In WV-02, Democratic Challenger Mike Callaghan, is giving Capito and her national Republicans a scare. As I mentioned almost 2 weeks, subscription-only Roll Call even highlighted the fact the NRCC was spending money polling a district that was "safe". People are starting to understanf the reasons why Capito is a vulnerable incumbent, but here is the most important part, why Mike Callaghan is a good man to represent the people of WV and a good Democrat!
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First let me explain why you might not have heard much about Mike Callaghan...
This race in WV-02 has been almost completely overlooked because Mike faces a well-financed Bush-backed opponent and right now Callaghan's campaign is not swimming in money. The cash on hand at the end of last quarter was $25k (just another reason why he needs support from progressives like you to help make up the difference!) But this is misleading when looking at the intangibles of this race. To say Mike doesn't have much financial support is based by looking purely at numbers rather than context. Mike, unlike Capito, had to win a primary in which he was outspent nearly 3-1, by a candidate who was completely not serious at all (something that doesn't need to be explained to in depth). And Mike has already in total according to FEC reports raised more money than the 2004 Democratic candidate, Erik Wells, did through a primary and general election. Wells ended up still with 40% and had little support. It shows that with any financial support, a Dem candidate's money goes a long way here in WV!
So now here is why you should be paying attention to Mike. He is first and foremost a man of the people. A true West Virginian growing up in the mountains, fishing in his front yard and hunting in the backyard. This is more than a statement for any of Mike's views on guns, obviously not for placing restrictions on those who wish to hunt but wants responsible use. He is a sportsman who also is serious about the environment. He worked as a Secretary of Department of Environmental Protection.
Talking to Mike is like talking to a neighbor and concerned citizen. He is concerned about the future for America. He wants our Seniors to be taken care of, he wants real respect for our soldiers, especially when they come home to start live their lives. Veteran's are a huge group in WV and Bush and Capito have done their best to demean their sacrifices to their country with their cuts in benefits for Veteran's care. Mike is serious on our country's security, wanting America to make the changes necessary for us to begin to return our troops home and refocusing our struggle against terrorists on those who will threaten America whether or not we are in Iraq or not. West Virginians understand that our nation's security does not rely on one political party in Washington and that terrorists understand that their safety is never assured when they threaten us and mankind's natural right ot live how it chooses. That is why Mike Callaghan connects easily to the voters of WV-02 and Capito is in danger of being replaced by a strong leader for progressive West Virginians.