2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Leading New Hampshire Social Conservatives Announce Support For John McCain

LEADING NEW HAMPSHIRE SOCIAL CONSERVATIVES ANNOUNCE SUPPORT FOR JOHN MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the Social Conservatives for McCain steering committee in the Granite State.

State Representative Maureen Mooney, a third term lawmaker from Merrimack, will co-chair the steering committee along with Pam Colantuono of Manchester. Mooney is a well-respected and influential voice in the social conservative movement in New Hampshire and has led McCain's conservative outreach efforts since March.

Colantuono is a notable evangelical activist who chaired President Bush's evangelical outreach efforts for his 2004 reelection.

"John McCain has the most consistent conservative record of any candidate for president," said Mooney. "Whether it is his 25 year voting record in support of life, his strong support for the Second Amendment, or his commitment to the preservation of the traditional family, John McCain has always stood firm for the causes most important to New Hampshire's conservative community."

Colantuono added, "John McCain has been with us on conservative issues as a matter of principle, and we know that he will not yield his principles for any convenience or to any political calculation."

"I am very pleased to have the support of these community leaders who are respected among fellow conservatives," said Senator John McCain. "I am deeply grateful for their support and advice and look forward to working with them as we strive to return the Republican Party to our conservative ideals of fiscal responsibility, limited government, and respect for the dignity of every individual."

Conservatives for McCain Steering Committee
Former State Representative Nelson Allan, Nashua
State Senator Jack Barnes, Raymond
State Senator Peter Bragdon, Milford
Evangelical activist Pam Colantuono, Manchester
Former State Representative Pastor G. Michael Gilman, Littleton
Former State Representative Paul Laflamme, Nashua
State Representative Maureen Mooney, Merrimack
Evangelical activist Joanne Nash, Charlestown
Former State Representative Tony Soltani, Epsom
State Representative Kevin Waterhouse, Windham

Mike Huckabee Announces New Hampshire Endorsements

Republican Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee Announces New Hampshire Endorsements

Little Rock, AR – Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, following a strong finish in the Iowa Straw Poll, announced today an impressive roster of prominent New Hampshire political leaders and activists endorsing his presidential candidacy.

Among them, former Senator and Executive Council Candidate Russell Prescott from Exeter will join the New Hampshire Huckabee Leadership Committee and serve as the Rockingham County Co-Chair, it was announced.

"Governor Huckabee speaks from the heart – articulating positions that encourage both sides to work together.  His qualifications for President are backed up by his performance as Governor of Arkansas," Prescott said.  "Being elected in an 80% Democrat state, he bypassed party lines and proved people vote for authenticity and results.  Governor Huckabee is strong in so many areas.  He is my choice for President and I am looking forward to working real hard for him." 

Former Executive Councilor, State Senator and State Representative Dave Wheeler will also serve on the statewide leadership committee, chair Huckabee's "New Hampshire Homeschoolers for Huckabee Coalition," and serve on his 2nd Amendment Advisory Committee.

"Mike Huckabee is just the type of leader this country needs.  He is a true conservative that shares the same family values that I do," Wheeler said.  "His record of accomplishment in Arkansas is impressive, and he is the only candidate that I can fully endorse without hesitation because I know that he believes in what he says.  Mike Huckabee is the person I will be supporting and working for to get elected President."

Also endorsing Huckabee is former Commissioner of Transportation Carol Murray, who will advise the Governor's campaign on transportation issues.  In addition, State Representative Jason Bedrick from Windham, will serve as the Windham/Salem Town Chair;  John Castelot, Vice Chairman of the Manchester Republican Committee, will serve as the Manchester Ward 4 Chair; Cheryl Cataldo, will serve as Farmington Town Chair; State Representative Dan Dumaine, will serve as the Rockingham County Co-Chair and Auburn Town Chair; State Representative Frank Emiro, will serve as Londonderry Town Chair; State Representative Ryan Hansen, will serve as the Milford Town Chair; Dick & Linda Jazowski, will serve as Rochester City Committee Chairs; State Representative Connie Soucy, will serve as Manchester City Committee Co-Chair; and former State Representative Rep. Nancy Wall will serve as the Hollis Town Chair.
"I am pleased to have the trust and support of this fine group of individuals, led by New Hampshire Campaign Manager Debra Vanderbeek," Huckabee said.  " New Hampshire is a priority state for me.  With my growing leadership team, and the continued wise counsel of my co-chairmen, Fred Bramante and Cliff Hurst, and my advisor on state issues, Sen. Bob Clegg, I am confident we will be victorious on Primary Day."

Giuliani Unveils Virginia Leadership Team

Giuliani Unveils Virginia Leadership Team

New York City –The Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee today announced Rudy’s Virginia Leadership Team led by former Attorney General Jerry Kilgore, who was previously announced as the campaign’s State Chair.

Joining Team Rudy as State Co-Chairs are State Senator Jeannemarie Devolites Davis, State Delegate Terrie Suit, State Senator Frank Wagner and former Attorney General Richard Cullen and six regional chairs.

“Rudy is the candidate with the proven record as the real fiscal conservative and Virginians support his vision for our country,” said State Chair Kilgore.

“We are glad to have these respected Virginians join our efforts in the state," said Mark Campbell, Giuliani’s National Political Director. “They understand Rudy’s strong leadership is what we need in our next President.”

About Virginia Leadership Team:

Jerry Kilgore, State Chair
Richard Cullen, State Co-Chair
State Senator Jeannemarie Devolites Davis, State Co-Chair
State Delegate Terrie Suit, State Co-Chair
State Senator Frank Wagner, State Co-Chair
Theodore Brown, Central Virginia Chair
Theadore Darby, Roanoke and Shenandoah Valleys Chair
Catherine France, Tidewater Virginia Chair
Michael Lowe, Eastern Virginia Chair
Israel O’Quinn, Southwest Virginia Chair
Robert Schwartz, Southside Virginia Chair
Michelle Presson, Northern Virginia Co-Chair
Joseph Underwood, Northern Virginia Co-Chair
Carrie Cantrell, Communications Chair
Rachelle Gruenberg, Deputy Communications Chair
Robert Dyer, Coalitions Chair
James Maxwell, Petitions Chair

Biden Issues Statement On Michigan’s Effort To Move Up In The Primary Calendar

BIDEN ISSUES STATEMENT ON MICHIGAN’S EFFORT TO MOVE UP IN THE PRIMARY CALENDAR

Wilmington, DE (August 21, 2007) -- Before departing Iowa after a weeklong stay, Senator Joe Biden today issued the following statement regarding the attempt by Michigan to circumvent the primary calendar and move its date to January 15, 2008.

“Powerful interests are trying to change the Democratic nomination for President into a game of Monopoly, replacing the retail politics of Iowa, Nevada and New Hampshire with a process in which the only credential necessary to be President is to be the wealthiest candidate.

Under the current calendar, voters can regularly meet candidates in their homes, town halls and diners.  This provides an almost one on one opportunity to hold candidates accountable for their ideas and records for solving the most pressing issues facing this country.  The communities of Iowa, Nevada and New Hampshire provide a diverse array of voters and a level playing field for candidates to compete in, as a lead up to the larger states which will decide who the next Democratic nominee will be for President.

I call upon all of my fellow Democratic candidates to reaffirm their support for the retail role Iowa, Nevada and New Hampshire and publicly ask their supporters, such as Democratic Senate Leader Mark Schauer, and Governor Granholm to oppose any attempts to break the Democratic National Committee’s “calendar window” as Republicans did in Florida on behalf of Mitt Romney.”

