U.S. House Leader Campaigns for Drake Opponent in Norfolk

U.S. House Leader Campaigns for Drake Opponent in Norfolk


The Virginian-Pilot
© June 17, 2008

By Austin Wright

NORFOLK

The third-ranking Democrat in the U.S. House of Representatives campaigned in Norfolk on Tuesday morning for a political newcomer who is running against two-term U.S. Rep. Thelma Drake.

House Majority Whip James Clyburn of South Carolina sat with Democratic challenger Glenn Nye as the candidate chided Drake, a Norfolk Republican, for voting against a bill to expand college tuition grants for veterans. Drake and Nye are competing in November in Virginia’s Second Congressional District, which includes Virginia Beach and part of Norfolk.

“She co-sponsored the bill and then voted against it. I don’t see that as leadership,” Nye said. “I think it’s important that we all get past party politics — we should be able to work across the aisle on this one.”

Drake has said she wants expanded benefits for veterans but disagrees with other provisions in the bill.

During a meeting with reporters at the Murray Center on East Brambleton Avenue, Nye aligned himself with two other Democrats on the fall ballot: U.S. Senate candidate Mark Warner and presidential candidate Barack Obama.

“When I’m talking to voters face-to-face, what they’re saying to me is they’re ready for change,” he said.

Nye said the United States should implement a flexible exit strategy in Iraq, but he would not commit to a timetable to troop withdrawal. He also said he would work to end federal subsidies for oil companies.

Clyburn said Nye would be an independent voice and would support his constituents over his party. Clyburn said he gave $5,000 to Nye’s campaign, and he plans to contribute another $5,000 next week.