Farewell Frank

EJ Dionne: Judy Feder is a "resolutely grounded mainstream thinker"

2008-11-04T17:13:00.002-05:00

Somehow I missed this one by EJ Dionne, but it's a good one (albeit a bit late...wish he had written it a few weeks ago!):

In the case of Judy Feder, the other side is pushing the notion that she is some over-the-top liberal -- which doesn't square at all with how practical and careful she is in thinking through programs and policies. When I became a professor at Georgetown, I chose to make the policy school my home because of my admiration for Judy, who was then the dean. I got to know her over the years as one of Washington’s smartest people on health care policy and as someone who really understands how policy and politics come together.

She’s incredibly intelligent, which I suspect voters who have run into her know. But more than that: she cares about what works and about evidence. That’s why the idea contained in one of her opponent’s commercials that her views are “far out” and “extreme” is just wrong. She is a resolutely grounded mainstream thinker. She’s also an infectiously enthusiastic and genuinely warm person, who takes ideas seriously enough that she relates well to conservatives and moderates no less than to her fellow progressives. I’d love to see what she’s do in Congress with all her skills.

"2 Hours for Change"

2008-11-03T10:23:00.001-05:00

From the Feder campaign, with just 20 hours until polls open!

You still have time to make a difference!

This past weekend, the Feder for Congress campaign knocked almost 40,000 doors in VA-10. That doesn’t include tens of thousands of additional knocks and phone calls made by the Obama and Warner campaigns in our district!

We’ve got an incredible ground game but we still have slots that need to be filled for Election Day.

Can you give up 2 hours of your time to change the direction of our country?

This is it. It all comes down to the next 33 hours.

Sign up to volunteer on Election Day today!

Thank you again for your support,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Reminder: Pre-Election Rally and Fundraiser today!

2008-11-01T10:49:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign, with under 72 hours until polls open!

Please Join us for a Pre-Election Rally and Fundraiser in honor of
Judy Feder
To help fund our GOTV effort for November 4

From 4pm to 6pm

TODAY! Saturday November 1, 2008
At the Home of
Kristin Cabral and Joe Beaulieu
1869 Rhode Island Avenue
McLean VA 22101

Contribution Amounts:
$1000 Host
$500 Sponsor
$250 Friend
$100 Guest
$50 Individual

Only a few days left! Make a difference today by making your contribution online at www.judyfeder.com!

RSVP to Julia at 703-388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

Judy Feder for Congress
6818 Tennyson Dr. McLean, VA 22101
www.JudyFeder.com

4 Days to Go

2008-10-31T14:28:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

As Election Day nears, I am incredibly thankful for the overwhelming support I have received from you all since I have started running.

I cannot imagine where I would be without supporters like you, and I am asking you to stick with me for just a few more days.

We have put together an impressive Get Out The Vote operation for our final days and we need your help to make sure we can fund it.

Victory is within our reach! But we need to reach out to thousands of voters across the district to make sure that they know to vote for the Obama-Warner-Feder ticket on Election Day.

Help us reach our GOTV goal by making a contribution by Monday at 10 am!

We have just 4 days left and the race is closer than ever. Virginia is the battleground state for the Presidential race. The change this country needs will depend on what happens in Virginia and the 10th District on November 4th.

On Monday, Barack Obama will end his Presidential campaign in Virginia-10. He will appear in Manassas Park, just hours before the polls open, because he knows that the 10th district and the nation are hungry for change and that the Obama-Warner-Feder ticket will bring that change to Washington.

Your contribution today will make sure that on November 4th we finally get the change we so desperately need.

Thank you again for all you have done,

Judy Feder

P.S. Contribute today we need to make your help before Monday at 10am!

Obama To Hold Final Rally in 10th CD; Will it Boost Judy to Victory?

2008-10-31T12:39:00.005-04:00

Barack Obama kicked off his general election campaign in Virginia's 10th CD (Bristow) on June 5, and will conclude his campaign in Virginia's 10th CD (Manassas Park) this Monday evening (November 3). Hey, do you think Barack Obama really REALLY wants to win Virginia's 10th CD (along with the rest of the Commonwealth) or what? :)

Barack Obama to Hold Change We Need Rally in Manassas Park Area Monday

Final pre-election campaign rally slated for Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. – In his final campaign appearance before Tuesday’s election, U.S. Sen. Barack Obama will hold a Change We Need rally in the Manassas Park area Monday night. It will be Obama’s 11th trip to the commonwealth since the end of the primary campaign. He began the general election campaign season with Virginia stops in Bristol and Manassas.

At the rally, Obama will lay out his plans to jump start the economy, provide affordable health care to Virginians and tax relief for middle class families and contrast his vision for America with John McCain’s plans for four more years of the same failed policies of the last eight.

More details about the event will be announced in the coming days.

Among other things, what this final rally by Barack Obama in the 10th CD indicates is that the Obama campaign is looking to win the district big time on Tuesday. Given that both Tim Kaine and Jim Webb won the 10th, the question is mostly how big is "big time." Another question is whether a big Obama victory in the 10th CD will provide enough "coattails" to boost Judy Feder to victory over Frank Wolf.

As the Falls Church News-Press' Penny Gross wrote the other day, Judy Feder "can win this year with her expertise on health care policy, an issue that Congress must deal with in the coming term." Combine that with changing 10th CD demographics in favor of the "blue" team, huge voter turnout this year, victories by Barack Obama and Mark Warner at the top of the ticket, concerns about the economy and the Iraq War, a strong campaign by Judy Feder, and Frank Wolf's increasingly...uh, erratic behavior, and you have the formula for Democratic victory on November 4. We'll see what happens, but anyone who thinks this one will be a "yawner" could be in for a big surprise.

Help GOTV for Judy!

2008-10-30T14:00:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

The Washington Post got it right this morning when they said that, “Judy Feder’s credentials as a nationally recognized health care expert have never been so in demand.”

We all know that our broken health care system needs to be fixed, but it’s not just on health care that we need real change.

Frank Wolf has been in office for 28 years and though he may not be George Bush, he’s voted with Bush on the economy and Iraq 92% of the time.

Judy will work with Barack Obama to get our economy back on track, fix our broken health care system, and end the war in Iraq.

Thanks to your support we’ve had an incredible couple of days

We’ve bolstered our network TV buy – matching a 28 year incumbent dollar for dollar.

We’ve funded an outreach program to the 42,000 new voters in the 10th District.

Now we need to put the final piece in place.

Working with the Obama and Warner campaigns we’ve put together a fantastic Get Out the Vote operation. But we need to raise an additional $21,812 to pay it.

Contribute today to help us Get Out the Vote!

Thanks,
Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

"New Voter Concerns May Aid [Judy Feder]"

2008-10-30T09:02:00.006-04:00

The Washington Post editorial board may be a bunch of blithering idiots and total shills for Frank Wolf, but many of the reporters are excellent. Take this article, for instance, in today's Washington Post "Loudoun Extra," by Sandhya Somashekhar.

Much has changed since 2006, when Democrat Judy M. Feder made her first, unsuccessful attempt at unseating GOP Rep. Frank R. Wolf in Virginia's diverse and sprawling 10th Congressional District.

The economy has displaced the Iraq war as the nation's most pressing issue. Feder will share the ballot with Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) and former governor Mark R. Warner, two popular candidates likely to drive high Democratic turnout at the polls. And as the cost of medical insurance continues to rise, Feder's credentials as a nationally recognized health-care expert have never been so in demand.

Exactly, much has changed in the 10th district, in Virginia, and in the country since Frank Wolf ambled into Washington nearly 3 decades (!) ago. For instance, the population of Loudoun County ALONE has increased from 57,427 in 1980 to about 280,000 today. That's a nearly 5-fold increase since Frank Wolf was first elected, and most of those new voters are Democrats, as evidenced by both Tim Kaine and Jim Webb carrying the 10th CD in 2005 and 2006, respectively. This year, of course, we're going to see an enormous surge of Obama/Warner voters. The question is, will that be enough - combined with the continuing demographic changes and a much stronger campaign by Judy Feder this year than in 2006 - to push her to victory next Tuesday? We'll find out soon enough.

Meanwhile, as far as the "Loudoun Extra" articles is concerned, it clearly demonstrates that Feder represents a perfectly reasonable alternative to Frank Wolf. It also points out how loooonnnngggg Wolf's been in office, and how Wolf favors the McCain health care plan, which just the other day McCain adviser Douglas Holtz-Eakin admitted would provide inferior health care to what they're currently receiving from their employers. It would be hilarious if it weren't so serious. Maybe Frank Wolf can send his staffers out to give Holtz-Eakin a good "caning" or something? Ha

$3.987 to Go

2008-10-29T15:43:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign, please help if you can! Thanks.

Yesterday we told you about the 42,000 new voters in our district and asked you to help us reach out to them. Thanks to the quick response from many of you, we have raised $20,860 of our $24,847 goal. I have to wire the money to our phone firm by the end of the day, so it is important we raise the last $3,987 before then!

Reaching out to these voters is incredibly important during these last days of the campaign. These new voters registered because they know they can bring change to the 10th district and our country in only 6 days!

Can you help us reach our goal of $24,847 to contact 42,000 newly registered voters?

First time voters can make the difference in this election. Many are new to the 10th District while others are simply fed up with the way Washington has been run for the last 8 years. They want change, but we have to make sure they know to vote Obama-Warner-Feder on November 4th.

Your contribution today will help us get to our $24,847 goal before the end of the day.

Your support has driven this campaign. In less than one week, the voters in the 10th district are going to vote for change in Washington and send Judy Feder to Congress!

Thanks,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager
Feder for Congress

When Congressman Wolf's Goons Attack: Part 2

2008-10-29T10:55:00.001-04:00

Gary Lofton is a member of the Frederick County Board of Supervisors. Lofton is a Republican, elected in January 2008, who represents the Back Creek area. Here is what Lofton had to say about the incident the other day, in which he pinned a Judy Feder campaign staffer against the wall of a hotel.

Lofton, a member of the Frederick County Board of Supervisors, denies he pinned Goodman against the wall.

"I was merely trying to engage him in a dialogue that might disengage him from his disrespectful behavior, as well as try to determine if I could help him get an answer to his questions," Lofton said, adding that he offered to buy the young men lunch or coffee to try and talk to them in a calmer setting.

Now remember, Gary Lofton - the guy who is totally in the Feder staffer's (Matt Kent's) face, yelling and badgering him in a threatening manner - is a sitting, elected official on the Frederick County Board of Supervisors. Can you imagine if a Democratic elected county official, let's just say Gerry Connolly for the heck of it, did this to one of...oh, Keith Fimian's staffers? That's right, the Republicans would be going apes***, blaring this to kingdom come.

In sum, the Feder staffers, Matt Kent and Josh Goodman, were simply trying to get answers from Congressman Wolf following a debate, in a public location. Meanwhile, one Wolf staffer - Ben Dutton - assaulted Matt Kent with a cane, while a close Wolf ally - Frederick County Board of Supervisors member Gary Lofton - held Josh Goodman against the wall and also got in Matt Kent's in an extremely aggressive manner, as you can see in the video above. For more, please see the full video (at the bottom of this post), presented simply so that everyone can see that the Feder campaign isn't trying to hide anything here, that all this was sequential, and to give the complete picture of what happened.

The bottom line here: apparently, if you try to ask Frank Wolf questions, his goons verbally and physically assault you while Wolf stands by and does nothing. This is not acceptable behavior for anyone, let alone a member of Congress. After this incident, not to mention his nearly lockstep voting record with George W. Bush, it's time to make Frank Wolf a FORMER Congressman on November 4.

WJLA-TV: "Wolf Aide Raises 'Cane' with Opponent's Videographer"

2008-10-28T20:18:00.000-04:00

The Wolf campaign continues to melt down, as the story of his campaign's violence against two Feder staffers spreads from the blogs to the print media to TV. Couldn't have happened to a nicer campaign. Ha.

By the way, I believe more video may very well be coming soon, so stay tuned. :)

42,000

2008-10-28T15:14:00.002-04:00

From Judy Feder:

Yesterday we asked for your last minute donations before we made out final media buy of the cycle.

Hundreds of you responded, and we surpassed our goal, raising $51,935 for our last media buy!

Thanks to your support, we’ll be able to get our message out on network TV.

But, our job is not done yet.

A last minute surge in new registrants has resulted in a total of 42,000 new voters in VA-10 this year. These voters are not attached to Frank Wolf and are highly inclined to vote for a Democratic candidate, but only if they know who I am!

We’ve planned an aggressive outreach program to these voters in the final days of the campaign but we need to raise an additional $24,487 in the next 48 hours to pay for it.

Can you help us reach the 42,000 new voters in the 10th district?

Your contribution today will help us fund a live phone call and additional outreach to new voters in the district, letting them know that Barack Obama can’t do it alone.

We need a new team in Congress committed to changing the direction of our country.

With only one week until Election Day, we need your help now, more than ever, to reach out to the new voters across the district.

Contribute today to help us reach out to 42,000 new voters and win on November 4th.

We are almost there, thank you for all you do,

Judy Feder

Feder Pre-Election Rally and Fundraiser

2008-10-28T09:50:00.001-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

Please Join us for a Pre-Election Rally and Fundraiser in honor of
Judy Feder
To help fund our GOTV effort for November 4

From 4pm to 6pm

Saturday November 1, 2008
At the Home of
Kristin Cabral and Joe Beaulieu
1869 Rhode Island Avenue
McLean VA 22101

Contribution Amounts:
$1000 Host
$500 Sponsor
$250 Friend
$100 Guest
$50 Individual

Only a few days left! Make a difference today by making your contribution online at www.judyfeder.com!

RSVP to Julia at 703-388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

Judy Feder for Congress
6818 Tennyson Dr. McLean, VA 22101
www.JudyFeder.com

Washington Post, Winchester Star Pick Up Wolf Campaign Assault Story

2008-10-28T06:54:00.003-04:00

The story of Wolf campaign staffers assaulting Feder staffers has been zipping around the blogosphere. Now, it's hit the "mainstream media" as well. The Washington Post has a story on the front page of the Metro section today, in which - among other things - Frederick County Supervisor Gary Lofton (R), who pinned one Feder staffer against the wall of the Best Western Hotel, claims he was just "trying to reason with him," that he "did not see anyone get struck," and that regardless, the Feder staffers are the ones who should be "absolutely ashamed of themselves" for "getting in the congressman's face."

So, the next time there's a media scrum and reporters are sticking microphones in Frank Wolf's face, can we expect Wolf's hired hands to start assaulting the reporters? And can we expect Wolf's staffers to excuse their criminal behavior by claiming the victims "provoked" their assaults? Just want to be clear about this...

