Could someone clarify something for me--concerning Sen.R. Byrd?

[Talismom]

I've been incredibly impressed with many of his speeches in recent years and was shocked by his recent vote in favor of the bankruptcy bill. I've noticed many ads. on progressive web sites requesting $$s to fight a right-wing attack on him. Until that recent vote, I'd have been more than happy to support him. Now though, I'm wondering where he gets off asking for money from the same working class people he helped screw over in favor of the banking industry! I'm wondering where those banks are, who's interests he was so keen to support. Seems like the kinda money he's trying to raise would be mere chump change to them! Am I overlooking or misunderstanding the situation?

Thanks for any insights you knowledgeable folks can provide!

[whistle]

1. Write the senator and ask him!!

[Talismom]

2. Thanks. I just did, but wanted the take of some DUers who

might have some insights on the subject.

[whistle]

5. Very good, please share with us what he responds back.....

[Talismom]

6. Absolutely, Thanks! n/t

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

3. "All politics is local". Polticians and ethics are an oxymoron.

I believe I read that WV is heavily involved in the banking industry. Thus, votes and money go to politicians who support it.

Similar to here in Washington with 2 supposedly liberal Democratic senators. They both voted "yea" on Cafta along with Wyden of Oregon and Feinstein of California. Could it possibly be that Seattle, Portland, San Francisco and Los Angeles are major port cities is the reason for their siding with the corporations???

The question is rhetorical.

[marbuc]

4. WV does not host any of the major banks or credit agencies

so he certainly didn't do it for this reason. Sen. Byrd is facing a significant challenge to his seat next year, and probably did not want to take a stand on a bill that was certain to pass.

Byrd is an icon of the Democratic Party in West Virginia, and his defeat will surely accelerate the state's "permanent red status." For this reason, I ask that people afford him "the benefit of the doubt," and judge him not for this vote, but on the totality of his record of service to the party and working people of West Virginia.

This is certainly a "coal baron" state, and the alternative would certainly trigger the return of the type of corporate friendly policies that inspired the Coal Wars. If you're skeptical, read up on Don Blankenship/Massey Coal, and their union busting activities, as well as their strong armed legislative tactics.

[Talismom]

7. As far as I can see, the fact that it was certain to pass

was all the more reason to take a stand and do what was right for his constituents.

Your reply makes no sense to me.

The power in the democratic party, unless you buy the line of the DLC, rests with the people who showered the likes of Howard Dean with thousands of 25 and 50 dollar contributions. Now Byrd wants some of that too! But those people, like me, stand to be severely hurt by that bill. If and when I have to foot the bill for a major illness--the reason for many if not most bankruptcies in this country--this bill will make me an indentured servant for years and years. I don't think people realize yet how horrid this is. It was a gift tossed to the already filthy, wealthy banking business at the expense of the working people.

After my efforts and financial outlay during the 2004 election I swore that I would NEVER AGAIN contribute to a fancy talker who dropped my better interests when it suited him/her! Either walk-the-walk or don't bother me with your requests!