2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

New John McCain Website Launched

New John McCain 2008 Website Launched..

Rudy Giuliani Website Refreshed

The new look for the Rudy Giuliani website was launched with this blog post from Maria Comella, Deputy Communications Director.

Hizzoner's Highlights - September 4th

Today we kick off the month of September and the post Labor Day frenzy looking a little more “refreshed” than before. That starts with our website. Our site has new features and…wait for it…unveils our social networking sites! Those of you eager to add the campaign as your friend on Facebook and MySpace can finally do so. We’re using these sites a little differently than other campaigns with a new feature, “Running with Rudy.” This will offer users a behind-the-scenes look at the campaign, with contributions from staff in headquarters and on the ground. Check out the welcome video from our very own Dan Meyers… http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=17318654.

2008 Republican National Convention Launches Website

2008 Republican National Convention Launches Website
One Year Out, GOP Making Strides in Minneapolis-Saint Paul

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - One year out from the 2008 Republican National Convention, the Committee on Arrangements (COA) today launched the initial phase of its official convention website, www.GOPConvention2008.com. Additional phases, offering visitors expanded information and interactive capabilities, will be unveiled throughout the coming year. The website launch is another important step in organizing the four-day event in Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held at Saint Paul's Xcel Energy Center from September 1-4, 2008. An experienced team is hard at work in the host cities, making great strides in the areas of housing, operations, hospitality, administration, information technology, among others. Approximately 45,000 delegates, alternate delegates, members of the media, volunteers and other guests are expected to attend the convention - and www.GOPConvention2008.com will allow millions more to participate in the event from around the world.

The initial website structure features the latest news and headlines from convention headquarters; a frequently asked questions or “FAQ” section; information on volunteering; and the option to subscribe to regular electronic updates, among other components. Future phases will incorporate more cutting-edge features, including video and additional forms of user-generated content.

“Our website, www.GOPConvention2008.com, will be more than a one-way communication tool that provides information to those traveling to the convention,” COA President and CEO Maria Cino said. “In the coming months, it will become a fully interactive community that encourages everyone to become involved in the Republican Party's nomination of the next President of the United States.”

Cino is currently leading a convention team of more than 15 COA staffers in Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and that number will eventually grow to more than 150.  The COA and the 2008 Minneapolis-Saint Paul Host Committee are each doing their part to ensure that the convention is a triumph for the Republican Party, as well as for the host cities.

After a thorough site selection process, Minneapolis-Saint Paul was chosen for its vibrant communities, outstanding hotels and event venues, and a clear enthusiasm to host the convention. Staff is in the process of contracting with nearly 100 hotels and 70 venues throughout the metropolitan area - and the local business community is already reaping the benefits of the additional visitors scheduled for 2008.  In total, the host cities are projected to receive an estimated $150-$160 million positive economic boost.

“With planning on track and momentum building on the ground, we're confident the 2008 Republican National Convention will provide our nominee with an effective vehicle to share his vision for the future of America,” Cino added. “The boost the convention provides will propel our nominee to victory in November.”

The latest news and headlines will continue to be posted on www.GOPConvention2008.com - the source for convention news in the year to come.

New Mitt Romney Website Launched

New Mitt Romney Website Launched

Biden Campaign Launches Iowa Website

BIDEN CAMPAIGN LAUNCHES IOWA WEBSITE
Site Features New Memorial Day Web Ad Calling on the President to Make Life Saving Mine Resistant Vehicles a National Priority

Wilmington, DE: The Biden for President Campaign today launched a new section of its website, www.joebiden.com/iowa, dedicated to the campaign’s organization and efforts in the Hawkeye State.  The “Iowa for Biden” section provides state-specific campaign updates including news, schedules and information on the campaign’s field activities.   

Biden is on day-two of a six-day campaign swing through Iowa.  Today, he will also make stops in Iowa City where he will speak at the Johnson County Democratic Party Family Picnic and in Clinton, Iowa where he will hold an Iraq Town Hall Meeting.  During the six-day swing, he will also make stops in Waterloo, Maquoketa, Dubuque, Indianola, Des Moines, Emmetsburg, Fort Dodge, Cedar Falls and Vinton.

To visit the new ‘Iowa for Biden’ website and view the web ad ‘Home,’ go to: www.joebiden.com/iowa.

Richardson Launches Iowa Campaign Website

Richardson Launches Iowa Campaign Website

DES MOINES, IA --- Emphasizing his commitment to campaigning in the Hawkeye State, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson’s Presidential campaign has launched a new interactive website dedicated to its efforts in Iowa.

“This new website will be a valuable tool for campaign supporters to get information about Governor Richardson as he travels to cities and towns all over the state, listening to what Iowans have to say about our country and its future,” Iowa Communications Director Tom Reynolds said.  “Governor Richardson is going to continue to meet with caucus-goers and discuss why his extensive legislative, diplomatic and executive experience make him the best candidate in the field. Our Iowa website will help in this effort and will serve as a vital link between the campaign and the Iowa community.”