Meanwhile, the Winchester Star reports that the Wolf campaign will NOT be firing Ben Dutton, the man who struck Feder's cameraman with a cane:

Despite calls from the Feder campaign, Dutton will keep his job, Scandling said.

“We are not firing Ben Dutton,” he said. “Ben Dutton is a respected, long-time member of the Winchester community. We are not firing him.”

And, of course, the classic final line.

Wolf could not be reached for comment Monday.

Of course not!

P.S. By the way, Benjamin Dutton has been on Wolf's staff as a "part time employee" since 2001. Pretty nice gig, though - he has made $180,833 since 2001 as a part-timer. I think the part where he beats people with a cane falls into the "other duties as assigned" category. Ha.

Feder Campaign Calls for Wolf Staffer to be Fired After Assault

2008-10-27T17:36:00.000-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

Feder Campaign Calls for Wolf Staffer to be Fired After Assault

McLean, VA-After an incident on Friday, October 24, 2008 in Winchester, VA during which a congressional staffer of Congressman Wolf assaulted a Feder staffer, the campaign is calling for Congressional staffer Benjamin Dutton to be fired immediately.

The Feder campaign is also calling for the Wolf campaign to reveal the identity of the second man in the video who is caught on tape holding a Feder campaign staffer against the wall in a threatening manner.

The Feder campaign believes the following list of questions needs to be answered by Congressman Wolf-and not his campaign staff-publicly:

* Were you aware that the young man had been struck with a cane? Did you see the young man get struck by your staffer a second time?
* What is the identity of the second man in the video who appears to be pinning one of the Feder staffers against the wall?
* Why didn't you say something when you realized there was a young man being held against his will by one of your supporters/volunteers/staffers?

"This whole incident is unfortunate, and we certainly never expected that questions about Congressman Wolf's support of the McCain health care tax would lead to a violent response from the Congressman's staff," said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland. "The staffer who is responsible for the assault should be fired immediately. And Congressman Wolf himself should give a full account of what happened, not send staffers out to explain this away for him."

Video of Judy Feder Speech at Obama Rally

2008-10-27T13:35:00.000-04:00

As I pointed out in a post last week, Judy Feder spoke at the Obama rally in Leesburg. Here is the video of her speech.

Help Judy Beat the Bullies!

2008-10-27T11:28:00.003-04:00

From the Feder campaign, here's your chance to help Judy beat the bullies. Thanks.

On Friday I asked for your help in raising $50,000 to match Frank Wolf's negative ad dollar-for-dollar on network TV.

Thanks to your support we've raised $23,865 online since Friday - almost half of our goal!

We're almost there, but we need to have raised the entire $50,000 by tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m. in time to wire it to local television stations.

Click here to help us reach our goal.

Judy's running incredibly strong and Wolf is polling lower than ever, but we need your help to match him on network TV.

It's your support that has brought us closer to victory than we've ever been before, but with only a week before Election Day, we can't let up now.

Click here to help us reach our goal before 10:00 a.m. tomorrow!

Thank you again for all that you've done,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

And Frank Wolf Does Nothing...

2008-10-27T06:35:00.002-04:00

For more on this story, please click here. Now, what is it called when you stand by, watch two people being assaulted by your associates, and do nothing?

Substitute Frank Wolf's Name for John McCain's in This Video

2008-10-24T14:35:00.003-04:00

Great video by the League of Conservation Voters, see here for more. This is highly applicable to John McCain, but also to Frank Wolf. Just substitute "Frank Wolf" for "John McCain" and change a few numbers around, and you've pretty much got the story. Frank Wolf PRETENDS to be for the environment and for breaking our oil addiction, but in the end he's just another Bush Republican.

The Wolf campaign - "now that's out of touch!"

2008-10-24T12:34:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign...boy is it ever time for a change!

Frank Wolf’s new negative ad proves that he just doesn’t get it.

The Wolf campaign accuses Judy of running an, “ugly partisan campaign,” based on her appearances at Barack Obama rallies.

Now that’s out of touch.

Virginians are looking for change to get our economy back on track and fix our broken health care system.

Attacking Barack Obama? That’s not just more of the same, it’s a losing strategy.

The Obama/Biden ticket is poised to win Virginia and the 10th District, which is why we were proud to feature Barack Obama in our own ad.

Thanks to your support we were able to go on network TV on the same day as Frank Wolf. But to match Wolf dollar-for-dollar we still need your help.

We need to raise $50,000 online between now and midnight on October 31st to match Wolf’s buy. Can you help us get there?

Contribute today

We've only got 11 days left to change the direction of our country and we can't afford to let up now.

Thanks again,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Social Right Winger Wolf Gets a Zero Rating From Human Rights Campaign

2008-10-24T07:58:00.005-04:00

That's right, Frank Wolf the supposed "moderate" just got a big, fat ZERO rating from the Human Rights Campaign, for his votes against hate crimes legislation (!!) and employment non-discrimination(!!!).

In sharp contrast, Judy Feder is committed to "defend civil rights and uphold the principles of equality" for all people - gay and straight, black and white, old and young, male and female - ALL people.

Wolf has had a history of anti-gay votes since he began serving in Congress in 1981. In its scorecard released Wednesday for the 110th Congress, the Human Rights Campaign gave Wolf a score of zero for his positions on legislation in the U.S. House.

Last year, Wolf voted against the Employment Non-Discrimination Act and hate crimes legislation. He also voted in favor of the Federal Marriage Amendment in 2004 and 2006.

He also voted in favor of a bill that would have barred gay couples from adopting in D.C. in 1999 and voted in favor of the Defense of Marriage Act in 1996.

Feder told the Blade that she would support ENDA, hate crimes legislation and a bill repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” She said she opposes a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage and supports civil unions.

Feder said gay voters should support her because Wolf will not support any gay-friendly legislation in Congress.

“As a legislator, I will defend civil rights and uphold the principles of equality,” she said.

By the way, this isn't an isolated pattern of votes for Frank Wolf. In general, Wolf isn't just socially far right in this area. He's also consistently opposed using federal tax dollars to fund embryonic stem cell research. He's supported prohibitions on abortions at U.S. military facilities, even if they're not funded by private donations. He's strongly supported the Hyde Amendment, which rejects funding for abortion services even in cases of incest and rape.

The bottom line: Frank Wolf has moved further right on social issues as the 10th district has become more socially moderate. Let's face it, 28 years is a long time to be in Congress, especially given the huge population growth and demographic changes that have taken place during that time. Today, Frank Wolf finds himself out of touch, out of tune, and hopefully in 12 days, out of a job.

Last Fundraising Push...Victory Within Sight!

2008-10-23T17:07:00.002-04:00

From the Feder campaign...please help out if you can! Thanks.

Yesterday, I spoke in front of an incredible crowd of 35,000 at an Obama rally in the heart of the 10th District. If anyone still had doubts that Virginians are hungry for change they were put to rest in Leesburg on Wednesday.

The excitement is palpable and with only two weeks left, victory is within sight!

In the final days, it’s all about making enough phone calls, talking to enough voters, knocking on enough doors and getting our voters to the polls.

Each dollar we raise allows us to reach more voters in the waning hours of the campaign. Can you help us with our final push before our Get Out The Vote effort begins?

$9.45 buys 35 postcard stamps for volunteers to send after talking to a voter about Judy.

$24.30 buys 30 phone calls to voters who are still undecided about Judy

$48.90 buys 17 Obama-Warner-Feder signs for use at polling places on Election Day.

$98 buys 700 pieces of Obama-Warner-Feder GOTV literature for our canvasses.

You can make a tremendous difference with less than $10. Please consider making a contribution today.

Every little bit helps and I so appreciate your support in this incredibly important Election year.

Thanks Loads,

Judy

This Applies Equally to Frank Wolf and John McCain

2008-10-23T15:13:00.003-04:00

John McCain and Frank Wolf Want to Tax Your Health Benefits

2008-10-23T15:00:00.001-04:00

Marc Fisher: "Can't Even Get a Straight Answer" from Frank Wolf

2008-10-23T09:11:00.004-04:00

If you're one of those people who still believes that Frank Wolf is a "moderate," a "nice guy," and a "straight shooter," you might want to check out Marc Fisher's latest column, "Can't Even Get a Straight Answer From a Straight Arrow." At the AARP forum the other day, Fisher spoke with Genie Hopkins of Purcellville about Wolf.

I'd like to report that when Hopkins took time out of her day to travel from her home in Purcellville to a meeting hall in Leesburg to confront her congressman, Frank Wolf, with those heartfelt questions, the crowd cheered her on. And I'd love to tell you that Wolf embraced the truth behind Hopkins's plaint, leveled with his constituents about the problems we face and spelled out tough solutions involving painful public sacrifice.

But that's not what happened when Wolf -- a Republican who represents parts of Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, Fauquier and three more Northern Virginia counties -- appeared this week at a forum sponsored by the AARP.

For starters, the congressman told Hopkins to take her question to the Democratic leader of the Senate, Harry Reid. "You'll have to ask the leadership, ma'am," he said. "I have a record of honesty and integrity."

I caught up to Hopkins later. "He was evasive," she said of Wolf's response. "I just wanted to know why the institution is so paralyzed, why they're so damn partisan. That's what makes politics so distasteful. All I wanted to hear was if he agreed and why it is that way."

Apparently, that's too much to ask from Frank Wolf. Pathetic.

But it's not just Genie Hopkins. Here's how Frank Wolf treats Marc Fisher - and by extension, all of his constituents.

Obviously frustrated by the nation's economic woes, Wolf made a passing reference to this being "a teachable moment."

What does that mean? He talked about the need, even in tough times, to invest much more in math, science and engineering, to build American know-how and innovation.

Are you saying that our priorities have been wrong, that there was something dishonest about politics that encouraged unrealistically low taxes, anti-intellectualism and spending beyond our means?

Wolf stood up. "It's getting cold out here," he said, and so it was. We walked to our cars.

Yeah, it's "getting cold" alright, Congressman - for your political career, that is.

Wolf Reality Check

2008-10-22T14:44:00.003-04:00

From the Feder campaign, a bit of reality for Frank Wolf.

Wolf Reality Check: Still Supports the Largest Tax Increase on the Middle Class in History...and Cuts in Medicare Too!

On Thursday Oct. 16, 2008 Congressman Wolf said: I think the proposal that has been made with regard to Senator McCain and many others. With regard to a $5000 tax credit: Most people receive their health insurance through their place of employment, that would also help employers large and small to do it. Also, the $5000 tax credit would allow you to take it some other place. For realtors to band together, for small businesses to band together. Also for the portability to take place. [Prince William County 100 Candidate Forum, 10/16/08]

Tuesday Oct. 21, 2008 Wolf's campaign manager Dan Scandling said: What Congressman Wolf has said is that tax credits are something to look at because they provide portability. No where, no way, in no shape did he say that "I support taxing your health care benefits." [Northern Virginia Daily, 10/21/08

Wednesday Oct. 22, 2008 Wolf's campaign manager Dan Scandling said: Wolf spoke well of McCain's tax credit idea, but "he hasn't endorsed any plan" [Northern Virginia Daily, 10/21/08]

REALITY CHECK: You can't support the McCain health care tax credit and not support taxing employee health care benefits and cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. The McCain plan specifically ties them together by proposing to pay for the tax cuts by taxing employee health benefits and cutting Medicare:

"John McCain would pay for his health plan with major reductions to Medicare and Medicaid, a top aide said, in a move that independent analysts estimate could result in cuts of $1.3 trillion over 10 years to the government programs...In the months since Sen. McCain introduced his health plan, statements made by his campaign have implied that the new tax credits he is proposing to help Americans buy health insurance would be paid for with other tax increases. But Douglas Holtz-Eakin, Sen. McCain's senior policy adviser, said Sunday that the campaign has always planned to fund the tax credits, in part, with savings from Medicare and Medicaid." [McCain Plans Federal Health Cuts, Wall Street Journal, 10/6/08]

"McCain's plan would cost $3.6 trillion over 10 years, the campaign said. McCain would pay for the program by eliminating the tax break employers get for offering insurance." [Tax Credits at the Heart of McCain's Health Care Proposal, CNN]
"Taxes on insurance benefits would be offset by a refundable tax credit: $5,000 for families and $2,500 for single people. At first, those credits are expected to cover the additional taxes for workers in most tax brackets. Over time, rising insurance costs could outstrip the credit." [Health care plans: Obama vs. McCain, USA Today]

"The Wolf campaign is trying to have it both ways, they want to claim the tax credits without explaining how they plan to pay for it," said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland. "The bottom line is that for almost a week now the Wolf campaign has been twisting itself into knots trying to claim it supports one without the other. Either Congressman Wolf doesn't understand what he's endorsing or he's just not being honest with the voters about how they plan to pay for this. The record is very clear: they're going to raise taxes and cut Medicare and Medicaid."

Debate Transcript Proves It: Wolf Supports McCain Health Benefits Tax!

2008-10-22T08:29:00.003-04:00

Moderator: What Measures would you suggest to improve the availability—and I'm going to include affordability—of health care without the system becoming socialist?

Congressman Wolf: We have to make health insurance more accessible and more affordable, we also have to make sure we keep it between the doctor and the patient and not involve the federal government.

I think the proposal that has been made with regard to Senator Kaine…Senator McCain and many others.

With regard to a $5000 tax credit: Most people receive their health insurance through their place of employment, that would also help employers large and small to do it.

Also, the $5000 tax credit would allow you to take it some other place. For realtors to band together, for small businesses to band together. Also for the portability to take place.

[Wolf goes on to talk about legislation he's supported for research and mental health parity]

Judy Feder: Let me talk a little bit about it, since you seem to favor it, Mr. McCain's plan.

Mr. McCain has said he want to deregulate the health insurance industry the way we so successfully deregulated the banking industry. I think that is not the way we want to go and let me tell you why:

He wants to tax our health care benefits. The experts tell us that when he does that, it's going to leave 20 million people losing the insurance they now have.

And he's going to send them to the market place with a $5000 tax credit for insurance that for a family costs $12,000. And it's not going to protect anybody from discrimination based on pre-existing conditions…

[Judy goes on to talk about McCain not being able to get health care and that she does not advocate a government takeover]

Moderator: One minute for rebuttal, Congressman Wolf would you like it?

Congressman Wolf: No

Again, note that Frank Wolf had the opportunity at the debate to deny that he supported John McCain's huge tax on health care benefits, but he said "no." Just as Wolf says "no" to the middle class in general, while he's saying "yes" to Big Oil and Big Pharma. Priorities, priorities...

