Well, I'd like to pretend I had a crystal ball back when I wrote my previous diary on the topic:
A Race We Can Win
But the reality is that it was all based on common sense. It was only a matter of time before Schmidt, who is weak on defense issues because of her lack of experience (a) with the military and (b) with national level politics, lashed out at Iraq War veteran Paul Hackett.
But we need to avoid the pitfalls of th past and we must not be weak. Let's start by not begging 700 WLW for apologies or fairness because they will provide us neither. Much better to paint WLW as the GOP moutpiece it is and use its own airwaves to expose the ignorance of the attacks on Paul Hackett. Below are my suggestions on talking points on this matter, but I'd be glad to hear critique and others points of view.
Always remember in thinking of talking points that this is a CONSERVATIVE district where party ID leans toward the Republicans. You must appeal to people who consider themselves Republicans by distinguishing open-minded Republican voters from wing nuts and, more importantly, the people in charge of Schmidt's campaign and the Republican Party.
Talking Point #1--Clearly the Republican Party does not speak for the average American and Ohioan when they attempt to say that the service of an officer in the United States military is something less than noble. Its amazing that the Party of Grant, Eisenhower and Colin Powell now insults the service of the officers currently serving in the American military at a time when recruitment is down. It borders on treason.
Talking Point #2--In the primaries Jean Schmidt tried to pretend that she was above mud-slinging. Now she's shown she's no different from other career politicians. She will even stoop as low as to insult the service of our veterans. I for one think its time for a change. We need a proven leader, not a proven politician.
Talking Point #3--Perhaps Ms. Schmidt should take a vacation from the luxury boxes and meals paid for by lobbyists and learn first hand just how "safe" it is over in Fallujah's even for civilians. But given the cowardly way she's allowed her people to make these accusations for her, I doubt she has the courage.
Talking Point #4--Apparently Ms. Schmidt doesn't believe that officers of the U.S. military should be proud of their service. Apparently she doesn't believe that military service should ever be considered as a way out of poverty or a way to achieve the American dream. Well, I know millions of Americans who disagree with her. They served in World War II, Korea, Viet Nam and now in Iraq. I think we should support ALL of our veterans regardless of rank and position.
Talking Point #5--Paul Hackett has a positive plan to help the economy by strengthening small business and to work to end our dependence on Middle East oil barrons who fund the war on terror. Its a shame that Ms. Schmidt would rather attack a veteran for his service than discuss these issues.