2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s California Team Continues To Grow

Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s California Team Continues to Grow

New York City –The Giuliani Campaign announced today that Mayor Rudy Giuliani bolstered his California team by picking up more key endorsements throughout the state.

Assemblyman Greg Aghazarian, Assemblyman Cameron Smyth, and Assemblywoman Sharon Runner today signaled their support for Rudy Giuliani for President.  Los Angeles County Supervisors Michael Antonovich and Don Knabe also announced their endorsement for Mayor Giuliani.

Mayor Giuliani has garnered significant support among key Republican leaders at all levels of government, including county, state, and federal representatives.  Recently, U.S. Congressmen Ed Royce and George Radanovich joined Rep. David Dreier, Rep. Mary Bono, Rep. Devin Nunes, and Rep. Jerry Lewis as part of Team Rudy. 

“Republicans across California continue to join our growing team,” said Giuliani’s campaign manager Mike DuHaime. “Mayor Giuliani’s positive message and record of results is resonating in California, which will play a prominent role in deciding the next Republican nominee.”

New Hampshire Veterans Support John McCain

NEW HAMPSHIRE VETERANS SUPPORT JOHN MCCAIN
Chevalier & Dalianis To Chair State Veterans Advisory Committee

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today announced that Sergeant Major Paul Chevalier (Ret.) and Airman First Class Dr. Griffin Dalianis (Ret.) have joined the Arizona Senator’s team and will chair the New Hampshire Veterans Advisory Committee.

“When I consider the candidates to be our Commander-In-Chief, I look for the person who appreciates the sacrifices of those who have served,” said Chevalier.  “That is why this election cycle and John McCain’s candidacy mean so much to me.”

Dr. Dalianis served as the New Hampshire chairman of the Bush-Cheney ’00 veterans coalition.

“John McCain has spent his lifetime answering the call to serve, both on and off the battlefield,” said Dalianis.  “His record of fighting for veterans benefits is unmatched and I am honored to work on his behalf.”

Senator John McCain stated that he was proud to have the support of these respected veterans.  “These individuals have earned the respect of their country and communities, and I look forward to their leadership as we move forward in this campaign.”

Civil Rights Leader Raul Yzaguirre Endorses Clinton

Civil Rights Leader Raul Yzaguirre Endorses Clinton
Yzaguirre Will Co-Chair Clinton’s Campaign, Lead Hispanic Outreach

Civil Rights leader Raul Yzaguirre, former president of the National Council of La Raza, announced his endorsement of Hillary Clinton today. Yzaguirre will serve as a national co-chair of Hillary’s campaign, and a chair of her Hispanic outreach effort.

“Hillary Clinton has spent more than three decades advocating on behalf of those who are invisible in America,” Yzaguirre said. “Not only is she the most experienced and qualified candidate to be president, Senator Clinton has the ability to bring people together to get results and move this country forward.”

“Throughout his life, Raul Yzaguirre has worked tirelessly to expand civil rights and create opportunity for working Americans,” Clinton said. “I’m delighted that Raul will play a leadership role in this campaign as we reach out to all Americans and ask them to join our effort.”

Veterans Across The Nation Pledge Support To McCain

VETERANS ACROSS THE NATION PLEDGE SUPPORT TO MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today announced that more than 200 veterans from around the country have endorsed the Arizona Senator for President and are working in their states to reach out to fellow veterans on his behalf.  Veterans supporting Senator John McCain have fought and represented the United States in every major conflict since World War II.

Lieutenant Colonel Orson Swindle flew over 205 fighter missions in Vietnam as a member of the United States Marine Corps.  He was held as a Prisoner of War for more than six years in North Vietnam.  Swindle has been awarded over 20 military decorations for valor in combat including two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, two Legions of Merit, and two Purple Hearts. 

“I know John McCain, the man,” said Swindle.  “We served many difficult years together as POWs in Hanoi and have been close friends for over 35 years.  He has integrity, intellectual depth and honesty, courage in the face of adversity, and a life experience that sets him apart from others.  I have seen his true character under the harshest of circumstances and I can think of no better person to bring us together as a people, and to lead our nation through one of our most difficult times, than John McCain.”

Sergeant Major Paul Chevalier is a life member of Portsmouth Emerson Hovey VFW Post 168 and has served four times as Post Commander.  Chevalier has also served his fellow veterans as President of the Central Veterans Council of Portsmouth, VFW District 7 Commander, State Commander of the New Hampshire VFW, eight-time VFW State Legislative Chairman, member of the Board of Directors of the New Hampshire Veterans Home, and member of the New Hampshire State Cemetery Council.

