Don Beyer introduced Jim Webb. Don's intro line: "Welcome to America!"
Jim Webb just spoke - he thanked everyone, of course. Also, he stressed again that he won't forget his loyalties. - so he'll be working hard in 2007 to give Tim Kaine a Democratic majority, offering his time to help the '07 campaigns.
Beyer is back to introduce Warner ("I'm still mourning the loss of President Mark Warner.")
Warner calls for Beyer to run again. About himself - "my hope and prayers are that I'll have more campaigns and more public service in my future."
Warner introduces Kaine - "leading us in Virginia in a way that makes me proud."
Oops - head fake. Warner is introducing Begala.
Mark Warner jokes about being called his excellency - "People ask what I miss about being Governor, being called Your Excellency once or twice a day was right up there." Great speaker - Warner is on a roll.
Begala - "strength, trust, and values" are the virtues that distinguish Virginia Democrats. And Warner, Kaine, and Webb exemplify these values.
Begala lauding Warner's fiscal responsibility and the trust he earned from Virginians ... and wishes he had run for President.
On faith, points to Kaine's response to the State of the Union. Says Kaine "exemplifies" the values important to families. The party of "Am I my brother's keeper?" That's what separates our party and the other side.
Beyer introduces Kaine after a well-done video on Kaine featuring Brian Moran, Jim Webb and others.
Kaine does the thank you's, then reminisces about Webb's victory. "It just seemed right that he'd be going to the Senate and it seemed amazing that it would be Virginia that turned the Senate blue."
Kaine praising Warner for being results oriented and being so good at bending events into the good. Also pledges support for whatever Warner ever runs for in the future.
Kaine agrees with Begala - "it is about values." Kaine is on a roll - speaking about values is really his thing.
Talks about Virginia's achievements - "we did it because we worked together."
Education - "It's about excellence ... not one size fits all."
Transportation - we've done some good things but have to be honest that we can't solve the problems without new investments."
Notes health care and environmental work that needs to be done.
Kaine promises to work in 2007 as if his own name was on the ballot. Promises to push on his agenda.
Tim's speech is done - a good one. I'll have more impressions later. Just said hey to Chap Petersen and now it's time to make for the exits.
Yee HAW!!!!
and next saturday at the brunch with webb/hurst, et al :)
Lots of Beyer, did it seem to you that he is thinking of gearing up for '08 or '09?
It was a nice day down in richmond. I wish I had 1000$ for the fundraiser, but I have plenty of time and energy to devote to politics.