 The debate last night in Bluefield showed the difference between an experienced and confident sitting Congressman and a challenger whose entire presentation was full of the usual buzz words of Teatardism. Spike's audience included members of the WV Metro Valley Tea Party who were there handing out leaflets and who cheered him on as he disdainfully shouted out the Tea Party Call to Arms... "Obama, Pelosi, ObamaCare", and even a reference to Congressman Rahall's use of the words "Stength Through Unity" as being a slogan of the Communist Party. Spike is going to need a lot more meat in his arguments than meaningless buzz words. By the way his reference to communism drew boos from most of the audience who were shocked at such a reference being aimed at Mr Rahall. The Congressman had a lot of supporters in the audience as well, and they were far better behaved than Maynard's crowd. The sponsors would not allow any video recording so I don't have any pertinent moments to play to you. Needless to say Congressman Rahall did well in staying above the fray, and cogently presented his case. 
Both of them tried to point put that they are strong supporters of coal, and both agreed that money needs to be spent on restoring infrastructure in our state and on highways. Both candidates support mountaintop removal and both feel that the EPA is waging a war on Coal. The difference is that Congressman Rahall blames the EPA, and Maynard blames the Democratic party and President Obama as well as the EPA. I hope that the transcript of this debate is made available, and that pertinant video becomes available as well. I also hope that Congressman Rahall starts getting aggressive and maybe a little pissed off at Maynard's Teatardism.  |
