TV Ad Details Multiple Votes Against Quality Health Care for Veterans

WASHINGTON, DC -- A new television ad by SEIU details the multiple votes Congresswoman Thelma Drake has cast against improving health care for our nation's veterans, making the case that she is "Wrong for Veterans, Wrong for Virginia."

"Thelma Drake has consistently sided with the Bush-Cheney agenda of billions for Wall Street and their corporate donors, while the men and women who wore our country's uniform must settle for scraps and inadequate care," said SEIU Secretary-Treasurer Anna Burger. "We can and we must do better for our nation's veterans.  That's why SEIU members are spending every day knocking doors and making calls throughout the Second District, making sure voters know that this November, it is time for change."

The ad, titled "Honor," highlights how Drake let our veterans down by voting three times against increasing veterans' health benefits and against funding for veterans facing neglect at Walter Reed Army Medical Center.  (H.R. 1591, Vote 186, 3/23/07, Vote 276, 5/7/2007; H.Amdt.66 to H.Con.Res.95, Vote 82, 3/17/05; S.Con.Res. 21, Vote 377, 5/17/07; HR 1585, Vote 373, 5/17/07)

"Honor" is currently airing on broadcast and cable television throughout Virginia's Second Congressional District.  It can also be viewed at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YxY5Q6cqmzA.

The transcript follows:

ANNCR (VO): The men and women in uniform who protect this country and keep us safe here at home deserve the best possible health care.

But Congresswoman Drake let our veterans down by voting against increasing their health benefits three times.

And when our soldiers needed her most, Congresswoman Drake opposed additional funding to protect veterans from neglect at Water Reed Medical Center.

Thelma Drake: wrong for our veterans, wrong for Virginia.