It was probably not the best time to make a mistake like this.
The day after he went on national television to make very critical comments of Vice President Joe Biden, former Virginia governor and Obama supporter Doug Wilder found himself in the middle of a fundraiser for GOP Vice Presidential candidate Paul Ryan.
But before you read any further, know this: Wilder was there by accident. He didn't pay to get in and he despite his concerns about Vice President Biden, he is still supporting the president's re-election.
Here is what happened. Wilder was on his way to a panel discussion held by Governor Bob McDonnell on education reform. The panel included Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and former West Virginia Governor Bob Wise.
(Wilder at the education panel with Jindal, Wise & McDonnell thanks Kelly C. Booz)
Wilder was recognized by someone outside the Marriott who thought he was headed to the fundraiser and was ushered into the room where the Ryan event was being held. The Summit event was being held across the street at the Richmond Convention Center.
McDonnell, Jindal and several Education Summit participants did attend both events.
Before he knew it Wilder, a lifelong democrat, was rubbing shoulders with republicans and was even acknowledged from the podium. But he did not intend to be there.
I know this because I was moderating the panel and heard Wilder's explanation directly from him. His story was backed up by a well placed Republican who has every reason to make it look like Wilder intended to be there. That source confirms that his attendance was nothing more than an accident.
That doesn't mean it won't turn into political fodder, but you read the truth here.
The bi-partisan panel discussion, by the way, was fantastic. In case you were wondering.
