2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Boston Herald Breaks Precedent, Endorses Only One Candidate For President: John McCain

BOSTON HERALD BREAKS PRECEDENT, ENDORSES ONLY ONE CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT: JOHN MCCAIN

"There are times in this nation's history so perilous that they cry out for a steady, experienced leader, a person so trusted that we would put the fate of this country in his hands. This is one of those times, and Sen. John McCain is that person. ... [T]his newspaper too will break with its decades-old tradition of endorsing candidates in both the Republican and Democratic primaries. ... The choice this year is indeed clear. John McCain should be the next president of the United States and the Boston Herald is proud to endorse his candidacy." -- Boston Herald

Choice Is Clear: McCain's The One
Editorial
Boston Herald
December 21, 2007

"There are times in this nation's history so perilous that they cry out for a steady, experienced leader, a person so trusted that we would put the fate of this country in his hands.

This is one of those times, and Sen. John McCain is that person."

Thompson Campaign Announces Nevada Leadership

Thompson Campaign Announces Nevada Leadership

Mclean, VA - Today the Fred Thompson campaign announced its State Co-Chairs and statewide leadership in Nevada.  State Senator Bob Beers and State Senator Barbara Cegayske will serve as Nevada Co-Chairs.    

"I am honored to serve as State Co-Chair of Senator Thompson's Nevada campaign," said State Senator Beers.   "A strong consistent conservative, Fred Thompson understands the importance of lower taxes and smaller government in ensuring our long term prosperity." 

"Fred Thompson has the leadership and conservative principles we need in the White House as we face increasing domestic and global challenges over the next few years," said Barbara Cegavske.   "I look forward to spreading his conservative message throughout my home state of Nevada."

"We are proud to have this strong statewide organization in place in Nevada," said Randy Enwright, National Political Director.  "We look forward to running a strong campaign in this key early state and this leadership team will serve as a great asset."

Fred Thompson's Nevada Leadership Team includes:

State Senator Bob Beers, Co-Chair
State Senator Barbara Cegavske,  Co-Chair
John Mason, former State Republican Party Chair 
Madison Graves , Businessman and former Member of the UNLV Board of Regents
John Timmerman, former Nye County GOP Chair
Dawn Timmerman, GOP Activist
Carolyn Swafford, former Elko GOP Executive Director

Congressman Steve King Statement on Congressman Tom Tancredo’s Presidential Campaign Announcement

Congressman Steve King released the following statement on Congressman Tom Tancredo’s announcement today.

“Tom Tancredo deserves the greatest appreciation and admiration of the American people. Without him relentlessly pressing the immigration reform issue first from the floor of Congress and then as a candidate for president, the American people would not have jammed the switchboards and blocked comprehensive amnesty. He ran for president to save our country from impending disaster caused by unchecked illegal immigration. The measure of his success is in the platforms of every Republican candidate and even in that of the Democrats. No candidate has had so profound an effect on any public policy of America. Every Republican has taken the no amnesty pledge and adopted a tough-on-illegal-immigration stance. Tom Tancredo has been so successful that much his political capital has been co-opted by his opponents.

“Tom Tancredo is one of my closest friends in Congress. I thank him for an outstanding campaign and for shining the light on the issue of illegal immigration. I congratulate him on a worthy effort and look forward to continuing to serve with him in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2008.”

A Special Message From Tom Tacredo Ending His Campaign For The Presidency

A Special Message From Tom Tacredo Ending His Campaign For The Presidency

It is with my heart full of gratitude and a touch of sadness that I write today to tell you of my intention to end my campaign for the presidency.

As a loyal friend and supporter it is important to me that you understand why I am doing this, even though you may disagree.

For the past ten years I have dedicated my public life to the critical issue of illegal immigration. I believed then –as I do now—that massive uncontrolled illegal immigration threatens our survival as a nation. I could not stand by and let open border politicians and corporate lobbyists sell our country out to the highest bidder.

Then earlier this year when I feared that the issue would not be championed by any of the top candidates I threw my hat in the ring. It was the only way I could be certain that the candidates would be forced to take a stand.

Thanks to your incredible support look what we have accomplished:

Just last week Newsweek declared that "Anti-immigrant zealot [that would be me] had already won. Now even Dems dance to his no mas salsa tune. " This month alone The Economist, the New Yorker, the Wall Street Journal and a score of other newspapers have written similar assessments, grudgingly crediting our campaign with forcing the issue of immigration to the center of the national stage and -- more importantly -— with forcing every presidential candidate to commit themselves to an immigration plan that calls for securing the borders, opposing amnesty and enforcing the law.

Of course, many of the candidates need to be pinned down on their understanding of the meaning of amnesty, but we have succeeded beyond my most optimistic expectations of a year ago. We even have Hillary jumping through hoops on the issue!

So with so much success why drop out of the race now, you are probably asking. For one reason and one reason alone: I believe the cause demands I do so.

