Blue-Dog Democrats targeted for budget

by Mark Silva

It isn't only Republicans balking at President Barack Obama's spending plans. Conservative Democrats, too, have concerns about the $3.55-trillion plan.

And an Obama-backing committee is targeting five of the so-called "Blue Dog Democrats'' with ads airing in their districts, as the president's party attempts to rally support for the budget.

USAction has bought airtime in the districts of five "Blue Dogs" who serve on the House Budget Committee.

The ads, starting today, target the constituents of Reps. Marion Berry, (D-Ark), Allen Boyd (D-Fla.), Charlie Melancon (D-La.), Bob Etheridge (D-N.C.) and Chet Edwards, (D-Texas.).

The budget committee is slated to start marking up the spending bills next week.

The five spots are tailored for each member. The script for Boyd's Tallahassee-based district, a center of support for Obama in the last election, reads:

"President Obama has proposed a budget plan that turns the page on the failed economic policies of the past - creates jobs - and changes the way things are done in Washington. When it comes to creating and protecting jobs, Congressman Boyd has always stood up for the people of Florida.

"But now the special interests in Washington are squeezing him to oppose the President's budget. Call Congressman Boyd. Tell him to stand up to the special interests and stand with the working people of Florida. Tell him to support President Obama's budget."