Senate candidate misses event to visit son, who is being sent to Iraq; Allen campaigns on a horse.
BUENA VISTA--If you were in Buena Vista for yesterday's Labor Day parade, you couldn't miss George Allen and Mark Warner.
Allen was the sole person in the parade riding a horse, while Warner must have shaken every single hand along the parade route.
While both men are potential candidates for president in 2008, that wasn't the focus yesterday. Allen must first fend off a challenge for his U.S. Senate seat this fall, and Warner was putatively in Buena Vista as a surrogate for Allen's challenger, Jim Webb.
So the campaign signs were all about Allen and Webb, and both Warner and Gov. Tim Kaine--who shook his own share of hands--took care to praise Webb, who skipped the annual political event to spend time with his son, a Marine who is shipping out for Iraq this week.
Buena Vista is one of several traditional Labor Day stops for politicians in Virginia. Labor Day marks the kick-off of the fall campaign season, when voters tend to be done with summer vacations and more receptive to the campaigns' messages.
In Buena Vista, candidates put up hundreds of campaign signs, shake hands, kiss babies, and deliver their stump speeches at the end of the parade route.
It's a routine that Allen, Warner and Kaine have performed dozens of times in their political careers. The election changes, but the faces don't.
Kaine called his role in Buena Vista that of a pinch-hitter.
"It is so much more pleasant to be here campaigning for someone else," Kaine told reporters. "It's fun to be with Mark. We've done this parade a few times."
Kaine and Warner both praised Webb's military background, saying it would give him a unique perspective as a senator. They said his independence and willingness to work across party lines is needed, an oblique dig at Allen's high frequency of voting with President George Bush.
"When you know about his public service career, this race is a logical step," Kaine said during a speech that mostly centered on Webb. "He's got a record that really speaks for itself."
Both Kaine and Warner deflected questions about the "macaca" incident--Allen recently called a Webb campaign volunteer of Indian descent "macaca" and welcomed him to America, although the man was born in Fairfax. The incident seems to have driven up Webb's numbers, as recent polls show him statistically even with Allen.
Kaine called the incident "a legitimate issue," but said voters would have to make up their own minds about it. Warner said "character is always a critical issue," but declined further comment on the matter.
Allen brushed off questions about the recent tightening of the polls, saying that the key to winning the race is to "motivate and inspire people behind issues." He thinks voters will choose his stance on the issues and his record.
"Virginians, when you come to Election Day, are going to match up the candidates I think people are going to be much more comfortable with George Allen and my record," Allen said.
Allen paraded through Buena Vista on an umbrella-shy horse, waving at pockets of spectators who braved the chilly drizzle for the event.
He was initially behind Warner and Kaine and the enclave of Webb supporters. But Warner, while working himself into a sweat jogging along the route and frenetically shaking hands, appeared to stop to shake every single one. By the end of the route Allen and the other Republicans had passed Warner by, leaving the former governor jogging alongside floats plastered in Republican campaign posters. Dashing by Attorney General Bob McDonnell and Del. Chris Saxman, Warner shouted, "I'm getting in shape, man!"
"I never thought being unemployed was going to be this hard work," Warner joked to reporters after the parade.
Asked whether his political aspirations had been mentioned by parade-goers, Warner said some people had asked him about the 2008 presidential race. But he did not say whether he's officially running or not.
"I'll make my decision sometime after the election," he said.
>I'm sure NOW would love to have you on their board.
I am sure they would hate to have me on their board. Feminazis have pushed for women in the military, and in combat. Who do you think pushed the ERA down our throats??? I don't believe every woman belongs in the military.
BTW, ad hominum attacks just prove you can't come up with a cogent argument.
James Webb Questionnaire May 31, 2006
http://www.connectionnewspapers.com
James H. "Jim" Webb (D)
AGE: 60
HOMETOWN: Falls Church
FAMILY: [Fourth] Wife, Hong; Son, Jimmy, a 23-years-old Lance Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps
CAMPAIGN ADDRESS: P.O. Box 17427, Arlington, Va. 22216
CAMPAIGN PHONE: 540-537-8247
WEBSITE: www.webbforsenate.com
EDUCATION: U.S. Naval Academy, 1968; Georgetown University Law School, 1975
QUALIFICATIONS: Following graduation from the Naval Academy, Webb joined the U.S. Marine Corps, ranking first in his class at Marine Corps Officer's Basic School. During the Vietnam War, he fought with the Fifth Marine Regiment, leading a rifle platoon. For his service during the war, he was awarded the Navy Cross, the Silver Star Medal, two Bronze Star Medals and two Purple Hearts.