The presidential campaign has come down to less than a handful of viable candidates. Unfortunately several of them have abysmal records on immigration and can’t be trusted to do what is needed to preserve this country if they’re elected. My fear is that if I were to stay in this race my votes could be the factor in handing victory to a pro-amnesty politician. Friends, we have done too much, come too far and the stakes are too high to play that hand. And so I am ending my presidential campaign.

I know there are many more battles in our future and you can count on me to stay in this fight with you. We must continue to build the unquestioned momentum that is fueling our movement today. In the weeks ahead, I will write to you again to share with you my plans for the future, and for the immigration reform movement that is transforming American politics.

But for now, I just wish to again express to you my deepest thanks and appreciation for your partnership with me in this historic effort. I also want to wish you a very blessed and merry Christmas!

We have come so far together, and through our efforts we have made a stunning and, I believe, permanent impact on the debate over securing our borders and preserving our nation.

Not a day has gone by in this campaign that I have not thanked God for the dedication of so many Americans like you. I can promise you that as long as He gives me life and strength, I will work hard for our cause and to honor the trust you have placed in me.

With sincere best wishes,

Tom Tancredo

John McCain 2008 Launches New Television Ad: "My Christmas Story"

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD: "MY CHRISTMAS STORY"

ALEXANDRIA, VA -- At press conferences in Manchester and Columbia today, U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign released a new television ad to run in New Hampshire and South Carolina. The ad, entitled "My Christmas Story," tells the story of the most transcendent and uplifting experience of John McCain's imprisonment.
"This ad tells the inspiring story of John McCain, whose spirit was lifted by the compassion of a Good Samaritan during one of his darkest hours, revealing the true light of Christmas and the holiday season," said Sergeant Major Paul Chevalier (Ret.), Chair of the New Hampshire Veterans for McCain Coalition. "It's a powerful reminder that regardless of how difficult the circumstance, simple acts of compassion can bring hope to us all."

VIEW THE NEW AD HERE: https://www.johnmccain.com/mychristmasstory

Script for "My Christmas Story" (:30-TV)

JOHN MCCAIN: "One night, after being mistreated as a POW, a guard loosened the ropes binding me, easing my pain.

"On Christmas, that same guard approached me, and without saying a word, he drew a cross in the sand.

"We stood wordlessly looking at the cross, remembering the true light of Christmas.

"I will never forget that no matter where you are, no matter how difficult the circumstances, there will always be someone who will pick you up.

"May you and your family have a blessed Christmas and Happy Holidays.

"I'm John McCain and I approve this message."

JOHN MCCAIN: MY CHRISTMAS STORY

As a POW, my captors would tie my arms behind my back and then loop the rope around my neck and ankles so that my head was pulled down between my knees. I was often left like that throughout the night.

One night a guard came into my cell. He put his finger to his lips signaling for me to be quiet, and then loosened my ropes to relieve my pain. The next morning, when his shift ended, the guard returned and retightened the ropes, never saying a word to me.

A month or so later, on Christmas Day, I was standing in the dirt courtyard when I saw that same guard approach me. He walked up and stood silently next to me, not looking or smiling at me. After a few moments had passed, he rather nonchalantly used his sandaled foot to draw a cross in the dirt. We stood wordlessly looking at the cross, remembering the true light of Christmas, even in the darkness of a Vietnamese prison camp. After a minute or two, he rubbed it out and walked away.

That guard was my Good Samaritan. I will never forget that man and I will never forget that moment. And I will never forget that, no matter where you are, no matter how difficult the circumstances, there will always be someone who will pick you up and carry you.

May you and your family have a blessed Christmas and Happy Holidays.

New Dodd Ad "Together" Draws Contrast On Experience, Ability To Produce Results

DODD CAMPAIGN RELEASES NEW AD DRAWING CONTRAST ON EXPEREINCE, ABILITY TO PRODUCE RESULTS
Statewide buy to begin today

WASHINGTON, DC - The Dodd for President Campaign today released its eighth television ad, entitled "Together," pointing to Sen. Dodd's proven experience bringing people together to produce results for the American people. Drawing a clear distinction between he and his opponents, Sen. Dodd asks "Some people may say I have too much experience to run for President, but the more you hear my opponents, the more you wonder if they have enough."

The ad, which will play statewide on network and cable beginning today, also highlights Sen. Dodd's ability to bring Democrats and Republicans together on crucial issues such as the Family and Medical Leave Act, his electability, and more importantly, his readiness to be President.

The script for "Together" is below

[Dodd:]

Some people say that I have too much experience to run for President.

But the more you hear my opponents, the more you wonder whether they have enough.

I've spent my life bringing Democrats and Republicans together to create real change. 

I know I can win the general election and I am ready to be President.

I'm Chris Dodd, I'd appreciate your support on caucus night.

I approved this message because it's time America had a President with the experience to lead.

