Murray Hopes to Unseat Moran in 8th District
Patrick Murray, an Alexandria Republican, ran unsuccessfully against Moran in 2010.
The air was electric Friday as campaign volunteers waited for the arrival of U.S. Sen. John Thune at the Republican “Victory Center” office in Springfield. Thune stumped for Mitt Romney, U.S. Senate candidate George Allen and, a name less well known, Patrick Murray, who is hoping to unseat Congressman Jim Moran in the 8th District.
But Murray’s name is better known this year than in 2010, when he unsuccessfully challenged 22-year incumbent Moran. Murray campaign volunteer Laura Arth, who was at the Thune event Friday, spoke enthusiastically about Murray.
“Within the last couple of weeks, the energy in Virginia has just really picked up as the Romney campaign has really put the pedal to the metal with regard to getting volunteers, securing the phone-banking and scheduling of events,” she said. “Patrick’s happy to participate with everything because the top of the ticket helps Patrick win in Virginia’s 8th.”
Murray, a retired U.S. Army colonel and Alexandria resident, is counting on a wave of support for Republican candidates and better name recognition this time around, as opposed to the 2010 race.
“I was a brand-new candidate, and no one knew who I was,” Murray told Patch. “And I had to get out my own vote. That’s not going to be the case this year, because I’m a little bit better known now with voters, and also we’re going to have a presidential race and a hotly contested Senate race. … We’re happy about that.”
Extensive Military Career
Murray, an Oklahoma native, received his bachelor’s degree in economics from Oklahoma State University, where he joined the U.S. Army ROTC. He went on active duty after graduation, living at times in the Washington metropolitan area and “falling in love” with Alexandria. He also holds two master’s degrees, in history and Russian studies.
When Murray, 53, joined the Army, the Cold War was still in full swing. He served in various capacities in the Army, including as an armor officer on the border between East and West Germany, and spent time in the former Soviet Union and in the Balkans. His Army career includes serving as a foreign area officer in defense intelligence and as an attache in various embassies.
In 2007, Murray served a tour in Iraq, working in strategic planning under General David Petraeus. He was also stationed at the U.S. State Department and worked with the staff of U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton, in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations. He retired from the military in 2009.
Locally, Murray serves on the board of directors for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. He’s worked with the city on a committee regarding the Torpedo Factory, and he’s also working to help create a military museum near Woodbridge.
Focus on Jobs, Economy
Much of Murray’s focus falls on the economy and the national debt. He favors fewer government restrictions on small business, which he says prevents them from creating jobs.
“I think the government’s role in this isn’t to create jobs,” he said. “It’s to provide a fair and balanced platform, playing field, so businesses can flourish. We’ve seen that happen in the past. We have good examples of that happening. Right now, that’s not what’s happening, and it’s not what my opponent wants.”
Murray also likes to talk energy. He supports a greater role for the free market in the energy sector and favors greater exploitation of oil and natural gas, including hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking.”
Murray also supports a federal balanced budget amendment and has flirted alternately with the ideas of a fair tax, or consumption tax, and a flat tax. Taxes need to be simplified, with fewer exemptions, he said.
“If you’re a ‘60s generation Democrat, Moran’s your guy, and that’s fine,” he said. “They know they’re going to get their Social Security. They’re not going to have to worry about this debt. They’re pretty much starting to go into retirement.
“But if you’re 25, 30, 35 years old, and you’ve got a mountain of student loan debt, and you’re looking at a mountain of federal debt, you’re going, ‘Who the hell is going to pay for that?’ They are. They look in the mirror and they see they’re going to be the ones to pay for it, and that’s why we need a balanced budget amendment.”
On social issues, Murray is pro-life. He believes gay marriage should be left to the states but supports same-sex civil unions.
Targeting Independents, Swing Voters
Murray spends much of his time knocking on doors. He was campaigning door-to-door in the Fort Hunt area recently, after many residents lost power from the derecho that tore through the area, followed by a heat wave.
“They said, ‘Hey, if you’re out walking and knocking on doors this morning, we like that,’ ” he said. “So, we’re targeting independents and swing voters, voters who have voted both parties the past four or five cycles.”
According to the Center for Responsive Politics, Murray has raised just shy of $100,000 in the race. That pales in comparison to Moran, who has amassed more than $800,000. Independent candidate Jason Howell has raised only about $10,000.
For what Murray lacks in funds, he hopes to make up for in his message in traditional, online and social media. During the last election, his campaign raised about $430,000, and he hopes to beat that number this go-round.
Murray’s campaign remains largely grassroots in nature, said campaign spokesman Reece Collins.
“We still feel like we’re ahead of pace from where we were two years ago,” Collins said. “In terms of the main ways of getting the message out and communicating, there’s a big grassrooots effort, lots of phone calls, lots of door knocking. But we’re also doing the new media communications, as well, whether it’s Facebook or Twitter or email. I think, overall, we feel good about the progress made.”
