It is Raising Kaine's policy to interview Democratic candidates for elective office in Virginia. Having previously interviewed Andy Hurst, we now turn the floor over to the other Democratic candidate for the Democratic nomination in the 11th Congressional District, Ken Longmyer. Here at Raising Kaine, we say, "may the best man - and the one most likely to defeat Tom Davis this November - win." Thanks to Ken Longmyer for his time in conducting this interview.
Why, in your own words, have you decided to run for the US House of Representatives again this year, especially after you lost by 22 points (60%-38%) to Rep. Tom Davis in 2004?
In my own words (and according to the stats): I did better in 2004 than any challenger Tom Davis ever faced, even though I was outspent 26-1. I also got a better percentage and more votes than any Democratic Challenger in Virginia.
Secondly, part of the problem we have had running successfully against Tom Davis is that every time, we have put up a different candidate. I know that I learned a lot from my first race. I bring the name recognition and experience to this race.
I got 118,000 votes in 2004. To win this year, in a non-Presidential cycle, I need only 100,000 votes. My challenge is to get my voters to come back and vote again. Anybody else would have to start from scratch.
What are your main criticisms of Tom Davis, and why should 11th district voters replace him with you?
When he got to Congress, his ambition overwhelmed his commitment to service. He has been pursuing his ambitions ever since, not representing the 11th district. He wasn?t representing the district when he voted to restrict our civil rights, to wage war in Iraq with no oversight, to subpoena Terri Schiavo, to cut taxes on the super-rich, or to cut medicaid and medicare.
Before you get to Tom Davis, why should Democrats select you over your primary opponent, Andy Hurst?
I have the history of public service, the experience and leadership record to represent this district.
In your opinion, was the Iraq war fundamentally flawed or simply mismanaged? At this point, would you favor an immediate withdrawal, an "exit strategy," or what? Do you believe Iraq is already in a civil war?
It was fundamentally flawed AND mismanaged. We should set target dates to protect our troop son the way out.
Do you support Virginia's "right to work? laws" Or, do you agree with Leslie Byrne that "right to work" really should be called "right to be poor?"
I do not support right to work laws.
What is your position on the "marriage amendment" that likely will appear on this November's Virginia ballot? In general, what is your position on gay rights?
I oppose it and I urge others to do the same.
Do you believe in repealing the estate tax, or do you consider this a core Progressive principle?
I do not believe in repealing the estate tax.
A few months ago, the Chesapeake Bay Foundation?s annual State of the Bay report gave the Bay an overall health rating of ?D.? The Foundation?s President, William C. Baker, said that "we have a bay that is dangerously out of balance and in critical condition.? Obviously, that?s not acceptable. If elected to Congress, what would you do to restore this invaluable and amazing ecosystem?
I understand the value of environmental preservation, and I understand that improving the bay will take strong cooperation among the federal, state and local authorities. As the 11th District Representative, I would use my office to further this cooperation.
What is your position on trade issues? Do you believe that labor, environmental and human rights guarantees should be part of trade agreements? What about eliminating agricultural subsidies in developed countries in order to provide a more level playing field for developing nations?
I believe that environmental, labor and human rights issues should be part of trade agreements.
Do you support Sen. Russ Feingold's call to censure President George W. Bush? If not, why not?
No. George Bush has been incompetent and dishonest. He may have broken the law. We should not waste our time on futile gestures.
How would you describe your political philosophy: liberal, Teddy Roosevelt Progressive, Mark Warner centrist, or something else?
I find labels misleading and unhelpful.