2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

The New York Times Endorses Hillary For The Democratic Nomination

THE NEW YORK TIMES ENDORSES HILLARY FOR THE DEMOCRATIC NOMINATION

Excerpts from the endorsement:

Hearing her talk about the presidency, her policies and answers for America’s big problems, we are hugely impressed by the depth of her knowledge, by the force of her intellect and by the breadth of, yes, her experience.

We know that she is capable of both uniting and leading. We saw her going town by town through New York in 2000, including places where Clinton-bashing was a popular sport. She won over skeptical voters and then delivered on her promises and handily won re-election in 2006.

Her ideas, her comeback in New Hampshire and strong showing in Nevada, her new openness to explaining herself and not just her programs, and her abiding, powerful intellect show she is fully capable of doing just that. She is the best choice for the Democratic Party as it tries to regain the White House.

The full text of the endorsement is below:

Primary Choices: Hillary Clinton

https://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/25/opinion/25fri1.html?_r=1&oref=slogin&pagewanted=print

Bill Clinton Discusses how Hillary will Bring America Closer to Success in New Radio Ad

Bill Clinton Discusses how Hillary will Bring America Closer to Success in New Radio Ad

COLUMBIA, SC – The Hillary Clinton for President campaign launched a new radio ad featuring former President Bill Clinton today, underscoring Hillary’s vision for improving the economy and providing effective solutions to make a difference for all Americans.

In the 60-second ad, entitled “Closer,” former President Clinton highlights his confidence in Hillary as a problem-solver when it comes to fixing the state of America’s economy, unemployment rates, and health care coverage. He discusses his faith in Hillary’s ability to change the course for our country, much as he redirected America towards success during his presidency.

WJC: This is Bill Clinton. These are tough economic times. There aren’t enough jobs, health care costs and gas prices are soaring, and now millions of people are worried about losing their homes.

The question is what to do about it. You’ve got a great decision to make, but I believe it’s Hillary who can help solve these problems.

I also know that African Americans have been hit the hardest these last seven years. Who can fix health care, who can fix our economy, who can create new jobs, who can reduce the price of gas at the pump?

Hillary can. I’ve known her for 36 years. When it comes to seeing a problem and figuring out how to solve it, she’s the best I’ve ever seen.

She’s always heard your voice and you’ll be heard in the White House.

I want to thank you for twice giving me the chance to serve as president. The 1990s were a time of prosperity. We created more than 22 million new jobs, moved eight million people out of poverty, and turned our economy around.

It’s time for another comeback, time to make America great again. I know Hillary’s the one that can do it.

ANNCR: Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President.

HRC:  I’m Hillary Clinton, candidate for president, and I approve this message.

Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell Endorses Hillary Clinton

Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell Endorses Hillary Clinton

The Clinton Campaign today announced the endorsement of Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell. Hillary joined Rendell to make the announcement during a press conference today at Philadelphia City Hall.

"Hillary Clinton has a proven track record of making change happen, and getting results," said Rendell. "She had a goal of expanding health care to low income children, and as a result, over six million kids nationwide have health insurance today. When she saw that National Guardsmen and Reservists were not receiving adequate health care, she teamed up with Republicans and Democrats and passed legislation guaranteeing them health care, regardless of their deployment status. We need Hillary’s results-oriented leadership and commitment to change in the White House to move our country forward."

"I am honored to have the support of Governor Rendell,” said Clinton. "I have always admired Governor Rendell's energy, vision, and ability to get the job done, and I'm grateful that he is helping to spread my message of change to the people of Pennsylvania."

Rendell was elected Governor of Pennsylvania in January of 2007. As Governor, he has continued his pursuit to cut wasteful spending and revitalize distressed communities. Rendell served as Mayor of Philadelphia from 1992 to 1999, and was Chairman of the Democratic National Committee in 2000.

Clinton's Momentum Grows With Key Endorsements From Across Minnesota

Clinton’s Momentum Grows With Key Endorsements From Across Minnesota
Nearly 50 Leaders Endorse At Events In St. Paul, Duluth and Rochester

The Clinton Campaign today announced the endorsements of nearly 50 legislators and community leaders from across Minnesota.