Jay McConville, chairman of the Fairfax County Republican Committee, sees hope in Murray’s candidacy. His qualifications include personal integrity, a deep understanding of defense issues and a pro-business outlook, he said.
“What Patrick has got to do, and is doing, is contrast the type of representative he’ll be and the type of congressman Moran has been,” McConville said. “ … People really need to take a look at him, because he’s a good man, he has a distinguished record, and in the 8th District, we deserve someone better than what we have today.”
Joseph LaMountain
9:10 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
Focusing on independents and swing voters in an overwhelmingly Democratic district is a losing strategy for a Republican. For Mr. Murray to have any chance of winning in November, he'll have to convince many of Rep. Moran's supporters to switch and vote for him instead. Yet all Mr. Murray offers is the same old tired GOP rhetoric and talking points.
Gail G
9:44 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
If the Republicans want to waste their resources in an unshakeably blue district, by all means, go right ahead.
STEPHEN
9:46 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
JIM MORAN IS THE BEST DEMOCRATIC CONGRESSMAN THE 8TH DISTRICT HAS EVER HAD. IT WILL BE MY PLEASURE TO AGAIN VOTE FOR HIM. HE IS A BIG SUPPORTER OF POLICE AND FIRE.
Ron Kirby
10:22 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
Yes, what I like best in Mr Murray is his integrity. Plain spoken truth. His resume is about as good as it gets. His policies are not bad either. The US needs to produce more oil and gas using new technologies. Opening up drilling offshore VA would do miracles for funding needs in NVA. His knowledge of defense issues would be tremendous in guiding Congress in maintaining a strong military. Tired ole ideas, I don't think so. Cong Moran I don't think has had a new idea since the new deal, just same old, same old.
pvogel
10:52 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
Jim Moran has my vote . And will keep on getting my vote until
a. I move somewhere elswhere
b I have croaked my last breath
c. Mr Moran croakes his last breath
Jim Miller
4:27 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Ron, please enlighten me on what Patrick Murray has done in our local area community, either as a volunteer, or someone that has been a part of a civic association. Hey, don't bother pondering the question. Patrick Murray has not been a volunteer for any of our area civic associations, where he could have rolled up his sleeves and had a great opportunity to sell himself to voters, and he's also not a member of a civic association where he actively participates to make change where he lives. Patrick Murray probably does have more integrity than Jim Moran, I will agree with you on that one, but Jim has been forgiven by voters for his past troubles, of which he was never convicted of any crimes. So Jim's got a 'free pass' from us Democrats because we all know that he'll always come through with helping the 8th out in transportation issues, such as Route 1 to Belvoir, where he has helped to bring home much needed funding to help alleviate traffic tie-ups. Talk about issues inside the 8th, of which people care about much more deeply than offshore drilling, or defense issues. Patrick Murray really doesn't know the 8th Congressional District all that well and it shows by his lack of having any kind of background to stand on in Alexandria. My statements can't be refuted. You know it and I know it. Patrick Murray may be a very nice guy, but he'll never ever get elected running against Jim Moran, and that's a fact.
Vincenzo4
4:06 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Everytime I struggle over an hour on any area street to go to work or come home, I thank Johhny for his sterling absent and progressive and pro-active leadership. Every time I remember his complete disaffection on al hurra television and his arrogant syntax, content, verbals and non-verbals combined with his exquisite and distant, sheltered lack of a life of adversity and insulated bourgeois largesse, I know he is a leftist true believer. Every time I look at the sheer dearth of mushroomed domestic and international affiars incompetence and complicity that has manifested the breathtaking domestic and international and the increased bloodletting of that threat I think of how absent and not the least flustered and absent John has been in national security in extremis in the last four years alone. While trillions have been diverted deliberately from defense in the run up to World War Three and the Trumpeted Trojan Horse that has neutralized every middle eastern country frtiendly to the west, and we have been encircled increasingly ever since Bush's plane weas laughed out of DC, and the continualy flow of national security leaks and its unrealized cummulative horror to come, I worship John Moran's silence and desire four more years just like thr est of you insulated, comfortable countrymen. God Bless you John, with all due respect to your position.
Mark Williams
10:46 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
Mr. Murray has registered his "official" Alexandria residence using multiple addresses over the last several years, and it's entirely unclear whether Mr. Murray is actually domiciled here. Mr. Murray has been less than transparent about his final assignments on active duty. Mr. Murray decries the Federal budget, but he claims to be a spokesman for the most expensive slice of the pie. Mr. Murray has established absolutely no record (zero) in local civic involvement -- he runs for office, and that's about it. Mr. Murray has demonstrated no particular expertise at any of the actual work that he would have to do (and in which he would have to be a subject-matter expert). Mr. Murray is challenging a simply spectacular member of Congress who rightfully receives substantial support from voters in the District. Mr. Murray is simply a spoiler; he has no chance of being elected, he deserves no chance of being elected, and there are good reasons for the reluctance of the community to even minimally acknowledge his repeated candidacy.
