Today was an important day for Jim Webb, as he was endorsed this morning by none less a figure than General Wesley Clark. The endorsement ceremony was held at Webb for Senate headquarters on Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, and the place was packed (was it Webb, Clark, or the free coffee and doughnuts? Ha). In Clark's endorsement speech, he spoke of Webb in glowing terms as a man who understands national security, who understands the importance of "checks and balances" in our system of government, and who will "have the courage to say what's right regarldess of wher ethe chips fall" politically. According to Clark, Jim Webb "sees the glass clearly," and is a man who will always strive to "know the facts and make the right call." Clark added that ?Jim Webb is the kind of man that will put the interests of the people of this state first, and that Webb wil "take his fight to the floor of the U.S. Senate, he won?t back down from any challenge and he will focus on the job he is elected to do.?
Clark related that he first encountered Jim Webb through his great Vietnam war novel, "Fields of Fire." Then, in 1982, Clark met Webb in person. At that time, the topic of conversation was the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial on the National Mall, and according to Clark, Webb was adamant that "he wanted those statues" of soldiers near the statue. By the way, that includes an African American soldier, something that Webb felt strongly about. According to Clark, this is typical of Jim Webb, a leader who "sees issues clearly," "commits himself" and "makes a difference."
Great quote by Clark: "For Democracy to be strong it must be exercised." And, as Webb pointed out, his campaign for Senate is an underfunded, understaffed, grassroots movement of citizen-activists who are doing exactly that - exercising their Democratic rights.
What is the significance of the Wesley Clark endorsement for Webb? Not to overstate it, but it's a big one for Webb, no question. Among other things, Clark brings his tremendous popularity among Democratic activists on Daily Kos and elsewhere. Clark also brings his PAC, Securing America, where he is busy endorsing "Fighting Dems" like Eric Massa, Tammy Duckworth, and now Jim Webb. Finally, Clark brings an army of supporters - "Clarkies," as they're called - a group that is talented, passionate, and loyal to Wes Clark and his ideas. When Wes Clark tells his troops to "move OUT!", that's exactly what they do. And now he's telling them to "move OUT!" for Jim Webb.
Now THAT should get George Allen's attention, wherever he happens to be - Iowa, South Carolina, New Hampshire...anywhere but Virginia or that incredibly boring place called the U.S. Senate. Poor George. How's he going to take on two American heroes - 4 Stars, Silver Star and Bronze Star - who were each first in their classes at West Point and Marine Corps Officer Training, respectively? Oh yeah, of course, lots and LOTS of money! Which is why, if at all possible, you need to help Jim Webb right now, by giving generously to his campaign. Thanks.
P.S. Clark made a point of saying that he didn't hold it against Webb that he attended the Naval Academy, while Clark finished first in his class at West Point. It was obviously said with great respect, which each man obviously feels about the other.
P.P.S. To listen to Wes Clark's endorsement, please click here