"I carry the promise of America in my heart, where my parents placed it," said Edwards.  "Because of them, I believe in people, hard work and the American Dream.  I believe the future belongs to us if we only dare to seize it. And I believe to seize it, we must blaze a new path, firmly grounded in the values that first made America great. On that new path lies One America, where possibility is unbound and opportunity the birthright of every American. Where the voices of the people are heard again in the halls of government, and government heeds their call. One America, where every individual takes responsibility for our common good, and the chance to reach one's God-given potential is every individual's common right. I am the son of Wallace and Bobbie Edwards.  And I believe in the promise of America."

Obama Receives Endorsement From Only Iraq War Veteran In Congress And Addresses VFW

Today: Obama Receives Endorsement from Only Iraq War Veteran in Congress and Addresses VFW 

Congressman Patrick Murphy Endorses Obama while Obama vows to Keep “Sacred Trust” With America’s Troops and Veterans

CHICAGO, IL – Congressman Patrick Murphy (D-PA), the first and only Iraq War Veteran to serve in Congress, announced today his endorsement of Senator Barack Obama for President.   Congressman Murphy’s endorsement comes as Senator Obama addresses the national convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) in Kansas City, MO today.   Obama will discuss his agenda to ensure that America’s military continues to be the strongest fighting force in the world, and to make certain we honor our nation’s sacred trust to care for veterans and their families.

“When I returned from Baghdad, I saw that we needed to go in a new direction -- both here at home and in Iraq.  I am inspired by Senator Obama's call to service and believe he is best suited to bring about the changes we need in our country,” Murphy said. “Senator Obama truly wants to unite America and speaking as a former Captain in the 82nd Airborne Division, I know that he has the judgment we need to be our next Commander-in- Chief.”   

Congressman Patrick Murphy deployed twice after 9/11, first in Bosnia (2002) and then in Baghdad (2003-2004).  He also taught constitutional law at West Point. In Congress, he has worked with Senator Barack Obama, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, on the Iraq War De-Escalation Act of 2007 to stop troop addition and develop a plan to redeploy American troops.

“I’m honored to have Congressman Murphy’s endorsement,” Obama said. “Congressman Murphy is a part of the new generation of American leaders that’s bringing a fresh voice to our nation’s capitol. He knows that we need fundamental change in our politics and our foreign policy if we want to make the progress America so desperately needs.” 

In an address to the 108th National Convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, U.S. Senator Barack Obama today articulated his plan to keep America’s sacred trust with our active duty servicemen and women and our veterans, rebuild our overstretched military, and develop the capabilities we need to face the challenges of the 21st century. 

Barack Obama believes that America hasn’t been keeping its sacred trust with our servicemen and women and our veterans.  We haven’t been giving our troops the support they need when they’re fighting overseas or when they return home. And we aren’t keeping faith with our veterans after they transition to civilian life. Barack Obama has been a leader on veterans’ issues in the U.S. Senate, and the plan he outlined today for our veterans includes a reformed 21st-century Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that provides vets with reliable, accessible services and maintains zero tolerance for vets falling into homelessness.

Obama’s comprehensive plan to support our troops and veterans includes:

Deploying troops on predictable rotations and at an appropriate state of readiness.
Improving mental health screening and treatment at all levels, from enlistment, to deployment, to reentry into civilian life.
Building a 21st-century VA to serve our veterans and fully fund the VA medical center.
Ensuring that veterans receive the very best health care without having to travel long distances or get on long waiting lists.
Establishing a world-class Actuary and Planning Division at the VA to work with the Pentagon to anticipate the needs of the 21st century’s veterans.
Enforcing zero tolerance for veterans falling into homelessness.

