The hottest race of 2009 is for Virginia Governor. Recently turned Blue, Virginia is a prized target for the Republicans and they are doing everything they can to strengthen their campaign.
With only a week for the Democratic primaries on June 9th, the pace is increasing and every call, every door knocked, and every conversation will make a difference. It will be interesting to see who makes a difference, and who convinces the voters to pick the next Democratic candidate for Governor of Virginia.
I support McAuliffe because he stands head and shoulders above the other candidates. In public life, McAuliffe has a clean record and the allegations against him in his business life have all proved false. He is much maligned by his detractors, and now we should be objective and vote for him.
Of the Democratic candidates,McAuliffe has the best record on Ethics Reform. Compare the records of McAuliffe and McDonnell.
Bob McDonnell received the Republican Nomination for Virginia Governor. Just look at his track record:
Failure on Lobby Reform: He has received gifts and trips from Lobbyists (www.vpap.org) and he has represented clients before state agencies while serving in the legislature (HB 940, 2/05/02).
Failure by taking contributions from Dominion Power: Bob has taken $180,720 in contributions from Dominion Power Corporation and its PAC, since 1996 (ibid) - is it any wonder Bob does not support progressive energy initiatives?
Failure by taking contributions from Payday Lenders:
Bob has taken at least $38,000 from payday lending companies since 1996 (ibid).
Failure by taking contributions from Bailed-our companies: Taxpayer money is funding the campaign of Bob McDonnell, since he has accepted contributions from companies receiving bailout money (www.vpap.org)
How does Terry McAuliffe compare with this record?
McAuliffe is the first candidate to propose a ban on gifts from lobbyists to Virginia elected officials (Richmond Times Dispatch, 3/22/2009)
McAuliffe pledged not to take contributions from Dominion Power Corporation and its PAC (Associated Press, 3/11/2009)
McAuliffe pledged not to take contributions from payday lending companies - and has stood by the pledge.
McAuliffe pledged not to take contributions from any company receiving Federal Bailout Money (Washington Post, 4/2/2009)