Minnick dominates debate, announces ‘Centrist Caucus’

Posted on Oct 15, 2010 in Uncategorized

In a live debate on Idaho Public Television, Congressman Walt Minnick announced his intention to form the “Centrist Caucus” in the next session of Congress. (view debate here)

When the candidates were asked to name something they had done with the opposing party, Minnick highlighted his work with the moderate Blue Dog Coalition as well as his friendship with Rep. Charles Djou, a freshman Republican from Hawai’i. Minnick said he and Djou agreed to form a coalition of moderate members from both parties in the next session of Congress.

“We are going to be a point of influence in a closely divided Congress,” Minnick said.

Minnick also used the debate to clearly define the choice for voters in Idaho’s First Congressional District.  His opponent favors repealing the 17th Amendment, going back to the Gold Standard and abolishing the Department of Education. Minnick, on the other hand, is a successful businessman and the most independent member of Congress.

“I have proven that I can stand up to my party and the President if necessary,” Minnick said.

Minnick’s principle opponent, Raul Labrador, was scattered and lost as he grasped at answers when challenged about his inconsistent record on immigration, taxes and oversized trucks on Highway 12 in central Idaho.

“I have not looked at this issue,” Labrador said of the Highway 12 issue, one of the most contentious and well-publicized debates in the state over the three months.

Minnick also took Labrador to task for his misleading television advertisement by highlighting his centrist voting record and background. Along with one of the reporters at the debate, Minnick pointed out that he has voted with Republican Party leadership as often as he has voted with Democratic Party leadership, and said his background and experience make Idahoans’ choice clear.

“I’ve not been a Congressman long, but I’ve been an Idaho businessman for over 30 years,” Minnick said.