Former Virginia governors, Republican George Allen and Democrat Tim Kaine discussed the weak state of the U.S. economy and referred to each other’s political past in Virginia during the their debate Wednesday at the Capitol building in Richmond.
Mr. Allen, who previously served as a U.S. senator for Virginia form 200-2006, had to deal with his “macaca” comment from his 2006 re-election campaign that ultimately ended in a loss to Jim Webb.
The Virginia Republican made the following remark during a campaign speech in southwestern Virginia in 2006.
“Let’s give a welcome to macaca here. Welcome to America and the real world of Virginia,” Mr. Allen said.
One of the moderators asked Mr. Kaine for his thoughts on the comment, which the Virginia Democrat then used the comment to paint Mr. Allen in a negative light.
“There was no mistake about what those words meant,” Mr. Kaine said in response to the question.
“The implication was that this young student was somehow less of a Virginian and less of an American than George or than you and me,” the former Virginia Democratic governor added.
In response, Mr. Allen acknowledged the racially insensitive moment.
“Macaca was a mistake,” the Virginia Republican stated. “I do want to unite people, all people, I’m from a football family. I do care about the people of Virginia.”
The former governor continually tied Mr. Kaine to the policies of the Obama administration, also emphasizing Mr. Kaine’s decision to accept the position of chairman of the Democratic National Committee during his term as Virginia governor.
He cited Mr. Kaine’s support of President Barack Obama’s healthcare overhaul and economic stimulus plan, also saying that none of that legislation lead to any positive gains for the U.S. domestically.
“Your record as governor was one of raising taxes, leaving office with a budget predicated on a massive tax increase. Unemployment rate almost doubled when you were governor,” Mr. Allen stated.
“You’ve been advocating for every significant initiative Obama has put forth, including the stimulus,” the Republican hopeful added.
There were a number of similar heated exchanges throughout the debate, which was a part of Associated Press day in Richmond.
Following the debate, Mr. Kaine’s spokeswoman Brandi Hoffine released a statement claiming her candidate won the debate overwhelmingly.
“Governor Kaine’s positive, forward-looking vision stood in stark contrast to Senator Allen who when repeatedly question about his big spending record, couldn’t defend it,” Ms. Hoffine said in the statement posted to Mr. Kaine’s website.
Mr. Allen’s campaign manager, Mike Thomas also released a statement, saying the debate marked a victory for the Allen campaign.
“Today was a victory for Virginia families, taxpayers, and small business owners. The debate proves there are two very different visions and one clear choice in next year’s crucial election,” said Mr. Thomas. “George Allen envisions a better future for all Virginians through a pro-growth plan to unleash our energy resources, rein in the federal government, and empower small businesses and entrepreneurs to create jobs.”
Recent polls have showed both candidates in a close race, with Mr. Allen holding a slight lead among Virginia voters.
