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July 22, 2008
Sources close to North Carolina 11th District Democrat Congressional Candidate Heath Shuler's campaign have indicated that he is going to avoid direct engagement with his Republican opponent, Asheville City Councilman Carl Mumpower. Instead, Shuler is planning to bring celebrity personalities to Western North Carolina to build visibility for the candidate and as a distraction from vulnerabilities in his voting record.
His Republican challenger has a different plan. "We are proposing a debate in each county of the District," says Mumpower. "I don't care where we do it or how we do it, but I do think why we do it is important. During his run with Charles Taylor, Heath was quick to endorse debates as one of the best tools for informing the voters. If the information we have received is correct, either his position has changed or his confidence has wavered."
In a campaign that Shuler's website describes as a "frontline race", many believe that money will determine the outcome. The Shuler camp has raised about one million dollars so far - about 75% of which is coming from special interests outside of Western North Carolina. Mumpower has raised less that 10% of that amount and is only accepting contributions from individuals.
"I have said from day one that our campaign would not attempt to purchase a seat in Congress. Leadership responsibility should be earned on the basis of issues, competence, and a candidate's authentic voting record," said Mumpower. "Voters will learn that Heath Shuler and his handlers have been deceptively manipulating his image. In spite of 'blue dog' claims, Heath's obligations to the liberal's controlling Congress are clear and persistent."
Carl Mumpower
11th District Republican Congressional Candidate
http://www.mumpower08.com/
#134
Principles first - always.
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