Soldier-Turned-Writer James Webb Battles for Senate Upset in Virginia

[DeepModem Mom]

NYT/Reuters: Soldier - Turned - Writer Battles for Senate Upset
By REUTERS
Published: September 16, 2006


(Wikipedia)
James Webb

ARLINGTON, Virginia (Reuters) - In the movie ``Rules of Engagement,'' written by James Webb, a wounded Vietnam veteran-turned-lawyer beats seemingly hopeless odds to win a case defending a comrade in arms.

A real-life Hollywood ending seemed unlikely until recently for Webb, who is campaigning to unseat Virginia Sen. George Allen, a formidable Republican opponent with presidential ambitions in 2008.

Now, however, a forceful anti-Iraq-war message resonating with voters nationwide before the November congressional elections and a distinctly unpresidential gaffe by his rival have helped Webb wipe out a double-digit polling deficit.

Democrats suddenly scent blood and a chance for Webb to capture a big trophy as they seek to pick up the six seats needed to take control of the Senate from the Republicans.

Webb, an acclaimed novelist, decorated Vietnam War veteran and Navy secretary during conservative hero Ronald Reagan's presidency, is proving tough for Republicans to label as another Democrat soft on national security....

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/washington/politics-webb.html

[AX10]

1. kick

[Muddy Waters Guitar]

2. Allen's gone off the deep end recently

He even compounded his original gaffe. George Allen seems to be working doubletime to answer the question, "Gee, how many people from across the spectrum can I piss of in one week?"