Jim Miller
3:13 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Mark, Jim Moran is no poster boy for being a 'spectacular member of Congress who rightfully receives substantial support from voters in the District.' Jim Moran has had more potholes and bumps in the road with his personal life, which has naturally effected his political life, but despite all of his problems, yes, we have all still voted for him, because, and this is my point, there is no one who is perfect. As much as well all try to be perfect in our lifes, it's just not going to happen. Now most of the people you know aren't politicians, and most of the people you know have had their own ups and downs in their lives. Jim Moran, as I said, most certainly is no saint, but despite his personal issues, he has always come through for voters in the 8th Congressional District, "bringing home the butter", especially when we needed it the most. As Jim as aged, over the years, he has mellowed, and he doesn't get into trouble like he used to. Jim Moran will once again get my vote, as he will trounce Patrick Murray this November, even worse than he beat him in 2010.
Andrew Raycroft
11:29 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
First of all the adjustment to Social Security is easy. The "fix" is simply working with the new demographics but far be it for Congress to agree on anything. Pandering to their political base and major contributors is far more important to them then compromising for the good of our country.
It is interesting that Mr. Murray says that the role of the Government is not to create jobs especially since he has been a career government worker. Yes, the military is paid by our tax dollars just like teachers, firemen, police etc. Also did Mr. Murray receive a government paycheck while acquiring his two graduate degrees? Did the government also pay for his tuition and housing while going to school? Don't get me wrong, we need intelligent and educated people working for the government and I'm glad Mr. Murray took advantage of his employment with the government to acquire a high level of education.
I would like to know what his employment situation is now. Is he like many retired military working on government contracts? Still essentially receiving a government paycheck
So is Mr. Murray willing to cut funding for military personnel and military retirees? Is he willing to cut defense spending all so he can have a balanced budget? In other words is he willing to take the hit in spending cut like he wants everyone else to? Is he willing to compromise for the good of our country or will he too pander to the political base and major contributors?
Rachel Leonard
11:57 am on Monday, July 30, 2012
Andrew, Murray told me is a full-time campaigner right now and has no other employment. Hope that helps answer your question.
Andrew Raycroft
5:49 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Rachel, what has Mr. Murray been doing for the last 3 years since he retired form the military?
Rachel Leonard
12:30 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Now that, we didn't discuss.
Jim Miller
12:16 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Patrick Murray doesn't have a shot to win against Jim Moran, or any Democratic challenger in the 8th Congressional District. The Republicans should know this. If they don't, they're totally clueless. The ONLY Republican that could have a chance, and he'd still be a long shot, would be Alexandria City Councilman Frank Fannon. Frank Fannon at least has been heavily involved in the community for the past twenty or so years, even prior to him being elected to the Alexandria City Council. Both Democrats and Republicans should take a page from Frank's book on how to be a volunteer, helping out causes in the community, like he has done in his past, before running for elected office. As for Patrick Murray, virtually no one other than a small group of Republicans probably knows who he is, other than he's Jim Moran's challenger. Patrick Murray isn't a part of any local civic association, at least none that I know of, and he's just not meshed into any community group either. So it seems all he's trying to do is just be a guy that will inevitably lose, and lose bad, again, to Jim Moran. Jim Moran's no saint, he's far from it. Jim's done a lot of sketchy things that we Democrats have overlooked, because he's delivered for us, and votes the right way. Jim Moran's not perfect, not by a long shot, but then again, who of us is, right? All I know is that Patrick Murray will surely go down in flames as he did in 2010. There isn't a Republican who would bet Murray to win, either.
Elayne
2:06 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Jim Miller your thoughts are all over the place. Patrick Murray(Veteran) has a remarkable chance to succeed. Read his bio on his website and he had an honorable career.. The Wikipedia page on Jim Moran reads like something from TMZ. Tabloid piece..And you are right Jim Miller he is no saint and again your right in your piece "We demorcrats have overlooked his short comings"he is far from being an ethical man. WHY would we settle?? Time to Retire Jim Moran..To many good deserving up coming candidates. I am reading many military bashers in these few comments our military is a Volunteer position and Patrick had served for our country and many communities for many years.
Jim Miller
2:56 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Elayne, I never once spoke bad about Patrick Murray's service to our country in the military. As a matter of fact, I, for one, commend him for his service and commitment to our country. But Patrick Murray doesn't have a chance to win, you know it, and I know it. Hey, like all liberal/progressive Democrats who have kept up with Jim Moran, we ALL know he has character issues, or, as people would quite often say, issues with his character. But until Jim Moran is tried and convicted in a court of law, I, and many other Democrats, are all willing to put up with Jim's troubles, which all have been vetted out by both the press and voters over the years. Patrick Murray, having served in the Army, isn't as distinguishable as you would think, as there are many other people in our armed services, who proudly serve our country now, or who are veterans, as he is, who should be honored for their past service. Patrick Murray, though, does not serve as a volunteer in any community organization, or civic association, anywhere in the 8th Congressional District. Patrick Murray additionally has not been elected to any local office anywhere in the 8th Congressional District. Patrick Murray has only served our country, and he has done it with great honor and distinction, but he has done nothing notable in the 8th Congressional District, other than being a volunteer challenger to run against Jim Moran. Jim's done a lot of shady things, but I'd take him over Patrick Murray, any day of the week.
