Come on Jim, Tear this faker apart!!!

=)

When Allen has a 10-point lead, any publicity for Secretary Webb is good publicity.  Secretary Webb should be making bold attacks on Allen.  He should really be letting him have it.  Its his only chance of dislodging him.  That may be distasteful to some, but its no more than Allen deserves. 

Showing Allen such respect gives the impression to voters that he deserves that respect.  George "I heard Mary Sue Terry is a lesbian" Allen is one of the lowliest politicians of them all, and Secretary Webb needs to be tougher, and more indignant.  Otherwise, why did he switch parties to get into this race?  Virginians like tough, and Secretary Webb's scorn of Allen could rub off. 

Don't disappoint us, Jim.

As for Reagan, I am darned sick and tired of everybody agreeing ad nauseum what a great leader Raegan was, isn't it a shame the republicans have drifted away. THAT is not the issue. The issue is the godawful mess we're in, that the public needs to be reminded of and reminded of and reminded of, and that the mess is purely and completely the fault of Bush and his doting little fawning sidekick George Allen. Go for the jugular now and forever. And, lest you think I'm advocating a shrill Ann Coulterism, you can slip the shiv between the ribs with grace and charm and smile while you do so, calling your victim "Mr. Allen" meanwhile.  It's the Virginia way.

However, we are expecting more than silence.

and.. maybe I am wrong but everyone in general has been silent. We have a responsibility to wage a very aggressive campaign against Allen.

Sure, we don't have money.. but liberals.. all of us.. control the internet blogosphere. We can, and have spread the message thus far.. but we need help.

I want Jim on a TV ad now. We don't have to pay for TV air time, we have youtube, and the internet..

What does everyone else think?

--Dave

If the campaign can afford it, I would like to see an internet ad up.  Keeping in mind, this would only help with people that already love and would vote for Jim (the progressive blogosphere), but it would make an excellent gesture and promote the idea of viability in defeating Allen in Nov.

I think that Webb not being "aggressive enough" was mainly out of respect for the location and the crowd.  It was definitely a high brow crowd, and the majority of the folks there were Allen supporters. I think that the campaign might have been thinking, "hey-if we attack too much and get too defensive, that is what the people will hate and that is what the headlines will say.  And we don't want to turn off anyone who may be a swing vote, or a Republican looking for change."  Now, I don't work for them, so I cannot be sure of that, but it is my opinion.

I think that Webb needs to be prepared for the anti-Reagan Dems; we have seen it here on this very site.  There are Dems (like me, Lowell, and many others whom made it clear here yesterday) that are not happy with Webb declaring that the Reagan admin was one he thought was a good one in which to model his own.  I think that there is no correct answer, and I also think that there are many good and many bad answers.  Regardless of the answer, Webb and the campaign need to come to an agreement on the answer, and they need to back it up with good reasoning.

I think that now, the first debate is over, and Allen has proven that he is going to smear Webb with his "I'm being so nice, look at my actor face!" attitude, so it's time to go after him a bit more.  Oh, and let's not forget that "Hollywood Felix" is the one from California, while Webb is NOT.  So, who is Hollywood now?  Call him out on his shit, and if you want to do it without being "mean" than get some good, funny but TRUE one liners into his vocabulary.  Remind people of the shitty job Allen has done, and make it stick.  Air his dirty laundry, and GO AFTER HIS VOTING RECORD EVEN MORE.  I want abortion talked about, personally.  I want everyone to know that not only does Allen want to take away marriage rights, finacial growth opportunities, and environmental safety, he wants to take away women's rights.  There are people that are one issue voters, so let's get those issues out on the table.

I also think that we need to hammer home the fact that Allen will not be working for us if he wins.  He will be campaigning. He will be out of state.  And God forbid he were to win, who will he nominate to take his place?  Let's not forget that DeLay, Pat Robertson, and Jerry Falwell all own property here; who would feel safe with Allen being able to place one of them in his seat, even if it were temporary?

Oh, and for God's sake, please ask Allen in public, over and over and over again, why he disn't fight in any war, or defend America on the ground in any way.

And he also likes nooses and confederate flags, so maybe that should be brought to the table.

Now, we run the risk of looking like the meanie meanpants assholes, but I guess that may be a risk we have to take if we want the emporer to be seen without his clothes.

Now, in closing, let me say this:  everything that I have said above should NOT come out of Jim Webb's mouth in anger.  He should never look like the angered, fired up man on the defensive as opposed to the man who is most fit for the job as Senator.  BUT...his campaign can bring it up.  WE can bring it up (and we do) and Webb proxies can do their worst  against Felix, the worst candidate I have ever seen with over 12 years of experience.

Finally, if this debate is a draw, and Allen has done this millions of times to Webb's ONCE, then I am happy with the outcome.

