excellent (!) endorsement for Mel Watt (NC-12) -Greensboro, NC- News-Record

[ncrainbowgrrl]

editorial comment from ncrainbowgrrl- snipping this for DU standards was hard- this is an EXCELLENT read. Go do so, if at all inclined!
http://www.news-record.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20061027/NEWSREC0101/310270013/1037/GTCOM

Besides ably representing the 12th District for seven terms, Mel Watt has emerged as a respected and influential leader in Washington as chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

He has been thoughtful, well-informed and easily accessible in serving a district that stretches along Interstate 85 from Charlotte to Greensboro. In a region hard hit by job losses in the textile and furniture industries, Democrat Watt, 61, vigorously advocates fair trade, not just free trade. Jobs and the economy remain his top issues.
<snip>

As chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, Watt garnered national attention. Under his astute leadership the group was more focused, less partisan and a more effective voice for African Americans.

Should the Democrats gain control of the House, Watt's seniority on key committees will take on added importance. On the home front, he earns high marks for constituent services.

<snip>

Overall, Watt's views on critical matters better reflect those of 12th District voters than those of Fisher. Protecting old jobs and attracting new ones, retraining laid-off workers and fine-tuning the educational system still resonate with district residents who remain jittery about their future.
While Fisher offers a conservative alternative, she hasn't made a compelling case for unseating Watt.

[SaveAmerica]

1. I heard him speak at an event for Larry Kissell and he's awesome!

It's really refreshing to hear someone say it like it is. Do you agree with the last line, he doesn't really have much opposition?

[ncrainbowgrrl]

2. He's my favorite rep. from this state- and Such a great advocate for democratic causes.

But my own rep (David Price) is pretty damn awesome too... so, I'm not complaining!

I'm hoping that the last line is true- haven't paid much attention to things in that part of the state lately (was in a car accident earlier this month, and pain has taken quite a bit of my reading time. :( )

on edit- check out my giant endorsement thread, and feel free to add to it!! :-)

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=2913111&mesg_id=2913111

[nickshepDEM]

3. I remember his speech from the whole Schiavo incident.

He talked about the 60 million or so Americans without health insurance and never once has an emergency session been called for them.

[Tarheel_Dem]

4. I proudly cast my vote for Mel on Thursday.....

his seat is one that's listed as "not competitive". Mel's a fixture in the 12th; he ain't going nowhere :toast: