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Cantor: BlackBerry use was note-taking, not disrespect to Obama
A Richmond businessman today launched his bid to unseat Rep. Eric I. Cantor, R-7th, with a stinging attack on the House Republican whip's conduct.
Charlie Diradour released a YouTube video that he said raises questions about Cantor's BlackBerry use during President Barack Obama's nationally televised speech on health care.
The ad by Diradour, who is seeking the 2010 Democratic nomination to run against Cantor, features three Twitter feeds on what appears to be Cantor's account that are time-stamped during Obama's speech.
Cantor told the Richmond Times-Dispatch he was taking notes about the contents of the speech. The video, however, indicates the tweets address Cantor's scheduled television appearances.
Ray Allen Jr., senior stratgist for Cantor for Congress, said "no tweets went out during the president's speech -- period."
"This charge is an outrageous lie. It is amazing that someone who thinks he wants to represent the good people of the 7th district would begin his camaign with an outgrageous lie and fabrication."
Cantor's posts, when viewed in eastern time, posted after President Obama's speech ended, Allen said.
According to the White House, Obama began speaking at 8:16 p.m. and ended at 9:03 p.m.
"It's not surprising when you consider that Nancy Pelosi went and recruited someone to run against Congressman Cantor who doesn't even live in the 7th district," Allen said.
The Web video also points out that the House rules of decorum and debate include a provision that members shall "refrain from eating, smoking or using electronic equipment, including cellular phones or lap top computers, on the floor."
Cantor drew national attention for what was perceived as a lack of respect for Obama. Diradour says Cantor's alleged Twitter feeds are "sadly a metaphor for what's wrong with politics today."
In the video, Diradour says: "I believe my opponent has just demonstrated why he's a card-carrying member of those who make up the most-pampered, out-of-touch and politically rude class of elite Washington politicians in this country's history."
Diradour posted the video on YouTube this morning.
He said he is letting the video speak for itself, but that "It's an example of failed leadership."
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