There's Something About Mary('s Friends)

Washington Times ^ | 11/25/2002 | Washington Times

[Bigun]

There's Something About Mary('s Friends)

"These are certainly difficult political times for Louisiana freshman Democratic junior Sen. Mary Landrieu, as she seeks to fend off a serious challenge from her Republican opponent, State Elections Commissioner Suzanne Terrell, in the Dec. 7 runoff. . . . She's hoping that lavish support from interest groups - like trial lawyers in particular - will help put her over the top.

"...On the campaign trail, Mrs. Terrell has also been sharply critical of Mrs. Landrieu's close relationship with trial lawyers. During the current election cycle, Mrs. Landrieu has received more than $520,000 in contributions from lawyers and law firms, according to the web site opensecrets.org.

"Why is Mrs. Landrieu so popular with lawyers? Part of it has to do with her voting record. For example, while the House voted overwhelmingly for medical liability reform in September, Mrs. Landrieu voted with Mr. Daschle and Senate Democrats to kill similar legislation in the Senate."Mrs. Terrell has also been circulating a Wall Street Journal report that, in September, Mrs. Landrieu had agreed to participate in a television advertisement campaign by a group called Citizens for Asbestos Reform. But, just before the ads were about to air, the Louisiana Trial Lawyers Association's newsletter suggested that they were a plot by business to deprive people of the right to sue. Mrs. Landrieu subsequently pulled out.

"From the trial lawyers' perspective, Mrs. Landrieu's re-election would seem to be a very worthwhile investment indeed."

Washington Times editorial, 11/25/02

[Bigun]

Searched for this and didn't find it posted here.

Thought it important for folks to see it.

[Bigun]

P I N G ! ! !

[CanisRex]

This is a huge litmus test for conservatives. I'd be extremely heartend to see Terrell win. If Landrieu wins though, it will be, unfortunately a harbinger of the power of trial lawyers to mobilize and protect their intrests. If this happens, look for John Edwards (Socialist-NC) to do much better than anyone expects.