“We enter into a sacred trust with our veterans from the moment they put on that uniform”, said Obama.  “That trust is simple – America will be there for them just as they have been there for America. As a candidate for the presidency, I know that I am running to become Commander-in-Chief – to safeguard this nation’s security, and to keep that sacred trust. There is no responsibility that I take more seriously”

What They're Saying About John McCain's VFW Convention Speech

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING ABOUT JOHN MCCAIN'S VFW CONVENTION SPEECH

At Yesterday's Annual VFW Convention, John McCain And Hillary Clinton "Presented Starkly Different Assessments Of The War And The Strategy Going Forward"

The New York Times: "In back-to-back speeches before an audience of military veterans here today, Senators Hillary Rodham Clinton and John McCain praised the fortitude of American troops fighting in Iraq, but presented starkly different assessments of the war and the strategy going forward." (Jeff Zeleny, "Clinton And McCain Differ On Iraq At Veterans' Meeting," The New York Times, 8/20/07)

The Hill: "McCain used a large portion of his remarks to address the bond of loyalty that connects the men and women who have fought on the front lines." (Klaus Marre, "McCain Touts Military Credentials," The Hill, 8/21/07

John McCain "Won Their Hearts" With VFW Speech, As Audience "Roared With Approval"

New York Daily News: McCain "Won Their Hearts." "Hillary Clinton gave respect and won some yesterday from an audience of mostly aging vets -- but Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) won their hearts." (Richard Sisk, "Hil Wins Cheers, McCain Hearts At VFW," [New York] Daily News, 8/21/07)

The New York Times: "[T]he Audience Roared With Approval." "When Mr. McCain presented an opposing view, saying the troop buildup in Iraq needed time to succeed, the audience roared with approval." (Jeff Zeleny, "Clinton And McCain Take Differing Stands On Iraq," The New York Times, 8/20/07)

The Kansas City Star: "McCain Was Applauded 10 Times, Including Standing Ovations ..." "McCain was applauded 10 times, including standing ovations when he came in (10 seconds) and at the end (18). No crossed arms when he spoke. Those on stage leaned forward, looking either directly at the senator or his image on the monitor." (Steve Kraske, "Sens. Hillary Clinton, John McCain Address VFW Convention In KC," The Kansas City Star, 8/20/07)

"Mr. McCain's Speech Was Interrupted By Friendly Applause From People Seated Throughout The Hall." (Jeff Zeleny, "Clinton And McCain Differ On Iraq At Veterans' Meeting," The New York Times, 8/20/07)

The Associated Press: "McCain, A Former Vietnam War Prisoner Of War, Received A Warmer Reception -- And Louder Applause During His Remarks." "The crowd was mostly friendly to Clinton and offered polite applause throughout her speech. McCain, a former Vietnam War prisoner of war, received a warmer reception -- and louder applause during his remarks." (John Hanna, "Clinton, McCain Split On Iraq Pullout," The Associated Press, 8/20/07)

"It Was The Most Outstanding Speech I Ever Heard"

Bob Tanner, Americus, GA: "It Was The Most Outstanding Speech I Ever Heard ..." "When the topic turned to McCain's speech, a stream of tears descended from [Bob] Tanner's [of VFW Post 4784 in Americus, GA] eyes. 'It was the most outstanding speech I ever heard,' he said." (Steve Kraske, "Sens. Hillary Clinton, John McCain Address VFW Convention In KC," The Kansas City Star, 8/20/07)

Sgt. Matt Stuart, Salt Lake City, UT: "McCain Talked To Vets On Their Level. I Liked McCain." "Matt Stuart, 28, of Salt Lake City, who was a sergeant with the 1st Armored Division in Iraq, said 'she talked about programs, but McCain talked to vets on their level. I liked McCain.'" (Richard Sisk, "Hil Wins Cheers, McCain Hearts At VFW," [New York] Daily News, 8/21/07)

Marilyn Nee, Whitman, MA: "I Like His Views Right Now ... We Could Be Fighting Another War On Our Own Shores If We Aren't Careful ..." "Marilyn Nee from Whitman, Massachusetts, who said she was an independent, favored McCain over Clinton. 'I like his views right now,' Nee said. 'We could be fighting another war on our own shores if we aren't careful.'" (Carey Gillam, "Clinton, McCain Woo Veterans' Group," Reuters, 8/21/07)

