Blend exclusive: Liveblog with NC U.S. Senate candidate Jim Neal

Position on gay marriage

Or is that an issue with you ?

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:16:46 PM CST

Hi Jim...

I'll kick off with a few questions:

* Why did you decide to do a liveblog on Pam's House Blend? 

* What impact do you feel political blogs have on campaigns? What are the challenges/benefits of dealing with blogs versus the traditional news media that you've noticed so far?

* What kind of feedback have you received from average people out there about your candidacy? Have you had positive encounters outside the progressive enclaves in North Carolina, since the conventional wisdom is that you couldn't possibly receive any support from Tar Heels in the conservative rural areas.
 

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:16:46 PM CST

In response to Pam

The blogosphere and social networking sites are changing the face of the political process. They providce a voice and power to those often ignored b/c they didn't have the big $ to get the attention of politicians. They are the future.

Average people have been incredible-- (whatever "average" means :-) )-- I've received tons of letters and encouragement from people all across this state. They want change.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:25:45 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Hi. Mr. Neal.

Thanks for doing this.

Do you think that homosexuality as a political wedge is losing its edge?

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by: Holly Capote @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:20:45 PM CST

Good evening!

Thanks to all for joining me tonite.

 

Off the top I'd like to remind all that today is Veteran's Day. It, and tomorrow when we remember our veterans and the brave men and women serving our country today, is one which calls for all of our support. Over 4K soldiers have died in Iraq and another 28K + have been injured. They deserve recognition, dignity and respect from all of us.

 

 

I salute them.

 

 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:22:09 PM CST

If you run out of things to do

you might read my diary at Kos about Veterans Day . . . and my father.

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:29:49 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thanks for honoring veterans

What are your views on Don't Ask Don;t Tell ?

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:31:11 PM CST

[ Parent ]

As a veteran, I thank you

Thank you for serving as a candidate, I know what sacrifice that entails.

What do you think of an Iraq GI Bill? Something that really supports our troops by giving them the opportunity to participate at a higher level through college education.  I think we can point to the WWII GI Bill as instrumental in making our country so successful post-war. We have not replicated  that level of educationl support for veterans since.

---
Ed Ridpath

2008 Candidate for the NC House

www.EdRidpath.com

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by: Ed Ridpath @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:36:26 PM CST

[ Parent ]

In response to Ed

Thanks Ed. I'm honored to have your support-- and your thanking me for something that no veteran should have to "thank" any American.

 

No doubt-- Washington is doing a shameful, repugnant jog of honoring our veterans when they come home: be it underfunding the VA or not supporting expanded educational and training opportunities. That makes me damned mad-- and I won't accept it once I'm in the Senate. The people of this State and this nation deserve so much better. 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:50:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

thanks for surfing over Ed!

I gave you props at the end of this post to let folks know to check out your outstanding live blog tonight over at BlueNC. Thanks for attending the Equality NC conference and for showing that public support of the LGBT community by ally elected officials and candidates is an example of the NC of the present and future, not some backwater that the establishment pols seem to have stuck in their minds. 

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:54:24 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Welcome, Jim

Thanks for doing this.

Has the DSCC shared any polling data with you that's not available to the public?  If so, without giving up any secrets . . . do you have any insights about what NC voters are looking for?

I'd assume Liddy's status (and maybe your primary opponent too) as a consumate insider is a potential liability.

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:24:06 PM CST

In response to Anglico

North Carolinians-- like the rest of the USA-- are fed up with professional [politicians. They are disillusioned-- the approval ratings for the Dem Party is below that of the President. They want leaders who offer real solutions to the war, economic security and rising health care costs

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:28:31 PM CST

[ Parent ]

more on Anglico

some Washington insiders think I should get out of the race--- but my opponents don't have the advantage I do of genuine outsider status. I'm not a politician and I'm proud of that. It's my strong suit-- but it makes me more dependent on the financial support of people just like all of you-- be it big or small dollars.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:32:09 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Citizen Candidates

This is a great trend I see more and more - "career" politicians have failed and "just folks" have stepped up to serve their friends and neighbors, instead of themselves or special interests.