It's a good think I didn't mention how much more handsome Jim was than Allen; I already embarass Thadd enough when I fall in front of numerous people at debates at the Homestead.  :)

Jim is probably one of the more honest, genuine, candidates I have ever seen or heard about. We just need to hammer things home, because I think we will run out of time with the whole..

"let's wait until after labor day" response.

Yes, the BIG campaign will have to start after labor day due to financial concerns. but we can't allow the Allen camp and the "swift boats" to get an early start.

They already have, and that was Kerry's problem. He waited too long to get aggressive.

And guess what. It cost him the election.

I know I am not saying to do that.. but maybe we need to have a few people make a few and tell the camp. here.

can we use these?

lol.. I'm so wrong.

I am not sure if this is correct though? could someone help us answer this question?

Then again. Allen would probably only give up his seat if he "would" win the presidency.

And I am NOT okay with seeing that happen.

Or.. I'm moving to canada.. ANOTHER 4 more of George?!?

I find that pretty hard to believe.

That was a political gotcha question, it was sleazy, and uncalled for.

We need to think of ways to get Allen back on primetime next debate with not just one gotcha. But plently.. because my guess is telling me this isn't going to be Allen's first attempt to embarass Webb.

He's just begun.

but again, we owe him a couple punches back.

And hard.

I wasn't trying to say that Jim Webb's response was the best.. but I think for what he had to do on the spot he did the best he could.

Whether you like it or not, this project will have a major impact in the heart of the very region your campaign hopes to win.

All politics is local.  As a former SECNAV and a military historian, Webb should have instantly recognized Craney Island.

From wikipedia, here is a tidbit:
"During the War of 1812, U.S. defensive emplacements on Craney Island had a seven-gun fortification and was manned by 580 Regulars and militia in addition to 150 sailors and marines from the U.S.S. Constellation. On June 22, 1813, the Battle of Craney Island took place. Over 200 British troops were killed, with no American losses. The victory at Craney Island saved Norfolk and Portsmouth from being captured and pillaged by the enemy."

Additionally,
"Early in the American Civil War (1861-1865), the important Gosport Shipyard upstream from Craney Island on the Elizabeth River at Portsmouth fell into Confederate hands and the first Confederate ironclad warship C.S.S. Virginia was built there. This ship fought the first Union ironclad USS Monitor during the famous Battle of Hampton Roads on March 9, 1862, which was inconclusive as neither armored ship could defeat the other.

Only two months later, as recapture of Norfolk and Portsmouth by Union forces was imminent, on the morning of May 11, 1862, the Virginia was deliberately run ran aground near Craney Island and burned by the crew to avoid capture."

I just find it very hard to believe that he didn't have a clue about this Island.  Allen's recitation of its importance to the Commonwealth didn't even trigger the slightest recollection from Webb.

This was a major self-inflicted blow to Webb campaign.

The more that you try to deny it...the more you are hurting the campaign.  It's like getting stuck in quicksand, the more you struggle...the more you sink.

What the hell are you talking about.  Is your sky falling?  This is so typical of right wingers.  Zero sense of priority.  The sky IS falling in Lebanon, Iraq and Afghanistan.  And what the @&%*$# is Allen doing about it.  NOTHING.

Whine Whine Whine. The pop quiz was NOT a reflection of who Jim Webb is.  But your posts are reflective of a petty mind. Little minds have little worries.  If Jim had done something to mess up crany then he could rightly be asked to account for it. 

Instead I wish Jim had asked Allen why there are so many homeless vets now (Loudon County Dem question).  Now THAT'S a REAL question and one that Allen should answer.

NEXT......... 

  Did you have the opportunity to serve in Iraq, like so many of your classmates?  I was just reading your resume and noticed there were no dates of service.  I hope you didn't waste that fine VMI education just to practice law. It's such a great school with great tradition. Shepherd and Ralph are both fine lawyers too--that is, when they're not over there leading men into combat.  If you've been in Iraq, then good for you and I'm if you haven't deployed yet, I know you're chomping at the bit to get into the fight.  Good luck and good hunting. Go get 'em Roger..er Lewis...

And while you're around here, remember you're surrounded by a lot of good Democrats, many of us who have been in war or  two and we have a lot of respect for James Webb, not just because he was a fearless war fighter, but because he is a man of principle.  As your party leaders are mostly Chickenhawks, you might not recognize a man of principle right at first.  So reread those Webb books and then read The Nightingales Song, by Robert Timburg.  With a VMI diploma, hard earned I know, you should take another good at  a damn fine man--Jim Webb.  These days, I know more of your classmates who used to be Republican. 

Nick Stump

I did not graduate in 1990 but rather 1991 and did not go to law school immediately thereafter.  Law school came much later for me.

You've got the wrong guy.  Sorry.  What kind of music did you play at Lime Kiln?  I've only been there twice...once for a rendition of "Stonewall Country" and once rabbit hunting before it was developed into the theater that it is today.

So, I think you've mistaken me for someone else you might have known.  Also, I don't have any Brother Rats named Shepherd or Ralph.

