OPINION:
I was pleased that you endorsed Republican George Allen, former Virginia governor and senator, to fill the soon-to-be-vacant U.S. Senate seat in Virginia (“Vote for George Allen,” Comment & Analysis, Monday).
I saw Mr. Allen at a rally in Loudoun County, Va., two weeks ago. Because I had just heard about a proposal for a tax on the Internet, I reminded him that he had fought against such a tax. He assured me that if he had anything to do with it, the Internet would remain tax-free. For that, and my memory of him as a great governor and senator who fought for Virginia families, I support your endorsement. He reassured me that he would fight for a balanced budget and fiscal restraint.
Last week, I attended a talk given by former Rep. Artur Davis, who discussed the importance of our electing George Allen. Mr. Davis mentioned that even as it appeared that Mitt Romney had a good chance of being elected president, Mr. Romney would need the support of George Allen in the Senate. He reminded the audience that Virginia was largely fiscally and socially conservative and needed representation that reflected the people. Mr. Davis also said the Republican Party in Virginia has done more to defend the interests of women and promote educational opportunities than any other political group. The same holds true for those social issues important to most people of faith and minorities. He reminded the audience that it was equally important to elect George Allen to the Senate, as Mr. Allen has the experience and strong record on issues important to Virginians. Mr. Allen, Mr. Davis said, would work across party lines to get things done.
Mr. Davis gave one of the Obama nomination speeches in 2008 and represented Alabama’s 7th District for eight years in Congress as a Democrat. He now lives in Virginia — and is a Republican.
AUDREY DUTTON
Chantilly
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