“As a fellow veteran, John McCain understands what it means to defend America and the values our nation represents,” said Chevalier.  “As Commander-In-Chief, I know John McCain will lead our Armed Forces with a strong and decisive hand.”

Knox Nunnally is a former Marine Infantry Captain, Second Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, who was awarded the Bronze Star for valor and a Purple Heart.

“As a veteran of three combat tours in Iraq as a Marine Infantry Officer, I am absolutely convinced that John McCain is the only candidate for president who understands the horrific consequences of losing this war and has a coherent plan for victory,” said Nunnally.

Vice Admiral Joe Mobley had a thirty-five year career in the United States Navy, including tours as the Commanding Officer of the Aircraft Carrier USS Saratoga during Operation Desert Storm and Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic.  He spent five years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam, during which he shared a cell with John McCain for approximately six months.

“John McCain is an American hero.  Whether in the skies over Vietnam, as a prisoner of war, or during his service in the United States Senate, John McCain has always taken principled stands,” said Mobley.  “He has also been the first to stand up for what he believes is right and has always worked for those of us who have worn the uniform of our nation’s military.”

Senator John McCain stated his utmost appreciation for such an outpouring of support from his fellow veterans.  “I am honored to have the support of these brave American heroes who understand, better than anyone, the sacrifices required of those who volunteer to serve their country on the battlefield,” said Senator McCain.  “These men and women have put their lives on the line to defend America and I will do everything in my power to honor their sacrifices.”

Mitt Romney Names West Michigan Leadership Team

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY NAMES WEST MICHIGAN LEADERSHIP TEAM

Boston, MA – Governor Mitt Romney today announced the Romney for President West Michigan Leadership Team.  The 31 men and women who make up this team will help Governor Romney build on his strong base of support in West Michigan.  Also announcing his support for Governor Romney today was State Senator Ron Jelinek.

"It is an honor to have the support of so many friends in West Michigan.  I look forward to campaigning with these leaders all across Michigan as we advance our message of change in Washington," said Governor Romney.   

With today's announcement, U.S. Representative and Romney for President Michigan Co-Chair Pete Hoekstra said, "I am pleased to lead this outstanding group of West Michigan leaders in support of my choice for President of the United States – Mitt Romney.  Governor Romney has demonstrated a unique ability to bring people together and show incredible leadership in the most difficult of circumstances.  I am proud to support his candidacy and am very pleased to have Senator Ron Jelinek join our team." 

Announcing his support, State Senator Ron Jelinek said, "I'm proud to be among Governor Romney's many supporters in Michigan.  He is the only candidate laying out a strong agenda for America's future.  With his leadership, we can make conservative principles work in Washington." 

Iowa Veterans Stand With John McCain

IOWA VETERANS STAND WITH JOHN MCCAIN
Major General Hultman & Colonel Day Lead State Advisory Committee

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s campaign today unveiled the Iowa Veterans Advisory Committee, which is comprised of many of Iowa’s most decorated veterans.  The advisory committee will be chaired by Major General Evan “Curly” Hultman of Waterloo and Medal of Honor Recipient Colonel Bud Day, a Sioux City native, who will serve as the committee’s honorary chair. 

“During a lifetime in public service, John McCain has demonstrated that he is prepared to be a strong leader for our nation,” said Major General Curly Hultman, who served in World War II.  “We are fortunate that John McCain is ready again to answer America’s call to serve.”

“Having stood side-by-side with John McCain on the battlefield, I know that he has the character and will to lead this great country,” said Colonel Bud Day, who served with Senator McCain in Vietnam.  “John McCain is the Commander-In-Chief our military needs during this generational struggle against global terrorism.”

The advisory committee will provide strategic and organizational support for the campaign, in addition to reaching out to the veteran’s community in Iowa.  The committee has representatives from World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War, and Iraq War.

Senator McCain expressed the utmost appreciation for the support of his fellow veterans.  “I am humbled to have the support of these brave individuals who have admirably served our country,” said Senator McCain.  “I look forward to their counsel and assistance as we continue to build a strong Iowa grassroots organization.”