Ron Kirby
5:06 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
It seems Mr Miller thinks you must be an Alexandria community organizer to be qualified to run for Congress. I don't think so. Murray's campaign does have a chance and many believe because there's lots of energy by volunteers working.
The Dem's must support a very flawed candidate "far from being an ethical man." "But until Jim Moran is tried and convicted in a court of law Democrats are all willing to put up with Jim's troubles." Mr Miller, this is great criteria for the Demos selection process.
Tincup
2:35 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
I support Moran as well! Dems like him are great! His history and background are corruption ridden. His positions are as far left as they come and statements are similar to Alan Grayson. "Moran's comments have no place in the Democratic Party- Pelosi" But can be bought for the right price on any development legislation. These comments convince me that most dems are not willing to hear another opinion even w/in their own party (i.e trying to prevent Shuttleworth for running) and hurt the party as a whole nationally. I hope my embarrassing anti semitism, kid beating, insider trading, etc., etc. ... 8th District rep. will continue to represent the democratics in congress.
Gail G
2:48 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Can someone please elaborate on the issue of Murray's "multiple addresses" in Alexandria? Does he own property outside of the City of Alexandria? If so, where? I am intrigued.
Jim Miller
3:03 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Gail, maybe there's more than one 'Patrick Murray' in Alexandria.
Jim Miller
3:17 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Gail, make bets with Republicans who want to bet on Patrick Murray beating Jim Moran this November. You'll make a killing, and, alternatively, I'll also bet that you won't find one Republican who will bet $100.00 or more on Patrick Murray. Seriously. Are there any Republicans out there who would bet $100.00, or more, that Patrick Murray can beat Jim Moran? If so, speak up, the betting starts here!
oldtowner
3:02 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Per Mr. Williams' comments above, where does Mr. Murray live in Alexandria? How many years has he lived there? And it sure does not look like he has been very engaged in civic affairs.....
Mark Williams
3:54 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Couldn't even begin to tell you "where [Mr. Murray] lives in Alexandria" or anyplace else, nor for how long, nor (apart from running for Congress and immediately associated activities) in what civic activities he's been engaged since discharge, nor what employment he's held since discharge. Nothing. Cipher.
Lee Hernly
7:30 am on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
You do realize the 8th district encompasses more than just Alexandria so one does not have to be domiciled in Alexandria to represent the 8th.
Tincup
3:22 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Oldtowner- are you the liberal version of a "birther?" I hear his birth certificate is from Hawaii, and has a Swiss bank account does that help? Moran is from Buffalo. Wait Wanamaker the deputy director of Alexandria general service convicted of embezzlement came from Buffalo. I see a pattern here...
oldtowner
4:57 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Tincup: I am not questioning where Mr. Murray was born.....only where he lives/has lived in the district. Many "Alexandria" addresses are actually south of the City limit and down in Fairfax County....still in the district, however. Just curious as to where he lives/lived and how long. Also, the AWLA website lists him as a Board member in 2011.....not for 2012, 2010, 2009. Of course, he could have served in the past. But one year on the AWLA Board does not civic involvement make. How else has he contributed to the community?
Jim Miller
3:42 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Tincup - Patrick Murray is from Oklahoma, and, additionally, really hasn't lived all that long of a time in the 8th Congressional District. As I mentioned earlier, the ONLY Republican who would have a very long shot chance to beat Jim Moran, would be Frank Fannon, who was born in the City of Alexandria, and who admirably served, for over 20 years before he ran for office, on different community associations, and projects around town. Frank Fannon would be a dream candidate, who probably more identifies with the history of the 8th Congressional District, than Jim Moran, who, as you noted, was born in Buffalo. Jim was also raised in Boston, but that's not the issue here. Frank Fannon and Bill Euille are the only two elected officials who were both born in the City of Alexandria, and both raised here, as well. Not surprisingly, both Frank and Bill, from what I understand, are good friends, as well. Now there is and has been some questions about Patrick Murray's residence, which he can probably clear up pretty quick, no doubt, to let voters know that he does indeed live in Alexandria. As far as Republicans go, Patrick Murray doesn't appear to be working off of Alicia Hughes's campaign playbook, which includes having people wonder about the legitimacy of her true residency. All Patrick Murray would have to do is just make a statement to show documentation that he lives in Alexandria and the case will be easily settled. Oh, and speaking of Frank Fannon, he still gets my vote!