Following the Vietnam War, Webb taught tactics and weapons at the Marine Corps Officer Training School. While earning his law degree at Georgetown, Webb worked to clear the name of a Vietnam veteran convicted of war crimes, succeeding in 1978, three years after the soldier's suicide. For his work, Webb was awarded the Horan award for excellence in legal writing.
Webb has written six novels, including "Fields of Fire" (1978), "A Sense of Honor" (1981), "A Country Such as This" (1983), "Something to Die For" (1991), "The Emperor's General" (1999) and "Lost Soldiers" (2001). He taught literature at the Naval Academy. He has also worked as a journalist, notably filming an Emmy Award-winning documentary for PBS about U.S. Marines in Beirut. His non-fiction book "Born Fighting" (2004) chronicles the history and rise of Scots-Irish people in the United States. From 1977 to 1981, Webb worked for Congress, as counsel to the House Committee on Veterans Affairs. During the Reagan administration, he served as the Assistant Secretary of Defense of Reserve Affairs and as Secretary of the Navy.
1. What are your views on the
Iraq war? Should the United States pull out?
The administration is fighting the wrong war in Iraq. I have been an outspoken opponent of the occupation of Iraq since October 2001, well before the war started. I oppose this war based on strategic concerns. The war in Iraq occupies our military in a foreign nation at a time when we need military mobility to fight terrorists. While we entered this war recklessly, we must leave carefully. This can only be achieved when the administration clearly states that the United States has no long-term plan to occupy Iraq. The Middle East nations in the region must then be engaged, along with our global allies, in finding the solution for the future of Iraq.
2. Congress is currently debating several major proposals related to
illegal immigration. What should be done about the nation's estimated 11 million illegal immigrants?
The immigration debate is divided into three separate issues. How can we secure our border? What should we do about the 11 million undocumented workers? And, lastly there is the guest worker question. It is necessary to separate out the 3 issues. The primary concern must be securing the border. Immediate action is needed to stem the flow of illegal border crossings. Approaching the issue using an omnibus bill that attempts to solve all three issues simultaneously creates a political stalemate that delays the border security solution. There is a consensus that our border security must be improved and we should act on that consensus as soon as possible. Once the border is secure we can develop a fair solution to other immigration issues.
3. What is the greatest challenge facing the United States?
If elected, what would you do to address it?
There are many challenges facing Americans today:
an unpopular war, skyrocketing health care costs, a shrinking job market and rising inequality in society. I believe in the strength of American character and the ingenuity of the American people. With the right leaders we can overcome all of these obstacles. America doesn't lack ideas, it lacks leaders willing to stand up and make courageous decisions. I have fought -- and continue to fight -- to protect American values. I fought in Vietnam with the hope that the Vietnamese might share the same freedoms we enjoy. I fought as a congressional committee counselor to guarantee our veterans the treatment they deserve. I fought as Secretary of the Navy to maintain the excellence of our military. I fought, pro bono, on behalf of countless veterans and refugees, in order that they might have their voices heard in the vast government bureaucracy. And I will fight in the Senate to give all Americans the chance to achieve their dreams.
4. What specific projects in Northern Virginia would you seek to federally fund?
Virginia needs more money to reduce traffic congestion.
Federal funding is crucial to ensure that Virginia can effectively combat its
transportation problem. The commonwealth's leaders in Richmond will decide the particular projects that should receive the most resources. As Virginia's junior Senator I will work with Gov. Tim Kaine (D) and the legislature to implement their transportation priorities by fighting for greater federal funding.
5. If you win the June 13 primary election, you will face U.S. Sen. George Allen (R) in November. Why do you believe you have a chance to unseat the incumbent?
I was a Marine. My brother was a Marine. My son is a Marine. And in the Marines we have a creed-- a theory of leadership specific to the Corps but representing an idea that applies to all Americans. Take care of your people.