Biden Campaign Announces New Television Ad, “January Night”

BIDEN CAMPAIGN ASKS IOWANS TO CHOOSE A PRESIDENT

Des Moines, IA (December 20, 2007) – The Biden for President Campaign announced the launch of its new television ad, “January Night,” which will begin airing across Iowa today. The 30-second spot highlights the uniqueness of the Iowa caucuses and their long tradition of advancing candidates based on integrity, experience, and proven leadership.  Emphasizing that the Iowa caucuses represent an opportunity to alter our nation’s trajectory in the face of significant challenges both at home and abroad and that Joe Biden is the only candidate ready to lead from Day One, the ad asks caucus-goers to do more than choose a candidate—“choose a president.”

“In many ways Iowa is the only level playing field left in presidential politics,” said Biden for President Campaign Manager Luis Navarro. “Iowans have a proud history of bucking punditry and conjecture, and choosing a candidate based on the authenticity of their experience and strength of their character. Our campaign grows more confident with each passing day that this tradition will lead Iowans to choose Joe Biden on January 3rd.”

Iowa Secretary Of State Michael Mauro Endorses Hillary Clinton For President

Iowa Secretary of State Michael Mauro Endorses Hillary Clinton for President Tonight

DES MOINES, IA – In a show of growing momentum, Iowa Secretary of State Michael Mauro endorsed Hillary Clinton at an “Every County Counts” event in Des Moines tonight.

“I have watched this race closely. We have some great candidates, but one stands above the rest.  Hillary Clinton doesn't have a learning curve. She can say, 'give me the keys now,’” Iowa Secretary of State Michael Mauro said.  “No one is more tested or ready to lead on day one than she is.” 

“I greatly admire Secretary Michael Mauro for his commitment to education and his community,” Senator Hillary Clinton said. “I am honored and thrilled to have his support. Secretary Mauro understands the need for change in Iowa, and I believe I have the strength and experience to start working for change on day one as President.”

Michael Mauro was elected Iowa's 30th Secretary of State on November 7, 2006 after serving for nearly a decade as the Polk County Auditor.

Mike Huckabee Spreads Christmas Cheer With Record-Setting Ad

Mike Huckabee Spreads Christmas Cheer with Record-Setting Ad

Little Rock, AR – A new television advertisement called “What Really Matters” featuring former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee has already received more than a half million viewer hits in less than 36 hours, setting a campaign record.

The 30-second ad began running in New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Iowa yesterday. It is featured on the Huckabee presidential campaign Web-site (www.mikehuckabee.com) and has been widely viewed on YouTube.

In the new ad, Governor Huckabee asks: “Are you about worn out by all the television commercials you've been seeing, mostly about politics? Well, I don't blame you.”

He then states: “At this time of year, sometimes it’s nice to pull aside from all of that and just remember that what really matters is the celebration of the birth of Christ and being with our family and friends. And I hope that you and your friends will have a magnificent Christmas season.”

Huckabee closes the ad with: “And on behalf of all of us, God Bless and Merry Christmas. I'm Mike Huckabee and I approved this message.”

The ad, which has been characterized as a “video Christmas card,” was the second-most viewed video on YouTube today, receiving 669,200 views in 48 hours. Already, “What Really Matters” has outpaced another popular campaign ad featuring Huckabee with actor Chuck Norris. That ad, “Chuck Norris Approved,” has had 1,200,868 views since its release in November.

Clinton Campaign Unveils Caucus Night Web Site

CLINTON CAMPAIGN UNVEILS CAUCUS NIGHT WEB SITE

New Web Site www.caucusforhillary.com Offers Iowans Caucus Night Locations, Directions and Assistance

DES MOINES, IA — In a continuing effort to make the January 3rd caucuses easier for Iowans, the Clinton campaign unveiled a new caucus locator tool on its caucus night web site, www.caucusforhillary.com . The only campaign to offer such a tool, the site allows users to enter their addresses and receive a personalized local caucus location and a map.

“Iowans want a candidate who is an agent of change and that candidate is Hillary Clinton,” Iowans for Hillary State Director Teresa Vilmain said. “Our new locator tool will help Iowans get out to caucus for Hillary so that she can enact the kind of change Iowans deserve on day one as President.”

The new tool is the latest addition to a web site that is geared towards helping Iowans attend the caucuses. The web site, www.caucusforhillary.com , offers information on the Clinton campaign’s “buddy” program, which aims to pair first time caucus goers with experienced caucus goers. 

The user-friendly web site allows Iowans to sign up for caucus night assistance such as transportation to and from local caucus sites and babysitting. Users can also go to the web site for information on how to contact their local field organizer for further assistance. Additionally, the site has a variety of tools to help caucus goers, including a “Common Caucus Questions” section and information on how to volunteer for Iowans for Hillary.

To View the New Caucus for Hillary Web Site Click Here: www.caucusforhillary.com