And, I did not serve but was rather medical disqualified as the result of spending three years on crutches between the ages of 10 and 13.  I had legge perthes disease in my right hip -- which is a form of avascular necrosis.  The Army took one look at the x-ray and wouldn't commission me despite my attempts to receive that commission.  It marks one of the greatest disappointments of my life...but we all must play the cards we are dealt.

Next Wednesday, I go in for a major hip surgery called femoral acetabular debridement to stabilize that hip so that total hip replacement won't be necessary for another 10 to 15 years.

Nice attempt at trying to impugn my integrity for not serving.  This is a classic tactic used by many of your ilk to discredit those who have viewpoints other than your own.

Starting next week, I'm facing major rehab of my hip so I won't have time to debate with you.  Your name sounds vaguely familiar, however.

I never forget a name...did you ever write harassing letters to certain elected officials? 

I don't write harassing letters to anyone.  I just wrote my Republican congresswoman a letter praising her successful efforts to bring a new VA Hospital to our city.  I also wrote in the same letter my disagreement with her stand on another issue facing veterans. But it is a weakness that I sometimes tease folks like yourself.

You have came off as snarky in the past and though you talk about VMI and the war, I guess I missed the post where you said you didn't have the opportunity to actually serve.  Nothing wrong with that.  At first, when you were Lewis Armistad, I assumed you were a vet, but as time went on I realized you were not. So yes, I was teasing you a bit.  If you think it comes up to the level of harrassment, you can sue me just as soon as you finish sueing phriendlyjamie. Maybe you can get us all in jail before election day.

  But seriously, I'm sorry you haven't been able to serve the country.  It was a great honor for me to do so, even in the difficult times of the Vietnam War.  I think if you had pulled a tour or two in Iraq, you might have a much different point of view on the subject.  That experience might have knock some of the theoretical out of your head.  These are not the romantic days of men like Lewis Armistad charging to certain death with a woman's name on his lips. It just ain't like that--it never was.

  I also think you don't have clue about the enormous amount of talent and knowledge Jim Webb possesses.  From a military standpoint, he's written on everything from a new view on the traditional fireteam concept to the role of the US as a maritime nation.  His work on the subject of China as the next emerging superpower is probably the best out there.  We all know Jim's impeccable resume, and his novels, but if you take a peek at the speeches he's made, and the many articles he's written, I think even you might see how much more qualified he is than George Allen. 

I'm not a screaming lefty.  I've been a Democrat all my life, but I've always been a moderade Dem.  I want this country to have a strong military.  Our present leadership is literally destroying what was the finest standing army in history.  And that's not my opinion--that's a fact.  As you know your former VMI classmates make up a good chunk of the officer corps serving in Iraq and they won't speak out publicly as it's against the rules, but to a man, the officers I've talked to tell me this is the most screwed up shooting match this country has ever been involved with. But those same officers I know are good Marines--they follow orders and they make sure their men eat before they do. Good Marines and good soldiers deserve a lot better deal than they've been given in this Chickenhawk mess and having gone to VMI, you ought to know that.  I think we can probably continue this conversation off-blog, if you wish.  You can reach me at nickstump@gmail.com. No use cluttering up the bandwidth with more of this BS.

www.georgeallen.com

wow.

THIS REALLY PISSES ME OFF, THE WEBB CAMP SAID THEY WOULD POST THE DEBATE

HERE'S THE RELEASE STILL ON THE WEBB CAMP SITE:

http://www.webbforsenate.com/press/release.php?id=69

Where's the video guys?

and we are NOT going to win an election in the manner we are in right now.

If the Webb Campaign doesn't get thier act together we may as well be drowned out by the Allen/GOP machine before we can even begin to speak.

I only protest right now because I do not want to lose this election, and I know none of you want to as well..

Someone, needs to talk to the Webb Camp. and now.

wow. We still have no good answer for Craney Island.

lol..

This is an embarrassment.

Senator George Allen of Virginia, who is considering a bid for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008, said when asked his opinion of the Bernanke nomination.

"For what?"

Told that Mr. Bernanke was up for the Fed chairman's job, Mr. Allen hedged a little, said he had not been focused on it, and wondered aloud when the hearings would be. Told that the Senate Banking Committee hearings had concluded in November, the senator responded: "You mean I missed them all? I paid no attention to them."

Now THAT is an embarrassment!

The more you try to counter, the more you will get in trouble.  Kinda like getting stuck in quicksand.

VERY good points. We should have to put fires out, if we are doing that.. we are losing.

We just need to acknowledge (the camp especially) that we just fumbled that, it looked very bad to any outsider and or potential voter and we need to do a MUCH better job next time.

Because we are giving the Allen camp ground by being on the defensive.

I don't believe a good defense is a best offense.

I think you need strength in both in order to have a W at the end of the game.