Jim Miller
4:19 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Here's a challenge, one which I'm sure no one will honestly come through with, but how many Republicans actually would be willing to bet $100.00, saying that they think that Patrick Murray is going to win? How about that bet? If you win, you get $100.00, but if you lose, all of your money goes towards ALIVE to help stock their food bank for folks in Alexandria who need assistance. What say you Republicans? If you like Patrick Murray THAT much, and are willing to talk him up THAT much, and are convinced, THAT much that he can win, well then, let's see your cash! If you don't want to bet on Patrick Murray, then you probably don't honestly think he can beat Jim Moran, which we all know won't ever happen anyway. But if you're going to boast for how you think Patrick Murray will beat Jim Moran, show up with some cash! Put your money where your mouth is! How about it? Either way, it's a win-win, possibly for you, but no doubt a win for the ALIVE food bank, too.
Tincup
5:09 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Jim- you are right (no left). Yes, barring an actual criminal conviction (beating a child for touching his car or calling the national electorate racist for losing the House is not enough) I think our enlightened constituency will vote for corruption again. You have chosen your most popular candidate. I voted for Shuttleworth because we need a fresh Rep. for the 8th. Republican or Democrat. If you are right, we all lose (again). Thanks-
Jim Miller
7:38 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Tincup, I'd rather have Jim Moran, with all of his myriad of personal foibles exposed and vetted out by both the press and the public, and despite some of his actions bordering on the edge of criminality, than have Patrick Murray. At least with Jim Moran, we all know the guy, who he is, we know of his past problems, and despite all of his failings, we still take him as one of our own, because no one is perfect. I'm not, you're not, no one is. Every person has their shortcomings, and Jim has had quite a bumpy road in his life. I can only imagine that if he had the chance, that Jim might want to potentially do some things quite differently, both in his personal and political life. All that being said, Jim Moran has come through for the 8th consistently, bringing money into an area where many of his fellow constituents can easily see the results and fruits of his labor, being in the shadow of Washington, D.C., which helps out tremendously. There isn't a Democrat, or a Republican who can beat Jim Moran. We're very much like we're in good ole Louisiana politics, that always seem to border on criminality. It's the devil you know, versus the devil you don't know, too. Patrick Murray might be a very nice man, he served our country honorably, but both of those attributes don't give him strong qualifications to be a congressman. If that were the case, the line could be a mile long for people who would qualify. Jim Moran will be our congressman until he retires, which won't be soon.
Jim Miller
6:24 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Ron Kirby, please, enlighten us all as to just what Patrick Murray has done in the community of any clear significance. Can you do that? Can you give us examples of any community project that Patrick Murray has been a part of, or, can you site any civic associations that he has been a part of that has shown his contributions have made any impact? Don't bother, because Patrick Murray has not rolled up his sleeves and been a part of any community in the 8th Congressional District for the short time that he has lived in Alexandria. The only thing that Patrick Murray has done since he retired from the military in 2009, is to challenge Jim Moran for office. That's it, that's all, and if you didn't know that, you do now. Hey, as a Republican, you could have at least got a really nice guy, like Frank Fannon, to run for office, a guy like Frank, who has worked on many community projects and his contributions have indeed made a difference to people in Alexandria, BEFORE he was elected into office in 2009. Frank has, was, and is members in civic associations as well, at least from what my research on him shows. Frank's not a Republican right wing ideologue or conservative zealot, either, which is why so many Democrats like him as a human being. Put a guy up with Frank Fannon's strong credentials to run against Jim Moran and then you might have a race, but please don't tell us how Patrick Murray will beat Jim Moran. He won't. You know Patrick Murray can't win. You have to know that.
Kim Moore
9:13 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Regardless of where Mr. Murray lives, or how great Frank Fannon is (I happen to agree), there appear to be some key issues at play.
The first is that Mr. Murray does not have an identity as a community leader. Whether that is in the City of Alexandria, or in the Fairfax County section of Alexandria, he is not on the radar. How is a candidate to know his/her potential constituents if he/she has not spent at least some period of time leading within local government? Running for Congress, let alone serving in Congress, while also getting to know your district's issues and constituents sets the district and the representative at an uphill battle.
Second, Jim Moran's seniority in Congress has real value to our district. His position on House committees carries clout that our district needs. Mr. Murray, if elected, might get appointed to some key committees, but as a freshman member of congress, it would take at least 6 years for him to even begin to have the influence that Jim Moran affords
Heck, I appear to be more suited to run for Congress than Mr. Murray. I've served on a city committee, am a parent of public school kids, oversee one and help lead another local non-profit, and have lived in the 8th district for 21 years. If Jim Moran chooses to retire and no other Democrat with a pulse wants to run, then maybe I would do so. For now, I will remain engaged in my community.
Mark Williams
9:29 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Mr. Murray opposes abortion, even in cases of high risk, incest, and rape -- a position about which he was less than candid in his 2010 run. Mr. Murray was endorsed by Sarah Palin, who funded his 2010 run through her personal PAC. There is no level of community involvement that can wash Mr. Murray's public policy positions. Mr. Murray does not speak for the 8th District.
Ron Kirby
10:09 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Time to Retire Jim Moran. I think he has made enough money while in Congress.