Any Marine will tell you that this creed cuts across political boundaries, racial boundaries, and class boundaries. It holds us together and gets us through. It sustains our fighting men and women in Iraq. But we have been letting them down. Our politics has been letting them down; our leaders have been letting them down. Unfortunately, Iraq is just one symptom of a much more seriously troubled administration. And George Allen is in the middle of this, try as he might to distance himself from it. Voting with this president 96 percent of the time holds you accountable. I believe the voters of the commonwealth are ready for a change.
Virginians are ready for real leaders, willing to make tough choices and
opposed to the failed policies of George Bush.
6. If named the Democratic Party's nominee, you will appear on the Nov. 7 ballot alongside a proposed constitutional amendment to ban
same-sex marriage. Will you vote for it?
Why or why not?
I oppose the proposed amendment to the Virginia Constitution, [banning same-sex marriage], that will be on the ballot in November. I believe that, absent a compelling reason, government interference should stop at our doorstep.
7. In light of recent scandals in Congress, do you believe ethics reforms are needed? What would you propose?
There are over 30,000 lobbyists in Washington and only 535 legislators. The influence of lobbyists undoubtedly affects the laws passed by Congress. The
influence of money in the political system should be eliminated, or at least minimized. As a Senator I will work to reform the political process to reduce the role of money and lobbyists. Reforms are a part of the answer, but cannot be considered a panacea. The only true solution is to elect candidates who are not beholden to moneyed interests. I have never accepted money to lobby. The people of Virginia have drafted me to run for the U.S. Senate. In the Senate I will make their interests, and the interests of all Americans, my priority.
8. What should be done about the 45 million Americans who are living without health insurance?
First by growing up in a military family and then as a consequence of having been wounded in Vietnam I have had the privilege of using the military health care system my whole life. The care and service the military provides is top notch. All Americans deserve access to some form of quality health care.
Health care legislation should focus on providing people access to health care, not simply on corporate profits.
Reforming the Medicare prescription drug benefit would be a priority. The plan is a step in the right direction, but the benefit is confusing to consumers. By preventing Medicare from negotiating a discount the cost of the program is excessively high.
9. What changes, if any, should be made to the federal No Child Left Behind, the Bush Administration's education law that mandates high-stakes standardized testing in all public schools?
Education is the only way to level the playing field and provide all Americans with the opportunity to succeed. The testing and accountability included in No Child Left Behind are a good first step. Teachers and school districts must have access to the resources that are needed to implement the mandates placed on states by the No Child Left Behind law. It is vital that Congress fully fund the mandates of No Child Left Behind.
10. What is your favorite place to visit in Northern Virginia?
My favorite place to visit in Northern Virginia is Arlington National Cemetery. I can reflect upon the sacrifices and leadership shown by so many great Americans who died in service to America. The serene environment is an ideal place to collect my thoughts and take a break from my hectic daily schedule.
==
Webb on accidental, offcolor remarks (referring to Tailhook)==
"Captain Mark Rogers who was a brilliant officer, absolutely a brilliant officer, had his name plucked off of the promotion. He was the first individual promoted to admiral in the list that came out. And because he had made some off-color comments running the White House military staff, that were reported through the White House, had his name yanked by the Navy leadership, rather than seeing him and fighting for him. There are a number of cases that fall in this category."
PBS Frontline
==On relations with
China==
" Nations such as China can only view the prospect of an American military consumed for the next generation by the turmoil of the Middle East as a glorious windfall. Indeed, if one gives the Chinese credit for having a long-term strategy -- and those who love to quote Sun Tzu might consider his nationality -- it lends credence to their insistent cultivation of the Muslim world. One should not take lightly the fact that China previously supported Libya, that Pakistan developed its nuclear capability with China's unrelenting assistance and that the Chinese sponsored a coup attempt in Indonesia in 1965. An 'American war' with the Muslims, occupying the very seat of their civilization, would allow the Chinese to isolate the United States diplomatically as they furthered their own ambitions in South and Southeast Asia."