As far as "aggressiveness" is concerned, I think that there's been a good amount of it from Steve Jarding et al., and that there will be a lot more to come.  Personally, I tend to believe that "the best defense is a good offense," so I'm looking forward to some serious pummelling of the Bush Rubberstamp.

VA SENATE DEBATE: November Will Be a Republican Primary
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:52 AM ]

Webb invoked Ronald Reagan one last time in his closing remarks with another Reagan line, "We should choose between up and down, not left and right." Webb didn't do much to show the people of Virginia why he's the "up" candidate and Allen is the "down" candidate. Of greater threat to his candidacy, he didn't do much to show why his policies will be that much different than George Allen's. As it stands now, there is no Democrat running for the Senate from the state of Virginia. When will Democrats actually realize this remains a mystery.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Where's the Left Outrage?
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:50 AM ]

The next question was on judges and this is where, in my opinion, Webb runs the risk of totally losing the support of the far left.  Webb was asked if he would have voted for Roberts and Alito.  He said he would have voted for Roberts, but would have supported the filibuster for Alito.

Let's take John Roberts first. Roberts won confirmation by the vote of 78-22 . John Kerry, Hillary Clinton, Harry Reid, Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Barbara Boxer, Ted Kennedy, Diane Feinstein and Chuck Shumer all voted no on Roberts for the Supreme Court.  One of the reasons that Joe Lieberman is under attack is because he voted for John Roberts. So, why is Webb getting a pass?

Webb's stance on Alito, however, is what should be looked at by Democrats. He was very careful at the debate to say that he didn't have enough information to know if he would or would not vote for Alito.  He said he would have voted to filibuster, but not on the merits of Alito. He would have filibustered only because he felt Democrats on the judiciary committee were not given enough information.  As we all know, that line of thought was total and utter nonsense. But, let's say for the moment that Ted Kennedy was given more information on Alito and Princeton, etc. Would Alito have failed confirmation?  Highly unlikely. Webb is dodging big time here.

If I were a left leaning blogger rather than my right leaning self, I'd be outraged at Webb's statements. The main theory in the Kos and Armstrong book, "Crashing the Gate" is that it's the Republican ability to name judges which will lead to the destruction of the progressive state.  Democrats need to win elections to keep the next Roberts and Alito off the Supreme Court.  New left wonder boy Jim Webb just failed that test with his outright support of John Roberts and his non answer on Alito.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Does Webb Read NR?
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:50 AM ]

The next question was on outsourcing. Again, a chance for Webb to showcase his Democratic credentials and again, he shows that he's not aligned with the Democratic party as a whole.  Yes, Webb is vehemently against outsourcing, but he took the question in a direction that puts him to the right of many Republicans. Webb went on to criticize the H1B visa process and went as far as to say that there should be no guest workers at all in the United States.  Webb equated those coming to the US from Mexico to pick vegetables to those coming from India to work at AOL in Alexandria. Webb's view of outsourcing clearly puts him at odds with technology related businesses in Virginia.  Webb brought his views on immigration into this answer as well. They included a much more secure border along with vastly increased enforcement of businesses that hire illegal immigrants.  No guest workers, a strong border and increased enforcement is not the Democratic idea for immigration reform. If anything, it's pretty close to the NR stance on immigration.

This question gave Allen the opportunity to highlight a significant achievement of his time as Governor, the development of a semi conductor fabrication industry in Virginia.  Of all of Senator Allen's answers in the debate, I think this was the one he was most excited to give. The tone of his voice was different on this answer.  Again, there was real passion in his voice when talking about what he was able to do for the state.

VA SENATE DEBATE: No Sale
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:49 AM ]

Thankfully, the part of the debate where the candidates questioned each other was over. Even the points Allen scored on Craney Island seemed strained and I doubt either candidate thought the direct questioning went as well as it could have.

The next question from the panel was on the NSA wiretaps and Guantanamo Bay. Webb parroted the Democratic talking point of using the wiretaps and Guantanamo to fight the war on terror, but only with proper congressional oversight.  He said the words, but didn't sell it. Allen, for the most part, defended both the NSA issue and housing the detainees on Guantanamo. Allen's answer here wasn't as crisp as it could have been, but rather than pounce on that opportunity, Webb went off on a tangent and talked about how the research he had done on a novel is what gives him special insight into the Guantanamo issue.  It was one of many times in the debate where Webb talked about his past as an author. Each time Allen countered with, that's great, but this is the real world and not a book.  I trust Webb won't make these mistakes again.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Craney Wonkery
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:48 AM ]

But just as Webb was starting to gain some traction in the debate, he fell on his face. In what was the most amusing exchange of the debate, Senator Allen asked Webb about his stance on Craney Island.  Those of us in the press room had the benefit of a DSL connection and Google. Jim Webb had no such luxury and had to admit he had no idea what the senator was talking about.  Craney Island, as I found out thanks to Google , is a potential gigantic boom to the Virginia economy. The Senate had voted on July 20th for a $678 million-dollar project that will, if estimates prove accurate, create thousands of new jobs for Virginia and will create a fourth marine cargo port for the state.

