The governor who beat out Republican Jerry Kilgore in Pennsylvania this past
November has been selected to give the Democrats response to this year’s State
of the Union Address:

WASHINGTON, Jan. 19 /U.S. Newswire/ — House Democratic Leader Nancy
Pelosi, Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, and Democratic Governors
Association Chair New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson announced today that
Governor Tim Kaine of Virginia will deliver the Democratic Response to
President Bush’s State of the Union Address on January 31st.

In his response, Governor Kaine will discuss the Democratic vision that
focuses on the priorities of all Americans. Governor Kaine will deliver the
response from the Governor’s mansion in Richmond, Virginia.

“We are proud to announce that Governor Kaine will deliver our Democratic
response this year,” said Leader Pelosi and Leader Reid. “Throughout his
career in public service, Governor Kaine has been a champion for working
families, putting their priorities above the needs of the special interests.
The success of his positive message in Virginia is indicative of the
resonance of Democratic values with the American people. His vision of
increased economic opportunity, affordable education, and fiscal
responsibility will help Virginia prosper for years to come and sets a
leadership example for the rest of the country.”

“Americans will get to hear a different point-of-view from a Governor who
is working to solve problems people care about,” DGA Chair New Mexico
Governor Bill Richardson said. “Virginians elected Tim Kaine because they
know he is an innovative leader who will keep Virginia moving in the right
direction. Now, the American people will hear from the Governor Virginians
chose — a leader who’s on the front lines everyday working to help his
fellow citizens.”

Kaine is a good choice for this task as he still has the campaign blood
pumping from November. This should make for a real interesting response.