ACLU Ellen: "I'm not an expert on many things"

During debate, Simon admits ignorance on issues important to CD 1, Schlosser commends Renzi for work on forest health (Prescott, AZ) -- Congressman Rick Renzi handily defeated former Cleveland ACLU President Ellen Simon at the much-anticipated First Congressional District candidate's debate last night at the Signal Peak Campus of Central Arizona College. During Simon's sloppy and amateur performance, the trial attorney admitted "I am not an expert on many things," and shamelessly read all her responses from prepared statements. "If Ellen Simon is not an expert on issues important to the First Congressional District, then what is she an expert on?" asked Greg Derr, Campaign Manager for Congressman Rick Renzi. "Apparently, if it's not about protecting child predators, flag burners, those suing our veterans, or other causes important to the ACLU, then Ellen Simon is absolutely clueless. No wonder Simon refused to cooperate with our campaign to schedule more debates she wanted to spare herself the embarrassment of being defeated time and again." The debate covered a wide variety of issues, from immigration reform to transportation issues to the ongoing War on Terror. During a discussion about public lands and forest health, Libertarian Candidate David Schlosser commended Congressman Renzi, saying the Congressman has worked hard to protect the natural resources of the First Congressional District. "We were pleased that David Schlosser joined thousands in our community in praising Congressman Renzi for his hard work on the behalf of First District residents," added Derr. "The voters of this area know Rick Renzi is their workhorse congressman and he will continue to fight for them in the halls of Congress." Congressman Renzi continued to build momentum for his campaign this week, picking up the endorsements of the Professional Firefighters of Arizona and the Women's Alliance for Israel. The groups join over 100 Democratic Elected Officials in the First Congressional District, the Arizona Republic, and Senator John McCain in supporting his reelection effort.