Over-the-Top Attack Ad Reveals the Real Frank Wolf

2008-10-21T19:05:00.005-04:00

As you watch this ad, consider that this is about as far from the real Judy Feder as anyone can possibly imagine. It's also as far from the truth and over-the-top as a Sarah Palin interview or a Jeff Frederick mailer. But it IS very revealing about Frank Wolf, who also is busy denying that he endorsed John McCain's huge health care tax proposal, even though it's all on videotape! So much for Frank Wolf being a "good guy," a "moderate," truthful, or significantly better from the Fredericks, McCains and Palins of the world. Boy, is it ever time for a change in the 10th CD!

UPDATE: Here's the videotape of Frank Wolf endorsing John McCain's health care plan, and not denying it when Judy Feder calls him on it. Enjoy!

Help Put Judy on TV

2008-10-21T14:48:00.003-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

It’s go time.

You’ve already seen our first three commercials. They aired on cable in key markets across the 10th District – to build Judy’s profile and lay the groundwork for our big push in the final weeks of the campaign.

It’s time to go up on network TV. A strong network buy is key to our ability to win this race. This morning, we aired our first sport on network TV, but in order to make sure voters have the chance to see it as many times as possible before the election, we have to make sure we make the strongest media buy we can.

Wolf is on network as well, and we need your help to match him dollar-for-dollar.

Help us make a strong network buy. Pick the show you want the ad to run in, and then purchase the spot for us.

Below are the programs and actual costs per spot:

The Food Network- $23

The Daily Show- $53

The Colbert Report- $106 (2 spots)

Monday Night Football on ESPN- $150

Hardball on MSNBC- $265 (5 spots)

ABC 7 News at 12 - $500

Fox Morning News - $600

The View - $750

CBS 9 news at 6 - $865

Good Morning America - $1400

NBC 4 News at 5 - $1620

Judy has made a convincing case for change over the course of this campaign. We also have an incredibly strong ground game on behalf of the Obama-Warner-Feder ticket in VA-10.

But to win we need a strong broadcast buy. Contribute today to help us get our message out to voters in the 10th district.

Thanks for all you do,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

P.S. Remember to check the ad out by clicking here!

Judy Feder at AARP Forum

2008-10-21T14:26:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, Judy Feder attended an AARP in Leesburg. Here's an account of what she said, courtesy of Leesburg Today.

When it was Feder's turn, the two-time candidate for Wolf's 10th District seat quickly said the election turned on "choice about the future-more of the same or to move in a new direction."

After talking with voters for three years, Feder said it was clear on all the issues the country couldn't afford to go on as it has been. "It's too risky," she said.

Seniors were facing an economic crisis, and Feder said her aim if elected would be to provide oversight of the legislation that bailed out bad investments, and to protect taxpayers.

"We also need stronger limits on executive remuneration," she said, and more accountability on the mortgage crisis, with the ultimate goal of letting people stay in their homes. Restructuring people's mortgages or changing bankruptcy laws would bring stability to the housing market, Feder said.

To rebuild the country, "we need to bring back the $10 billion it takes every month to rebuild Iraq-to rebuild here and invest in transportation, roads and rail transportation needs, such as rail to Dulles."

Clean air, energy efficiency, with incentives for renewable solutions such as wind and solar, plus creating green jobs, were among Feder's goals.

But, nowhere is the call greater than in health care, Feder said. Guaranteeing that every American has benefits, a choice of plans and doctors when they're sick is an imperative, Feder said. If they're not happy with their choices, they should be able to choose between private and public plans.

Getting rid of preexisting conditions should be a top priority as well as improving Medicare, Medicaid and long-term healthcare. Wolf's bipartisan commission, she said, would not solve the problems.

"I want to make a health care system for everyone, avoid duplication, do wise investing, so we can deliver what works," Feder said, saying she has fought for affordable healthcare for "everyone" for years as dean of Georgetown University's Public Policy Institute.

Asked about the future of Medicare, Feder said it was a good, strong program, but could improve in certain areas, such as paperwork and access. She noted that "a much bigger problem than Social Security is the financing of Medicare and Medicaid, and the problem of rising healthcare costs."

The much touted private drug benefit plans that went into effect in 2003 with the purpose of making drugs cheaper because of competition have had the opposite effect of undermining Medicare, she said, and should not continue.

"There's no evidence the competition worked," Feder said.

Just because the economy is in dire condition and the country facing a $10-$11 trillion debt doesn't mean it should stop investing in areas such as clean energy and moving to renewables to protect the environment, she said.

"We in Loudoun have the capacity to be a critical technology center and to develop green jobs," she said.

Feder pointed to deregulation as the main source of the financial crisis, saying financial institutions and markets are not bad, but they need regulation so they're not "investing in stuff that has no value." Similarly, she said, it should have been obvious that things are interlocked, and when one thing goes down, so does another.

Feder also said she'd like to see the county go back to ideas like the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. "We do have the capacity to engage young people in service in ways we may have failed to do," Feder said.

By the way, Frank Wolf was there too, pretty much repeating the same ol' same ol' about his supposedly "bipartisan approach" (could have fooled me!), how he got Metro to Dulles (he did?), etc. Read about what Wolf had to say and note the clear differences between the two candidates. On November 4, the choice is clear: Judy Feder for Congress and "Farewell Frank!" :)

Panicked Wolf campaign gives "bad information" to reporters

2008-10-20T14:25:00.003-04:00

And now he's just outright lying:

Fact Check: Wolf Campaign Makes False Claim to Winchester Star
Wolf Campaign Misrepresents Feder Fundraising by More Than $100,000

McLean, VA— In the Monday October 20, 2008 edition of the Winchester Star [Feder, Wolf Run Neck-and-neck in Fundraising, 10/20/08] Wolf campaign manager Dan Scandling made the claim: “As of Sept. 30, had raised just $10,000 more than she had raised during her 10th District campaign in 2006”

The Facts: Judy Feder total raised as of September 30, 2008 was $1,745,085. The total raised by Judy Feder in 2006 according to the Center for Responsive Politics is $1,580,461. As of Sept. 30, 2008 Judy Feder had raised $164,624.000 more than she did during her 2006 campaign.

“It seems that over the weekend the Wolf campaign has gotten desperate. They’ve begun distorting the record and making false attacks with direct mail. Now they’re giving reporters bad information in attempt to deflect from their own fundraising problems,” said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland. “This is exactly why the voters in this district are looking for something new, they’re tired of the same old political bickering. Judy Feder plans to spend the next 15 days meeting voters and giving them another choice in this election, the more the Wolf campaign engages in these kinds of political tactics the more clear the choice becomes for voters on Election Day: change versus more of the same.”

Taking lessons from the McCain-Palin campaign or something, Frank?

"Desperate" Frank Wolf Breaks Pledge, Goes Negative on Judy Feder!

2008-10-20T14:22:00.004-04:00

Getting a little worried, Frank?

Congressman Wolf Breaks Pledge to Refrain from Partisan Negative Attacks
Campaign Launches Desperate Negative Attack on Feder

McLean, VA- In a sign of increasing desperation, Congressman Wolf has broken a pledge that has been the central focus of his effort to get re-elected: that the voters can count on him to stay above the fray and refrain from negative, partisan attacks on his opponents. Over the weekend, voters of Virginia's 10th District began receiving attack mailers from the Wolf campaign that are full of distortions and outright falsehoods.

"This kind of behavior is pretty surprising given Mr. Wolf's insistence that he doesn't engage in negative partisan attacks. He's clearly not being honest with the voters," said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland.

Perhaps the most egregious attack launched by the Wolf campaign is the notion that Feder supports tax increases. In reality, Congressman Wolf has proposed the largest tax increase on the middle class in history. During the debate last week in Manassas, Congressman Wolf endorsed Senator McCain's plan to tax health care benefits.

The McCain-Wolf health care plan would leave millions without health insurance and would shift costs to individuals and working families who are already hurting. Congressman Wolf's plan for a new tax credit for health care is paid for by taxing employees' health benefits for the first time ever. This tax punishes those who currently have real health insurance, and over time will result in higher taxes for tens of millions of middle-class families.

"I suppose it's to be expected, when you don't have any issues to run on, the only option you have is to call your opponent names and distort the record by making false claims. That's clearly the strategy they're pursuing," concluded McFarland.

I can just hear that song now. How does it go again? Oh yeah: "na na na na, na na na, hey heyyyy, good bye!" :)

Feder vs. Wolf: Here's the Debate

2008-10-17T21:33:00.002-04:00

Judy won the debate "walking away"

2008-10-17T14:40:00.001-04:00

From the Feder campaign...

Last night Judy took on Frank Wolf in their first debate of the campaign. It won't surprise you that Judy won it walking away, making a strong, convincing case for change.

What surprised us all was Wolf’s endorsement of the McCain plan to tax health care benefits. The McCain plan represents the largest middle class tax increase in history.

The McCain-Wolf tax would make it more expensive for employers to provide coverage, unraveling the system and causing 20 million people to lose their coverage.

The McCain-Wolf plan would force people to seek insurance in the individual market, with higher costs, fewer benefits and no protections for pre-existing conditions.

Judy will work with Barack Obama to fix our broken health care system, not tax it. But she can’t get to work unless we win on November 4th.

In the financial reports released on Wednesday, Judy reported out-raising Wolf by $170,000. Thanks to your support, we've never been in a stronger position to win.

Contribute today to help us reach our goal of $100,000 raised online in October.

We only have 18 days left to change the direction of our country and America simply can’t afford the McCain-Wolf health care tax.

Contribute today to help us reach our $100,000 goal.

Thank you for your support,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Frank Wolf Supports Largest Middle Class Tax Increase in History!

2008-10-17T11:38:00.003-04:00

From the Feder campaign, bolding added for emphasis.

October Debate Surprise: Wolf Supports Largest Middle Class Tax Increase in History

Congressman Wolf Supports McCain's Radical Health Care Tax

McLean, VA — In a stunning reversal of his position against tax increases, yesterday Congressman Wolf endorsed the largest middle class tax increase in history. During the Thursday evening debate in Manassas, Congressman Wolf endorsed Senator McCain's plan to tax health care benefits.

"Last night, after 28 years of zero leadership on reforming the health care system, we finally heard the truth about Congressman Wolf's plan for health care reform: that while he would offer tax credits to help families pay for insurance, he would pay for them by taxing health care benefits for the first time in history," said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland. "Even more disturbing, is that what Congressman Wolf failed to mention is that while the McCain-Wolf health care tax would come directly out of taxpayer's pockets, the tax credit would go directly to the insurance companies. It's a typical Washington bait and switch."

The McCain-Wolf health care plan would leave millions without health insurance and would shift costs to individuals and working families who are already hurting. Congressman Wolf's plan for a new tax credit for health care is paid for by taxing employees' health benefits for the first time ever. This tax punishes those who currently have real health insurance, and over time will result in higher taxes for tens of millions of middle-class families.

In addition, by taxing employee health benefits, the McCain-Wolf plan will make it more expensive for employers to provide coverage. As a result, independent analyses show that employers could drop 20 million people from coverage and force them to seek insurance in the individual market, with higher costs, fewer benefits and no protections for pre-existing conditions.

"That Congressman Wolf would support such a thing is almost stunning. Either he hasn't been up front with the voters about his position on taxes, or he simply doesn't understand the proposed plan he just endorsed," said McFarland. "Either way, it's definitely the gaffe of the campaign season given how badly this issue has gone for McCain in the presidential race. Instead of fixing health care, they want to tax it? If Congressman Wolf believes that raising taxes and taxing employees health care benefits for the first time in history are the way to win re-election in Virginia's 10th district, he's completely out of touch," concluded McFarland.

Wow. After 28 years in Congress, Frank Wolf has completely lost it.

Feder Outraised Wolf by $170,000 in 3rd Quarter

2008-10-17T07:43:00.004-04:00

More good news, as Judy Feder continues her strong challenge to 28-year incumbent Frank Wolf "in sheep's clothing."

Luke McFarland, Feder's campaign manager, said that the campaign spent much of its money earlier to raise Feder's profile. Feder, a former Georgetown University professor, lost to Wolf in 2006.

McFarland noted that Feder, who is known for her strength in fundraising, significantly outraised Wolf in the period, collecting $538,072 from July 1 through Sept. 30. Wolf raised $366,185 in the same time frame. "We feel really good. We're peaking at the right time," McFarland said.

And presumably, Feder's money totals don't even count the fundraisers this week with Hillary Clinton, Jim Webb and Barney Frank. Those should have raised significant amounts of money for Judy to use in the last 2 1/2 weeks of the campaign. Go Judy!

Jim Webb: ""We need people who know how to think"

2008-10-16T11:48:00.003-04:00

There's a great article about Judy Feder by Julia O'Donaghue in the October 15 issue of the Great Falls Connection. I particular liked this part:

"She is very well known and very well respected," said Linda Blumberg, who does health care policy research for the Urban Institute.

Feder's expertise coincides with rising importance of health care; voters in several polls have listed rising health care costs as their second biggest concern next to the economy, said Blumberg, who worked with Feder when she was a member of the Clinton administration.

"She has the ability to discriminate between different options and know what is going to work and what is not going to work. … There are lots of different analyses of health care reform and a real variance in the quality of those analyses. She can tell the difference between what is good work and what is not good quality work," said Blumberg.

Feder’s analytic background could also be useful when tackling public policy issues other than health care, said several of her supporters.

"We need people who know how to think. … Judy worked in government and understands government," said Sen. Jim Webb (D-Va.) at a McLean fundraiser for Feder.

As usual, Jim Webb hits the nail on the head. With Judy Feder in Congress, Virginia's 10th District will have someone who understands how government works and who "knows how to think." In addition, they'll have someone who shares the values of the district, who has tremendous backbone, and who will work harder than anyone for the interests of her constituents. And just think, for Judy Feder to be your congresswoman, all you have to do is walk into the polling booth on November 4 and say "Farewell Frank!" Now that's nott so hard. :)

A Quick Way to Help Judy Feder!

2008-10-15T12:51:00.002-04:00

Judy's in a tight race to win this contest, and it would be great if she did. Thanks!

PFAW's competition for PROGRESSIVE House candidates-- no nominal Democrats from the Republican wing of the Democratic Party on their list-- ends tonight at midnight (Pacific Time). A few minutes ago they crashed through the $100,000 mark. The 3 winners get cash prizes from People For the American Way's Voter Alliance and matching funds from the DCCC and Jared Polis's campaign.

Although anything can happen in the next 15 hours, it seems to be coming down to a contest between Judy Feder (D-VA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Dennis Shulman (D-NJ), Vic Wulsin (D-OH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), and Russ Warner (D-CA).

The second and third prizes are based on # of donors not total amounts of cash, so a $1 donation means as much as a $1,000 donation. If you want to play:

http://www.actblue.com/page/peopleforprogressives

Feder on Housing Crisis, Financial Bailout

2008-10-14T07:48:00.002-04:00

InsideNOVA is out with an article, "Feder wants to fix housing crisis in Manassas." Here are a few highlights:

*Feder says she "know[s] people there are hurting" and that "There is a lot of concern they have being forgotten in this financial crisis, that the attention is going towards Wall Street, not sufficiently to them."