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Ed Ridpath

2008 Candidate for the NC House

www.EdRidpath.com

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by: Ed Ridpath @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:42:32 PM CST

[ Parent ]

You've owned businesses

and you understand financial issues. 

For all the rhetoric about accountability we here from R's and business-friendly D's, it's amazing how few of them know what it's like to be in charge of anything.

Of course that doesn't apply to Liddy. She was in charge of the virtual decimation of the Red Cross.

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:33:03 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Business

I've had to balance and draw up budgets for small and big businesses. I've worked in the private sector and not inside a political bubble. We have to spend within our means-- and this Administration and its political enablers like Mrs. Dole in the Congress don't have a clue as to how to do that.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:08:17 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Dem Party

Oh, I haven't seen that poll.  Perhaps you are confusing Congress with the Democratic Party? 

I think most people recognise that Republican obstructionism is responsible for preventing Congress from achieving the will of the people.

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by: Jerimee @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:39:10 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Response to Jerimee

Correct Jerimee- UR right. The Congress' approval ratings are below that of the Bush-Cheney administration.

That polling result says that voters are fed up with politics as usual. They want change and are starved for new leadership who'll represent their interests first and foremost.

 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:38:15 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Education and Diversity

Hi Jim,

Glad you could be here, looking forward to reading what you have to say. particularly about health care! 

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by: Robert P. @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:31:02 PM CST

Health care

...costs are and have been rising at an alarming rate. For instance, my health care premiums are almost $1,900/monthly! That's wacked. I'm going to have to opt-in to a cheaper plan but can't do so immediately for fear of losiing what I've got.

 All Americans other than those with the highest incomes are dealing with this issue. I have solutions-- in a word, every single man, woman and child in this State and this country should have access to affordable health care. Health care is a RIGHT, not a PRIVILEGE!

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:36:25 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thanks for being here Jim

Has the Dole campaign made any comment on your running? 

I know she doesn't pay much attention to what goes on in North Carolina, but I suspect she would have some comprehension of the race at least.

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by: Jerimee @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:33:21 PM CST

Veterans

As it is Veterans Day, can you speak to the atrocious record of Elizabeth Dole regarding her support of veterans -- poor or denied health care, inadequate facilities and services to address the physical and mental health of those who serve our country? North Carolinians are tired of the GOP mantra of "support our troops" (except when they are injured or no longer active in the military). 

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:34:51 PM CST

Welcome Jim!

Knowing that today is Veteran's Day and seeing as all of the Democratic Presidential candidates are against the "Don't ask, Don't Tell" policy, but the Senate Presidential Candidates or any other senator for that matter has yet to introduce a companion bill to the the Military Readiness Enhancement Act, as a US Senator will you work to build a coaltion and introduce such a bill to have the hopefully progressive president sign into law?

"I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it." -- Thomas Jefferson

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by: Daimeon @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:34:56 PM CST

In response to Damieon

I oppose and have always opposed "don't ask don't tell." It's ludicrous. The young servicemen and servicewomen with whom I have spoken have had one consistent repsonse: "I don't care who serves so long as they've got my back".

 

I'm not familiar with the legislations you mentioned-- will have to get back to you and thanks. 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:40:19 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Good question Daimeon

Looks like he is avoiding gay issues.

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:40:39 PM CST

[ Parent ]

What?

I don't believe he's avoiding anything.  I just don't think he's running on a gay issues platform.  He's got many things to deal with as a potential US Senator and I'm glad he answered my question the way he did.

"I would rather be exposed to the inconveniences attending too much liberty than to those attending too small a degree of it." -- Thomas Jefferson

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by: Daimeon @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:43:42 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thanks for saying that

so I didn't have to.

From all the coverage I've seen, Neal's not avoiding anything.  Which is a completely refreshing change for Senator Dull, who mostly avoids North Carolina.

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:51:45 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Chuckyboy

Nope-- not avoiding anything just trying to answer as many questions as possible. Got a question ask it.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:46:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I did, Same Sex Marriage

Or you for or against it on a Federal Level or do you support DOMA.  

