Less Horses and Bayonets? Less Jobs in Virginia

Last night's third and final presidential debate left this morning's news cycles abuzz. Each news provider has chosen their particular winner and explained why; but by-and-large there were no huge gains or hidden pitfalls evident. Whereas President Obama relied on sarcastic barbs and attacks, Mitt Romney held his ground with dignity and portrayed himself as an attractive alternative to Obama(rather than the warmonger that the President's campaign has painted him as.)

Romney did strike one of the most valid points of recent weeks in the debate; calling out the Obama campaign on its mudslinging, and its very spin-heavy attack ad schedule. "Attacking me is not an agenda."

There was, however, a part of the debate that directly affected us here in the Commonwealth. Mitt Romney pointed out the valid fact that our navy is in a dire state. Mr. Romney cited that we have less ships now than at any time since 1917. This report confirms Romney's claims. Obama jabbed back something sarcastic and off-topic about bayonets, and the debate moved on.

But wait. Here in Virginia, we have the largest naval base in the world on our coastline. That base employs thousands of Virginia's military employees. The cuts that Barack Obama will allow to our military will hit Virginia hard and there will be no way to turn that hit aside with a witty remark. The President has seriously misstepped here when it comes to one of the most influential and contested swing-states in the Union. Us.

Looking out for Virginian jobs, Mr. President? What about the 12,000 men and women employed right there in Norfolk? 

Governor McDonnell has stated on Facebook similarly just this morning that:

"President Obama's dismissive comments about the Navy tonight should be concerning for any voter who cares about the safety and security of Americans at home and abroad. President Obama has not only ignored these concerns -- but his flippant comment about 'horses and bayonets' was an insult to every sailor who has put his or her life on the line for our country."

Governor McDonnell is right. President Obama must have a very droll debate coach, but a quick comeback in a debate is not the same as a comeback in the economy and in the world. Mr. Romney has laid out his plan to support the Navy, and thereby Virginia jobs. President Obama has openly announced these cuts that would directly threaten those same jobs. The facts are there, and witty or not, Barack Obama is not the man to represent Virginia's military families.