*On the financial bailout package that Frank Wolf voted for, Feder says "she would have fought more to close the existing bankruptcy loophole that prevents refinancing of a primary mortgage" and also "would have fought for more limitations on executive compensations in the bill." According to Feder, those elements of the package "weren’t anywhere near as strong as they should have been."

*Finally, Feder is excited about her chances on November 4, and says, "It’s time to get out there and bring my voice and the voices that are not being heard in this district, to this test."

Let's make it happen! To learn more about Judy or to help her campaign, please click here and help bring change to the 10th CD. Thanks.

When Will Frank "The Self-Proclaimed Moderate" Wolf Condemn Jeff "The Extremist" Frederick?

2008-10-13T08:19:00.003-04:00

If you missed it, see here for more on the outrageous remarks by Republican Party of Virginia chairman Jeff Frederick comparing Barack Obama to Osama bin Laden. The story was first reported by Karen Tumulty of Time Magazine:

The McCain campaign invited me to visit Frederick and the Gainesville operation on Saturday morning, to get a first-hand glimpse of its ground game in Prince William County, Virginia, a fast-growing area about 30 miles from Washington, D.C.

With so much at stake, and time running short, Frederick did not feel he had the luxury of subtlety. He climbed atop a folding chair to give 30 campaign volunteers who were about to go canvassing door to door their talking points — for instance, the connection between Barack Obama and Osama bin Laden: "Both have friends that bombed the Pentagon," he said. "That is scary." It is also not exactly true — though that distorted reference to Obama's controversial association with William Ayers, a former 60s radical, was enough to get the volunteers stoked. "And he won't salute the flag," one woman added, repeating another myth about Obama. She was quickly topped by a man who called out, "We don't even know where Senator Obama was really born." Actually, we do; it's Hawaii.

As I'm sure most sane people would agree, this type of rhetoric - comparing the Democratic presidential nominee (and soon-to-be 44th President!) in any way, shape or form to the evil mastermind of 9/11 - is unacceptable. Obviously, it's false; Obama was a little kid (just 10 years old) when the Weather Underground planted a bomb in a Pentagon restroom, and Bill Ayers is NOT Barack Obama's friend). Besides being completely false (and unhinged), Frederick's comments are also ironic, given that John McCain has criticized Barack Obama for supposedly being too aggressive in his stance towards capturing or killing Osama bin Laden. It's also ironic given that John McCain says he "knows" how to get bin Laden, but won't share that information with the military, the President, the CIA, or others who might be able to act on that "knowledge."

Anyway, here's the bottom line. What Jeff Frederick said in Time Magazine is stupid, hateful, and completely beyond the pale. It's no better than the racist and anti-Muslim rantings of Bobby Lee May, who was forced to resign a few days ago as chairman of Sen. John McCain’s presidential campaign in Buchanan County. So, when will the "leaders" of Virginia's Republican Party - Bob McDonnell, Bill Bolling, etc. - demand Jeff Frederick's resignation as chairman of the RPV? When will John McCain and Sarah Palin repudiate Frederick's remarks, just as John McCain grabbed the microphone away from a bigoted supporter who called Obama an "Arab" (as if there's anything wrong with that)? If these people do NOT repudiate Frederick and force his resignation, can we conclude that they agree with his remarks? What about Frank "The So-Called Moderate" Wolf? What's it gonna be, guys?

P.S. Remember, this wasn't some offhand remark by Frederick; he said it knowing that a reporter from TIME MAGAZINE was in the room taking notes for a story! Imagine what he says when the media isn't present?!?

UPDATE: I agree with The Anonymous Liberal:

...The McCain campaign is playing with fire. They are actively and intentionally encouraging racism, xenophobia, and wildly paranoid and inaccurate beliefs about who Barack Obama is. It's dangerous and if it's not stopped, it may well lead to violence. It is several orders of magnitude more serious and more reckless than even the most despicable tactics used by Republicans in recent presidential elections. When something bad happens, it will look crystal clear in retrospect what led to it. We shouldn't have to wait for that to happen.

UPDATE #2: Check out the "outright racism from the RPV," according to NLS. Believe it or not, this is from the RPV website, refers to a "Black Value System," talks about Obama being "The Messiah" and Sarah Palin as "very attractive." Jeff Frederick & Co. are truly bizarre. When will Frank Wolf condemn Frederick and demand his resignation, or does Wolf approve of Frederick's behavior?

UPDATE #3: According to the Washington Post:

James E. Hyland, chairman of the Fairfax County Republican Committee, said he thinks that the GOP efforts to link Obama to Ayers could backfire.

"I don't think the associations with Ayers is going to work in Fairfax," Hyland said. "What we are looking for up here is answers on the economy, experience and impact of [McCain's and Obama's] policies on the federal workforce."

Good for Mr. Hyland, now what about Frank Wolf?

Hillary Clinton for Judy Feder!

2008-10-10T20:09:00.002-04:00

Definitely check this out if you can!

Please Join Special Guest Senator Hillary Clinton for a Reception in Honor of Judy Feder Candidate for Congress in Virginia’s 10th district

Tuesday, October 14, 2008
From 3:00 to 4:30 PM
1099 New York Ave, NW
Washington DC, 20001

With Hosts
Sam & Sara Feder, Kim Griffin & Tim Simeone, and Bill Hohengarten & David Knudson

Contribution Levels

Individual
$2300-Host $1000-Sponsor $500-Friend $250-Guest $100-Individual

PAC
$5000 Host $2500 Sponsor

Click Here to RSVP!

For more information, call or email Julia Druhan at (703) 388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

How's Frank Wolf Going to Help With Any of This?

2008-10-10T14:40:00.001-04:00

Short answer? He's not. Vote Judy Feder!

Barney Frank Reception for Judy Feder

2008-10-09T12:47:00.001-04:00

This looks like an excellent event with one of the smartest and funniest people on Capitol Hill, Barney Frank. Check it out!

You Are Cordially Invited
To Join those Interested in Health Care Reform
At a reception in support of:
Judy Feder
The Democratic Nominee for U.S. Congress 10th District of Virginia

With Special Guest
Representative Barney Frank

Tuesday October 14, 2008
6:00 pm-8:00 pm

Location:

1323 Darnall Drive
McLean, Virginia 22101

Host Committee Chairs
Eileen O’Grady, Neal Neuberger, Mary Ella Payne, Wilma Bowers

Supporter up to $100 Friend $100-250
Patron $1000 Sponsor $500

You can make a secure on-line contribution at www.judyfeder.com

Judy Feder for Congress
6818 Tennyson Drive
McLean, VA 22101
RSVP By October 12 to Julia Druhan at (703)388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions are not accepted. Federal law requires us to use best efforts to collect the name, address, occupation, and name of employer of individuals who contribution exceeds $200 in a calendar year.

Hard Hitting New Ad Against Frank Wolf

2008-10-08T11:27:00.001-04:00

From the Feder campaign...

We’re up with our latest ad across the 10th district!

Frank Wolf's “hands off” approach to Wall Street and his 92 % support of George Bush on the economy and Iraq helped lead us to where we are today, and it's just another reason we need real change in Virginia-10 and our country.

With less than four weeks to go, your support has never been more critical. We’re about to make our broadcast TV buy and we need your help to make it as strong as possible.

We're challenging our supporters to help us raise $100,000 online in October to give us the resources we need to win in 27 days!

Contribute today to help us reach our $100,000 goal.

People in the tenth district want change in Washington and our new ad shows that Frank Wolf is not going to deliver the change we need. Voting consistently with George Bush on the economy, on Iraq and opposing the reproductive rights of women isn’t change –it’s just more of the same.

Making a contribution today ensures that we can continue to deliver Judy’s message of change to the voters of the 10th District.

Contribute today to help us reach our $100,000 goal.

Thanks for all you do,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Video of Judy Feder on the Trail

2008-10-07T13:41:00.000-04:00

I’ve seen Judy Feder speak in a variety of different settings over the last three years and I’m always amazed at the energy she has and how passionate she is about public service. Once again, this came across in her speech last night as she told the audience why she believes she should be the next Congresswoman from Virginia’s 10th Congressional District.

During her speech, Judy started by thanking all of the students who were in attendance and pointed out that we had less than 30 days before an election in which we were going to decide whether we are going to turn things around or keep digging the hole that the current administration. She also pointed out how so many people she’s been talking to during the campaign realize that the choice that we can’t afford is more of the same and Frank Wolf is no “agent of change.” The 10th Congressional District has been facing many of the same problems that it faced in 1980 when Wolf was first elected, in fact, but he has simply failed to properly address the issues. That is why the district needs a change in representation.

The following video is just a highlight of how Judy truly is running to bring about the change that is necessary.

Frank Wolf Used to Represent "Communist Country?"

2008-10-07T10:15:00.002-04:00

As Frank Wolf stood by the other day without uttering a peep of protest, John McCain's brother told a crowd of Republicans that Arlington and Alexandria are "Communist Country."

Joe McCain called Virginia a "very, very important" state for each presidential candidate and noted that he identified with the state, as a Virginian himself for 10 years. Joe McCain also noted that, prior to making Virginia his permanent home, every third year or so he would be assigned to Arlington or Alexandria, which he referred to as "Communist country."

That remark made waves with some Virginians and Loudoun County Democratic Committee Chairman Tim Buchholz Monday issued a statement denouncing the remark.

Buchholz said he was appalled at Joe McCain's comment, which he called "either a serious insult to the citizens of Northern Virginia, many of whom are veterans, or a crass attempt at humor during a time of crisis that requires bipartisan cooperation." Buchholz also noted that "Unlike the McCain-Wolf event, the Virginia Democrats for Obama event [held in Sterling Saturday] focused on a substantive discussion of the issues."

Of course, Joe McCain's comment was ridiculous on so many levels it's hard to even know where to start. For instance, John McCain has one of his countless homes in Arlington, as well as his national campaign HQ. Arlington is the home of the Pentagon, Arlington National Cemetery, the Iwo Jima Memorial, and one of the lowest property taxes in the region. Even more amusing, Frank Wolf represented Arlington in Congress until his district was gerrymandered back in 1990. That's right: Frank Wolf used to represent "Communist Country." So why was Wolf silent as he stood on stage while Joe McCain made his offensive remark? You'd think a "moderate" like Frank Wolf might not like that kind of talk. :)

Jim Webb for Judy Feder - October 13

2008-10-06T11:24:00.004-04:00

Please Join us
for a Fundraiser in Honor of

Judy Feder
Candidate for US House of Representatives
From Virginia’s Tenth District

With Special Guest
Senator Jim Webb

Monday October 13, 2008
From 6pm to 8 pm
Salona
The home of Karen and Dan DuVal
1214 Buchanan St
McLean, VA 22101

Click Here to RSVP!!

$1000 Host $500 Sponsor
$250 Friend $100 Individual

Feder for Congress
6818 Tennyson Dr McLean, VA 22101
www.JudyFeder.com

Please RSVP to Julia Druhan at 703-388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions are not accepted. Federal law requires us to use best efforts to collect the name, address, occupation, and name of employer of individuals whose contribution exceeds $200 in an Election Cycle.

Will Frank Wolf Condemn Sarah Palin for Opposing Sudan Divestiture?

2008-10-05T13:51:00.005-04:00

Hey, Rep. Wolf, maybe next time you're on stage with Sarah Palin, you might want to ask her why she opposed divestment from Sudan and its genocidal regime. Perhaps you could also inquire as to why she outright lied about this subject the other night in her debate with Joe Biden. The fact is, Sarah Palin "initially opposed the divestiture" and the "Alaska Permanent Fund still invests in companies blacklisted by the Save Darfur Coalition."

I just thought you'd be interested in this, Rep. Wolf, since you are so passionate (and rightly so) about this subject. Will you condemn Sarah Palin for opposing divestiture and for lying about the fact that she did?

P.S. See 3:00 of the video above for Sarah Palin's lie about Sudan.

The Bush-McCain-Wolf Economy Continues to Bleed

2008-10-03T16:17:00.005-04:00

If you like this, I guess Frank Wolf's your man!

The American economy lost 159,000 jobs in September, the worst month of retrenchment in five years, the government reported on Friday, enhancing fears that an already pronounced downturn had entered a more painful stage that could last well into next year.

Employment has diminished for nine consecutive months, resulting in the elimination of 760,000 jobs, according to the Labor Department report. Most of that occurred before the trauma of recent weeks, when a string of prominent Wall Street institutions nearly collapsed, prompting the government to propose a $700 billion rescue package.

Yeah, Republican economics is really doing wonders for America. Not. The point here, by the way, is not that this dismal situation is all Frank Wolf's fault, or John McCain's fault, or even George W. Bush's fault. The point is that all of those guys have bought into a bankrupt - literally and figuratively - economic philosophy of huge deficits (budget and trade), lax oversight, deregulation, favors to the richest Americans, "trickle down," etc. - that have gotten us into this mess. That's exactly why we need a fundamental change, and that's exactly why Frank Wolf should be replaced by Judy Feder on November 4.

Great Event Yesterday For Judy Feder With Rep. Chris Van Hollen

2008-10-02T16:56:00.001-04:00

I attended an event in Falls Church for Judy Feder which featured Representative Chris Van Hollen. For those of you who don’t already know, Congressman Van Hollen represents Maryland’s 8th Congressional District and also serves as the head of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (DCCC). The conference room that the event was held in was filled with people who have been active supporters of Judy’s candidacy and there was definitely a feeling of excitement as people prepared for the long hours of the final stretch. “In the end,” one person told me, “all of the hard work will be worth it if it means seeing Judy elected to Congress.”

As many people who have been following this race know, Judy is considered one of the country’s leading experts on health care policy. Congressman Van Hollen therefore used his speech to stress how her presence in the Congress would be extremely useful because one of the major concerns that the next Congress will be figuring out how to improve health care outcomes in a cost effective manner. He continued by talking about how Judy’s time as dean of public policy at Georgetown and work with the Clinton administration “is a great testament to what she can help us do in the Congress on a whole range of issues. When you are the dean of public policy at Georgetown, you got to cover the canvass from national security issues, to health care, to all of the other domestic issues that we face.”

The Congressman also pointed out how the presidential race is going to be a close in Virginia and, combined with the fact Mark Warner has a big lead in the Senate race, the energy that race has sparked will potentially do a lot of good for Judy’s campaign. For instance, there are a lot of newly registered voters in Virginia and Van Hollen noted that most of them aren’t registering to vote for John McCain. Educating the public about the Congressional race will therefore be a great way of encouraging these new voters to actually cast a vote for Congress. This can be done by highlighting Judy’s great qualifications and highlighting how a President Obama would need a working majority in Congress to ensure that meaningful legislation is passed.

