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SALEM -- Virginia’s gubernatorial candidates sparred
over "How to Stay on Budget" during times of economic hardship while still implementing projected goals.
McDonnell took a swipe at Gov. Tim Kaine as well as Deeds when the candidates were asked why Virginia ranks last in how quickly states
spend federal stimulus money earmarked for road projects,
yet left out the details
of how his own party rejected the stimulus package.
While McDonnell criticized Deeds for ties to President Obama and "Washington" he was quick to praise past Democratic presidents including JFK.
Even as he endorsed the full slate of The National Republican Agenda, McDonnell agreed with some of President Obama's policies on education.
Deeds said he would govern in the mold of recent Democratic governors Warner & Kaine.
Both Deeds and debate panelists raised concerns about McDonnell’s plans,
noting portions of it are not permitted under federal law.
Roanoke College hosted the only debate between candidates for Lieutenant Governor.
Deeds embraces U.S. Senator Mark Warner
Virginia voters may look toward
The Environment as the one issue
which provides a stark contrast
between the two gubernatorial candidates
in the 2009 Viginia State Election.
The Democratic Party candidate Creigh Deeds
is the choice of environmentalists and progressives
who want action on protecting The Commonwealth
and favor a serious shift away from fossil fuels.
Former Attorney General Bob McDonnell
of The Republican Party,
is the champion of Big Business and The Interests
who want fewer environmental rules
which they say complicate economic development
with higher cost and hassles.
The crux of the Republican agenda
is to drill for oil off The Virginia Coast.
Republicans lead in all three of The Statewide Races being decided this November,
although more than 30 % of The Voters remain undecided in both the attorney general and lieutenant governor contests.
Democrat Creigh Deeds raised more money than Republican Bob McDonnell
during July and August, but McDonnell has more cash in the bank
as the expensive Virginia Governor’s Race heads into the homestretch.
Both campaigns filed updated finance reports with the state Board of Elections.
Deeds’ campaign collected nearly $3.5 million in July and August and reported a cash balance of nearly $4.4 million.
McDonnell pulled in $2.9 million in the two-month period and reached the end of August with a cash balance of $5.8 million.
bravenet.com