November 1, 2009 [LINK / comment]
As Election Day 2009 fast approaches, Republicans are still in unusually high spirits. About 200 gathered for a big political rally at the Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport in Weyers Cave late this afternoon, and I was there. (It was only three days ago that I went to that very same airport to see a World War II aircraft show.) All three members of the Republican statewide ticket were there, along with virtually all of the local candidates for public office. In fact, with a couple exceptions, it was almost the same group of leaders who attended the "Republican Reunion" in Verona on October 10:
* (asterisk): Incumbent running for reelection.
As on October 10, Congressman Bob Goodlatte led in making the introductions. Bob McDonnell expressed gratitude to everyone who worked to make his campaign so successful, while reminding everyone that it isn't over yet! Bill Bolling gave a spirited talk about all the woes suffered by average people in the economy, ending each section of the litany with the refrain, "HELP IS ON THE WAY!" Ken Cuccinelli stressed the need to protect our constitutional rights against those who would take control of our personal lives on bogus pretenses. As I wrote on my Facebook page,
Andrew Clem is encouraged that the Republican Party may be on the right track once again. The speakers at the Weyer's Cave airport campaign rally this evening -- McDonnell, Bolling, Cuccinelli, et al. -- all focused on the right things, such as upholding liberty and defending the constitution. It's a refreshing change of pace from the GOP recent past of harsh negativity, and a stark contrast to the Democrats' statist agenda.
Here's another reason to be encouraged: Former Virginia Republican Finance Chairman Fred Malek puts Bob McDonnell at the top of his list of "10 Republican Leaders Who Could Be President."
While moving around to get a better view of the speakers up front, I noticed SWAC Girl live-blogging the event. In recent days, she and former Augusta County Republican Chairman Kurt Michael have resumed a high public profile after an extended "quiet" period. Uh, oh...
Republicans held another campaign rally in Waynesboro on Friday, and Steve Kijak was there to take pictures. I almost went to that event, but decided not to at the last minute. Too bad: I could have seen RNC Chairman Michael Steele. He is one of the brightest lights in the party these days, in spite of heavy flak from members of "The Base" such as Richard Viguerie. Another GOP leader who made a (rather rare) public appearance: State Sen. Emmett Hanger!
This would have been more appropriate for Halloween, but if you're in the mood for some scary things to keep you up at night, read Marc Faber's very gloomy forecast of the world economy at yahoo.com; hat tip to Dan.