Perhaps in an attempt to provide the audience with a little extra motivation to get out there and work hard for Judy Feder, Congressman Van Hollen brought up the fact that one of his colleagues won in 2006 by only 83 votes. With the race in the 10th being so close, you never know if a similar margin might decide this race. The potential for such a close race ultimately means that if everybody in the room turned out just a few extra voters, then it could make a huge difference in the end.

Before taking questions largely about the economic bailout currently being debated on the Hill, Congressman Van Hollen pointed out how Judy has been doing a great job of not only energizing the Democratic base but also reaching out to Independents and moderate Republicans as well. Plus, her fundraising numbers have been excellent which will really help the campaign reach out to undecided voters in the closing weeks of the election. He ended his speech by saying that he’s confident that he’ll have the opportunity to serve with Judy Feder in the next Congress and bring about the change we need.

Judy Blows Past Another Fundraising Goal!

2008-10-02T16:38:00.002-04:00

Great news from Judy Feder!

Earlier this week, I asked you to help me reach my online fundraising goal of $25,000 before the FEC filing deadline on Tuesday evening. You blew past that number contributing $40,299, with hundreds of donations in the final hours of the quarter!

Not only did we surpass our online fundaising goal, but thanks to all of your support, we have had our strongest quarter ever! Your support is allowing us to run the campaign we need to win on November 4th.

There are only 33 days left until Election Day and we are pulling out all of the stops to make sure we do our part to turn Virginia blue on November 4th, starting with the Tenth District. We have just over a month to make history nationwide, and I am excited for the challenge and thankful for all of your support along the way.

Thanks so much for all you do,

Judy Feder

Frank Wolf on John McCain: Liar, Clueless or Both?

2008-10-02T14:12:00.003-04:00

I bet you didn't know that not only is Frank Wolf an amazing congressman (snark), he's also a top-notch political analyst. Check this out from September 12.

Question: ...The McCain-Obama race is tighter in Virginia than a lot of people thought it would be...

Wolf: I don't think it is anymore, I think it's breaking loose...I have sensed that in the last two weeks that McCain has surged. I think he got a tremendous bounce out of the convention...I was at a rally that they had in Fairfax; it was the largest rally ever held in Northern Virginia...23,000 people in the middle of the day...

Wolf then goes on to talk about what a "reformer" McCain is, how much "change" he'll bring, how he'll "bring Democrats together to work on issues." He specifically cites "Traitor" Joe Lieberman's speech at the Republican National Convention as an example of this.

Now here's the truth. First, McCain has NOT surged; in fact, he's trailing Barack Obama by about 2-3 points in Virginia. Second, the Republican rally in Fairfax only had 8,000 people, NOT 23,000 people, that's just a blatant lie (as is the statement that it was the "largest rally ever held in Northern Virginia; that's beyond laughable). Third, John McCain's campaign has been divisive, mean spirited, malicious, and false - the exact opposite of "change," "reform," or bringing Democrats to work with him on issues.

The latest case in point: McCain's disastrous, last-minute attempt at intervening in the financial rescue package negotiations and his blame game and playing politics (e.g., his non-suspension of his campaign) when our country's economy is at stake. Yet Frank Wolf really thinks this is what our country needs after 8 long years of Republican misrule? Well, I guess you are pretty much a rubber stamp for George W. Bush, as is John McCain, what else could you think?

What a joke.

Feder Fundraiser in Falls Church with Chris Van Hollen

2008-10-01T13:11:00.004-04:00

Check it out if you can!

Please Join
Tom Greeson
For a meet and greet in honor of
Judy Feder
Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives

From Virginia’s Tenth District

With Special Guest

Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee Chairman

Rep. Chris Van Hollen

>Wednesday October 1, 2008

From 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM

At the offices of Reed Smith LLP
3110 Fairview Park Drive
Suite 1440
Falls Church, VA 22042

Contributions Welcome, but not required

Judy Feder for Congress

6818 Tennyson Dr. McLean, VA 22101

www.JudyFeder.com

Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions are not accepted. Federal law requires us to use best efforts to collect the name, address, occupation, and name of employer of individuals who contribution exceeds $200 in a calendar year.

Jim Webb; "4 for Nov. 4"

2008-09-30T11:29:00.003-04:00

From Jim Webb's "Born Fighting" PAC.

We have a chance to achieve a significant victory this Fall in Virginia. There are four House seats currently held by Republicans where the Democrats have a chance to win on November 4.

Facing today's economic crisis, we need new leaders who will fight for the people of Virginia to secure our future and economic fairness. Two years ago, you helped step up for me in the final weeks to carry us to victory. Today, I'm asking you to do the same for Gerry Connolly, Judy Feder, Glenn Nye, and Tom Perriello before tonight's September 30th fundraising deadline.

http://www.actblue.com/page/4seats

In Virginia's 11th Congressional District, Democrat Gerry Connolly is in a close race in a district for a seat currently held by a Republican. Gerry Connolly is Chairman of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. Gerry is a dedicated community leader, and his common-sense approach to community issues has earned him countless awards for his work on the environment, improving public safety, and transportation.

This November, Gerry faces a tough battle against a well-funded and wealthy businessman. Help make sure Gerry has the resources to stay competitive in this critical House race.

http://www.actblue.com/page/4seats

Judy Feder is running in Virginia's 10th Congressional District against a 14-term incumbent Republican. At the Department of Health and Human Services, Judy worked to expand health insurance coverage, manage Medicare and Medicaid effectively, and assure the safety of food and drugs. One of the nation's leading experts on health policy, Judy is respected for her work as a scholar, public servant, educator, and independent advocate for America's families.

Two years ago, Judy came just short of winning this Seat, but with your help she'll win this November. Please donate to Judy's campaign before the deadline at midnight tonight.

http://www.actblue.com/page/4seats

Glenn Nye, running in Virginia's 2nd Congressional District, is a former Foreign Service officer who volunteered to serve in conflict zones in Afghanistan, Kosovo and Iraq. He received the State Department's Superior Honor Award for leading a rescue of 26 American citizens and negotiating the release of an American hostage. Glenn and I share the belief that the Bush Administration has led our country into a misguided war in Iraq while neglecting priorities at home, and that we must change the direction of our nation.

Glenn's opponent has already started to launch false personal attacks against Glenn. We can't let the right-wing smear Glenn's record.

Please help Glenn Nye fight back against the attacks. Contribute before the midnight deadline!

http://www.actblue.com/page/4seats

Tom Perriello, running in Virginia's 5th Congressional District, has spent his entire adult life fighting for human rights. Tom worked to end atrocities in Liberia and Sierra Leone, which had suffered long civil wars fueled by blood diamonds. Tom also helped found FaithfulAmerica.org and Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, which bring together faith communities to fight for health care, supporting a higher minimum wage, environmental stewardship, and responsible solutions in Iraq.

With tonight's FEC filing deadline just a few hours away, Tom needs us to help him end the quarter strong. Click here to donate to Tom's campaign before midnight!

http://www.actblue.com/page/4seats

Since 2001, the Democratic Party has enjoyed great success in Virginia. This November, we have a chance to continue to build upon this and elect 4 new members to the U.S. House. This is a critical time for candidates, and I hope you'll be able to help Gerry, Judy, Glenn, and Tom in these final hours before the midnight deadline.

Sincerely,

Senator Jim Webb
U.S. Senator

Bailout Fiasco Demonstrates Why We Need Change More Than Ever

2008-09-29T15:37:00.004-04:00

Yes, I realize that Frank Wolf voted for the bailout legislation today. The problem is, for the past 20 years Frank Wolf has been voting for the policies that GOT US INTO THIS MESS in the first place. Now, all of a sudden, he votes to bail out his buddies on Wall Street, after voting in lockstep with an Administration that has favored the wealthy, powerful and well-connected every step of the way leading up to this meltdown? Wonderful! Such leadership! Brilliant! (note: snarky blogger sarcasm alert)

Jim Hock, Steve Shannon and Jim Moran for Judy

2008-09-26T11:17:00.002-04:00

Please Join Jim Hock, Delegate Steve Shannon, U.S. Representative Jim Moran for a Fundraiser in Honor of

Judy Feder
Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives
From Virginia's Tenth District

Monday October 6, 2008
From 6:30 to 8:30 PM
at the Home of Jim Hock and Kellie Meiman Hock
2622 North Upshur Street, Arlington VA 22207

Contribution Levels:
$500 Host
$250 Sponsor
$100 Friend
$50 Supporter

Judy Feder for Congress
6818 Tennyson Dr. McLean, VA 22101
www.JudyFeder.com

Please RSVP to Julia Druhan at 703-388-2813 or Julia@judyfeder.com

Contributions are not tax deductible. Corporate contributions are not accepted. Federal law requires us to use best efforts to collect the name, address, occupation, and name of employer of individuals who contribution exceeds $200 in a calendar year.

Paid for and Authorized by Feder for Congress.

Georgetown Hoya Profiles Judy Feder

2008-09-25T16:02:00.003-04:00

The Georgetown Hoya profiles Judy Feder. Here's an excerpt (bolding added by me for emphasis):

Looking back to 2006, Feder says a lot of things have changed.

“Warner had lost our district by nine points in ’01, Kaine won it by four points in ’05,” she says of the previous two gubernatorial races in the state that both went to the Democrats.

Virginia’s diverse 10th congressional district, home of the sprawling D.C. suburbs of McLean as well as the historic Civil War town of Manassas, known for the Battle of Bull Run, has seen a demographic shift that has largely benefited the Democratic Party.

And the changing demographics have Democrats betting that they grab an upset.

“She’s on the short list for the democrats for likely winning races,” [former Congressional Budget Office director Alice] Rivlin said. “She stands a better chance than she did two years ago.”

Feder says she has learned a lot over the last two years and insists that while she “got in to win” in 2006, she knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task.

“It’s a district where voters like to know their candidates, and I got in late,” she says. “But I gave Mr. Wolf the toughest race he’s had in 24 years. It takes a while.”

Read the entire article here, and go Judy! :)

Wolf Votes Against Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights Act

2008-09-24T04:58:00.003-04:00

Ah, Frank Wolf. One thing you can always count on from him is to vote in party lockstep. Yesterday, he did so again this time against HR 5244, the "Credit Cardholders’ Bill of Rights Act of 2008." This bill would "amend the Truth in Lending Act to establish fair and transparent practices relating to the extension of credit under an open end consumer credit plan." So...Frank Wolf is AGAINST "fair and transparent practices" in lending? Or is he simply unwilling to buck the Republican Party line on anything? Either way, it's not good, which is exactly why it's time to say "Farewell Frank!" :)

Upcoming Coordinated Canvasses

2008-09-23T15:55:00.003-04:00

If you'd like to help Judy Feder, Mark Warner and Barack Obama, please come to one of the canvasses listed here on Saturday, September 27 at 9 am (Winchester, Ashburn, Leesburg) or 10 am (the other ones listed). Thanks!

Winchester: Daily Grind Coffee Shop, 166 Costello Dr
Ashburn: Coordinated Office, 44340 Premier Plaza Suite 130
Leesburg: LCDC HQ, 10 S. King St
Springfield: Franklin Farm Shopping Center, Intersection of 7100 and Franklin Farm Road
Hunter Mill (Herndon): Baja Fresh, 2405 Centreville Rd.
Manassas: Harris Pavillion - at the corner of West St. and Center St., 9116 Center St
Dranesville (McLean): NoVa Coordinated Office, 7600 Colshire Drive

Feder Blasts McCain on Plan to Let Health Insurance Companies "Run Wild"

2008-09-22T08:35:00.002-04:00

From the Democratic National Committee, this event was held Sunday afternoon:

In Front of McCain's HQ, Judy Feder, Barbara Favola, and Concerned Virginians Blast McCain's New Call to Let Health Insurance Companies Run Wild

While markets reel from disastrous Bush-McCain economic policies, Republican nominee now wants to put Americans' health care at risk with the same approach Republicans took with banking

Arlington, VA--In light of this week's Wall Street upheaval, today Judy Feder, Democratic nominee for US Representative from Virginia's 10th Congressional District, Barbara Favola, Vice Chair of the Arlington County Board and a member of Virginia's State Health Board, and concerned Virginians held a press conference outside of John McCain's campaign headquarters in Arlington, VA to challenge McCain's new magazine article calling for the deregulation of the health insurance companies "just as we have done over the last decade in banking." McCain's article was just published in the September/October issue of Contingencies, the magazine of the American Academy of Actuaries. In spite of the unprecedented crisis created by Bush-McCain deregulatory policies, McCain wants to put Americans' health care at risk with the same approach.

So where does Frank Wolf stand on this? In lockstep with McBush as always, or what?

Judy Feder Speaks at Women for Obama rally

2008-09-19T20:43:00.000-04:00

7,021 views and counting!

2008-09-19T11:37:00.001-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

On Tuesday we gave our supporters the chance for a special sneak preview of our new ad, “History.” Hundreds of you chipped in $25 to help us put it on the air and get an early look at the new ad.

Yesterday, “History” went live on television screens across the 10th District and on YouTube. Since then we’ve had more than 7,000 YouTube views, our best total ever!

If you haven’t seen “History” yet you can watch it now by clicking below:

Judyfeder.com/video

With only 46 days left your support matters more than ever.

Make a donation today to help us increase increase our already strong ad buy and let everyone in the 10th District know that after 28 years Frank Wolf isn't going to bring us the change we need.

Judyfeder.com/contribute

Thanks for everything you’re doing,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

What Do John McCain and Frank Wolf Have Against American Jobs?

2008-09-18T16:03:00.003-04:00

You might be saying to yourself, "wait, this video's about John McCain not Frank Wolf." Except for one thing: McCain and Wolf aren't that far apart on these issues. Here's a good example: Frank Wolf was one of just 16 Republicans to vote against HR 4520, the "American Jobs Creation Act." The bill, which "[amended] the Internal Revenue Code to repeal the tax exclusion for extraterritorial income," passed 280-141, but not with Frank Wolf's. Instead words, Frank Wolf voted to continue giving tax incentives for corporations to locate overseas, not here in America. Sound familiar? Right, I thought so...

