Democrats to Focus on Iraq in Response to Bush Speech

ABC News’ David Chalian Reports: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) tapped freshman Senator Jim Webb (D-Virginia) to deliver the Democratic response to the President’s State of the Union address Tuesday January 23.

By selecting the man who served as Navy Secretary under President Reagan, the Democratic leaders are making clear that irrespective of what President Bush plans on talking about in his State of the Union address, the Democrats plan to keep Iraq front and center.

"I am honored to have been selected to deliver this response," said Senator Webb in a statement. "I ran for the United States Senate to bring an experienced set of eyes to the problems that face our country, ranging from the need for a new direction in Iraq to assuring economic fairness for American workers."

"I hope the President will join us in bringing fresh, creative solutions that will truly move our country forward," continued Webb.

Webb defeated Sen. George Allen (R-Virginia) in November and his victory helped push the Senate into Democratic hands. Webb’s son is serving in Iraq and his opposition to the war was the centerpiece of his campaign.

Webb will be the second Virginia Democrat in as many years to deliver the high-profile response to the President’s speech. Last year, Gov. Tim Kaine (D-Virginia) had the honor.