At the time, I thought this was an intentional dramatic "gotcha" move, like asking then Governor Bush the names of every foreign leader.  After learning more about the project, it's clear this wasn't Allen's intention.  Craney Island is a long-term issue for the state that involved complicated environmental issues as well as major economic consequences.  Allen, I think, was pointing to this as one of his accomplishments and was hoping to get Webb to praise it.  From what I've read, it does seem like good news for the state and Webb's lack of knowledge on the subject will hurt.  Washington Post columnist Robert Barnes writes :

As Allen began to explain the importance of expanding the Craney Island Dredged Material Management Area off Portsmouth to the future of the Virginia Port Authority, Webb realized he'd been had.

"I got it," Webb said as Allen continued to lecture on the project and why it is vital to "tens of thousands of jobs." The Allen camp had refused to sign an agreement not to use footage from the debate for campaign purposes, and one immediately sensed advisers ordering television time in the Hampton Roads market.

Actually, I think it's lucky that this debate wasn't televised. A large national audience would have been baffled by this exchange and Allen would have come across as a little too wonkish.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Antiwar or Pro-Vet?
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:46 AM ]

Webb's strongest performance in the debate was on his next question to Senator Allen on why Senator Allen hasn't done more to help the Iraq veterans and suggested that Allen should immediately propose a bill in the Senate to create a modern day GI bill.  This was Webb at his most passionate and he was able to score some points here. I wonder if we'll see Webb move from his antiwar stance to a pro-veteran stance as we get closer to November.  Allen actually agreed with Webb that more needed to be done and he was willing to work with Democrats on any increased funding for returning veterans.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Webb Praises Romney
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:46 AM ]

Next, the candidates had a chance to ask each other questions. Up first was Jim Webb and his question to Allen was on congressional pay raises and the minimum wage.  Allen's answer hinted that Congress might take this issue up again before November and that a raise in the minimum wage would have to be coupled with help for small businesses.

George Allen then questioned Webb on whether he would support increases in Health Savings Accounts, medical liability reform and should small businesses be allowed to form associations to buy health insurance at a discount.  Webb didn't answer and instead talked about the problem of high medical costs. Webb did state he thought the Massachusetts plan seemed to make the most sense to him.  Again, Democrat Jim Webb praising Republican Mitt Romney.

The Jim Webb is not a Democrat theme continues...

VA SENATE DEBATE: Hard to Get Away From
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:43 AM ]

The next question was directed at Webb and asked about his flip flops on his past support for George Allen and for his past opposition to Bill Clinton and Chuck Robb. In my opinion, this is where Webb loses the election. Here are the audio clips in question:

*  Jim Webb endorsing Governor Allen for Senate
*  Jim Webb calling the Clinton administration the most corrupt in modern memory
*  Jim Webb on the extremist groups pouring millions of dollars into the state to keep Chuck Robb in office.   (pro abortion, anti gun rights groups, etc.)

These aren't the statements of an independent or Democrat. If anything, these statements earn Jim Webb a membership card, the decoder ring and the secret handshake of the vast right-wing conspiracy. Virginians will hear these clips over and over and over again as we get closer to November. Webb dodged answering this question on Saturday by saying he likes Allen personally and would enjoy having a beer with him. I don't think the "George Allen is a good drinking buddy, but not a senator" defense is going to fly.

VA SENATE DEBATE: 2008
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:42 AM ]

Senator Allen's days in the Virginia executive mansion were a good transition to the next question. Is Senator Allen shifting his positions in anticipation of a 2008 presidential run?

This question was really a vehicle to get Allen to defend his vote against stem cell funding and his stance on gay marriage.

Webb questioned if Allen was being pulled by the extremist wing of the Republican part to the right. Webb then pointed out, "I'm a Christian. Marriage is between a man and a woman. I read the Bible almost every night." It seems the extremist wing of the Republican party is having its affect on Webb as well. And in what should further question Webb's Democratic credentials, he didn't attack the proposed constitutional amendment to Virginia's state constitution on defining marriage, but on the unintended consequences of the bill to heterosexual couples. Huh? Webb was trying to walk this very fine tightrope that he's for defining marriage, but not like this. Again, not really the way Democrats would want him to vote if in the Senate.

VA SENATE DEBATE: Allen is a Senator! Almost Forgot...
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:42 AM ]

The affirmative-action question was the first opportunity in the debate for Senator Allen to talk about his time as Governor Allen. Senator Allen was clearly comfortable talking about his accomplishments as governor and I was left with the impression that if Virginia didn't have its crazy one and done gubernatorial term limit, there never would have been a Senator Allen in the first place. This was also Senator Allen at his most passionate and Allen is clearly someone who enjoyed his time in the executive branch.

