No wonder Goode ducked

By The Daily Progress

Published: October 9, 2008

I am not surprised Rep. Virgil Goode, R-Rocky Mount, cancelled his televised debate with Tom Perriello, Democrat.

I saw their forum at the Senior Center in Charlottesville. No matter what the question the moderator posed, Rep. Goode’s reply returned to a variation of either “drill, baby, drill” or “no gun control — ever.”

As Mr. Perriello supports expanded energy options, including off-shore oil drilling, and supports the Second Amendment’s protection of gun owners’ rights, Rep. Goode’s campaign has run out of talking points.

But why cancel the debate? It would seem spending years in Congress would provide Rep. Goode unlimited reasons for our returning him to Washington. Or perhaps those years in Congress are the problem. It might be difficult to explain his cozy relationship with lobbyists and big oil.

With Virginia voters’ attention focused on the Wall Street mess and its connections to irresponsible lawmakers and dishonest business practices, no wonder Rep. Goode ducked the debate.

Rep. Goode has decided that an informed 5th District is bad for him, so no debate. The more that is known about his years of corrupting corporate ties, the less likely a voter would support him.

Democracy requires a well-informed public. We need the debate. We deserve better!

Oliver Cromwell in 1653 expressed frustration with another “challenged” politician,” saying: “You have sat too long here for any good you have been doing. Depart, I say, and let us have done with you. In the name of God, go!”

Steve Benton
Fluvanna County