Judy Feder's New TV Ad Hits Wolf on Health Care

2008-09-17T12:00:00.001-04:00

Wolf Votes Against Comprehensive Energy Bill...Again

2008-09-17T10:40:00.002-04:00

What else is new? That's right, I know this is a shocker but Frank Wolf has voted "nay" yet again to a comprehensive energy bill, even though this one even had offshore oil drilling in it AND a provision for oil shale development. But nooooo...even THAT wasn't good enough for Frank Wolf, who apparently has morphed into a hard-core anti-environmentalist and pro-Big Oil shill in his third decade in Congress. The bill passed 236-189, by the way, with 15 Republicans and 221 Democrats voting "aye." Aside from the not-so-good stuff from an environmental perspective, here's the good stuff Frank Wolf voted against last night:

*Extend tax credits for renewable energy sources
*Establish a national renewable electricity standard
*Repeal subsidies to oil companies
*Increase investment in public transit
*Encourage greater energy efficiency

So, why did Frank Wolf vote against this bill? Apparently, he's totally in the pocket of Big Oil and will vote for nothing less than EVERYTHING ExxonMobil et al. tell him to vote for. Pathetic.

New TV Ad for Judy Feder

2008-09-16T16:33:00.003-04:00

From the Feder for Congress campaign...go Judy!

Exciting news -- our new ad hits the airwaves at the end of the week!

This new ad drives home the point that after 28 years Frank Wolf is not going to bring us the change we need in Washington.

Wolf hasn't written or sponsored a single bill in 28 years to address the rising cost of health care, and after three decades that's just not acceptable.

Make a contribution of $25 or more today and we'll email you a link to the new ad. You can watch it today --before anyone else sees it!

Contribute today to see our new ad!

With less than 50 days left, Judy's running stronger than ever. We know that Virginia's tenth district is hungry for change, and you've helped us get this far, but we need your continued support to finish the job!

If you make a contribution today you'll see our new ad first and help us increase our buy, allowing even more voters to hear Judy's message.

Contribute today to see our new ad!

With your help, we can change Washington and get quality, affordable health care for every American.

Thanks for your support,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

This is Frank Wolf's "economic philosophy" too

2008-09-15T16:29:00.004-04:00

The following remarks by Barack Obama earlier today, in response to the meltdown on Wall Street, were aimed at John McCain and "conservative" economics more broadly. Just remember, this is Frank Wolf's "economic philosophy" as well, no different than George W. Bush's, Dick Cheney's, or John McCain's. You might want to keep that in mind as you consider who would be better - Frank Wolf or Judy Feder - at helping get us out the economic mess we're in now.

This morning we woke up to some very serious and troubling news from Wall Street.

The situation with Lehman Brothers and other financial institutions is the latest in a wave of crises that are generating enormous uncertainty about the future of our financial markets. This turmoil is a major threat to our economy and its ability to create good-paying jobs and help working Americans pay their bills, save for their future, and make their mortgage payments.

The challenges facing our financial system today are more evidence that too many folks in Washington and on Wall Street weren't minding the store. Eight years of policies that have shredded consumer protections, loosened oversight and regulation, and encouraged outsized bonuses to CEOs while ignoring middle-class Americans have brought us to the most serious financial crisis since the Great Depression.

I certainly don't fault Senator McCain for these problems, but I do fault the economic philosophy he subscribes to. It's a philosophy we've had for the last eight years – one that says we should give more and more to those with the most and hope that prosperity trickles down to everyone else. It's a philosophy that says even common-sense regulations are unnecessary and unwise, and one that says we should just stick our heads in the sand and ignore economic problems until they spiral into crises.

Well now, instead of prosperity trickling down, the pain has trickled up – from the struggles of hardworking Americans on Main Street to the largest firms of Wall Street.

This country can't afford another four years of this failed philosophy. For years, I have consistently called for modernizing the rules of the road to suit a 21st century market – rules that would protect American investors and consumers. And I've called for policies that grow our economy and our middle-class together. That is the change I am calling for in this campaign, and that is the change I will bring as President.

Wolf and the Wolf Killer

2008-09-12T15:40:00.001-04:00

Since Frank Wolf obviously is such a big fan of Sarah Palin, I presume he also supports this barbarous aerial hunting of his namesake - the wolf?

Wolf-McCain-Palin?

2008-09-11T14:41:00.002-04:00

Let's just take a second and review a few of Palin's positions on the issues:

*"Opposes stem cell research."
*"Only exception for abortion is if mother's life would end."
*"No special hate-crime laws; all heinous crime is hate-based."
*"Teach creationism alongside evolution in schools."
*"Supports teaching intelligent design in public schools."
*"Global warming affects Alaska, but is not man-made."
*"Sue US government to stop listing polar bear as endangered."
*"Opposes explicit sex-education programs."

Also, Palin said that the Iraq war is "a task that is from God."

That's the candidate - along with John McCain, who brags about voting 90% of the time with George W. Bush - who Frank Wolf the "moderated" shared the stage with yesterday in Fairfax. Is this what the 10th CD really wants?

Yeah, Right, Frank!

2008-09-10T10:14:00.003-04:00

From Frank Wolf's latest electronic newsletter:

Congress is back in session this week after its traditional August recess. I returned to Capitol Hill several times during the recess to call upon the House majority leadership to take action on the nation’s energy crisis. It’s imperative that Congress have a fair and open debate on energy policy. We need a comprehensive plan with everything on the table -- alternative and renewable energy sources, conservation and development of our own energy resources onshore and offshore. I believe there is a bipartisan consensus to get something done.

Well, that's just wonderful, except for one problem: Frank Wolf has been NOWHERE on these issues over most of his career, unless you count "in opposition." That's right, as we've documented ad nauseum on this blog, Frank Wolf has consistently voted against renewable energy, energy efficiency, measures to reduce the nation's dependence on oil, etc. Now he's all about bipartisanship?!? Whatever, Frank, it's time for you to go!

Wolf the "Moderate" [Hearts] Palin the Extremist

2008-09-09T16:06:00.004-04:00

Anyone who, despite all evidence to the contrary, STILL believes that Frank Wolf is a "moderate," I encourage you to check this out:

...Palin will join Republican presidential nominee John McCain in Northern Virginia on Wednesday for an event.

The event will be held in Fairfax in retiring Rep. Tom Davis’s (R) district, and another potentially competitive race is nearby, in Rep. Frank Wolf’s (R) district. Wolf and the GOP nominee for Davis’s seat are both planning to attend.

That nominee, businessman Keith Fimian, is planning a “huge presence” at the event, campaign manager Zack Condry said.

He said he would love to get his boss a speaking role alongside Palin, adding that they are both fresh faces.

Just a short review of Sarah Palin's positions on the issues:

*"Opposes stem cell research."
*"Only exception for abortion is if mother's life would end."
*"No special hate-crime laws; all heinous crime is hate-based."
*"Teach creationism alongside evolution in schools."
*"Supports teaching intelligent design in public schools."
*"Global warming affects Alaska, but is not man-made."
*"Sue US government to stop listing polar bear as endangered."
*"Opposes explicit sex-education programs."

Also, Palin said that the Iraq war is "a task that is from God."

That's the candidate who Frank Wolf wants to share the stage with. Case closed, Frank Wolf is no "moderate." Any other questions? :)

Judy Feder on Fairfax County Public Access TV

2008-09-08T08:15:00.001-04:00

Wolf on Energy: Say One Thing, Do Another

2008-09-05T13:21:00.002-04:00

According to the Connection Newspapers:

[Frank] Wolf has been a co-sponsor of the "New Manhattan Project for Energy Independence" legislation. The original Manhattan Project was set up to recruit scientists to produce an atomic bomb during World War II. The "New Manhattan Project" would award competitive prizes to the first individual or group who reach the bill's seven energy goals.

The goals are doubling Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) standards to 70 miles per gallon while keeping vehicles affordable; cutting home and business energy usage in half; making solar power work at the same cost of coal; making the production of biofuels cost-competitive with gasoline; safely and cheaply storing carbon emissions from coal-powered plants; safely store or neutralize nuclear waste; produce useable electricity from nuclear fusion reaction.

Well, that sounds great, except for one problem: Wolf has voted consistently voted against energy efficiency, against renewable energy, and against measures to reduce our nation’s dependency on foreign oil. Is Wolf's memory failing him, or is he simply willing to tell his constituents anything in order to appear "moderate" and get re-elected?

No Fairfax County Debate for Frank Wolf

2008-09-04T14:39:00.002-04:00

This is certainly interesting.

...Wolf – who represents McLean, Great Falls, Herndon, Centreville and Chantilly in Fairfax County – has turned down the opportunity to participate in a Fairfax County debate. The local chapter of the League of Women voters had initially scheduled an appearance between Wolf and Feder Sept. 8.

"They have sort of backed out. His staff had called and said they would not be participating," said Luke McFarland, Feder’s campaign manager.

McFarland added the Wolf and Feder – who challenged Wolf in 2006 – had participated in a League of Women Voters debate two years ago.

"There was a League debate the last time they ran against each other and I don’t think he enjoyed having his feet held to the fire," said McFarland.

Wolf has agreed to two debates with Judy Feder, one in Prince William County and another in Loudoun County. For whatever reason, though, he's avoiding Fairfax...

How Democrats Will Win Virginia

2008-09-03T11:05:00.003-04:00

This is exactly how we're going to win Virginia this November, and in years to come. Great work by the coordinated campaign!

Democrats Barnstorm Virginia Over Labor Day Weekend

Thousands of Volunteers for Campaign for Change, Virginia Coordinated Campaign Knock 125,000 Doors Across the Commonwealth

RICHMOND, Va. – Labor Day weekend is long considered the official opening of the political season, and this Labor Day, Democrats across the state -- in conjunction with U.S. Sen. Barack Obama's Campaign for Change and the Democratic Party of Virginia's Coordinated Campaign – celebrated the holiday weekend by knocking more than 125,000 doors in cities and towns across the commonwealth.

This impressive number was achieved with the help of several thousand volunteers visiting their neighbors and urging support for Obama, former Gov. Mark Warner for Senate and Democratic congressional candidates.

"We're excited about the enthusiasm we're seeing from volunteers in every corner of Virginia and proud of the efforts of our supporters this weekend," Mitch Stewart, the Obama Campaign's Virginia State Director, said. "Virginians are energized to make a break from the past and deliver real change in Washington, and they know that is what they will get with Senator Obama and Mark Warner."

In addition to the campaign's Labor Day efforts, more than 13,000 Virginians attended watch parties Thursday night when Obama delivered his acceptance speech in Denver. Nationally, some 40 million Americans tuned in – more than watched the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics.

"2008 is shaping up to be a record year for Virginia Democrats," said Levar Stoney, executive director of the Democratic Party of Virginia. "As a former field organizer, I can tell you that most campaigners would be thrilled with 125,000 doors on Election Weekend. With this level of enthusiasm on Labor Day, Virginia Democrats are well on their way to a first-class, record-breaking field campaign."

Anyone interested in helping Judy Feder, please sign up here or click here for upcoming events. Thanks!

What Does Frank Wolf Have Against Poker?

2008-09-02T11:14:00.004-04:00

This is more amusing than anything else (of course, I don't play poker...for those who do, it's probably not amusing at all), but still it's kind of interesting.

Wolf, Frank [R-VA]
Rep. Wolf is F rated in my Congressional guide, as he voted for HR 4411 and cosponsored HR 4777. The Democratic nominee is Professor of Public Policy at Georgetown University and Dean of their Georgetown Public Policy Institute Judy Feder.

According to the Congress and Internet Poker Rights website, here are the rankings for the Virginia delegation on "freedom and liberty regarding playing poker on the Internet."

Bobby Scott (D): A+
Jim Moran (D): A
Rick Boucher (D): F
Eric Cantor (R): F
Thelma Drake (R): F
Randy Forbes (R): F
Virgil Goode (R): F
Tom Davis (R): F
Frank Wolf (R): F
Bob Goodlatte (R): F-
Rob Wittman (R): ?

Feder Campaign Statement on Obama Nomination

2008-08-29T13:17:00.003-04:00

A statement from the Feder for Congress campaign on Barack Obama's nomination for president:

Last night, Senator Barack Obama made a powerful case for the need to change the direction of our country.

On Iraq, health care and our stagnant economy he made it clear that America simply cannot afford four more years like the last eight.

To make change a reality in 2009, we’ll need to elect candidates committed to ending the war in Iraq, getting affordable health care for every American and jump starting our economy, up and down the ticket.

Thanks to your help, we’re on the air incredibly early making Judy’s case for change. We set a goal of raising $75,000 online in August to help fund our early ad buy and as of this morning we were at $71,124.

Click here to help us raise the final $3,876 and reach our August goal!

We’ve received an overwhelmingly positive reaction to our ad “28 years,” but we need your help to make our on-air presence even stronger.

Click here to help us raise the final $3,876 and reach our August goal!

Thank you so much for your support. With your help, the Obama-Warner-Feder ticket is going to deliver the change we need on November 4th.

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Frank Wolf and the Schaghticokes

2008-08-28T14:25:00.006-04:00

Here is the latest on the chaghticoke Tribal Nation's quest for federal recognition (and Frank Wolf's role in stopping them):

A day after a federal judge ruled against it, the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation is not ready to give up on its quest for federal recognition, Schaghticoke Chief Richard Velky said Wednesday.

[...]

The Schaghticokes say their long quest to gain federal recognition was derailed by people with political ties directly to President Bush.

In its motion, the tribe detailed a March 30, 2004, meeting attended by three Republican members of the Connecticut Congressional delegation and U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf, R-Va., and then-Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton.

In a deposition, Norton said Wolf and the Connecticut delegation -- which included U.S. Rep. Christopher Shays, and former representatives Nancy Johnson and Rob Simmons -- pressed her to overturn the decision.

She said Wolf threatened to ask President Bush to replace her. But Norton later testified she did not take that threat seriously.

Frank Wolf, what a "nice guy" huh?

Frank Wolf Mails It In

2008-08-27T12:28:00.001-04:00

A short while ago, Congressman Frank Wolf sent a mailing to his constituents. Billed as constituent information so he could make use of the free postal services afforded to Congresspeople, in reality it is a thinly disguised campaign mailing designed to make the voters of the 10th District think Frank Wolf is doing something about their issues, without actually having our Congressman do anything about our issues.

Congressman Wolf has sponsored 14 Bills in the 110th Congress. That's about one bill every six weeks. But wait! Of those 14 bills, 13 of them are from 2007. Looking back on Frank Wolf's 28 years in Congress, his track record is even more interesting.

Frank Wolf has sponsored 105 bills since Jan 5, 1993, of which 70 haven't made it out of committee and 17 were successfully enacted. Wolf has co-sponsored 2345 bills during the same time period. - GovTrack.us

The Republicans held the majority in Congress between January 1995 and January 2007. In spite of being a senior member (elected in 1982) of the majority for most of the period tracked by GovTrack, our Congressman was only able to get 17 of his bills passed in fifteen years. In the 110th Congress, only two of his bills were passed, a bill calling for the government to develop a strategy to help Chad (and not Chad, the AOL employee who lost his job on Frank Wolf's watch, Chad the African nation), and a bill expressing condolences on the death of his Congressional colleague Jo Ann Davis.