Washington Post, Heading for Trouble, James Webb, September 4, 2002
==On the
War on Terror==
[According to] David Boaz, executive vice president of the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, "He's very critical of the war...."
http://www.csmonitor.com/2006/0613/p03s03-uspo.html
Book review by James Webb " While the author correctly outlines both the power of the Christian Right and its ability to provide moral cover for the continuous use of force, he misperceives the history and motivations of the Christian Right by characterizing them in religious rather than ethnic terms, and thus mislabels the movement as having been anti-military in the past. Actually this movement - as opposed to other Protestant sects who have indeed been anti-military - is centered in the Scots-Irish culture, which is the most pro-military ethnic group in the country. Billy Graham, Pat Robertson, and Jerry Falwell, are all reportedly descended from the Scots-Irish migration. This group also is the most heavily pro-Israel section of America other than in the Jewish community itself, based on its own view of religious doctrine."
(Translation: Americans who support the war are white racists.)
My summary: Webb opposes the war on Iraq, because he thinks we should be focussing on war with China.
==Supports
National Health care==
" Jim believes that all Americans deserve access to some form of quality health care. Health care legislation should focus on providing people access to health care, not simply on corporate profits. "
Source: Campaign website, www.webbforsenate.com, "Issues" May 2, 2006
==Supports
tax hikes for corporations and wealthy==
"Our tax policies make no sense. Our country is breaking into three pieces, with the people at the top living in a luxury never before dreamed of, even as our middle class sees its jobs being outsourced overseas, their health care slipping away and our public education systems declining, and as the people at the bottom are becoming a permanent underclass."
Source: Campaign announcement speech Apr 28, 2006
Rewritten on the campaign website: "This country is splitting into three pieces. As a result of the internationalization of the economy, the people at the top have never had it so good. The middle class is continuing to get squeezed by stagnant wages and rising cost of living. And we are in danger of creating a permanent underclass. We must reexamine our tax and trade policies and reinstitute notions of fairness."
Source: Campaign website, www.webbforsenate.com, "Issues" May 2, 2006
==Supports
gay marriage,
polygamy and
Abortion==
Webb says, "I drifted away from the Democratic Party on national security issues [when he became a Republican, briefly] but I never left on social issues and issues of economic fairness." He opposes a constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage, believes trade agreements should require other nations to improve labor standards and wages, and backs abortion rights as defined by the Supreme Court's ruling in Roe v. Wade. "I believe the power of the government ends at my front door unless there is a compelling reason to come inside," he says.
Source: Jeanne Cummings, Wall Street Journal, p. A6 Jun 8, 2006
==On
Unions==
We hear a lot of talk about helping the average American, words about patriotic people who work hard and do the best they can for their families, hoping for an even break. But anyone who watches the news knows that this administration- always supported by my opponent-has put the interests of big business and corporate America before your interests. It's time for Democrats to stand up again for working people, for working Virginians who expect their leaders to listen. Source: Campaign announcement speech Apr 28, 2006
==On
free trade (Corporate America take note)==
"The Republican Senate talks endlessly about a dream-world of "free trade" while year after year their policies continue costing American jobs. In rural America, including much of Virginia, they've wholesaled entire industries such as furniture and textiles to other countries, and outsourced stacks of other jobs as well. Some say the train has left the station on this issue. I say to you, the corporations who want to betray the American worker need to pay a higher price for a ticket on that train."
Source: Campaign announcement speech Apr 28, 2006
"[While in Charlottesville on August 02, 2006, Jim Webb] discussed income disparity at length along with the need to provide incentives to corporations to keep jobs at home. Largely due to taxation, there is no incentive for companies to bring wealth earned overseas back home. This is, of course, a matter of particular interest locally in the 5th district. I've had the good fortune of being able to discuss some of these issues with econ grad students informally over the course of time. That is probably material for a separate topic, but with regard to individual incentives, when the majority of Americans are experiencing a decrease in opportunity and personal stability, they are clearly averse to policies that encourage exportation of jobs and wealth."
http://www.raisingkaine.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=3750
==On
Campaign Finance Reform==
"The culture of corruption in Washington needs real reform, not the kind of half-hearted things being done by the current leaders in the Senate. The influence-peddling by lobbyists and others must be confronted. You won't see me shying away from this. I'm going to take the lead." (So much for "free speech")
Campaign announcement speech Apr 28, 2006
==
Collects ex-wives==
Three ex-wives and currently married to the fourth. (Ex-wife number two is a lobbyist.)