The daily newspaper of George Allen's undergraduate sleeping-through-history-class days AND his dozing-through-law-school days has endorsed Jim Webb for U.S. Senate. That would be bad enough news for George Allen in and of itself, but it gets worse. Not only has the newspaper endorsed Webb, it has also written a scathing editorial which questions Allen's honesty as well as his "basic fitness for public office." The editorial declares that "Virginia has changed" from Allen's days of (allegedly) stuffing an African American's mailbox with a severed deer's head, but wonders whether George Allen has changed.
Here's are some excerpts:
Most disturbing to the University community should be allegations stemming from Allen's time as a University student in the 1970s and how he has addressed those allegations. Since September, some former football teammates and acquaintances of Allen have alleged that the "n-word" was part of his regular vocabulary. Others have said they did not witness any such behavior. Allen issued quick and brief denials and claimed he has "never" used the epithet.It is impossible to know for sure what is in George Allen's heart. Regardless, Allen's explanation is virtually impossible and does not constitute the forthright discussion of his past that he needs to return to the Senate. Very few Americans have never in their lives uttered the "n-word" in any context, even to discuss its place in society. Allen claims a place in that tiny group.
[...]
Allen holds College and Law degrees from the University. Honesty, as derived from the University's honor code, remains a proud tradition. Those who study at the University vow to uphold high standards of honesty. George Allen has not addressed his past in a way the University community should expect from one who took this pledge.
While a Senate race focused on today's issues would benefit Virginia, Allen first must put to rest yesterday's issues. Voters must continue on the path that has made Virginia a better place and elect Jim Webb to the Senate.
In sum, this editorial is very bad news for George Allen, coming from his own alma mater and law school. In contrast, it's great news for Jim Webb, on a day filled with encouraging news. Can you feel the momentum shifting? Can anyone say "Kaine-Kilgore 2005 repeats itself?" :)
Lowell Feld is Netroots Coordinator for the Jim Webb for US Senate Campaign. The ideas expressed here belong to Lowell Feld alone, and do not represent those of Jim Webb, his advisors, staff, or supporters.
We like Webb's watchdog approach and moderate policies. He'll fight for what is right for his country, not just his party.Allen's campaign blunders have been of his own making, and raise serious questions about his credibility.
We believe Jim Webb has the courage and integrity to ask the right questions. His leadership, record and fresh outlook give him the clear edge. He is right for Fauquier County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the U.S. at this critical time in our history.
All in all, the Fauquier Times-Democrat/Citizen gives Webb the "clear edge" in this race. Good choice! :)