Deeds presses pro-choice argument

Searching for some message traction, Democrat Creigh Deeds continued to stress his support for abortion rights at an event in Portsmouth today.

Deeds' recent emphasis on the pro-choice theme is part of a larger strategy to contrast his views with the ardent pro-life stance of Republican Bob McDonnell.

Lately, the topic has become a central talking point for Deeds -- a long time pro-choice advocate -- as several polls show him trailing in the race for governor.

Its merits as a winning message are debatable.

Some observers see it as a gamble with a slim chance of success. To others, it is a clever way to rally base Democratic voters.

During the Portsmouth stop, Deeds said "We can't afford to let Bob McDonnell take us back -- not on a woman's right to choose, not on the economy and not with any other important issue facing our commonwealth today."

McDonnell spokesman Tucker Martin said Deeds' current tactic is an attempt "to divide Virginians," adding that the Republican candidate "will continue to talk about bringing Virginians together to create jobs and opportunities."

While in Portsmouth, Deeds delivered a speech tailored for a group of nurses who announced their support for his candidacy. His remarks struck chords about college loan forgiveness and grants to universities to expand medical training programs.

That visit came one day after the Democrat generated headlines for his response to a reporter's question about whether he would support legislation that included a tax increase to pay for state road needs.

Deeds said that he would consider a transportation plan approved by the General Assembly that features a tax hike provided that it doesn't take money away from public education funding or other state budget priorities.

-- Julian Walker

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