Jim Miller
10:28 pm on Monday, July 30, 2012
Ron, once again, please cite for us what Patrick Murray has done within the 8th Congressional District that would have someone want to vote for him. What, please tell us, and be specific, has he done as a community volunteer, or as a local elected official, to show he has a clear understanding of ALL of his potential constituents within the district. You can't do it, I know you can't, we know you can't. You can throw pot shots at Jim Moran, but when it really comes down to delivering for his district, he does the job, and does it well. Like I said earlier, Jim's got his personal battles that are all well apparent and notable, but they're in the past, they're history, and if you think that Jim Moran has made enough money while in Congress, some of your Republican friends have done the same for themselves. Lastly, if Jim Moran had ever broken the law, he would be charged for whatever crimes he would be cited for, of which, there have been absolutely none. Jim has huge flaws, but with his twenty-two year tenure, we can clearly accept. Are you without fault, Ron? I know that I'm not. No one is. Everyone has personal demons that they deal with in their lives. But getting back to Patrick Murray, he may be a nice guy, but he is politically so far to the hard conservative right, he makes Ken Cuccinelli look like a liberal. If you want to run a Republican, put a nice guy, like Frank Fannon, who actually REALLY cares about his constituents, and Frank's not a conservative, either.
Lee Hernly
7:35 am on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
What I'd like to know is, what is either candidate going to do about the upcoming sequestration budget cuts which are going to hit the Northern Virginia and Alexandria economy exceedingly hard. Like Kaine, Moran so far as I can tell is for it as is the idiot Warner.
Jim Miller
3:21 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Andrew Raycroft raises a very valid question, just what has Patrick Murray been doing in the past three years? There's no indication that he's gainfully employed, which isn't a qualification to run for office, but if he's retired and not working, then why hasn't he presented himself to be appointed on, for instance, a City of Alexandria commission, where he could participate in ways to help shape the future of where he lives. He could also be a volunteer for a variety of causes, but there is no indication that he has done anything to help people in the 8th. When you run for office, most people have a ladder of progression, like Jim Moran, where he was on the Alexandria City Council, and served as both vice mayor, then mayor, before being elected to Congress. Patrick Murray, for a Republican that says that we all needs jobs, needs one of his own, either paid or unpaid, because right now it looks like all he does is sit on the sidelines and throw barbs at Jim Moran, and seems to have jumped in the race in 2010 and now 2012. No one knows this guy, and Republicans will all act like lemmings, foaming at the mouth, like Patrick Murray is their savior, for which he clearly is not. With less than 100 days in the campaign, Jim Moran can take a vacation, go to the beach, have a good time, because he will win by a huge landslide over Patrick Murray in November. Where are all the Republican gamblers who want to put their money on Patrick Murray? Come forward and bet on your man!
Lee Hernly
5:23 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Jim -
And what exactly did Moran do before he took office in 1990 excluding when he was on the City Council in 1979 & Mayor for a term after that? Did he do volunteer work?
amy lu
9:59 am on Monday, August 13, 2012
To answer Mr. Hernly's question - Jim Moran served several years as a volunteer in his neighborhood civic association and served on its executive board prior to being elected to City Council. In addition, Congressman Moran councils 'up and coming leaders' on the importance of local public service such as joining and spending time serving in the local civic association, as well as on local boards and commissions, before running for elected office.
Jim Miller
11:39 pm on Monday, August 13, 2012
Amy - Patrick Murray has absolutely no shot, no shot whatsoever, in beating Jim Moran. What Republicans, who are under the false impression that Patrick Murray can somehow eek out a win this November, fail to realize is that the 8th is pretty much crafted for Jim Moran, or any Democrat, for that matter, as most of the electorate within the district is in fact Democrats. That fact alone gives Jim Moran an almost insurmountable lead, just in votes alone, and also gives him a distinct advantage over Patrick Murray, or any other Republican wannabe who wants to challenge Jim. Jim Moran is completely unbeatable. I haven't found a Republican yet who is boastful enough to say that they'll put their money up on Patrick Murray to beat Jim Moran. If this is a horse race, Jim Moran's coming down the home stretch and Patrick Murray is still in the paddock.
Vincenzo4
5:37 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
I suppose the coverage of his military career with extreme depth and intellect from actual, real, deep and pervading experience, bolstered by a first-rate education, none of which was handed to him does not qualify in the arrogant, cultured, distanced, insulated arrogant denizens of the affluent and arrogant sheltered who can always be counted on to demean and patronize us.....and I quote this article that of course everyone missed trying to slit Murray's throat with active measures....
Vincenzo4
5:40 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
....never let facts obscure the propaganda, especially where the real military is concerned:HE'S NOT A BAIRD MAN: "...Murray... bachelor’s degree in economics joined the U.S. Army ROTC. He went on active duty after graduation, living at times in the Washington metropolitan area and “falling in love” with Alexandria. He also holds two master’s degrees, in history and Russian studies.
...Army, including as an armor officer on the border between East and West Germany, and spent time in the former Soviet Union and in the Balkans...Army foreign area officer in defense intelligence and as an attache in various embassies.
