They think we're stupid

Candidate forums and debates can be interesting experiences. For example, take the forum hosted by the Women for Wise Growth on October 1st attended by nearly 120 residents of Oak Hammock in Gainesville.

The main attraction was the incumbent (Rep.Cliff Stearns) v. the challenger (Tim Cunha) for Florida's 6th Congressional District. Of course, Rep. Stearns was not there since he needed to be in Washington DC. So, he sent one of his former staff, now a campaign aide, Mary Johnson Miller, in his stead.

Tim Cunha's positions were thoroughly addressed in the post by Deb on Sept 26th.

What was remarkable was the talking points Miller had on behalf of the 20 year Republican incumbent, Stearns. After the event I realized I had dropped the ball by not taking notes. Still, here are the most, um, curious of Miller's comments:

On the issue of a woman's right to choose, Miller -representing the congressman - agreed that women have a right to choose...the right to choose not to have sex. The audience was stunned.

On offshore drilling Stearns' position: deny wildlife or natural beauty exists in ANWR so none needs protection. Don't they know the "w" in ANWR stands for wildlife?

Miller ominously informed us that China is negotiating with Cuba to drill for our oil. "Our" oil? American oil exists in Cuban waters? Again, the audience sat in disbelief. Geez- I almost expected Miller to begin chanting "drill baby drill!"

And in response to a direct question about global climate change Miller explained Stearns' belief that it is merely the natural cyclic nature of, well, nature. No need to do anything about it since we're not responsible for it! Don't any of them believe at all in science?

Stay tuned. There is another forum Oct 4th and one on Oct 10th. This time I'll be taking notes!