Carol Budzyn, Warren, MI: "I Liked McCain ... I Don't Like Us Being There (Iraq) But I'm Supportive Of The Effort." (Carey Gillam, "Clinton, McCain Woo Veterans' Group," Reuters, 8/21/07)

Biden Earns Another Round Of Endorsements In The Granite State

BIDEN EARNS ANOTHER ROUND OF ENDORSEMENTS IN THE GRANITE STATE State Representatives, Town Leaders Join the Biden Team

Concord, NH (August 21st, 2007) – The Biden for President Campaign released another round of endorsements today as State Representative-Elect Jim Webber (D-Kensington), former State Representative Scott Green and Sanbornton Town Democratic Chair Andy Sanborn pledged their support to Sen. Biden’s candidacy.

“The Biden Campaign continues to grow here in New Hampshire,” said Biden for President New Hampshire Chair Representative Jim Ryan (D-Franklin). “The strength of his character, his ideas and his truth-telling about the war in Iraq are winning over Granite State families.”

“Over the course of my campaign, I was very impressed with Joe Biden’s organization,” said Rep.-Elect Jim Webber. “Whenever I needed support or advice on something, I could always count on Joe. However, it is the Senator’s experience and understanding of the issues, especially regarding foreign policy, that convinced me that he is the right person for the job at the right time.”

The Biden Campaign has rolled out a number of endorsements in New Hampshire over the past several weeks, including State Representatives Jim Ryan (Franklin), Committee to Elect House Democrats Chairman; Steve Shurtleff (Concord), Assistant Majority Leader; Robert Haley (Manchester), Manchester Fire Commissioner; Mark Preston (Portsmouth); Bill Hatch (Gorham); Mike Marsh (Greenland); and Jim Webber (Kensington). Additionally, the campaign announced a number of town leaders and key state activist endorsements, including Ron Pieper, Milford Democratic Town Chair; State Senator Bob Preston (Hampton); Mayor Eileen Dondero Foley (Portsmouth); Mary Carey Foley, activist, teacher (Portsmouth);Joe Russell, Stratham Planning Board; Steve Arnold, Detective. Former President of NH Police Association; Rep. Scott Green (Manchester); and Andy Sanborn, Sanbornton Town Chair (Sanbornton).

Romney For President Launches New Radio Ad, "Exceptional"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW RADIO AD, "EXCEPTIONAL"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President launched its newest radio ad, "Exceptional."  The ad highlights Governor Romney's plan to cut back federal funds from cities that adopt sanctuary policies and ignore federal immigration laws.  Governor Romney has a record of enforcing our immigration laws.  He deputized the State Police to enforce federal immigration law, opposed drivers' licenses for illegal immigrants, and insisted that our children learn in English.

The ad will begin airing as part of the campaign's rotation today in Iowa and New Hampshire.  Script and viewing link are below.

In conjunction with the release of the new radio ad, Romney for President is also launching an online ad campaign on his opposition to sanctuary policies.  To view the ad graphic, please see:  http://www.mittromney.com/img/Sanctuary_Web_Ad/index.html

Script For "Exceptional" (Radio:60):

ANNOUNCER:  "Immigration laws don't work if they're ignored.

"That's the problem with cities like Newark, San Francisco and New York City that adopt sanctuary policies.

"Sanctuary cities become magnets that encourage illegal immigration and undermine secure borders.

"As Governor, Mitt Romney didn't wait on Washington.  He acted to make our immigration laws work.

"Mitt Romney is the exceptional Governor who took a stand so State Police could enforce federal immigration laws.

"Mitt Romney said 'No' to drivers' licenses for those here illegally.

"Mitt Romney insisted on teaching our kids in English.

"And as President, Mitt Romney will cut back federal funds to cities that provide sanctuary to illegal immigrants."

