Indiana

Another Day, Another Political Attack

By Abdul Hakim-Shabazz

When you see an opening, no matter how small, take advantage of it.   I am sure that slogan is on the wall right now over at Indiana Democratic State Headquarters.  For months Democrats have been pushing the issue of Republican Dan Coats’ ties as a former lobbyist.   To date, I would argue, that charge has gotten little traction as evidenced by the Coats’ 10-15 point lead in the polls.

However, Democrats hope a statement by Coats during Monday night’s debate will bring new life to an old attack.  During the debate,  Democratic candidate Brad Ellsworth accused Coats of pursuing his lobbyist job with the firm of Verner, Liipfert, Bernhard, McPherson and Hand while he was finishing up his term in the Senate.  Coats said he did not engage in any negotiations with the firm.

In a “gotcha” moment, state Democrats unveiled articles and a time line where they say Coats did engage in talks with the firm.  State Chairman Dan Parker went so far as to accuse Coats of telling a “bald-faced lie”.   The Coats campaign dismissed the claim.   Advisor Kevin Kellams told the media that Democrats were just trying to distract the public from Ellsworth’s record and that Coats statement was just a misstatement made in the middle of the debate.

While the flare up makes for interesting fodder in political circles and the blogosphere, I always question whether these types of stories will resonate much in the land of real people.  Had Coats made this “misstatement” earlier in the campaign I think it would have more impact.  This late in the game, I think most regular people tune out after they hear the word lobbyist.  Many Hoosiers I speak to say they care more about jobs and job creation and what the candidates are going to do for them to make the future better and they really aren’t all that concerned about the past.  And they are critical of both candidates for not offering up enough specifics and details.

So while the political attacks make for good headlines, if the candidates really want to make some headway instead of headlines, maybe they will offer up a thoughtful public policy position or two between now and Election Day.   It would be nice.

Full post as published by Indiana Barrister on October 13, 2010 (boomark / email).