I went to a townhall meeting....and found myself agreeing with a Democrat...

[Timothy W.]

Yeah, it's weird and it took me a bit of time to figure out how to write this. It was a bit of travel for me but I went to one of House Representative Joe Donnelly's townhall meetings. I was interested in what a "Blue Dog" Democrat's take on this thing was. It was rumored that he was expecting maybe a dozen or so people and had it set up in the dining section of a grocery store. Over 300 people showed up and it was a bit crowded.

I have to say, I was impressed overall how Mr. Donnelly handled himself at the meeting. I had heard that he wasn't afraid to look people in the eye and "take ownership" back home of the positions he holds in Washington and I have to admit he delivered on that reputation. He specifically did not commit his vote one way or another and had these things to say which I am in total agreement with:

1. He started the meeting using the specific words, "I'm the hired help. I work for you." Could be pandering but it's nice to hear.
2. He said the plan needs to be self-sufficient and deficit neutral to earn his support.
3. He believes that allowing people to shop for healthcare across state lines is an idea that "makes absolute sense."
4. He believes that public money should not be used to fund abortions but wouldn't commit on site to a "no" vote on any bills that had any provision that could fund abortion.

As an aside note - Joe Donnelly has an "A" rating from the NRA and a "0" rating from NARAL pro choice America. Two things I like very much.

Maybe I'm too used to Cook County Democrats because I was a bit shocked to see a Democrat with Conservative principles. Maybe this is what it was like to see Reagan as a Democrat....

Anyway, the talk is good and is a glimmer of hope that perhaps some semblance of sanity may take hold in Washington. We'll see if he delivers on it.

Tim