It was a long day yesterday in Richmond, and I'm still trying to process everything. For an excellent account of the JJ Dinner, see NGB's account here. Here are a few quick notes, more later...
*Prior to the JJ speeches, I attended a press availability with Governors Wilder, Warner and Kaine. Wilder said he was very pleased to see the huge turnout in Richmond for the Democrats, adding that there's been "nothing like this campaign." Wilder said that both candidates, Barack Obama (who he's endorsed) and Hillary Clinton recognize the importance of Virginia. He predicted that, prior to the Democratic race going all the way to the convention, one candidate will "emerge ahead," then "serious discussions" would ensue. Wilder said that it would be a big mistake for the "greybeards" to make the decision - no "backroom deals" or "smoke-filled rooms" are acceptable. Wilder said that former President Clinton said and did things in this campaign that made people think what his role would be both in the campaign and also in the White House.
*Also at the press avail, Gov. Warner pointed out that 7 years ago, Dem's in Virginia didn't have a statewide elected office, btu now have shown "we know how to win, how to govern." Warner echoed Doug Wilder's comments about the nomination, saying he hoped to have it decided sooner than the convention so the party can come back together. Warner noted that more Democrats than Republicans have been turning out this primary season, demonstrating tremendous enthusiasm among people who "want their country back." Warner demurred on making a public endorsement, saying that he's focused on his race for U.S. Senate, that he will serve with one of the candidates in the Senate and work with the other in the White House.
*Last but not least at the press avail, Gov. Kaine noted the energy, excitement, and sense of enthusiasm for Virginia Democrats this year. Kaine said that after 44 years of not voting Democratic for president, Virginia has "a superb chance to change that in 2008." Kaine predicted that Tuesday's primary will show Virginia' Democratic Party "on the move." On the nomination fight, Kaine believes that "momentum" is the key, that once one candidate gets it, the superdelegates will move en masse. Kaine said that Clinton can win Virginia in the general election, but has a much "steeper heill to climb" than Barack Obama to do so. According to Kaine, Obama is "by far the more electable candidate in November," in part because he attracts independent voters with his "optimism and positive nature" and "doesn't demonize the opposition." Kaine predicted that Democrats will "unify behind our candidates." On the possibility of being selected as running mate, Kaine said he's got "different ideas" for Obama.
P.S. Photos coming later, courtesy of Eric.