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:52:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

marriage

JWN covered this in his Blue NC discussion in October...

"It's okay if churches want to unite same-sex couples; it's okay if they don't. That's their Constitutional right which I support 100%. But when it comes to the Government, I'm not in favor of any laws that discriminate against anyone for any reason."

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:54:57 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Response to Chuckyboy

If a church wants to marry people they can; if they don't they don't have to do so.

 

I oppose all forms of discrimination-- institutional or otherwise-- by the government.

 

 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:11:11 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Statewide effort

Jim, I think the 100 counties idea is brilliant, and I also think it's (probably) necessary, considering your relative obscurity to the average voter.

Have you begun trying to make contact/enlist support from local Dems in each county yet? 

 

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by: scharrison @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:36:59 PM CST

to scharrison

The 100 country strategy is critical to a Dem succeeding on our state.

 

That being said, this will require small-dollar support from across this state so I can get off the phone dialing for dollars and out in those counties listening and meeting voters. But it also requires help from people like you. I'm a novice at running for office and don't have the well-connected ties of my opponents-- so I know if I earn your support me by volunteering, visting our website and signinig up for the TEN SQUAD--- we can grow expontentially

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:44:42 PM CST

[ Parent ]

We're ready to help

Just let us know what you need.

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by: lee2627 @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:48:58 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Sounds like a lot of work...

Just kidding. :)

 I've been thinking about signing up anyway, so I'll probably go ahead and do so.

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by: scharrison @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:56:42 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I agree that the 100 County plan is an excellent idea

Obviously you will need to spend more time in some counties than in others.  I will do what I can in Mecklenburg (my home county) and Union (my newly adopted county).

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by: The Southern Dem @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:01:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Immigration

Hey Jim!

 Rahm Emanuel was beating up House candidates at a DCCC-affiliated congressional candidates training 2 weeks ago about how they had to "move right" on immigration. I doubt he has anything against immigrants-- any more than he has against any non-Insiders-- but he feels that the Republicans will be able to use it as an issue they can demagogue on to beat Democrats. I'd love to know your ideas of how to talk with voters about immigration.

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by: HowieKlein @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:49:05 PM CST

good question

Bloggers at Raising Kaine commented that immigration didn't have nearly as much impact on the VA 2007 races as the VAGOP was hoping. 

Immigration is becoming increasingly lonely in the category of issues favorable to the Republican Party.

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by: Jerimee @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:54:06 PM CST

[ Parent ]

In response to Howie

Sensibly. Wedge issues divide us as a nation. And, clearly, as a nation we have to fix a legal immigration system which doesn't work. That's the job of the beltway gang-- and they didn't even debate the issues with other than to try and throw red meat to their special interest buddies.

And-- we're no closer than we were when Senator Dole was elected 6 years ago to a solution-- which starts with an honest debate about the challenges.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:16:28 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Military Spending

Mr. Neal (Jim),

As you know, I am a solid supporter of your campaign.  I've been trying to enlist other supporters for you from my NC network, but one friend in particular says you've proposed decreasing military spending and he sees this as a "death sentence" for NC given the military's presence in Fayetteville and Jacksonville. 

I think our military/defense budget is absolutely too high in an era where we're not fighting a world war or cold war.  I tried to tell him that the decreases you might propose would have more to do with the heavy arsenal the U.S. keeps around the world, ostensibly to combat terrorism and proliferation of wmds...  not anything that hits home as he fears.

Does that sound about right?

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:49:31 PM CST

Dole's poor LGBT issues record

Senator Dole has not supported any pro-LGBT legislation. Among other things, she supported a federal marriage amendment to "protect" the institution from "activist judges."  

If you're elected, it's likely that there will be Supreme Court retirements and the Senate has to confirm any nominations to the Court, and that court may rule on marriage equality as cases are making their way there.  What is your view of the Senate's role in the confirmation process?

