Billionaire Sheila Johnson, a backer of GOP gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell, this afternoon apologized for imitating the stammer of Democratic nominee R. Creigh Deeds.
"Two weeks ago I made reference to Creigh Deeds’ inability to clearly communicate effective solutions to the serious problems facing Virginia," said Johnson, a Democrat and co-founder of BET.
"I shouldn’t have done it in the manner in which I did and for that I apologize for any offense he, or others, may have taken."
In the video, Johnson mimicked Deeds’ halting speaking style to underscore her view that the state senator from Bath County isn’t taking firm stands on issues.
In a conference call with reporters, Deeds strategist Mo Elleithee says Johnson’s imitation is offensive, particularly to Virginians with speech impediments.
"It was openly mocking those who stutter," said Elleithee. Asked if Deeds has a speech disability, Elleithee said, "It’s something he’s dealt with his whole life," but Deeds had "never sought any medical attention for it."
Tucker Martin, McDonnell spokesman, said in an e-mail: "Creigh Deeds has been unable to express any vision for Virginia’s future, and he regularly takes two positions on important issues.
"Democratic businesswoman Sheila Johnson was noting that fact. Why the Deeds campaign wants to attack a prominent supporter of both Governor Tim Kaine and President Barack Obama, while reminding voters that she strongly supports Bob McDonnell for governor, is beyond us."
The video, of Johnson, a broadcast executive and investor, is showing up on Democratic blogs today.
Prepared by a Deeds tracker who followed Johnson and McDonnell to a recent event in Hampton Roads, the video was turned over to bloggers by the Deeds organization.
In the video, Johnson mimicked Deeds’ halting speaking style to underscore her view that the state senator from Bath County isn’t taking firm stands on issues.
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