Politics: Schock gets it wrong twice
Aaron Schock has come out of hiding and subjected himself to questioning from the press. Unfortunately, he made two mistakes:
In addition to fundraising, Shock said he continues to campaign throughout the 20-county 18th District, participate in parades, attend banquets and more. The state representative also has been in session in the House through May 31 with a good attendance record.
“Where has (Callahan) been?” Schock asked. “I think my overwhelming re-elections to the General Assembly speak volumes as to how my constituents feel they’ve been represented.”
Wrong. Schock was first elected in November 2004 by 235 votes over incumbent Ricca Slone. Not a re-election, and NOT overwhelming. He was re-elected ONCE in 2006 by beating challenger Bill Spears 58-41 percent. As to whether or not this margin is entirely due to how his constituents feel about him or the generally poor campaign run by Spears (under the guidance of Michael Madigan) is the subject of debate.
No one in their right minds doubts Schock’s campaign skills. What many people doubt are his skills as a state legislator. Not that he bothered to stick around and hone those skills before seeking higher office.
Also:
“I have yet to hear from Mrs. Callahan where she stands specifically on issues pertaining to the Second Amendment.”
Apparently, Schock is avoiding reading the Journal Star as well as talking to its reporters. Callahan stated her full support for the 2nd Amendment here, on June 26, a day that Schock was off somewhere doing something else:
“I’m pleased that it appears to be aligned with what my own interpretation has been all along, that people in this country have the right to bear arms with reasonable government regulations,” said Colleen Callahan, a Democrat who is running against state Rep. Aaron Schock, R-Peoria, for the 18th Congressional District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Ray LaHood, R-Peoria. “From my background, growing up on a farm, gun ownership was often considered another piece of farm equipment to be used in a safe, reasonable and appropriate manner.”
I think the operative word there was “specifically,” Billy. In other words, what does Callahan consider “reasonable government regulations”? In fairness, I don’t know that Schock has answered that question either. In fact, I looked at his website and he doesn’t even have a section where he gives his stand on the issues.
Let’s face it, these are both pretty weak candidates. It’s a shame.