“Hillary Clinton has the strength and experience to make change happen from her first day in office,” said State Senate President James Metzen.

“Hillary has a detailed plan to jumpstart our economy and rebuild the middle class,” said State Director Buck Humphrey. “She has not only a vision for America, but the ability to implement it.”

“I am grateful for the overwhelming support I’ve received in Minnesota,” Clinton said. “With the help of these local leaders, we’ll continue to bring our message of change across the state over the next two weeks.”

LEADERS JOINING HILLARY’S MINNESOTA STEERING CMTE TODAY:

•    James Metzen, State Senate President, South St. Paul
•    Barb Johnson, City Council President, Minneapolis
•    Bill Luther, former U.S. Member of Congress
•    Don Betzold, State Senator, Fridley
•    Scott Dibble, State Senator, Minneapolis
•    Ann Lynch, State Senator, Rochester
•    Linda Scheid, State Senator, Brooklyn Park
•    Yvonne Prettner Solon, State Senator, Duluth
•    Dan Sparks, State Senator, Austin
•    Steve Larson, Mayor of New Brighton
•    Tim Willson, Mayor of Brooklyn Center
•    Patsy Green, Robbinsdale School Board
•    Erin Murphy, State Represenative, St. Paul
•    Carolyn Laine, State Representative,  Columbia Heights
•    Bernie Lieder, State Representative, Crookston
•    Bev Scalze, State Representative, Little Canada
•    Janice Rettman, Ramsey County Commissioner
•    Kathy Nelson, City Council Member, Eden Prarie
•    Tom Dicklich, Former State Senator, St Paul
•    Shelia Kiscaden, Former State Senator, Rochester
•    Mary Jo McQuire, Former State Representative, Falcon Hts
•    Alan Patton, Former State Representative, Sartell
•    Gene Wenstrom, Former State Representative, Elbow Lake
•    Rebecca Yanisch, Former State Commissioner, Minneapolis
•    Susan Vento, Educator and health advocate
•    Shannon Miller, Coach, UMN Duluth Women’s Hockey Coach
•    Pam Donato, NALC (Letter Carriers) Branch 9 (Mpls) President
•    Rod Hogetvedt, IUPAT (Painter & Allied Trades) Local 61 President
•    Roger McClure, NALC Branch 29 Retirees
•    Dirk Ostertage, Theatrical State (IATSE) Local 13
•    Steve Preble, AFSCME Council 65 Business Agent, Nashwauk
•    Perry Schmidt, NALC Branch 28 (St Paul) President
•    Shelley Seeberg, Area Services Director, AFSCME
•    Marty Strub, Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers Local 10
•    Claremont Anderson, Grant County DFL Associate Chair
•    Joyce Banaczek, Former SD 60 DFL Chair
•    Jamie Edwards, Native American activist, DFL State Executive Committee
•    Norma Hanson, Marshall County DFL Associate Chair
•    Rodney and Carolyn Hatle, Steele County DFL activists
•    Diane Ista, Norman County DFL Chair & former 7th CD Associate Chair
•    Del Jenkins, DFL State Affirmative Action Co-Chair
•    Ken Kelash, Former SD 63 DFL Chair
•    Vincent Lynch, Mower County DFL State Central Committee member
•    Robin Madsen, 4th CD DFL Associate Chair
•    Janes Miles, 2nd CD DFL Secretary
•    Skylark Miles, 2nd CD DFL Affirmative Action Officer, Inver Grove Hts
•    Mary Moen, Olmsted County DFL activist
•    Lillian Ortendahl, Todd County DFL Chair
•    Rosemary Rocco, DFL and Feminist Activist
•    Nancy Schumacher, 6th CD DFL Chair, Elk River
•    Laura Ness, First Lady of Duluth

Hillary Pledges To Stand Up For South Carolinians Who Are “Falling Through” The Current Economy

Hillary Pledges To Stand Up For South Carolinians Who Are “Falling Through” The Current Economy

(COLUMBIA) In a new thirty second television ad Hillary highlights her commitment to standing up for Americans “Falling Through” the Bush economy-- not the oil companies funding terrorism, the predatory student loan companies making college graduates swim in sea of debt, or the insurance and drug companies who take advantage of the blue collar diabetics or elderly cancer survivors.