...tour in Iraq, 2007, working in strategic planning under General David Petraeus. [THEN] State Department and worked with the staff of U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton, in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations. He retired from the military in 2009.... serves on the board of directors for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria. He’s worked with the city on a committee regarding the Torpedo Factory, and he’s also working to help create a military museum near Woodbridge.
oldtowner
6:37 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Again, the AWLA website shows him serving on the board for one year....2011. Wow.
Mark Williams
9:09 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
So Murray served for a year on the AWLA board. Moran has been the #1 champion for anti-cruelty matters throughout the entire Congress, and has been recognized (five times) for it by the Humane Society of the US.
So Murray served with honor, as a brave veteran, in helping to devise the Iraq and Afghan policies under Bolton and Bush? Huh? They failed, utterly!
So Murray participated in a Waterfront meeting? So did half the City.
So Murray is working with a non-profit outside the City and outside the 8th District? So?
Vincenzo4, please carefully consider your comments, your context, and your tone. You are doing serious damage to the already-unlikely Mr. Murray.
Gail G
7:04 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
I respect Murray's military service, but that's not what gets me to vote for a certain person. It is often - but not always - the case that former military personnel, especially high ranking officers, have a 'my way or the highway' attitude. They are used to giving orders and fighting wars. Serving your country is admirable, but the skills the military requires do not necessarily translate to public office. In any event, the strategic planning for post war Iraq hasn't gone very well, so I wouldn't brag about that. Can Murray or any of his supporters point to concrete examples of what he actually did, as opposed to just titles? What does an "armor officer" do, and how does that translate to governing, or was that a typo? What sort of peacekeeping operations did Murray do, and in what countries? What were the results?
Jim Miller
7:56 pm on Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Hey, if we were going to militarize the 8th Congressional District, I'm sure that Patrick Murray would be the best candidate running for office, but we're not. Patrick Murray's military service to our country, is admirable, laudable, and should be honorably saluted, yet that core of work history for him doesn't necessarily translate into having a fundamental background to be a congressman, let alone represent a very diverse consitituency of the 8th Congressional District. Hey, just so Patrick Murray can pick up the clue phone here, the 8th was pretty much cut out for Jim Moran, so much so that he was given wide swaths of heavily Democratic areas. The 8th Congressional District, percentage-wise, is mainly made up of a huge majority of Democrats. To that last fact alone, that's why I've always said, that the ONLY Republican who could even have a slight chance of winning would be Frank Fannon, who is a left-leaning moderate, a very nice man, and he's a guy who is all over the place, pretty much seemingly right with Del Pepper when it comes to appearing at city-wide events in Alexandria. Patrick Murray should take a page out of Frank Fannon's campaign playbook, where at least Frank's a guy who gets out into all areas of Alexandria. From my research I have found out that Frank Fannon works with people of all cultures, backgrounds, and sexual orientation, to help out when and where he can. Patrick Murray, on the other hand, is the complete polar opposite of Frank Fannon.
Vincenzo4
5:43 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
I've read the expected, patronizing replies to my comments, especially the one that touted war failures of Bush and Bolton. I was there, on the ground, I didn't see you and I guarantee you that what you know from your media consumer leftist aplomb is all a lie. All of it. Secondly, as far as Murray's qualifications, everyone completely and conveniently overlooked his long and deep international affairs, intelligence, diplomatic and cultural immersion of his military service, borne from his own efforts from none other than Army ROTC, which means he was "not a Baird Man", never was a silver spooned wizz bang expert of nothing and would be a deep, trusted, Pro-American Statesman, and investment for ethical governance. For the one comment concerning militarization of Northern Virgina, and in general, the quite patronizing without evidence comments I have some evidence of my own of what you willingly support and tacitly excuse: oreinhttp://retirejimmoran.com/morans-greatest-hits/#antiSemitic
Vincenzo4
5:47 am on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
...and who could ever forget this - during the precursor to world war II, while combat operations world wide are underway, he speaks with disaffection directly to the enemy. For this alone, I do not forgive. Of course the arrogant comments will flow, fact is, he willingly did this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nUW1_rqcok
Mark Williams
1:08 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Umm, not sure I'm following. Your point is, apparently, that George W. Bush started World War II? That's from your post immediately above.
Vincenzo4, please take heart: counseling is available to you.
oldtowner
4:17 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Vincenzo4: Interesting you mention "lies" in your above comments. We all know now that Bush, Cheney, et al did lie to get us into Iraq. Yep, remember those WMDs? So anybody who is part of the Bush/Bolton crowd would never get my vote for anything.
Gail G
4:35 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Vecenzo, the person who falsely accused Jim Moran of being anti-Semitic was a fired pollster. I don't want to post his name here because I know people who know him, but you can google the backstory and then do some research on the guy. I wouldn't believe him if he told me the sky was blue. There are plenty of publicly available records that might lead you to not believe anything he says either.
