A GOP debate featuring Chris Dodd?
When we tune in Wednesday for the latest in the series of GOP presidential debates–this time in St. Petersburg, FL–yet another presidential candidate might be participating. Well, sort of.
Democratic Presidential contender Sen. Chris Dodd (D-Conn.), has submitted a YouTube video question asking the Republican contenders whether they agree with what he calls the Bush administration’s “false choice” between giving up rights in order to attain increased security. “If you believe we aught not to give up our rights, what would you do in order to protect our Constitution?” he asks.
Colleen Flanagan, a Dodd spokesperson said the long-time Connecticut Senator has been “very vocal and outspoken on civil liberties,” having supported bills that he feels restore rights taken away during the Bush administration. (More here)
“He simply wants to know where the Republicans stand on the issue of civil liberties,” Flanagan said, adding that the campaign has yet to hear whether his question will be used during the debate.
Transcript after jump
“Hi I’m Chris Dodd
“I’m from East Haddam, Connecticut.
“And my family and I are spending a little time in Iowa these days.
“I have a question about the Constitution. Many Americans are concerned that the Administration seems to be making a false choice. That is to be safer we have to give up rights. I don’t believe that, I wonder if you do. And if you believe we aught not to give up our rights, what would you do in order to protect our Constitution?”
Tags: chris dodd, Debates, republican, You Tube
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I’ve always felt Dodd was an even-handed candidate, although its a shame he can’t be included in the debates proper. Granted, constitutional rights don’t seem to be at the top of the US list at the moment — “Upholding the Constitution” is at slot four behind the Iraq war, Health Care and Energy Independence at the member ranked American Agenda from Unity08.com (worth checking out). However, it seems like he’s trying to keep his contemporary republicans on their toes. Should Hillary win the dem nom, there’s a good chance the swing vote could go red, but these issues will come up. There’s also the aforementioned Unity08, running their own split ticket with one dem and one rep, that could attract a number of indies. Hopefully Dodd’s inquiry will not only be used but be answered to satisfaction.
Regardless of his views, Chris Dodd is a great leader and American.