Wednesday’s netroots debate at Virginia Tech  between Brian Moran, Creigh Deeds, and Terry McAuliffe showed that the contest between the three candidates for the Democratic nomination for this year’s race for Governor of Virginia is heating up.

While staying on message, Terry McAuliffe fought back hit after hit from both Moran and Deeds as the two candidates looked to establish that McAuliffe does indeed have a record that people can and should look at, and that record has very little to do with strengthening the Democratic Party of Virginia, or serving the people of the commonwealth.

On legislative issues, both Moran and Deeds have a record and experience. Their records often are fodder for argument, with both being able to say “You voted for it before you voted against it” and so forth. McAuliffe, when legislative record is discussed, fills the time with rhetorical platitudes about new and big ideas, attempting to establish himself as the Richmond outsider who will bring sweeping change to Virginia if elected; and, of course, relates everything to his campaign’s central message: jobs.

On the issue of jobs, McAuliffe believes he has the market corned. I’m surprised he hasn’t made an attempt to trademark the word. He seems to believe, and wants voters to believe, that he has some mystical formula that will revolutionize Virginia’s economy and create an unbelievable number of jobs. While other issues are too complicated or difficult, McAuliffe seems to believe that he can pull out a magic wand, flick his wrist, and put everyone into good paying jobs; even if that job is shoveling chicken waste into some power generator in rural Virginia.

Much ado has been given to Moran’s attacks on McAuliffe during this debate, and prior to it. Some have claimed that the Moran camp never speaks to his record, but only on slandering McAuliffe. This isn’t exactly true, but a lot of focus has been placed on trying to slow down McAuliffe’s advancement. Without a doubt, Terry has made some serious inroads in the activist community since he’s decided to become involved in Virginia politics and run for governor. He’s already spent a significant amount of money on a large campaign staffand both television and radio ads. With over $4.2 million raised this year, almost three times what Moran and Deeds combined, McAuliffe has commanded the air war, enabling him to establish the perception of him being a successful businessman who knows how to create jobs. Obviously, Moran hasn’t been able to keep up; he doesn’t have the kind of resources McAuliffe has due to his experience as a national fundraiser.

While there is some risk involved, and some supporters may grimace, publicly countering McAuliffe’s claims whenever possible is what Moran has decided to do. From McAuliffe’s political involvement, to his business dealings; there is much that does not match his rhetoric. It’s unfortunate that Moran has to keep reminding people of this, as there is so much more to discuss; but that seems to be the reality while running against McAuliffe. I don’t like it, and I know there are many out there who don’t either. However, when talking about the environment, the economy, equality, strengthening the Virginia Democratic Party, bringing jobs and investment to Virginia, making the commonwealth safer, and improving the quality of life for all Virginians; Brian Moran is the best candidate in this race and will fight for the people of Virginia as the commonwealth’s next governor. Doing what is necessary to slow McAuliffe down may be the only way that Moran can win the primary and take on Bob McDonnell in the general election.

Around 500 people viewed the debate online, and over 1,000 twitter posts were generated during the debate. An online pollwas posted following the debate, asking respondents to chose who they thought won the evening. Brian Moran held the lead in this poll until the 11th hour; however, when the poll closed, Terry McAuliffe won the poll by 3 points against Moran with 46%. Moran came in with 43% against Deeds who ended at 11%. 487 votes were cast in this poll.

Related posts:

1. Deeds gaining ground, Moran and McAuliffe stalled
2. Latest PPP: Deeds leads, McAuliffe and Moran stagnant
3. Latest primary polling showing Moran’s precarious position
4. Terry McAuliffe: Sleeping with the enemy
5. Moran and Wagner lead in latest polling