Hillary believes that investing in American alternative fuels will establish a green, efficient economy and create as many as five million new jobs, while at the same time reduce America's reliance on foreign oil and address the looming climate crisis. South Carolina cannot afford to pay three dollars a gallon when that money is going straight to the middle east, not in our own economy.

As an advocate for education for the past 35 years, Hillary believes in the power of education to lift people up and give them more opportunities. Her plans will ensure that no high school senior gets an unfair advantage based on their parent’s ability to save. She has proposed a $3,500 college tax credit and an increase to the Pell Grant. Further, in a proposal aimed at spurring volunteerism and public service, she offers up to a $10,000 college scholarship for those who participate in AmeriCorps full-time for one year.

To protect the millions of Americans who live in fear of losing their homes in 2008, Hillary has called for a moratorium of at least 90 days on home foreclosures; a freeze on the fluctuating rates on subprime loans for at least 5 years until they can be converted into fixed rate, affordable loans; and regular status reports on the progress in converting unworkable mortgages into loans families can.

And Hillary’s health care plan will not pick and chose only the rich and healthy like insurance companies in the past have. It will be affordable, unlike the current health system where insurance premiums send some into bankruptcy, as the plan provides tax credits for working families to help cover costs. It will be available, and no matter what, Hillary will not let insurance companies deny coverage for pre-existing conditions. Finally, it will be reliable so that lay offs or jobs won’t leave Americans unprotected.

"Falling Through"

TV: 30

Clinton: The Bush economy is like a trapdoor.

Too many families are one pink slip, one missed mortgage payment, one medical diagnosis away from falling through and losing everything.

The oil companies, the predatory student loan companies, the insurance companies and the drug companies, have had seven years of a president who stands up for them.

I intend to be a president who stands up for all of you.

I'm Hillary Clinton and I approved this message.

Clinton Campaign Statement on Nevada Victory

Clinton Campaign Statement on Nevada Victory

Hillary Clinton won the Nevada Caucuses today by winning a majority of the delegates at stake.

The Obama campaign is wrong.  Delegates for the national convention will not be determined until April 19.

What They Are Saying About Hillary Clinton's Win In Nevada

What Does Nevada Mean?

CNN’s Don Lemon – ‘A victory in Nevada could be huge for the winning campaign.’ [CNN, 1/17/08]

MSNBC’s Joe Scarborough – ‘Boy, I’ll tell you what, a Nevada win would be very big for Hillary Clinton.’ [MSNBC Hardball, 1/18/08]

NBC News’ Andrea Mitchell – ‘Clearly, if she were to pull this off in Nevada, that is a big win for her.’ [MSNBC Hardball, 1/18/08]

MSNBC’s Chris Matthews – ‘It just seems to me if Hillary Clinton wins this one… she’s back in the lead big-time.’ “It just seems to me if Hillary Clinton wins this one, after all the hoopla and hopes in some quarters about Barack Obama winning two in a row… that she’s back in the lead big-time.” [MSNBC Hardball, 1/18/08]

Newsday’s Glenn Thrush – ‘Nevada is a vital, if not essential, prize for both candidates.’ [Newsday, 1/18/08]

NY Observer’s Steve Kornacki – 'Barack Obama needs Nevada more than Hillary Clinton does.' “Barack Obama needs Nevada more than Hillary Clinton does… it’s Obama’s best—and only chance—of turning February 5 into something other than a fatal draw.” [observer.com, 1/18/08]

Obama National Feild Director Temo Figueroa 'The Nevada election is going to come down to: Whoever gets the endorsement of the Culinary Workers Union, more than likely, is going to win Nevada' [Politico, 1/10/08]

Statement By Patti Solis-Doyle And Mark Penn On Hillary Clinton Victory In Nevada

Statement By Patti Solis-Doyle And Mark Penn On Hillary Clinton Victory In Nevada

Today we won a huge victory by overcoming institutional hurdles and one of the worst negative ads in recent memory.  This was a victory for all those who work hard and caucused on behalf of Hillary to revive our struggling economy.

