08-20-2008

Citizens Voice: Hackett to speak at Republican Convention

Hackett said he planned to attend part of the national convention, but didn’t expect to have a speaking role.

Hackett’s announcement that he will speak is the latest sign of the importance Republicans are placing on his race, but it isn’t the only one this week. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty is slated to stop by the Back Mountain on Saturday, according to an e-mail to Hackett supporters. Pawlenty is considered to be on McCain’s short list for vice president. The National Republican Congressional Committee started television advertisements in support of Hackett Tuesday, as well.

“Chris Hackett is an incredibly strong candidate who is being widely recognized for his pro-growth positions in support of lower taxes, fiscal responsibility and drilling to lower the cost of gasoline,” NRCC spokesman Ken Spain said.

G. Terry Madonna, Ph.D., a political scientist and pollster at Franklin & Marshall College, said Hackett’s afternoon speaking role isn’t unusual for a challenger. He cited Pat Casey’s speech during the Democratic convention in 2000 as an example of a challenger speaking during his party’s convention. Casey lost to then Rep. Don Sherwood.

“It’s not uncommon, but it does indicate that this is a race that Republicans are looking at this race as very important,” Madonna said. “We all know that, but this is just another sign of it. This shows the Republicans are serious about this seat. It sends a sign.”

Hackett pointed to his similarities with McCain on spending issues such as earmarks. Hackett has vowed to not accept earmarks, which directs funding to specific projects in appropriations bills. The process has come under scrutiny after members of congress were found to be abusing funding bills. Hackett’s stance on earmarks mirrors that of the Arizona senator running for president.

“Contrary to what some might think you can represent your state or district well, without being part of this corrupt process in Washington,” Hackett said. “I think John McCain is an example of that.”

Carney will not be attending the Democratic National Convention because he will be drilling with his Naval Reserve unit in Virginia the next two weeks.

cjones@citizensvoice.com, 570-821-2110