I don't know about you, but if I only produced approximately one success a year in my job, I'd be fired.

Returning to the mail received recently from our Congressman, it is worthwhile to examine Frank Wolf's constituent mailing on Energy, for example, in comparison with Frank Wolf's actual actions in Congress. To cast an informed vote on November 4th, it is helpful to determine whether our Congressman has actually done something on the issues he claims to care about, versus where the Congressman simply claims action without proof. Let's take Frank Wolf's stated positions on Energy from the mailing one by one.

Invest in Alternative Renewable Energy - The Congressman lists this as his top priority in the mailing. And yet, a review of his 110th Congress bills, the Congress in which this emerged as a critical issue, shows that Frank Wolf sponsored no bill to invest in alternative renewable energy. He has cosponsored some of the Republican bills, but demonstrated no individual, independent leadership on this issue.

Eliminate Barriers to Exploration - In the 110th Congress, Frank Wolf sponsored no bill to eliminate barriers to exploration. He has "voted for" such things, but demonstrated no individual, independent leadership.

Build New Refineries and Expand Old Ones - In the 110th Congress, Frank Wolf sponsored no bill to eliminate barriers to build new refineries and expand old ones. He has "voted for" such things, but demonstrated no individual, independent leadership.

Protect Consumers - In the 110th Congress, Frank Wolf sponsored no bill to protect consumers. This issue is not even on the front page of his website.

Encourage Conservation - In the 110th Congress, Frank Wolf sponsored no bill to encorage conservation. He "voted for" higher CAFE standards, and "drives a hybrid," but has taken no leadership role in Congress on legislation encouraging conservation.

Increase Mass Transit & Telework Options - Frank Wolf claims to have "taken the lead" on rail to Dulles. However, it is unclear how someone who was taken by surprise that the Dulles Rail funding was at risk in the first place can be said to lead on the issue. Furthermore, he has sponsored no legislation on rail or mass transit in the 110th Congress.

Frank Wolf's "actions" on the issues he, himself, claims are critical are little more than parroting of talking points and "me too" co-sponsorship of other Republican's bills.

After 28 years in Congress, Frank Wolf is without an original idea on the issues that Frank Wolf himself understands to be critical in this election. He is simply mailing it in, tagging along with other Republican bills and paying lip service in mailings to his constituents.

Alternative energy, mass transit, consumer protection and energy conservation have been critical issues in Virginia's 10th District for decades. For 28 years, Frank Wolf has served in Congress. For twelve of those years, Frank Wolf was a senior member of the Republican Majority and for five years he was chair of the Transportation Committee. And yet, in that critical period where Frank Wolf should have gotten something done on these critical issues, he did nothing. It is only now, when being challenged, that he stirs from his usual torpor to merely co-sponsor his colleagues bills and parrot talking points.

After 28 years, we need a Congressperson who will lead on the important issues facing our district, rather than following the failed and tired policy prescriptions of the Bush Administration and obstructionist Republicans in Congress. We need someone willing and able to take action on critical problems, rather than merely mailing in sympathy.

After 28 years, Virginia's 10th District needs Judy Feder.

(Crossposted from Leesburg Tomorrow)

Judy Feder's First Ad

2008-08-26T18:41:00.002-04:00

From the Feder for Congress campaign:

As of tonight our campaign is officially on the air. We wanted you to be one of the first to see our first television ad of 2008, titled “28 years.”

Click here to watch the ad.

Our first spot is about the need turn the page in Virginia’s 10th district and our country. It highlights the fact that whether the issue is health care, Iraq or the economy, Frank Wolf will not deliver the change voters are looking for.

In 2006, the realities of being a first time candidate meant that Judy was only able to run ads in the final weeks of the election. This year, your support has allowed us to go on the air incredibly early – giving us the opportunity to have an extended conversation with voters.

Click here to contribute and help us fund our ad buy.

We have a unique opportunity to make a change in 2008. Almost 170,000 voters in our district have registered since 2002. Our canvassing has shown that these voters are often unfamiliar with Frank Wolf and are persuaded by Judy’s message. We’re already setting records with our field effort and now it’s time to take Judy’s message to the airwaves.

Click here to contribute and help us fund our ad buy.

The 10th district is ready to turn the page in November and with your support we’re going finish what we started together in 2006 and make it happen.

Thank you for your support,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Virginia AFL-CIO Endorses Judy Feder, Other Democrats

2008-08-26T14:14:00.004-04:00

This is good news, and not a surprise given the fact that Virginia Republicans in Congress consistently vote against workers and for rich corporations:

After screening the candidates through the Central Labor Councils, reviewing questionnaires and listening to recommendations from the State COPE committee, the seated delegates moved to endorse the following candidates:

CD 2 Glenn Nye
CD 3 Bobby Scott
CD 4 Andrea Miller
CD 5 Tom Perriello
CD 6 Sam Rasoul
CD 7 Anita Hartke
CD 8 Jim Moran
CD 9 Rick Boucher
CD 10 Judy Feder
CD 11 Gerry Connolly

The Virginia AFL-CIO is excited to help elect these candidates and get them to Washington where they will continue to fight for working families.

UPDATE: The Sierra Club also has endorsed Judy Feder over Frank Wolf and his abysmal environmental record.

Four More Years of McCain, Wolf, et al? No Thanks

2008-08-25T15:44:00.002-04:00

It's time for a change. Go Obama/Warner/Feder!

More Wolf Wackiness

2008-08-22T14:43:00.001-04:00

Apparently, it never ends. Check this out.

Frank Wolf's Best Friend

2008-08-21T15:39:00.003-04:00

Do a Google search for Frank Wolf and wingnut Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), and you'll see that these guys are BFF's (best friends forever)...political soulmates, pretty much. With that, enjoy this video.

Judy Surges to Second Place in Progressive Patriots Contest!

2008-08-20T12:06:00.003-04:00

Please go vote for Judy now. Thanks!

Thanks to our grassroots supporters Judy has gone from 7th to 2nd place in the Progressive Patriots contest! We're now only a few points from the lead.

Even if you've already voted you can still help! Copy the link below and send it to 5 friends and ask them to support Judy.

http://www.progressivepatriotsfund.com/pickapatriot/vote-house-v.html

If you haven't voted yet, there's still time. Voting runs through Friday, and doesn't cost you a thing. Show the strength of our grassroots support and click the link below to vote for Judy today!

Vote for Judy today to make her a Progressive Patriot and help us win $5,000!

Thanks again,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Wolf Says We Get 20%-25% of Our Oil from Venezuela. Not!

2008-08-19T09:26:00.004-04:00

In this interview, Frank Wolf demonstrates once again how out of touch and uninformed he is about a number of subjects. Given my own background as a world energy market analyst at the US Energy Information Administration for 17 years, for now I'd like to focus on one in particular: oil. According to Frank Wolf, as stated in the interview, the United States gets 20%-25% of its oil from Hugo Chavez's Venezuela. Uh, Congressman? You're not even close. In fact, 20%-25% of our oil consumption would amount to 4-5 million barrels per day, which is far more than Venezuela even produces (2.4 million barrels per day of crude in June 2008), let alone exports!

For more information on U.S. oil imports, see EIA's website. According to the U.S. government's top energy statistical agency, in 2007, the United States imported 1,361 thousand barrels per day of oil (crude and refined products) from Venezuela, out of 13,468 thousand barrels per day of total U.S. oil imports and 20,698 thousand barrels per day of total oil U.S. consumption (see here for more). Quick math tells us that's 10% of U.S. oil imports from Venezuela and 7% of total U.S. oil consumption from Venezuela -- not even close to the 20%-25% Frank Wolf claims, obviously.

Of course, Frank Wolf is the same person who also likes making false claims about Cuba leasing oil rights to China – a falsehood that was started by Vice President Cheney and later shown to be untrue. And Frank Wolf is the same person who has voted time and again against energy efficiency and renewable energy, while defending absurd subsidies for Big Oil companies at a time when they're making record profits in the history of mankind. Given all this, Wolf's latest gaffe probably shouldn't be surprising. More broadly, it shouldn't be surprising that Frank Wolf's lethal combination of ignorance and ideology leads to bad policy. It's not surprising, but it's sad that Frank Wolf's in Congress and able to do so much damage to the environment and to U.S. energy security. Reason #infinity why it's TIME FOR A CHANGE this November. In short: Farewell Frank, Hello Judy Feder! :)

Another Call to Vote for Judy!

2008-08-18T14:24:00.001-04:00

From Feder for Congress campaign manager Luke McFarland:

The election may not be until November, but you can make a difference by voting for Judy today!

Senator Feingold is nominating 9 house candidates nationwide as part of his “Pick a Progressive Patriot,” contest – and on Friday Judy received a nomination!

The winner of this contest will receive a $5000 check from Senator Feingold and national exposure for their campaign.

Vote for Judy today to make her a Progressive Patriot!

Our campaign continues to gain momentum and this is another great opportunity for you to help Judy -- at no cost to you! Voting runs through Friday. Click the link below to vote for Judy today.

Vote for Judy today to make her a Progressive Patriot!

Thanks for your support,

Luke McFarland
Campaign Manager

Please Vote for Judy Feder as a "Progressive Patriot!"

2008-08-15T10:54:00.001-04:00

Here's a great chance for you to help Judy Feder against Rep. Frank Wolf "in sheep's clothing." That's right, it's time once again for Russ Feingold's "Progressive Patriot" contest!

It's time for our fourth 'Pick a Progressive Patriot' event of 2008, where you decide which candidate most deserves our support. In June you voted for your favorite Senate challengers and now, based on your nominations, we've chosen 9 House challengers to feature in our latest online voting event. Please take a moment to vote for your favorite today.

Vote to Pick a Progressive Patriot Today

Together we've built a strong national progressive organization that provides vital support to campaigns nationwide. Many of the decisions we make on which candidates to support are made by you, the Progressive Patriots online community. It's essential that we build upon our victories in 2006 by supporting all of these candidates as they face a well-funded Republican opposition this fall.

Please take a moment today and cast your vote. Whoever receives the most votes by next Friday at 5 PM CDT will receive a $5,000 contribution.

Vote to Pick a Progressive Patriot Today

Your vote will help provide our next Progressive Patriot with the resources they need to build a strong grassroots campaign that will be vital to their success on Election Day. Thank you for your continued support.

Thanks, and go Judy!

Bush=McCain=Wolf

2008-08-14T11:40:00.002-04:00

Frank Wolf "only" votes 88% percent of the time with his fellow Bush-bots, which practically makes him a "maverick!" Ha. :)

Democrats in VA-10 Outperform McCain Field Effort Nationwide in July

2008-08-13T14:55:00.002-04:00

From Feder for Congress...very impressive!

Democrats in VA-10 Outperform McCain Field Effort Nationwide in July

Feder Campaign and Democratic Party of Virginia’s Coordinated Campaign Combine for More Than 98,000 Door-knocks and Phone Calls

McLean, VA – Just over a week after receiving the endorsement of Emily’s List and being added to the list of “Red to Blue” races by the DCCC, the Feder campaign is demonstrating the overwhelming advantage the Democrats have going into the fall election.

During the month of July, the Feder campaign in conjunction with the Democratic Party of Virginia’s coordinated campaign combined for a total of 98, 519 door-knocks and phone calls in the 10th congressional district.

Compare that to the efforts of the McCain campaign nationally during the same time period and the advantage Feder will have over Wolf on the ground becomes obvious:

"Every Friday, the 11 regional directors file a detailed report to political director Mike DuHaime with precise numbers such as how many voters were contacted in their states that week and how many county and precinct chairs were added. Then, on Saturday morning, DuHaime holds a conference call with the regional directors, as well as with top RNC aides and the state directors…A month ago, McCain's campaign made a combined 20,000 phone calls and door-knocks." (McCain Ground Game Revs Up, Politico, 8/8/08)

“There is so much excitement for the Obama-Warner-Feder ticket, it really is making a difference in connecting with the voters," said Feder campaign manager Luke McFarland. "Virginia’s 10th congressional district is ready for change, and in July what we really saw was a door-to-door blitz in the field that highlights the enthusiasm gap between Democrats and Republicans. I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again: anyone who thinks this is just going to be a replay of 2006 is kidding themselves.”

Feder Statement on $79 Billion Iraq Surplus

2008-08-12T12:06:00.003-04:00

From the Feder campaign:

Statement from Judy Feder on $79 Billion Iraq Surplus

McLean, VA — According to a report released last week by the Government Accountability Office, the Iraqi government will have a budget surplus of approximately $79 billion by year's end. The following is a statement from Judy Feder in response to the report:

"Five years ago the American people were told that Iraqi oil revenue would pay for reconstruction costs in Iraq. Five years later the American tax payer is still paying the bill. That is unacceptable given the financial burdens we're facing today.

"Congress needs to be held accountable for the burden they have placed on the American taxpayer – a burden that should now be shouldered by the Iraqi Government. We need to hold our representatives in Washington accountable for managing our resources effectively.

"The American taxpayers spend $10 billion a month to defend Iraq and rebuild the country. This administration and the Republican Party have embraced the war in Iraq, and have continued to advocate for an open-ended commitment rather than enact a timeline for withdrawal. Now we find out that the Iraqi government has windfall oil profits that amount to a $79 billion budget surplus sitting in the Federal Reserve Bank collecting $435.6 million in interest payments from the U.S. Government.

"And still we hear no response from my opponent on this issue. Many of these problems could have been avoided if our elected officials had demanded real oversight. But the Bush administration and the Republican Party have consistently opposed efforts to provide responsible oversight.

"Instead of staging gimmicky protests on the House floor and making false claims about Cuba leasing oil rights to China – a falsehood that was started by Vice President Cheney and later shown to be untrue – Congressman Wolf and the Republican Party should focus on real solutions.

"We need to get America back on track, and the way to do that is to make the economy work for the middle class again. We can't keep spending $10 billion a month in Iraq while we pay $113 per barrel. It is time for the Iraqi government to spend their own resources to rebuild Iraq and not depend on the American taxpayer any longer."

Flashback to 2006: Feder Demands Wolf Condemn "Macaca" Comments

2008-08-11T11:46:00.003-04:00

Here's what Judy Feder had to say on August 14, 2006 about George Allen's "macaca" comments:

These remarks are unacceptable in the Virginia of today. Virginia is home of the Bill of Rights and has a proud tradition of tolerance, and the state is home to many people whose ancestors are from around the world. It is shameful that Senator Allen would insult a Virginian because of his race or heritage. I ask Congressman Wolf to join all Virginians in condemning Allen's hateful remarks. Senator Allen's remarks show why we so desperately need change in Washington and why we need to hold our elected officials accountable for their actions.