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:49:39 PM CST

In response to Pam

Members of the Senate-- and mind you that CJ Roberts and Justice Alito were confirmed by the GOP majority at the time-- have done an abysmal job in vetting judicial candidates. We are apppointing activist judges---not prudent and thoughtful jurists.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:53:32 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Welcome and a question

It's good to see you here. 

I completely understand if you decline to answer this question, but we've been talking from time to time on the House Blend about the DSCC's treatment of you.  

Do you feel as though you're likely to get adequate support from the DSCC to run an effective campaign?   Are you expecting to face a primary challenge?

I'm only a click away.

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by: JulieWaters @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:52:16 PM CST

I should clarify my question

I know you're facing a primary challenge-- I meant do you expect to face a seriously competitive one?

I'm only a click away.

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by: JulieWaters @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:55:34 PM CST

[ Parent ]

JulieWaters

No problemo.

Yes-- this is very serious. It's a dead-heat primary race.

The DSCC doesn't vote in North Carolina. We have elections and primaries and not coronations. That's why it's critical to raise the funds to compete in a statewide race. I don't expect all the big DSCC supporters to write $2,300 checks but I hope you and others will help grow this movement by involving your friends, family, neighbors and coworkers.

 

Thanks. 

 

 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:58:30 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Jim, Thank you for being here

There are so many good questions waiting for you, I won't add another one to the pile.  I'm ready to do as much as I can here in Union County for you. 

 Betsy Muse/BlueNC

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by: The Southern Dem @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:55:11 PM CST

Union County!

It's a beautiful, poetic even thing that Jim is running for a seat once held by Jesse Helms.  Awesome to see that he'll have support in Monroe.

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:59:15 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Union County

I'll be there as soon as I can. Go to jimnealforsenate.com and volunteer to help.

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:03:11 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Yup...all two of us Dems will be working for Jim. :)

OK...so there might be three or four Dems in Union.

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by: The Southern Dem @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:03:52 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Hi Jim,

It is my personal belief that Hagan came in, at the Party's beckoning, specifically because you are gay. 

That is really a very poor reason to field a Primary opposition candidate, especially within the Democratic Party. Would they also have fielded another if you had been Hispanic? Handicapped? How about a handicapped African American woman?

You have the quals and you have the desire and drive to serve. I do not think the electorate will be blind to that. 

Additionally, I was very surprized at Hagan's reply to a question about confirmation of the new Attorney General, regarding torture. She provided a purely "ploitical responce". Unacceptable to me all-together. 

I will support you Jim. Thats no big deal to the rest of the world, I know, but it is important to me. 

Do not allow fear to drive your campaign or your decisions. God bless you.

 

 

 

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by: Marshall Adame @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:57:20 PM CST

Marshall Adame

Thjanks you for your kind words.

 

I was the first entrant into this race. I wasn't afraid then, I'm not afraid now and I won't be afraid tomorrow. I'm too focused on winning this race. 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:00:55 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Yes, Americans Are NOT Looking For More of the Same

Whether it's an alternative to Bush or an alternative to a Congress that doesn't have what it takes to stand up to him, Americans are looking for fighters who will put an end to Bushism and take the country down more acceptable paths. If outsider (non-Insider) candidates can get their messages out there and paint the Insiders as just more of the same crap we're all sick of, they should do very well.

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by: HowieKlein @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:03:42 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Foreign Interference in US Domestic Affairs

As an Australian, I don't get a vote, nor should I.

I do get a say though, in blogs and other places.

Could you please make a short statement, bullet form, on the foreign policy issues you feel are important at this stage, and can you tell me what resources you might have to advise you on these matters.

 

BTW Good Luck, your opponent's well connected, but a hopeless joke, you can win this. 

There is no situation so complex it can't get even worse

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by: ZoeB @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 19:59:46 PM CST

Primary challengers

What about your primary challengers, State Senator Kay Hagen (who declined to run earlier, but was recruited into the race recently) and John Ross Hendrix (a graphic designer from Cary, who is a former Republican) - how will you differentiate yourself from them on the issues given the short window before the primary, and do you think that your orientation will play a role in the primary? 

Hagen is a good fundraiser and will likely have business interests in her corner. Where will you draw your base from and what kind of support do you need? 