The day after our victory in New Hampshire, the Culinary workers endorsed Senator Obama. The Chicago Tribune noted at the time that the endorsement gave Senator Obama a “significant advantage” because it is the largest and best organized labor group in the state. With nine caucus sites essentially set up for members of the Culinary union, it’s no wonder why Jon Ralston, Nevada’s leading political analyst, noted that the Culinary Workers’ “impact is going to be significant.”

In fact, the endorsement was so coveted that the Obama campaign’s national field director, Temo Figueroa, said over the summer that "The Nevada election is going to come down to: Whoever gets the endorsement of the Culinary Workers Union, more than likely, is going to win Nevada."

Our campaign also received numerous reports of strong arm tactics designed to discourage our voters from caucusing and found itself on the receiving end of one of the most scurrilous smear efforts in recent memory.

Additionally, Senator Obama's allies spent tens of thousands of dollars on a radio ad to attack Senator Clinton’s commitment to the Latino community. "Hillary Clinton does not respect our people," the ad said in Spanish. "Hillary Clinton is shameless."

And yet the exit polls are showing that the supporters of Hillary Clinton rejected these tactics. Exit polls show she won the union vote, won across all income groups and won heavily among those around Las Vegas, sweeping Clark County. The Latino vote backed Hillary by over 3 to 1, and Democrats voted for her by a wide margin.

Even among the hotel caucuses that were set up and worked extensively by the Culinary workers, Hillary competed closely or won in all of them.

So as we said yesterday, this was a test of whether the voters would win out through a process that gave significant institutional advantages to Hillary’s opponent. 

Today, Nevadans won and made their voices heard.

Hillary Brings The Magic In New South Carolina Radio Ad

HILLARY BRINGS THE MAGIC IN NEW SOUTH CAROLINA RADIO AD

(COLUMBIA) – Entrepreneur, former NBA basketball star and philanthropist Magic Johnson hit the Palmetto State airwaves today, sharing with South Carolinians why he believes we need a President with Hillary’s experience to make change real.

In the 60-scond radio ad, Johnson says that Hillary has the experience necessary to make real change in America.  Johnson is an active supporter of the Democratic Party, and since his retirement from the L.A. Lakers, heads the Magic Johnson Foundation which supports programs for urban and African-American youth across the country.  Johnson has campaigned with Hillary and Bill Clinton in Iowa, Nevada, California and across the country.

A complete transcript of the ad is included below. 

JOHNSON:   This is Magic Johnson. On the court and in life, successful leadership comes from hard work and experience.  That’s why I’m endorsing Hillary Clinton for President.  We have great candidates this year, but I believe only Hillary is a proven leader, with 35 years’ experience dealing with challenges facing America.   Are you looking for better jobs, universal health care, better treatment for veterans, opportunities for your children? Then you want Hillary Clinton for President.  My rookie year, we won our first game on a last second shot. I was so hyped.   But the captain of my team said, “take it easy rookie, it’s a long season, it’s a long road to the championship.”  He was right.  Winning comes from years of hard work and preparation.  Whether it’s winning championships or a President who can lead us back to greatness, I’ll always want the most prepared and experienced person leading my team.  That’s why I’m asking you to join me in voting for Hillary Clinton for President.

HILLARY:    I’m Hillary Clinton, candidate for president, and I approve this message. 

ANNCR:       Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President.

FIRST CALIFORNIA AD: When Hillary Is President, American Families Will Have a Voice

FIRST CALIFORNIA AD: When Hillary Is President, American Families Will Have a Voice

With the economy in real trouble, countless Americans have been struggling without a President who will listen to them. In her campaign’s first ad to air in California, Hillary Clinton makes it clear that when she is President, American families will have a voice. The ad began airing today.

Following is the script for the ad.

“Voice Feb. 5th”

TV :30

HRC:

“In this troubled economy…

“How can so many millions of people…simply not be heard?

“Well, I hear you.

“You’re asking for healthcare that covers everyone.

“Protection from losing your home

“You would like to fill your tank without draining your wallet

“And give your kids the future they deserve

“If I am your president, I will bring more than 35 years of experience to the White House.

“I will bring your voice.”

“I’m Hillary Clinton and I approve this message.”