Last I checked, we're still waiting for that condemnation from Frank Wolf. Maybe Wolf's just really REALLY slow to respond (unless the Chinese are bugging his computers or whatever), or maybe he thinks it's ok to call Asian Americans "macacas" and people from NOVA not from the "real Virginia?" Either way, it seems like prime time for him to take his long-overdue retirement from Congress.

Statement on Frank Wolf's False Statements re: China/Offshore Drilling

2008-08-09T07:01:00.001-04:00

From the Feder campaign.

FRANK WOLF FACT CHECK:

Congressman Wolf Makes False Statement on House Floor

Repeats De-bunked Talking Point about China and Offshore Drilling

McLean, VA—On Monday August 4, 2008 Congressman Frank Wolf inaccurately claimed while delivering remarks on the House floor that the Cuban government "has given a lease to the Chinese" to conduct offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

The following was reported in Politico on August 4, 2008:

Rep. Frank R. Wolf (R-Va.) railed about the fact that the Cuban government "has given a lease to the Chinese" to conduct offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. Wolf pointed out that the Chinese have provided economic and military support to the government of Sudan, and he attempted to tie the lack of offshore drilling in the United States to the genocide in Darfur, although most audience members — tourists and staff — seemed perplexed by his argument. [GOP Returns for Day 2 Talkathon, Politico, 08/04/08]

And from a press release sent by Congressman Wolf's office that same day:

In his remarks on the floor, Wolf, who supports allowing drilling off our coasts and in remote areas of Alaska, raised the issue of Cuba selling leases for offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico -- just 50 miles off the coast of Key West, Florida -- to China, India, Canada and Spain.

Contrary to Congressman Wolf's claims, China does not have a lease for offshore drilling in the Gulf of Mexico. This claim is simply untrue, and has been debunked on more than one occasion over the last several months:

Jorge Pinon, a senior energy fellow at the University of Miami specializing in Latin America, said Cuba has awarded offshore oil leases, or concessionary blocs, in its offshore waters to six oil companies — none of them Chinese — and soon may announce an agreement with Brazil's state oil company, Petrobras. [Cheney Attacked for Comment on Chinese Offshore Drilling, USA Today, 06/12/08]

The China-Cuba connection is "akin to urban legend," said Sen. Mel Martinez, a Republican from Florida... [GOP claim about Chinese oil drilling off Cuba is untrue, McClatchy Newspapers, 06/11/08]

China's oil company, Sinopac, has conducted exploratory drilling on a lease on land in western Cuba, but is not involved in the offshore development. [Cheney Attacked for Comment on Chinese Offshore Drilling, USA Today, 06/12/08]

"Judy thinks all options should be on the table, including offshore drilling. But she also believes that we ought to be having an honest discussion based on factual evidence, not misleading the general public with the kind of misinformation that came from Congressman Wolf just a few days ago," said Luke McFarland, Feder campaign manager. "It's hardly a surprise to see these kinds of tired political tactics from people like John Boehner, Roy Blunt and Rudy Giuliani, but it is disappointing to see something like this from Congressman Wolf. I guess after 27 years in Congress, it's difficult to break free from the same old Washington games. But the voters really do deserve better than that."

Frank Wolf's Rail Presumption

2008-08-08T09:56:00.003-04:00

Amid all the blather a few weeks ago about candidates being presumutuous, the 10th District's Dulles Rail project faced a new hurdle as a lawsuit launched against it proceeded. The lawsuit hinges on whether it is legal to transfer management of public assets to private entities in order to get something else done.

The suit, filed in January 2007 by users of the Dulles Toll Road, seek to reverse the state’s hand-off of the highway — and its revenue — to pay for the Metro extension’s initial 11.6-mile phase. It says the Kaine administration needed legislative approval to give the toll road to the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, which is managing the rail project.

If successful, the suit would prove a major snag for the project managers by scuttling a large part of the funding for the $2.6 billion track, which would run from Falls Church to Reston. - The Washington Examiner

It seems that the MWAA may run afoul of the same unconstitutional taxation issue that sunk the NVTA. The reason that this is important is that the Federal rail money which was approved with so much ballyhoo is contingent upon Virginia and other localities making up their side of the funding. And transferring the Toll Road to the MWAA is the Virginia plan for doing so. That is why the MWAA lawsuit is critical. If the MWAA is unable to take over the Toll Road, Virginia cannot fund its part of Dulles Rail, and the conditional approval to proceed achieved in April could be withdrawn.

But don't tell that to the people in charge of the program. To them, it's full speed ahead even if they do hit an iceberg.

What happens if the authority loses the suit?

"It does not kill this project," says Authority President Jim Bennett. "All of the parties are committed moving this project forward."

Rep. Frank Wolf, R-Va., says if the lawsuit fails, final approval for federal funds could come in February and a groundbreaking in March.

The first phase would be finished by 2013. - WTOP.com

It seems our congressman is resting the future of the most important transportation project in the history of his district on a hope that this lawsuit fails. Frank Wolf is presuming that all will be well. This is in spite of the fact that some of the very same opinions were expressed right up until the very moment the NVTA was overturned.

Can we trust Frank Wolf's presumption? We couldn't when Dulles Rail hit the rocks before, as the FTA's original denial came as a complete surprise to him. We couldn't trust Frank Wolf to help the thousands of 10th district families who saw their homes foreclosed upon. We couldn't trust his much-vaunted "study group" to actually solve any of the problems we face in resolving the Iraq crisis. He won't even respond to his constituents to explain his position on Iraq! And we cannot trust Frank Wolf's presumption now on Dulles Rail. Ensuring the success of this project, if the success of this project is what we want, will require a strong advocate for the 10th District's concerns. It will require Judy Feder's election on November 4th.

Frank Wolf is marking time after 27 years in Congress, hoping that leaders in Richmond or the FTA will solve his districts' problems while he takes credit. Well, I say we give credit where credit is due, to the people of the 10th District who have been solving our own problems while Frank Wolf shows up for photo ops. It's time to put Judy Feder, one of those problem-solving people in Congress.

(With a tip-o-the-hat to Loudoun County Traffic. Cross posted from Leesburg Tomorrow.)

What's the "Democratic National Congressional Committee?"

2008-08-07T10:54:00.005-04:00

From a panicky email by Frank Wolf:

We want to make you aware that last Friday, the Democratic National Congressional Committee decided to add the 10th District to its list of "targeted" races. This will mean more out-of-state money for Congressman Wolf's opponent...
We need your help to counter this out-of-state operation.

Uh, Congressman, how long have you been around Washington? Wait, don't answer that. Ha. :) Still, don't you think that after several decades in D.C. you should know that it's the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, aka DCCC, not some make-believe organization you call the "Democratic National Congressional Committee," that has added Judy Feder to its "Red to Blue" list? Well, then, maybe you shouldn't read this:

The DCCC's list adds up to over $34 million on TV ads this September and October in 31 targeted districts, a move designed to swamp the NRCC with the Dems' huge cash advantage.

Or this:

The DCCC raised $10 million in June, and reported $54.7 million cash on hand at the end of the month. The NRCC raised $6.1 million in June, and ended June with $8.5 million in its campaign account.

A nearly 7:1 cash advantage for the DCCC over the NRCC? No wonder why Frank Wolf is making up names of organizations that don't exist.

Faxes Sent to Wolf on July 23; Any Answer Yet?

2008-08-07T07:39:00.004-04:00

On July 24, we reported:

The Feder campaign was alerted yesterday that Congressman Wolf's office was refusing to answer questions about his position on the Iraq War, and demanding instead that constituents fax their request for information to his Washington, DC office.

"I just think it's outrageous that the Congressman's staff couldn't be bothered to answer questions about where he stands on the issues important to his district," said Feder. "The voters of the 10th District ought to be able to pick up a phone and get answers from their Congressman — especially a Congressman who is known for constituent services."

Speaking of outrageous, but it's now August 7 - over two weeks after Wolf said to fax your questions about Iraq - and we still don't have an answer. At this point, it's hard to conclude anything else except either: 1) Wolf doesn't know what his position is on Iraq; or 2) Wolf knows full well what his position is on Iraq but doesn't want to share it with his constituents. Either way, it's not acceptable. So...will Wolf respond to this basic question before or after he's voted out of office on November 4? :)

Frankly, Frank, It Truly Is Time to Say "Farewell"

2008-08-06T07:22:00.001-04:00

Hmmmm...perhaps it might just be time for Rep. Frank Rudolph Wolf (R-10) - how long has this guy been in Congress again? - to retire. Check this out:

Oh boy. Here's another Republican spreading the lie that China is working with Cuba to drill in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico...

The latest is Rep. Frank Wolf of Virginia, who according to the Politico claimed that Cuba "has given a lease to the Chinese" to drill in the Gulf of Mexico.

In fact, Cuba has not given any such lease to the Chinese, who have kept their drilling activities to the more accessible shoreline areas of Cuba...

Yeah, right, and the Commies are sending microwaves to control our brains through the thick layers of tinfoil, too. Heh.

Of course, this is the same Frank Wolf who apparently thinks we're back in 1938, still fighting the Nazis or something.

Now, here are the facts, courtesy of the Congressional Research Service (no doubt controlled by the Commies as well - ha):

While there has been some concern about China’s potential involvement in offshore deepwater oil projects, to date its involvement in Cuba's oil sector has been focused on onshore oil extraction in Pinar del Rio province through its state-run China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation. (Sinopec)"

In addition, the Miami Herald has reported that "The Chinese have done some seismic testing...but no drilling."

Onshore, offshore; testing, drilling; Cuba, Florida. Whatever. Maybe we should just call the whole thing off, Frank?

Canvass for Obama, Warner, Feder

2008-08-05T16:25:00.003-04:00

For information on upcoming canvasses for Barack Obama, Mark Warner and Judy Feder, please click here. On August 9, there will be events in Ashburn, Winchester, Leesburg, Manassas, Dranesville, Springfield, Hunter Mill and Sully. If you have any questions, give the Feder campamign a call at 703-388-2813 or email volunteer@judyfeder.com. Many of these canvasses will be taking place every Saturday until Election Day, so check one out and help elect these three great Democrats! Thanks.

Barack Obama Slams Frank Wolf on Energy?

2008-08-04T13:11:00.006-04:00

Well, no, not exactly. But Obama might as well have slammed Frank Wolf this morning in his speech, "New Energy for America." How's that? In the following excerpt from Obama's speech, simply replace the words "John McCain" with "Frank Wolf" and see how much sense it makes!

Despite all this, here we are, in another election, still talking about our oil addiction; still more dependent than ever. Why?

You won't hear me say this too often, but I couldn't agree more with the explanation that Senator McCain offered a few weeks ago. He said, "Our dangerous dependence on foreign oil has been thirty years in the making, and was caused by the failure of politicians in Washington to think long-term about the future of the country."

What Senator McCain neglected to mention was that during those thirty years, he was in Washington for twenty-six of them. And in all that time, he did little to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. He voted against increased fuel efficiency standards and opposed legislation that included tax credits for more efficient cars. He voted against renewable sources of energy. Against clean biofuels. Against solar power. Against wind power. Against an energy bill that - while far from perfect - represented the largest investment in renewable sources of energy in the history of this country. So when Senator McCain talks about the failure of politicians in Washington to do anything about our energy crisis, it's important to remember that he's been a part of that failure. Now, after years of inaction, and in the face of public frustration over rising gas prices, the only energy proposal he's really promoting is more offshore drilling - a position he recently adopted that has become the centerpiece of his plan, and one that will not make a real dent in current gas prices or meet the long-term challenge of energy independence.

The only serious difference between John McCain and Frank Wolf? McCain's been in Washington since 1983, while Wolf's been there since 1981. Other than that, it's the same tired old rhetoric, the same failed policies (or lack thereof) that got us into this mess in the first place. The energy crisis: just one good reason why it's clearly time for a change, from John McBush and Frank Wolf to Barack Obama and Judy Feder, this November. Go Judy!

Wolf Votes Against Women

2008-08-01T16:13:00.003-04:00

This is great news...

Yesterday the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act - H.R.1338. The bill is intended to prevent gender-based wage discrimination by amending the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 and provide more effective remedies to victims of discrimination in the payment of wages.

...but this is pathetic.

Once again Virginia's House Republicans took a stand against their constituents and every working American by voting NO on this measure. The proof of their anti-worker, anti-labor, anti-American vote was recorded as House Roll Call No. 556 of the 110th Congress, 2nd Session:

• Rep. Eric Cantor (R-7) NO
• Rep. Thomas Davis, (R-11) NO
• Rep. Thelma Drake (R-2) NO
• Rep. Randy Forbes (R-4) NO
• Rep. Virgil Goode, Jr. (R-5) NO
• Rep. Bob Goodlatte (R-6) NO
• Rep. Robert Wittman (R-1) NO
• Rep. Frank Wolf (R-10) NO

On November 4th every one of these members of Congress deserve to be replaced.

I couldn't agree more. And in the 10th CD, it should most definitely be "farewell Frank, hello Judy Feder!"

Judy Feder Added to "Red to Blue" List!

2008-08-01T12:20:00.005-04:00

Great news, courtesy of the DCCC. Go Judy!

DCCC Announces Fourth Round of Red to Blue

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee announced today the next round of candidates who earned a spot in the DCCCs highly competitive Red to Blue program. These six candidates qualified for the fourth round of the Red to Blue program by surpassing demanding fundraising goals and skillfully demonstrating to voters that they stand for change and will represent new priorities when elected to Congress.

The candidates for change being named to the DCCC Red to Blue program are running solid campaigns and are committed to making things easier for middle class families in their districts, said Chris Van Hollen, Chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. With less than 100 days to make their case for change to voters in their districts, the Red to Blue program will give these candidates the financial and structural edge to be even more competitive in November.

Chairman Van Hollen joined Red to Blue co-chairs Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Artur Davis (D-AL), and Bruce Braley (D-IA) to announce six candidates who qualified for the Red to Blue program:

(LA-07) Don Cravins
(NV-02) Jill Derby
(OH-02) Vic Wulsin
(PA-03) Kathy Dahlkemper
(VA-05) Tom Periello
(VA-10) Judy Feder

Reflecting Democrats expanding playing field this cycle, there are now 44 candidates on the Red to Blue program. The Red to Blue program highlights top Democratic campaigns across the country and offers them financial, communications, and strategic support. The program will introduce Democratic supporters to new, competitive candidates in order to help expand the fundraising base for these campaigns. A complete list of Red to Blue candidates is available on the DCCC website at: www.dccc.org/page/content/redtoblue/.

Red to Blue was a proven success in the 2006 cycle. In 2006, the Red to Blue program raised nearly $22.6 million for 56 campaigns with an average of $404,000 per campaign. Red to Blue was also responsible for solidifying the structure of dozens of campaigns and making a real difference for Democrats across America.

For more, see here.