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:00:51 PM CST

No Child Left Behind

Hi Jim!

As a teacher, I would love to hear your thoughts on No Child Left Behind. And congrats on making the decision to help us get Dole left behind!

"I like your Christ, but do not like your Christians. They are so unlike your Christ." ~Gandhi
"Upon the integrity, wisdom, and independence of the judiciary depend the sacred rights of free men and women."  

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by: keithan81 @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:04:00 PM CST

in case he can't reply...

Here's what he said on Blue NC in October:

"NCLB simply don't work. It's flawed in concept, doesn't engender positive outcomes and is underfunded by about, say, $50 billion. Catch name with no substance or money to match the moniker."

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:09:00 PM CST

[ Parent ]

many thanks...

for pulling the pertinent answers from the BlueNC blog; it gives Jim a chance to tackle new questions here.

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:12:24 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Financial Armaggedon

As you know the stock market is plunging daily.  What is your solution to strengthen the American dollar abroad?

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:04:21 PM CST

One an entirely different issue

What do you think that our best possible move will be in the next ten years or so to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels?

I'm only a click away.

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by: JulieWaters @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:05:34 PM CST

In response to JulieWaters

The states-- not the federal government-- are taking the lead on tackling in a responsible manner the threats posed by global warming. Read: the STATES are leading while Washington stands still!

Guys-- why do we elect politicians to federal office who don't get out in front of an issue like this? Why, I ask people all the time? If we want more of the same then keep sending politicians back to Washington-- and we'll get more of the same.

My son and a friend of his were ranting at me this week about the USA's failure to lead the world in a coordinated effort to save the environment. They're disillusioned-- and they should be. Remember-- this is a global issue of which we are but one of a number of major players. The solutions must be comprehensive and global. Diplomacy must occur in sync with legislation. And America's diplomatic stature has been scorched during the years in which Senator Dole and the Bush-Cheney administration have failed to lead this nation.

 I realize that this is a broad response to your question. I can offer you this pledge: I will move forward with a sense of urgency in the Congress to put this issue at the front of the burner...instead of sticking my head in the sand. And here are two actions which Congress can initiate quick-time:

1. Enforcing more agressive emission standards for automobiles-- hybrids may cost more today, but like the I-Pod adoption drives lower pricing.

2. Reward- whether by tax credits or outright subsidies- the acceleration of the alternative fuels industry. Good for the environment and job growth.

 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 21:12:36 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thanks

I like you.  I'm not sorry I don't live in your state (I just love Vermont too much), but I'm sorry I can't vote for you :)

Fortunately, I can still give you money.  Are you an Act Blue candidate?

I'm only a click away.

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by: JulieWaters @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 21:19:16 PM CST

[ Parent ]

ActBlue link

Jim Neal's ActBlue contribution page.

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 21:29:16 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Mr. Neal, perhaps you missed my question or perhaps you're passing on certain questions, but in case you just missed it, here it is again:

Do you think that homosexuality as a political wedge is losing its edge?

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by: Holly Capote @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:10:15 PM CST

A gay issue

I just don't think he's running on a gay issues platform.  He's got many things to deal with as a potential US Senator, gay rights are not that important any more than rights for us blacks.  He is against discrimination.

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by: Chuckyboy @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:16:52 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Holly Capote

It has been in the past.

 

I'm not running to lose-- and as I've said before I have faith in the good people of this State to not be fooled by non-issues such as whether a candidate is a man or a woman, gay or straight, black or white, blonde-headed or red-headed.

 

So-- get involved and prove the fear mongerers wrong. 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:20:12 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Jim's Ten Squad

Hey Jim,

 Thanks for doing these blogs. I think it's great that we get a chance to talk to our next Senator like this!

 Just wanted to let you know I'm signed up to volunteer, and my Ten Squad is going great! 

No question, I just wanted to let you know you have alot of support out there. Keep it up! 

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by: cjs @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:13:23 PM CST

Is Jim still here? Is this still Open?