The website will feature information about upcoming events, video and photos from campaign stops around the state, current press releases and news clips relevant to Iowans, and blog entries from Richardson campaign staffers and Richardson supporters.  The URL of the new site is http://iowa.richardsonforpresident.com/.

Governor Bill Richardson Officially Declares Candidacy For Democratic Presidential Nomination

Governor Bill Richardson Officially Declares Candidacy for Democratic Presidential Nomination
Governor launches new phase of campaign in Los Angeles, receives the endorsement of California political and community leaders

LOS ANGELES, CA--New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today announced he is ending the exploratory phase of his campaign and is officially seeking the 2008 Democratic Presidential nomination. With his wife Barbara by his side, the Governor made the announcement this morning during a news conference at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

"The United States faces huge challenges, but also huge opportunities. I am running for President because these times call for a leader with a proven track record, and a demonstrated ability to bring people together to tackle our problems at home and abroad," said Governor Richardson. "I am that person, not because I say so, but because of what I have done, and what I can do for the American people."

Governor Richardson has devoted more than 25 years to public service, including 7 terms as a US Congressman, as US Ambassador to the United Nations, as Secretary of Energy, and is now in his second term as Governor of New Mexico.

"This Presidential election is unlike any other we've ever seen. From day 1, we have to repair the damage done here at home and to our reputation abroad. And that all starts with restoring diplomacy as the primary instrument of our foreign policy ... and basic fairness as the primary means for problem solving in Washington," said the Governor. "There are a lot of candidates in this race with good ideas. But coming up with a good idea is only half the job. The other half is bringing people together to get it done. I'm proud of my record of getting things done. And I'll put that record up against anyone's."

The Governor announced the formation of his Presidential Exploratory Committee on January 22, 2007. As he began his campaign, Governor Richardson was fully engaged in the 60-day session of the New Mexico Legislature, where he passed approximately 90% of his initiatives.

Governor Richardson today also received the endorsement of more than two dozen California political and community leaders, including many from the Latino community. A complete list of endorsements is below.
Here is the complete text of the Governor's remarks from today's news conference, as prepared for delivery:

"I'd like to thank all of you for joining us here today. It means so much to me to officially announce my candidacy in California, the state I was born in and the state whose primary I plan on winning on my way to becoming the next President of the United States.

The United States faces huge challenges, but also huge opportunities. I am running for President because these times call for a leader with a proven track record, and a demonstrated ability to bring people together to tackle our problems at home and abroad.

I am that person, not because I say so, but because of what I have done, and what I can do for the American people. The challenge of the campaign I am launching today is to get that message heard.

Running for this office is the ultimate job interview. It's not just about the positions you've held but the job you've done and your ability to lead on day one at a very critical time in our nation's history.

This Presidential election is unlike any other we've ever seen. From day one, we have to repair the damage done here at home and to our reputation abroad. And that all starts with restoring diplomacy as the primary instrument of our foreign policy ... and basic fairness as the primary means for problem solving in Washington.

There are a lot of candidates in this race with good ideas. But coming up with a good idea is only half the job. The other half is bringing people together to get it done. I'm proud of my record of getting things done. And I'll put that record up against anyone's.

Some of the critical questions to ask every candidate in this race are: how will you solve the crisis in Iraq and bring our troops home? How will you deal with global warming? How will you address the health care crisis in this country? And what will you do about illegal immigration? How will you grow the middle class again?

I cannot address all these in one short statement, and I urge everyone to check my website, www.Richardsonforpresident.com, for a more complete explanation, but let us discuss several:

First, Iraq.

Some will tell you that we only have two options: either stay in Iraq and try to referee a civil war or leave and collapse into chaos. I've spent a lot of time in this part of the world and let me tell this: that is a false choice.

Removing all of our troops and healing Iraq are one and the same. Only when it is clear that the US will leave Iraq can the hard diplomatic work have a chance for success. A negotiated political settlement, involving the warring parties and interested neighbors is how to prevent a regional war.

And we have a strategic interest in organizing a regional conference, with all of Iraq's neighbors including Syria and Iran, to help stabilize Iraq.

But I would leave no troops behind in Iraq. No air bases. No security patrols. No embedded soldiers training Iraqi forces ... because we all know what that means. It means our troops would still be out on the streets with targets on their backs.

We need a president who is not dismissive of diplomacy, but someone who embraces it as the primary instrument of foreign policy because he has practiced it, and knows how to get results.

Being stubborn is not a foreign policy and being President means working with both parties. As Lee Iacocca has said: "Courage in the 21st Century doesn't mean posturing and bravado. Courage means a commitment to sitting down at the negotiating table and talk." I agree.