VA SENATE DEBATE: In the Affirmative
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:41 AM ]

James Webb was questioned by the panel on affirmative action. Webb defended his past statement that affirmative action is necessary, but only for African Americans. Whoa. The Democrat in the race just said that affirmative action should endfor Latinos and women. Is this the view of anyone in the Democratic party other than Jim Webb? What would be the outcry form Democrats if say Rick Santorum had uttered these words?

George Allen answered the affirmative-action question with a list of the accomplishments he's delivered to the state as its governor, most notably with the increase in funding for traditionally black colleges in the state. Allen did bring up Webb's many, and at times, contradictory views on affirmative action. I trust an ad on the subject will air in the near future.

VA SENATE DEBATE: More Iraq
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:40 AM ]

The next question also focused on Iraq and was posed by panelist Tyler Whitley of the Richmond Times-Dispatch .

Prior to the start of the debate, Whitley had an open microphone gaffe. Audio from the panelist's table was being fed into the press room and we heard Whitley say, "George Allen calls it unpatriotic to question the conduct of the war." I doubt George Allen has ever said such a thing. (Nothing like an impartial panel asking the questions) George Allen, in his opening statement said, "Welcome, patriots all." in what seemed to be an acknowledgement of Whitley's comment, although I'm not sure the audience understood.

Whitley spoke about how bad things were in Iraq and asked if we should just pull out now. Allen was frustrated by the question, as he had just said that the last thing the US should do is pull out of Iraq. I guess Whitley was hoping George Allen would call him unpatriotic...

This did give the senator a chance to get in one of the better lines of the debate. Allen started his answer off with "Iraq had an election with 70% turnout. We will not have 70% here in Virginia and they won't be threatened with their lives in Virginia." After saying that Jim Webb was not only against our current Iraq war, but against Desert Storm as well (this was news to me), Allen stated, "Heck, even the French thought we should use military action to get Iraq out of Kuwait." It seems that all anti-French politics is local, too.

Webb defended his stance on Desert Storm by saying he was opposed to elements in Bush 41's administration who wanted to overthrow Hussein and occupy Iraq. Webb singled out Brent Scowcroft here and said, "we were lucky that Brent Scowcroft was National Security Advisor to make sure the mission was contained to freeing Kuwait." Is John Kerry on Jim Webb's debate prep team? I was for Desert Storm right after I was against it?

VA SENATE DEBATE: Q#1
[Greg Pollowitz   07/24 09:38 AM ]

The first question in the debate was on Iraq. Senator Allen did a decent job articulating why we're in Iraq and the need to make sure Iraq is stable before we bring the troops home. Senator Allen made it clear that the last thing the U.S. should do is pull out early. Webb followed up Allen's answer with a demand to know about the four permanent bases we're building in Iraq.

Well, it depends on what the meaning of permanent is. If you mean by "permanent" that the bases will be manned by U.S. forces indefinitely, than Senator Allen made it clear that the answer was "no". If by "permanent" you mean that the structures are made of cement, are fortified and not tents in the sand, than the answer is "yes." Allen explained that the decision was made to centralize U.S. forces into four, well constructed and secure, bases of operation. The bases were constructed to maximize the safety of our troops and to protect them from a Khobar Towers style suicide bomb attack, not to house U.S. troops "permanently." Senator Allen reiterated that these bases will be given to the Iraqis once U.S. forces leave and mentioned that the Senate has voted that there will be no permanent U.S. bases in Iraq. I doubt Allen's answer or the reasons he gave will satisfy anyone on the left, however.

Would you mind providing the link?

that IN THIS CASE it seems a bit biased.

But, I could be wrong.  It's just how I read the posts.

I'd say right now Jim Webb could use a little less advice and a lot more money. 

Here's a little secret--you don't have to tell everything you know on a public blog.  It's amateurish, and it's unprofessional.  When I have concerns I write or talk to someone in the campaign.  I don't print it in the newpaper and I don't put it in on a blog. And if they don't take my advice, I don't run home and write my disappointment so the entire planet can read it.  That's how we hurt our party and that's how we lose elections. 

Get some discipline, folks.  There's plenty of good to talk about, and here it is July and I see people planning a funeral.  Get out and raise some money.  It's fun having big ideas and having everyone tell you how smart you are, but that's just useless ego feeding crap. The one big idea we have here is running Jim Webb and that's huge idea.  We have to get out and do the dirty work--knocking on doors and asking people to donate.  We're not strategists or campaign managers.  We're either volunteer workers or we're talkers.

I drove up to Virgina from Louisville a couple of weeks ago and walked around Coeburn on my own and talked to folks there.  They're mostly lower-income rural people--good folks. Great area to pick up votes--coal miners and farmers.  They are the natural populist base and all we have is introduce them to Jim. A lot of them don't know much about Jim, so they need us up there.  Why don't some of you worriers take a trip up to southwest va and walk around?  I'll meet you there and we'll knock on some doors and try get some votes and maybe even a little money--who knows.  But that's how you win grassroots politics.  You don't win complaining on the internet.  Now I'm an old out of shape guitar player, but I'll be glad to walk with you.  I might have to stop and sit every now and then but I'd love it.  Think positive.  Don't hand the trolls more talking points.  Lets get out there and win this thing.