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by: Paul In SF @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:14:05 PM CST

I heard he had an hour . . .

so he may have checked out already.  In any case, I like the way he handled himself in this situation. I can't remember the last time I heard a candidate communicate so clearly with no bullshit whatsoever.

Thanks to Mr. Neal for clearing some time for this.  

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:20:53 PM CST

[ Parent ]

BS meter

One cannot imagine Liddy-bot doing a liveblog. I'm interested in seeing how Kay Hagen does in the medium. She said she'll do BlueNC, but I doubt she'll venture over to the Blend. Chuck Schumer probably advises against such things.

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:52:02 PM CST

[ Parent ]

We'll see if she comes to Blue . . .

She has some supporters there, but her leadership in the last legislative session means she'll have some tough questions to answer.  Especially on the tax cuts for the wealthy and her "business friendly" rankings by White Boys for Bidness and Industry.

It's weird that candidates think steering clear of questions is a smart strategy.

If I were a candidate, I'd jump on blogging like jumping on snakes. It's a great environment to show you're literate . . . and you really can answer whatever questions you want.  We typically overwhelm them with questions, so there's no way they can answer everything . . . 

Thanks again for doing this Pam.

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by: Anglico @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 21:00:33 PM CST

[ Parent ]

Thanks everyone!

That was a very fast hour! Jeepers, I guess I will have to ask Jim back to the Blend again (hope you're willing!).

Jim said that he would answer the questions posted by 9PM offline as he has to go, but I want to thank candidate Neal for taking time out of his busy schedule to stop by, and for the Blenders, BlueNCers and newcomers to the Blend for coming to the coffeehouse chat!

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by: Pam Spaulding @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:18:08 PM CST

Thank for hosting Pam

thanks for all you do

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by: Jerimee @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:19:36 PM CST

[ Parent ]

my first

This was my first live blogging discussion, and it was great.  Thanks for hosting Pam!

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:20:49 PM CST

[ Parent ]

No way this was your first

You were masterful. Thanks for bringing the comments from the BlueNC live blog session.  It was very helpful to have them.

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by: The Southern Dem @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:23:15 PM CST

[ Parent ]

;)

Fast learner here, Betsy!

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by: jonijoe @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:26:45 PM CST

[ Parent ]

I know the T in LGBT is the small community...

...but are you planning on attending a Transgender Day Of Remembrance Event? on November 20th?

I don't know where Charlotte is planning an event this year, but last year...

Charlotte, North Carolina

Will hold a Transgender Day of Remembrance event
on Monday, November 20 at the Charlotte Lesbian and Gay Community Center beginning with a panel discussion at 7:00 PM followed by a vigil.

Info: 704-333-0144

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~~Autumn~~

As if there were safety in stupidity alone.
--Henry David Thoreau

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by: Autumn Sandeen @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:20:51 PM CST

Thank you

Pam, this community and the people of this Old North State.

And, thanks to all the men and women who have and are serving our country on this special day.

Jim

 

PS: I'll answer a few more of your questions later tonight so check in tomorrow. 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:22:32 PM CST

Thanks!

Pam, thanks for hosting this.

Jim, thanks for participating.  It's always nice to "meet" the candidates, even if not in person.

I'm only a click away.

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by: JulieWaters @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:25:11 PM CST

Thanks Jim!

Neal in '08!!

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by: cjs @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 20:27:59 PM CST

Good night

This was invigorating. I relish these sort of forums as I do listening to North Carolinians and meeting people from all corners of the State.

Get involved. Contribute. Volunteer. 

jimnealforsenate.com

 

Has been my pleasure this evening.

 

Jim Neal 

Jim Neal in Chapel Hill

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by: JimNeal @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 21:17:24 PM CST

Thank you Jim

  I have read and love your answers.  The one question I have deals with the water supply, or the lack of it.  Do you see or have an idea of a solution to help fix the problem?

  Reason I ask, is it will become an issue.  and we know what Do-Nothing-Dole would do.......Nothing.

  Thank you, the HappyCat,

If I make sense? it was quite by accident.

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by: HappyCat @ Sun Nov 11, 2007 at 23:56:42 PM CST