It was tough, face-to-face talks that helped secure the release of journalist Paul Salopek, and two colleagues from a jail in Darfur. I am so proud that his wife, Linda Lynch, is here today. You know, when I visited Darfur in January and negotiated a cease fire, I saw thousands of widows and fatherless children trying to escape the genocide ... waiting in line in oppressive heat for a month. They wanted to know why it was taking the United States so long to do something. I didn't have a good answer. As President, I will make sure the US leads the world in saying no more- the violence must end.

We also need a President who is not dismissive of energy independence and global warming. This is no longer a choice---it is a moral imperative for our planet and a matter of survival of our country.

I'm proud that I made New Mexico the clean energy state. We're already requiring utility companies to produce energy from renewable sources. We've already invested directly in energy efficiency, we're promoting renewable energy with tax credits for using wind, solar, and biofuels, and we've eliminated taxes on hybrid cars.

I have the most aggressive plan of anyone running for President. Within twelve years, my plan would reduce greenhouse emissions by 20 percent, lower demand for oil by fifty percent, and push fuel economy standards to 50 miles per gallon.

By the year 2040, my plan would require that 50 percent of our electricity be generated from renewable sources and would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent.

The League of Conservation Voters rated mine the most aggressive plan with the highest goals of any candidate.

I'm also ambitious on health care.

Every political candidate says that all Americans should have access to affordable health care. But how do we achieve that? .

In New Mexico, we have made a start by expanding our state health insurance to cover every child under five, we have tackled childhood obesity, we've insured more working New Mexicans and we're looking to expand it even more.

But states shouldn't have to struggle to solve this problem on their own.

My plan as President is simple: Every employer must provide health insurance for their employees or pay an equivalent fee to the federal government, and every individual must have health insurance.

Employers and individuals will have their choice of options-- if they like the coverage they have, they can keep it. My plan creates no new federal bureaucracies.

Next, the middle class. They have been under attack for the last 6 years. As President, I am going to reverse that and pursue polices like those we have in New Mexico. We gave tax credits to companies that create jobs paying above the prevailing wage, we helped start up high tech companies and we invested in technical training

And, while Washington DC could not do anything, we passed a $7.50/hour minimum wage

And finally, immigration. As the Governor of a border state, I deal with this issue every day.

The proposal moving forward in the Senate is a step in the right direction toward establishing a path to legalization. But at the same time it's a step in the wrong direction because it separates parents from children and loved ones from their families.

The touchback provision is ill conceived, and any guest worker program mustrequire available jobs to be first posted for American citizens and legal residents.

We can address the illegal immigration problem by taking three realistic steps.
First, we have to recognize that no fence ever built has stopped history. And a border fence wouldn't either. If you build a ten foot fence, someone will use an 11 foot ladder.

Instead, use that money to secure the border with more Border Patrol officers. We need to at least double the number of Border Patrol agents. That would secure the border.

Second, we need a path to legalization requiring those living in the United States illegally to pay a realistic fine, pass a background check, and pay any back taxes.

And third, we have to work closely with the Mexican government. Mexico needs to do more to stem the flow. But if we create a reasonable guest worker program and provide a path to legalization for illegal immigrants already here, there is every reason to expect Mexico to do its part with economic reforms and to help us with border security.

You can go to my website, www.Richardsonforpresident.com, to find my complete plans on each of these issues. These will be some of the defining issues of the campaign.

This is a pivotal time in our nation's history. The challenges we face are not acts of God or accidents of fate. They were man-made and deliberate.

Whether it was willful ignorance or an ignorant will, we are left with the ravages of an administration that will take years to rectify.

We cannot expect the world to readily trust us as before. But we can try. We can negotiate with honor, defend with integrity, and reach out with conciliation. We have many fences to mend ... and I'm ready to get started."

Dodd For President Relaunches Website, Announces Innovative Internet Strategy

DODD FOR PRESIDENT RELAUNCHES WEBSITE, ANNOUNCES INNOVATIVE INTERNET STRATEGY

Senator Chris Dodd's Presidential campaign rolled out a new and improved website this morning and plans to continue its innovative internet strategy in the months to come.

The total revision of the site includes a clean look, easy navigation and digestible information about Senator Dodd and his plans for America.

"The Dodd for President campaign will continue to be on the cutting edge in its use of internet technology and outreach," said Dodd internet strategist Tim Tagaris. "Like his Kitchen Table Campaign, Chris Dodd's website reflects his belief in the importance of a direct conversation between voters and the campaign."

The Dodd campaign also announced the hiring of Matt Browner-Hamlin to serve as the campaign's chief blogger. Browner-Hamlin, an experienced blogger whose work has been posted at The Huffington Post, My Left Nutmeg and The Right's Field, will travel with Senator Dodd to offer updates from the field.

