Cheney blasts Democrats at Rossi fund-raiser

By The Associated Press

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It was a rare partisan jab at the Democrats' presidential ticket in an otherwise low-key appearance at a fund-raising luncheon for Republican gubernatorial candidate Dino Rossi, a former state senator.

For about 30 minutes, Cheney lauded the Bush administration's record, especially on the economy and the war on terrorism.

"What this president has accomplished in 3-1/2 years is remarkable, but the danger has not passed. The threat remains," Cheney said. "And in the time ahead, we need the same steadfast presidential leadership."

But Cheney mentioned Kerry, the Democrats' presumptive nominee, only once, when he condemned Democrats for failing to confirm judicial appointments, most notably that of William Myers, the president's nominee for the San Francisco-based 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which has been called the nation's most liberal court.

Cheney said Democrats' "obstructionist tactics" were keeping sensible, mainstream nominees off the bench.

"What the Democrats in the Senate are doing is simply outrageous," Cheney said.

In June 2002, the 9th Circuit declared that reciting the Pledge of Allegiance in public schools is unconstitutional because the words "under God" amount to an endorsement of religion.

The president has defended "our fundamental rights and values," including the pledge, Cheney said.

"Looks to me like the Ninth Circuit could use some new judges," he said to applause from the crowd.

Although both presidential campaigns are working actively in Washington, it's considered a tough state for Republicans. In 2000, Washington voters favored Al Gore over George Bush by more than 100,000 votes. The state last elected a Republican governor, John Spellman, in 1980.
 
"It's been a long time since you've had a Republican governor, but I have a feeling your wait is coming to an end," Cheney said.

The vice president also promoted U.S. Rep. George Nethercutt's campaign to unseat Democratic U.S. Sen. Patty Murray.

The crowd greeted Cheney and his wife, Lynne, with a standing ovation. About 400 people paid $250 to attend the luncheon. For $1,000, Republicans could have their photo taken with Cheney.

The event raised more than $100,000 for Rossi's campaign.

Rossi told The Associated Press that jobs and the economy are key issues for his campaign.