IOWA Veterans advisory committee

Colonel Bud Day (Ret.) – Honorary Chair
Major General Evan Curly Hultman (Ret.) – Chair
George Anderson
Harold Butcher
Earl Draayer
Brigadier General Russ Eggers (Ret.)
David Elwell
Major General Merrill B. Evans (Ret.)
Lieutenant Colonel Les Folwell
Colonel Chuck Larson, Sr. (Ret.)
Tom Mack
Gene Madsen
Brian Miller
Jerry Moorehead
John Nieland
Reynold Peterson
Brigadier General Maurice Phillips (Ret.)
Lieutenant Colonel Dick Rattray (Ret.)
Lieutenant Colonel Frank Shaw (Ret.)
Brandon Shepherd
Commander Larry Spencer (Ret.)
Brigadier General W.L. "Bill" Wallace (Ret.)
Major General Gary Wattnem (Ret.)
Captain Pete B. Welch (Ret.)
Chad Workman

South Carolina Veterans Line Up With John McCain

SOUTH CAROLINA VETERANS LINE UP WITH JOHN MCCAIN
Adjutant General Stan Spears To Lead State Veterans Advisory Committee

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today announced the creation of the South Carolina Veterans Advisory Committee.  This thirty-eight member committee will advise Senator McCain on veterans’ issues and assist the campaign in its continued effort to build a strong grassroots organization in the Palmetto State. 

Adjutant General Stan Spears, the only elected head of a state National Guard in the nation, will lead McCain’s South Carolina Veterans Advisory Committee.

“Senator John McCain is a true American hero.  He proudly served our country in the United States Navy and United States Congress.  His record of military service is distinguished and his record of promoting common sense conservatism is unparalleled,” said Adjutant General Spears.

Senator John McCain thanked the veterans for their service to our country and commitment to his campaign.  “Our country owes a debt of gratitude to these men and women who are willing to make personal sacrifices for the sake of freedom,” said Senator McCain.  “I am thankful for their service and grateful to have their support

Boca Raton Mayor Steven Abrams Endorses Rudy Giuliani

Boca Raton Mayor Steven Abrams Endorses Rudy Giuliani

NEW YORK – The Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee announced today that Boca Raton Mayor Steven Abrams is supporting Mayor Giuliani to be the next President of the United States.

“As a fellow Mayor, I know that it takes more than just talk to be a good leader, it takes a list of real results. I’ve seen what Rudy Giuliani accomplished as the Mayor of New York, cutting taxes 23 times, balancing the budget, and helping to produce more than 423,000 new jobs.  I’m proud to support him to be our next president and to work on his behalf in Florida,” Mayor Abrams said.

This latest endorsement comes after a recent swing through the state where Mayor Giuliani addressed the House Republican legislative caucus, met with supporters in St. Petersburg, and picked up several key endorsements from Florida officials.

“It’s great to have Mayor Abrams on board,” campaign manager Mike DuHaime said. “Mayor Abrams has been consistently recognized as a popular leader and is also a distinguished city official."

Kinnear Joins Supporters Of McCain

KINNEAR JOINS SUPPORTERS OF MCCAIN
Retired Navy Admiral Backs Arizona Senator’s Strong Record   

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today announced retired U.S. Naval Admiral Dr. George (Gus) E.R. Kinnear II will support the Arizona Senator’s candidacy and chair the campaign’s veterans coalition in the state of Maine. 

Dr. Kinnear will lead Senator McCain’s outreach to veterans and oversee the coalition’s political activities in the state.

“John McCain’s senior-level experience with veterans and defense issues is second to none,” said Kinnear.  “Our world faces tremendous challenges, and electing John McCain’s steady, seasoned leadership during these turbulent times is absolutely critical.”

Senator McCain welcomed Admiral Kinnear's support.  “Gus is an impressive American that has deservedly earned the respect of veterans in Maine and beyond,” said Senator McCain.  “He has shown an exemplary commitment to the American way of life and I am proud to have his support.”

Mike Huckabee Names Wes Enos As Iowa Political Director

HUCKABEE CAMPAIGN NAMES VETERAN CAMPAIGNER AS IOWA POLITICAL DIRECTOR

DES MOINES, IA – Wes Enos was named Iowa political director for Mike Huckabee’s 2008 presidential exploratory campaign, it was announced today.

“Wes Enos is a young man who brings with him a wealth of grassroots experience developed as a volunteer, a professional field staffer and a candidate for public office in his own right,” said Huckabee, whose next trip to Iowa will be this Friday and Saturday.  “Wes understands what motivates Iowans and knows what it takes to develop a network of support. He’s a tremendous talent and an important addition to our Iowa organization.”

“Wes impresses everyone with his integrity and authenticity,” Vander Plaats said.  “He’ll be a real leader for the campaign where it’s most important in Iowa – at the grassroots.”

Enos will direct Iowa field operations for the Huckabee campaign.

“Of the candidates in the GOP field, only Governor Huckabee has the charisma, experience, and most importantly, undisputable conservative principles needed to lead our party and our nation forward,” Enos said. 

“His record of political success without compromising his core principles as a governor of a state dominated by Democrats is an inspiration to the conservative movement. I feel truly blessed to have been afforded the opportunity to join his campaign.”