Also, I don't think we should keep our cards so close. The Allen folks aren't idiots (even though allen may be himself), they have a LOT of money, which buys a lot unfortunately in american politics. My bet, is they are already 10 steps ahead of us.

And that's what upsets people, being realistic. I mean we need to know thine enemy before we can defeat it, and not just the inside campaign folks.. all of us.

Communication and the sharing of information within a organization is what makes it successful.

So what if Allen's camp is reading this, if they are (and they are) you know they are scared.

It's just better if they know we are very committed to defeat them, even if that means hashing things out on our own. That's what separates us from them.

We encourge others to speak up, and share ideas.

That's why we are Democrats.

And I am very happy and proud of that.

--Dave

For those of you who are a bit discouraged that we aren't taking the fight to Allen and spreading our message, I'll have a special suprise for all of you about this time tomorrow. Look out for a diary around this time, I think you'll all enjoy it!

How is it that the former SECNAV didn't know about Craney Island when it contains the country largest Naval fuel depot?

He needs deputies.

We got plenty of people here who are dedicated and willing to do so for free.

We're waiting.

It would be helpful to know of upcoming Webb events--and other volunteer opportunities.  RK is a good place to disseminate some of these opportunities.

As far as TV ads go, I'm sure the campaign would be airing these now if it had more cash on hand.  Hopefully, we'll have something on air starting on or around Labor Day. 

However, other campaigns nationwide (who are not even close in some cases) are creating ads and posting them online.

I saw someone mentioned, dates, and more coordinating, planning, etc. for future events, that's a BIG issue. There was a very public event recently that almost went haywire because of poor planning.

I doing a LOT of Webb camp hammering today, but I think it's nessesary. This is our candidate, and our election. I am sorry folks, no one owns our democracy but us.

You'll have plenty of opportunities to use it soon enough.

2. That Craney Island reference was a debater's gimmick -- raise an obscure point and make it seem like the other guy is not knowledgeable.  Webb could reverse the favor when there's a high-profile debate in the early fall.  (He should consult a debating expert for some tips.)  Craney Island an important issue?  I've been reading the Washington Post for 30 years, I read Northern Virginia papers, and I've never heard of it.  I doubt 90% of the state has heard of it.  I could be wrong, but I think that's all it was.

3.  Webb has a big advantage -- the Bush record -- all he has to do is keep the message simple.  Say George Allen is a nice guy but he's determined to rubber stamp Bush and the country needs something mroe than that.  And point out that if Allen was that good a Senator he would have balked at supporting the more obvious miscues.

4.  The final big advantage -- the news for Bush is going to get progressively worse in the next 4 months.  All Webb has to do is to stay close in the polls.  How do I know the news will get worse?  The Bush group is not competent.  They have too many ideologues -- including religious fanatics -- in key positions.  They're also in the wrong place at the wrong time -- the radical Islamo-fascists are not going away.  (Whoever the next Prez is will have his/her hands full.) 

A: He is pro-poverty.... his vote on minimum wage
B: He is anti-science.... his vote on stem cell research
C: He is a professional pol and has fed at the trough provided by taxpayers long enough.
D: He is the "Hollywood" guy.... dressing up like John Wayne Don't make you John Wayne. Not that John Wayne was anything to be proud of.
E: He is not going to stick around if he has any shot at the nomination.
F: He is pro-war and anti-veteran....Votes to cut VA money.
G: He is not conservative when it comes to spending federal money for his donors.
H: He is the no talent son of a famous football coach still riding on his father's glory.
This could get more "Roveian" and it may have to in order to oust Allen. This guy needs a walk-in closet for his skeletons, use them.Mudcat may be a good guy but Carvelle would be chucking mud at Allen from now on.

We intend to trounce him.

Regardless of his wallet or ambition.

Democracy starts here in Virginia, America is counting on us, this is a call to all National Democrats.

Launch Offensive!

Yeah a little independent for some out here in democratic blogger land, but true to his word. Jim Webb is a POPULIST and people respect him when he speaks. He's in this race for those who have been left behind. He's in this for you! His performance at the Homestead was excellent and he has an excellent chance of winning. This is NO SPIN ... this is an honest appraisal based on seeing the two men running for senate standing side by side. Webb is a Class act ... Allen a schmoozer.

Now it may seem like the campaign is behind .... because it is. But recently they have made excellent readjustments in response to primary "problems" ... but make no mistake. The campaign is on track and Jim's debate showing down there in Republican country was great.

The extensive coverage / posting of his debate by the NRO site was really not necessary ... since careful reading shows they are creatively developing a WEDGE just for the purpose of splitting up support from Democrats like you.  DON"T BUY INTO IT!  THEY FEAR JIM WEBB BIG TIME ... for the simple fact that Jim is honest to a fault and will not be BOUGHT.  Got that!!  That's what our candidate is about ... it's all about INTEGRITY ... and INTEGRITY Matters!!

