Kerry's statement on Hackett

[Mass]

http://www.wtol.com/Global/story.asp?S=3675511

Among other national Democrats offering congratulations to Hackett was 2004 presidential nominee John Kerry, who said in a statement that Hackett "talked about the issues that really matter and he wasn't afraid to speak the truth about his experiences in the war in Iraq."

I have not seen the full statement on this issue, but I'm sure that Kerry recognizes a lot of common things with Hackett.

[karynnj]

1. I bet you're right

The sentence they used of Kerry's statement is really nice and it kind of mimics the statements he had of his own experience of returning to speak the truth about the war in VN. (which were echoed in the comments of others in Going Upriver etc.)

The parallels may have been stronger if Kerry would have suceeded in his original goal to become a member of the House in 1970 running as an anti-war vet. (Although Kerry without his law degree, experience as a proscecutor and lt Governor might not have had the breath of experience or the skills he has now. But, fighting from the inside - he would likely not have had either the fame of his anti-war movement leadership.)

[Mass]

2. Here is the full statement ,

http://www.johnkerry.com/pressroom/releases/pr_2005_08_03.html

John Kerry on the Results of Ohio’s 2nd Congressional District Special Election
Congratulates Paul Hackett on Hard Fought Race
For Immediate Release

Washington, DC - John Kerry issued the following statement this evening:

“This was a tough race and Paul Hackett ran a terrific campaign. He made an unprecedented showing in this race and drew overwhelmingly strong support in an historically Republican district. Paul volunteered to serve his country in Iraq and he volunteered for duty again to serve his country in Congress. He reached out to people across Southern Ohio and offered them an alternative positive vision to the Republicans who run Washington. He talked about the issues that really matter and he wasn’t afraid to speak the truth about his experiences in the war in Iraq.

“His strong showing tonight in an overwhelmingly Republican district sends a warning signal to the Washington Republican establishment and the Ohio Republican Party that voters aren’t happy with what they have seen so far. They are troubled by the corrupt culture and do-nothing Congress, and are ready for a change.

“I know Paul’s commitment to this country runs deep and I know despite the results of this election he will stand by his promises to his district, and as a citizen, continue to fight for a better future for the people of Southern Ohio. In the end, this election came down to a well-financed incumbent and an enterprising challenger. Paul worked hard and I know that we can continue to expect great things from him.”
{/div]

[Island Blue]

3. A very nice statement from Kerry(as usual).

I do hope Hackett continues to speak truth to power, and that he will consider another run for office in the future. I think he has a very compelling story to tell and I think the American people are finally awakening from their slumber and may be willing to listen to what he has to say.