Dean Rallies N.Va. Democrats

Candidates, Officials Told to Stand Up for Beliefs

By Chris L. Jenkins
Washington Post Staff Writer
Friday, October 17, 2003; Page B01


Democratic presidential candidate Howard Dean brought his campaign back to Northern Virginia last night, headlining a fundraiser for state Democrats who face tough General Assembly races next month.

In a wide-ranging speech that touched on many of the issues he has championed across the country -- opposition to the war in Iraq and President Bush's handling of the economy -- the former Vermont governor told an enthusiastic crowd of nearly 700 that Democrats must stick to their core principles.

"The only way we beat George W. Bush is to stand up for what we believe in," Dean told the local and state Democratic lawmakers. "People will be attracted to you if you tell them what you truly believe."

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"He is talking directly to the people, and you can sense the enthusiasm in this room about his campaign," said Arlington County Board member Jay Fisette (D), one of the several local officials who have decided to endorse Dean. "His message is becoming incredibly effective."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A39601-2003Oct17.html