enemies by being so recalcitrant in his dealings with the President. You don't think Islamic jihadists watch CNN?
I don't see the problem. Kerry committed Treason, Dashitler is Treasonous. How is that for claification?
The louder and swifter and angrier the response, the closer to the truth you have gotten.
I have a better idea. Why not just let the good folks of SD send this bastard out of town on the next train as he deserves.
A rail would be better. And to show they are considerate and mindful of the cold winters there, they should add some tar and feathers. That way he'd have his own "down" winterware.
Commander Roger Andal of South Dakota, DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS, Division IV with 109.03% or 366 new fully paid life members.
Stephanie Herseth is South Dakota's at-large Member of Congress. Stephanie received her law degree from the Georgetown University Law Center, was a senior editor of the law review, and served on the faculty in 1997.
Stephanie is a member of the South Dakota Bar. Herseth for Congress, Guest speaker Roger Andal, state commander of Disabled American Veterans and a wounded Vietnam vet, also stirred up painful memories from that era.
Daschle also has the support of both the lollipop guild and the oompa loompas.
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