At last night’s Governor’s debate in Roanoke, it was clear who had a more concrete vision and who was floundering. Bob McDonnell was stellar throughout the debate, as he laid out his plans for improving the economy, transportation, education, and budget. Meanwhile, Creigh Deeds clearly showed that he was struggling with laying out the case on why he should be elected Governor.
The debate was moderated by Jay Warren of WSLS-TV in Roanoke and Dr. Bob Denton, who serves as WSLS-TV’s Political Analyst. The debate format was more of an open question forum, which focused on several issues that impact each Virginian, such as transportation, taxes, budget, health care, and what each candidate would do to boost employment and the economy.
Throughout the debate, Deeds had a difficult time articulating his agenda. When asked about what specific taxes he intended to raise if elected Governor, Deeds said he would raise taxes on anyone who uses the transportation system. So, this means all Virginians. Along with this response, Deeds’ idea of leadership when it comes to devising a transportation plan was quite astounding. Deeds plans to appoint a committee to write a transportation plan. Wouldn’t it help to have a plan in place to let the voters know what your vision entails?
Deeds was also asked about why he was placing so much emphasis on the thesis issue, and it should not surprise you what his response was. Deeds said, “The thesis is relevant because it puts into context Bob’s record. It helps explain why he never wrote a bill to create a job, never wrote a bill to explain an educational opportunity.”
When it came to the climate change question, Deeds indicated that he was not in favor of the cap and trade tax, rather he said there needs to be legislation to address climate change. Deeds also said he wants to ensure that the environment is going to last. One thing Deeds did do was to mention his environmental endorsements, when pressed about the Governor’s Opportunity Fund. Sounds like he wanted to dodge his own record on voting three times (2007, 2008, and 2009) for cuts to this fund.
Meanwhile, McDonnell offered solid responses to these questions and clearly laid out his vision for improving the Commonwealth. When pressed on these questions, he mentioned that he has a transportation plan, economic plan, and education plan. The initiatives in each of these plans would be funded without raising taxes, rather focusing on cutting spending, privatizing ABC stores, etc. Also, McDonnell mentioned that he offers a plan to boost employment throughout the Commonwealth.
This debate was clearly won by McDonnell, as Deeds could not articulate his vision for the Commonwealth. We continue to see this through his campaign, and throughout the debate, it appeared that Deeds was losing his cool at certain points. A real leader offers concrete plans, not a committee to address certain issues that impact the Commonwealth.