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY:  "Legal immigration is great.  But illegal immigration, that we've got to end.  And amnesty is not the way to do it."

ANNOUNCER:  "Mitt Romney – an exceptional leader for exceptional new challenges."

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY:  "I'm Mitt Romney and I approved this message."

ANNOUNCER:  "Paid for by Romney for President, MittRomney.com." 

Governor Bill Richardson A Winner at Sunday's DNC/ABC Debate In Iowa

Governor Bill Richardson A Winner at Sunday's DNC/ABC Debate in Iowa Richardson offers "Two for one," candidate of change and most experience

SANTA FE, NM -- In yesterday's DNC/ABC Democratic Presidential debate in Iowa, Governor Bill Richardson clearly showed the differences that make him the only candidate who offers both unmatched experience and the ability to bring about the change America needs to move forward. The biggest and most important difference among the candidates is their individual plans to end the war in Iraq. Governor Richardson showed he has the strongest, most sensible plan- get all US troops out of Iraq with no residual forces left behind, then use intense diplomacy to stabilize Iraq and calm the region. He also received an enthusiastic ovation from the studio audience when he stressed the importance of education reform and outlined his one-point plan for No Child Left Behind: "Scrap it."

National media reporting and commenting on the debate was highly complimentary of Governor Richardson's performance. A few examples:

Chris Cillizza of the Washington Post's The Fix said that Governor Richardson and Senator Obama were the two winners of the debate.

Click here to read the article.

David Yepsen of the Des Moines Register -- one of the two moderators of the debate -- agreed that Governor Richardson was a winner of the debate. Yepsen called this debate Richardson's "best performance" and said that "Richardson has been moving up in polls in Iowa, and Sunday's performance should help."

Click here to read David Yepsen's article.

Click here to read David Yepsen's blog post.

Rick Klein of ABC's The Note concurred that this was Governor Richardson's "strongest" debate performance. In his liveblog of the debate, he wrote: "Richardson is cooking at this debate -- he is coming across really, really well."

Click here to read Rick Klein's debate wrap-up.

Click here to read Rick Klein's liveblog.

If you did not get to see the debate,  you can find the full transcript here.

Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe Endorses Hillary Clinton For President

Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe Endorses Hillary Clinton for President

(Little Rock) Calling her the Democrats’ best shot at winning Arkansas and the White House in 2008, Governor Mike Beebe today endorsed Hillary Clinton for President.

“As the first lady of Arkansas, I watched Hillary Clinton stand up for working families by helping to organize Arkansas Advocates for Children and families and leading a taskforce to improve education standards across our great state,” Beebe said. “As a Senator I have applauded her work to strengthen the Children's Health Insurance program, which increases coverage for our children in low income and working families.

“Senator Clinton has the right vision for Arkansas and the right vision for America,” Beebe continued. “And that’s why I know she is the Democrat with the best chance of winning this state in November of 2008.”
Clinton and Beebe appeared together at a campaign event downtown Little Rock, where they were joined by hundreds of enthusiastic supporters.

Clinton applauded Beebe’s first seven months in office, highlighting his success in cutting the state grocery tax in half, creating new economic development projects that have brought new jobs to the state, expanding preschool programs in Arkansas, and fighting for children’s health insurance.

“Governor Beebe is one of those leaders who consistently over-delivers,” Clinton said.  “I’m so proud, so grateful, and so honored for the support and friendship that he and his extraordinary wife, Ginger, have shown me.  And I’m looking forward to traveling with them from one end of this state to the other – talking to people about why I’m the candidate with the most experience to bring real change to Washington.”

Mike Beebe was elected the 45th governor of Arkansas in 2006, following more than two decades of dedication to Arkansas public service.  As a state senator and attorney general, Mike Beebe worked for more than 20 years to represent the people of Arkansas.  First elected to the Arkansas Senate in 1982, Beebe has a proven track record of working across party lines and finding common sense solutions for the state’s problems