From the National Journal

Dold Move: Dold, Schneider tout their independence.

“In back-to-back interviews” on WBBM Newsradio 780, Rep. Bob Dold (R) and businessman Brad Schneider (D) touted “their independence from their respective party lines.”

Dold “said” he’s “proud of the fact that he’s stood up” to the GOP “on several different issues. That includes sponsoring legislation that would help protect Planned Parenthood and being one of the few to sponsor – and vote for – a bipartisan budget plan.” He also refers to the health care law as “the Affordable Care Act,” rather than “‘Obamacare.’” Dold: “I am a Republican, but I certainly vote (independently). I think independent is important in the idea I want to look at both sides.”

Schneider “cut at Dold’s claim of independence, noting the bipartisan budget proposal Dold touts his support for didn’t get off the ground.”

Schneider also said that although he’s skipping the Dem convo, he’s not doing so to break with the party, but rather because “he needs ‘to be out in the district and be talking to voters’” (Lester, Arlington Heights Daily Herald, 7/16).

Greening Campaign

Schneider “earned the endorsement of the League of Conservation Voters” July 17 “for his commitment to protect the environment and our natural resources.” The LCV denounced Dold saying “he has cemented an anti-environment record in Washington.”

Schneider: “I am proud to have the support of the LCV Action Fund, and I share their vision for common-sense policies that protect our climate and our natural resources. … Congressman Dold and the Tea Party are misguided in their assault on proven science and the risks they are willing to take, gambling with environmental and clean water protections, put our family and the future for our children at risk” (Realise, 7/17).