"Bringing an experienced blogger like Matt aboard gives us the exciting opportunity to provide Democratic primary voters with the kind of window into a campaign that hasn't been seen before in Presidential politics," said Tagaris. "With Matt's help, the campaign will be able to successfully reach out to the blogosphere and the netroots and engage them in Senator Dodd's bold and exciting run for the White House."

Dodd's campaign has already provided a window to the public, including near real-time behind-the-scenes video during the candidate's appearance on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and a live two-way conversation between viewers and the campaign's policy staff during the first Presidential Primary Debate using technology that, at the time, was barely a month old. The new site will build off those successes, incorporating technology previously unexplored by Presidential campaigns, including:

• Twitter, a real-time blogging tool that will enable live updates from the field, delivering real-time updates to anyone interested in the campaign via the website, SMS and instant messanger technology.
• Ustream, a real-time streaming video and audio site that will allow anyone to join Senator Dodd on the campaign trail from the primary states.
• Social networking platforms, continuing to engage users of MySpace, Facebook and other sites as a means of internet outreach.

"The Dodd campaign is innovating online politics," said Tagaris. "Instead of rehashing the same software and strategies from last cycle, we're inventing new ways to make the campaign available to anyone and to connect with everyone."

Blog post.

"I wanted to tell you about what I'll be doing for the Dodd campaign. As you can tell, we've just launched a redesigned version of ChrisDodd.com. I've joined the campaign to help add content to the site so that Senator Dodd's supporters will know what he and his campaign staff are doing as it's happening. I'll be traveling with Senator Dodd on his campaign trips. My blog posts will aim to give readers a window into the Dodd campaign - what we're doing, where we're going, and what Senator Dodd is talking about.

But my job will go far beyond writing about the campaign. As I travel with Senator Dodd around America, I'll be posting videos from the trail. Lots of video. We're going to be doing exciting things with live streaming web video that will provide viewers an insiders look into what Senator Dodd is doing. This campaign is going to be transparent in real time because we believe that the more people get to know Senator Dodd, the more they will like him.

I'm also going to be posting Twitter updates that are fed directly into the front page of ChrisDodd.com."

John Edwards For President Campaign Releases Iowa Specific Website

JOHN EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT CAMPAIGN RELEASES IOWA SPECIFIC WEBSITE
www.JohnEdwards.com/Iowa gives voters direct link to campaign in their area

Des Moines, Iowa – The John Edwards for President campaign today released a website specifically for Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucus goers. The web site, www.JohnEdwards.com/Iowa, provides Iowans with information on how to get involved in the campaign as well as details on Edwards’ bold and specific plans on issues from Iraq to universal health care.  It also tracks John and Elizabeth Edwards travels throughout Iowa and it will include pictures and video of their discussions with everyday Iowans.

“Iowa is the first stop in our drive to change America – and success here is going to be critical,” said Edwards. “Elizabeth and I have had many opportunities to visit with Iowans over the past few years, but this web site will give Iowans the chance to learn more about my plans for bold change.  Most importantly, it is a tool that will help Iowans get involved in the important challenges facing our country today.”   

The Iowa website -- which will be regularly updated -- includes:

• News from the campaign trail
• Pictures and video of John and Elizabeth Edwards as they visit with Iowans
• Downloadable fact sheets and other items so that caucus goers can learn about Edwards’ positions on the issues – and then share that information with friends and neighbors
• A six minute video detailing John Edwards plan for universal health coverage
• Lists of upcoming events

Many ways to get involved, including registering as a supporter of the campaign, offering to volunteer, and an email feature allowing Iowans to invite friends and family to visit the site and learn more about the campaign
A page allowing caucus goers to get in contact with the nearest campaign office
Additional features and information will be added throughout the campaign, and Edwards invited Iowans – whether they are already supporters or still undecided -- to check back at the page frequently to hear the latest news from the campaign

Obama Campaign Announces New Iowa Website

Obama Campaign Announces New Iowa Website

DES MOINES – U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) today announced that he has introduced an Iowa-specific campaign website to help Iowans stay informed and get involved in his campaign. Obama’s Iowa website can be viewed at www.barackobama.com/iowa and will include a calendar of events and activities, contact information for Obama’s 12 Iowa offices, a blog, videos and more.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for Iowans to stay informed and get involved in this campaign,” Obama said. “If we want to change the way our political system is run so that our voices – and not just the lobbyists and the special interest groups – are heard in Washington, then ordinary citizens need to join together and organize for change. My hope is that this website will provide another tool for Iowans across the state to do just that.”

Obama’s Iowa website further demonstrates his commitment to competing in Iowa and adds to his already impressive efforts to help ordinary citizens organize online. Currently, Iowans and Obama supporters across the country are using my.barackobama.com  to organize their friends and communities.

This past weekend, Senator Obama made his 6th visit to Iowa since announcing his candidacy for President in early February.