Jim Miller
5:24 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Vincenzo4, none of your comments have any substance to give any credence to Patrick Murray's true eligibity to be a United States Congressman for the 8th Congressional District. From what you have stated of Patrick Murray's background, he would be better suited working for either the Department of Defense or the State Department, or maybe even over at the CIA, but you've got blinders on here, my friend. I, for one, absolutely salute Patrick Murray's military service to our country. I think that everyone who has submitted their comments would, as well. But to run in the 8th, you've got to be ingratiated in the 8th, ingratiated in the community, ingratiated enough so that people know you personally. Patrick Murray is doing a lot of door knocking and getting out to meet and greet people, but please, anyone, name anything of substance he's done in the 8th Congressional District. Someone, please tell me what he's done while he's lived in the 8th. I don't want to hear anymore about his military background, etc., because, as I said, if we were going to militarize the 8th, Patrick Murray would be the perfect guy. But tell me what he's done in the community where he's made a difference to people in the 8th. No one can, and that's my point. Patrick Murray is a nice gentleman, but he's absolutely not qualified to be a congressman for the 8th Congressional District.
Stephen
10:26 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Wow, really funny you folks asking what he has done in the community as if that matters to you. I'll bet that you voted for a man that sat in the Senate and couldn't take it upon himself to vote on most of the bills, prefering to be "present". Now that's a real leader. And probably endorsed a woman running for office in New York, but then I'm sure she was very active in local affairs before running for the Senate.
Jim Miller
11:00 pm on Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Stephen, that's all apples and oranges.Tell me what Patrick Murray has done in the 8th Congressional District? Don't waste your time. He's done nothing. You can crow about his military experience, but in this area, you can probably find a ton of men and women who have equal military credentials to his, if not better. There's no one disputing that Patrick Murray is a nice guy, and no one is casting any negative light on the fact that he served in the military for our country. He should be saluted for that, as I've stated before. Look, one more time. Your guy, the ONLY Republican who could have a chance against Jim Moran, would be Frank Fannon. And Frank's not running, Patrick is, so you have to look at the lay out of the land. Even Stevie Wonder can see that Patrick Murray has impossible odds to beat Jim Moran, in a district that was pretty much carved out, just for him. So in a decidedly Democratic district as the 8th is, do you REALLY think that Patrick Murray has a shot? Look, maybe you do, and if you do, or if anyone does, I'd love to see people put up a hundred bucks, a C note, on Patrick Murray. No one will bet on him to win unless they just want to throw their money away. Jim Moran, once again, as I've stated, has his faults, but, as I've also stated, so do we all. But with Jim Moran's 22-year tenure, he brings a lot of money into the 8th, money for roads that are so needed for transportation to get people to and from work. Jim Moran's no saint, but he's got my vote!
Matthew Braun
6:45 am on Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Once again, Jim Miller breaks down why we should support Moran.
1. Jim will bet Moran wins.
2. Moran has "succeeded" in "bringing home the butter" for the 8th.
I suggest our mere proximity to DC handles that nicely. As for the butter, Moran didn't stop Crystal City from being emptied of federal office space, and he was complicit in the debacle of the Mark Center. I also suggest that experience in Alexandria's silly little local democrat machine is not needed to represent the 8th... in fact lack of experience actually lends credibility in this case. We get federal funds in the 8th because of the congressional leadership that live here, in sprite of Moran. Moran is only able to be the disgrace that he is becuase the democratic party in the 8th all believe the same wrong ideas about him. He's an embarassment, and he doesn't even actually represent the businesses that employ so many people in the area.
Jim, your obsession with betting everyone who doesn't support Moran is silly. We know the racial and class politics that Moran plays work in the 8th. We don't have to like that so many of you are led around by low-rent union pandering, immigrant pandering, and racism accusations. We will vote against Moran, even if we lose, and we will do it proudly.
Jim Miller
12:19 pm on Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Matthew - Quite surprisingly, I agree with some of the points that you've made. I've said it before, and I'll say it again, Jim Moran is no saint, but who in our great country really is? Everyone makes mistakes, it's a human trait that we all have, and despite all the demonizing that people can throw at Jim Moran, he has come through for the 8th, year-after-year. As far as Crystal City being emptied from federal office space, I don't think that any candidate could have prevented that, or should have been involved in that to the extent that vacancies with commercial property shouldn't be based on how big of a long-term lease you can try to eek out of the government, but it should be based on the market, and let the property owners work out the best deals to their own advantage. The then-seated Alexandria City Council is more to blame for the BRAC-133 Mark Center fiasco, and not so much Jim, in that case. My main point is that unless the Republicans can come up with some golden boy of their own, like Frank Fannon, who's a left-leaning moderate, they don't have a chance at ever beating Jim Moran, period. Has Jim Moran embarrassed himself? Sure. Has he made mistakes. Sure. But he's all we've got and despite his problems that he's had over the years, we'll take Jim Moran over Patrick Murray any day of the week. Jim's definitely no saint, as I've said, but at least all of problems have been exposed and vetted out, and he hasn't 'officially' broken any laws, so he's good by me.