You seem more reasonable, I'll give you a try. Could you direct me to some facts beyond this article as to why he's your candidate? Thanks
Sure, here's my answer without having to look things up.
I first met him over 20 years ago when he was in the House of Delegates. Didn't hear much more about him until he ran for Congress. I was impressed. I should also tell you that some of my friends were running his campaign. That continued.
When he ran for Governor, he started at a huge 30 pt. deficit. He focused on the issues and turned around to beat Mary Sue Terrier by 19 pts.
He ran that race for the Governorship on four key issues: The abolition of parole, educational standards, welfare reform and tax cuts. The day he walked into office his staff had a four year plan on exactly how they were going to accomplish each of those.
Contrast that with Jim Gilmore who ran on the "No Car Tax" pledge with no clue as to how he would implement it.
Allen managed to fulfill 3 out of 4 campaign promises. The RAT controlled General Assembly denied him the tax increase. But it certainly wasn't because Allen didn't try.
He also championed Virginia's parental notification law, and refused to sign it until his fourth year in office when the General Assembly finally got it right.
From working with him and for him, and closely with many of his most trusted associates, I know that he is a many of principle, a man of integrity.
I know for a fact that as Governor he read and understood every piece of legislation and correspondence that came across his desk.
He's a thinker and he loves the process of the debate. That's why some FReepers think they can play the "gotcha" game with him. He thinks things through and has a reason for each of his action. It would betray a confidence to give you some specifics, but I have several examples where he put principle over politics. That's just who he is.
He is the same in private as in public. He gets criticized for assuming the good ol' boy cowboy persona. It's not an act. It's genuine.
He served Virginia well as Delegate, Congressman, Governor (the best in at least the last 50 years in Virginia, if not longer, and now as Senator.
Those are just a few reasons.