Webb for Senate!!!  Keep the machine running ... please DONATE what you can!!

John Kerry however you feel about him could have ran a better campaign in 2004 but just got too much advice.

Jim Webb is an excellent father, patriot, and fighter. I just think the campaign could do more in planning events, coordinating messages, making sure they don't overgive advice, and attack the Allen camp.

I think, in fact.. I pretty much know that the campaign is just too worried about too much. We just have to lay it all out there. Forget the pollsters, forget the consequences, just let Jim take it home.

And, I will bet without a doubt.. he's our next senator.

I know better faith in any future politician than I do in Jim Webb. He can bring our commonwealth, and our country together again. It's people like him that make me proud to be a Democrat, and an American.

it's in regards to this

I won't mention any names, but days following Jim Webb's primary win I asked why aren't we responding to Allen Camp attacks. I was basically told and felt like I really didn't know what I was talking about, and asked if I had a plan to respond to attacks.

I have no idea what occured in your conversation, as I have no idea, but having done six races at the federal level (5 in field) I have an idea of what might have happened.

And I say the following with no disrespect to you, as I have no idea what your political experience is.

One major technique that campaigns use to get volunteers active is say "great idea, why don't you do it" this does two things.  It gets people ACTIVE in the campaign, and it prevents "jacktivists" from taking over.  Most campaigns have a field plan and almost every supporter has a different "tactical" or "strategical" piece of advice to offer, were they all to be followed you would have mayhem.

I'm not sure when you were given the "why don't you do it" line, but it seems to have worked you created a brilliant MySpace profile for Jim that kicks ass, congrats.

I think that things like that really make a difference in getting youth involved in politics.

Every vote counts.

I'm thinking of changing our names to Victor/Victoria.
;-0

I like it though! =)

I support Webb because he's the kind of person I want representing me in Congress. I believe gay marriage is protected by the Constitution and think capital punishment should be abolished, but naturally I don't expect all elected officials representing me to believe what I do. I support Webb because of his extensive background in military policy, his detachment from the interests and his attention to American history and how we can learn from it. I support his stances against the state and federal gay marriage amendments and the flag burning amendment; his idea for tax cuts for veterans and a new GI bill; his support for rising the minimum wage (I live in SW Va, where some people are so poor they have to pawn their possessions for gas money); his support of stem-cell research; his support for abortion rights; his support for civil unions, which isn't marriage but is a positive step forward; his Trumanian outspoken behavior; and his alikening the Bush's Administration's abuses of power to the Soviet system.

As for the last debate, I don't think it got too much attention beyond the AP story in community and local papers, but there is certainly talk about Webb all around the commonwealth. Fundraisers with Warner, Kaine, Moran, Boucher, Wilder and other Virginia Dems will certainly boost Webb's standing and if he pushes his platform of smart and efficient government and national security, it'll certainly close the gap.

WWJD? What Would Jefferson Do?

Maybe I am wrong, but maybe I am not. If I am just a Webb supporter and I don't know what's going on. then somethings wrong, think about all of the people who don't even know Allen has a challenger.

Believe me, I run into them everyday.

We have a lot of work to be done.

I appreciate your good efforts to help Jim Webb and Wes Clark, two of our finest.  I just sent the Webb campaign 200 bucks.  If 49 more people here do the same, that will be ten grand for the price someone here said could make a good commercial.  We need to put our money out there with our hearts and votes.  Two hundred is a lot of money around this guitar players house. All doctors and others with better playing jobs feel free to give according to their abilities.  Let's buy Jim a commerical before sunset today.

The republicans are pretty good at it, and I am kind of impressed.

But, even more dissapointed that we are just sitting back and taking it.

That's frustrating as well.

Here's an article which is a must read, I think it really tell's it like it is. This is how other see our campaign. I am in total agreement as well, and so are many of you here.

So what do we do next?

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/22/AR2006072200839_pf.html

I only post this information because, as I've said many times before, the next month will decide whether this election is competitive and supported nationally.  These problems need to get fixed now or it'll be too late.

We need to be kept in the loop, yeah.. I figured at much. No offense but Jim didn't appear half as prepared for the debate as I expected.

We also haven't been that good and the post-debate fallout either.

I like Jarding, alot actually.. I think HE should run the campaign and let everyone else follow but I think this is a very interesting point.. He is streched too thin.

Maybe I am wrong, but the campaign should spread the wealth a little. Let other people take jobs from Jarding that they could do. You know give him a few deputies, let them go out and march for him.

There needs to be a lot more structure in this campaign, if it's going to be effective, if we are going to get people energized, and if we are going to succeed in high profile fundraising.

Would you mind sending me your email address.  You can reach me at Nickstump@gmail.com.  Thank you

Nick