Deeds to McDonnell: Do You Support Paying Teachers the National Average?

Statement

~ Opponent attacks Deeds' support of public schools ~

Sen. Creigh Deeds, the Democratic nominee for governor, today released the following statement upon Bob McDonnell's recent negative attacks:

“My opponent has recently gone up on television with a new attack ad. He is attacking me because I fought to make sure that Virginia's teachers got paid the national average. Throughout this campaign, I've said that when it comes to education, we can't expect excellence if we're not willing to pay for average. My opponent has repeatedly voted against providing our professional educators the support they need.

“In 2008, I proposed a budget amendment that would have ensured that our children's teachers get paid the national average. And today, Bob McDonnell is attacking me for supporting that measure. I'm not going to apologize for making sure that Virginia's children get the best educational opportunities. And I'm not going to apologize for making sure that our public school teachers are top-quality.

“My opponent can air all the attack ads he wants. That's part of the campaign. But today I'd like to personally ask Bob McDonnell to answer one simple question: Would he support a budget amendment to increase teacher pay to the national average? Or would he not?

“I look forward to hearing my opponent's response.”

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