2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

2008 Campaign Off To A Fast Start

Rush of Entries Gives ’08 Race Early Intensity
By JOHN M. BRODER and PATRICK HEALY
Published: January 22, 2007
The contest for the White House is off to a breathtakingly fast start, exposing an ever-growing field to longer, more intensive scrutiny.

"While presidential campaigns have been getting gradually longer over the past few decades, the acceleration in the 2008 cycle is particularly pronounced. The first President Bush announced his candidacy for the 1988 Republican nomination in October 1987; the eventual Democratic nominee in that election, Gov. Michael S. Dukakis of Massachusetts, had declared six months earlier.

Bill Clinton formally announced his candidacy for the 1992 Democratic presidential nomination on Oct. 3, 1991, about three and a half months before the Iowa caucuses. George W. Bush announced his exploratory committee for the 2000 presidential race in March 1999 and began his campaign in June 1999."

NY Times Story

Bill Richardson Presidential Exploratory Committee Announcement Video Transcript

Bill Richardson Presidential Exploratory Committee Announcement Video Transcript:

Hello.  This Is Governor Bill Richardson.   Today, I'm announcing the formation of a presidential campaign exploratory committee … with the clear intention of declaring my candidacy for president in the very near future.

I am taking this step because we have to repair the damage that's been done to our country over the last six years.  Our reputation in the world is diminished, our economy has languished, and civility and common decency in government have perished.

The next president of the United States must get our troops out of Iraq without delay.  Before I became Governor of New Mexico, I served as Congressman, Ambassador to the United Nations and as Secretary of Energy.  I know the Middle East well … and it's clear that our presence in Iraq isn't helping any longer. 

Our next president must also be able to help create jobs here at home.

In New Mexico, one of the poorest states in the nation, we've created 84,000 new jobs, many of them in high tech industries like renewable energy, aerospace, and manufacturing.  We've done that with innovative approaches like a tax credit for companies that create good paying jobs, tax incentives for start up high tech businesses, targeting job creation in rural areas. 

We've made substantial investments in public education and health care, and we've done it while balancing the budget and cutting taxes.  Fiscal discipline is a big part of sustained economic growth … the kind of growth that creates good jobs and actually reduces poverty. 

Our next President must be able to start reversing Global warming and make real progress on energy independence and that means making a real commitment to renewable sources of energy and conservation.  As Energy Secretary, I increased efficiency standards and saved billions in energy costs. As Governor of New Mexico, we are requiring 10 percent of all energy come from renewable sources--and we are moving to 20 percent.  We have provided incentives for solar, wind, biofuels and other renewables .  Everybody talks about these issues.  I have actually done it. 

Our next President must be able to restore our standing in the world.   With my diplomatic and foreign policy experience, I am the best candidate to make America a respected international leader again. I just returned from Darfur in the Sudan where  we made progress in that troubled region of the world. 

America must again become the international leader in fighting poverty and promoting democracy and human rights across the world.  Our national security depends on it.

And finally, our next President must be able to bring together a country that is divided and partisan.  It's clear that Washington is broken and it's going to take a return to bipartisanship and simple respect for each other's views to get it fixed.  Most public policy solutions these days are coming from Governors and state government.  On issues like the environment, jobs, and health care, governors are leading the way.  And that's because we can't be partisan or we won't get our jobs done.  That's a lesson I've learned as Governor and that's what I'll do as President.

There are many more issues to talk about in the coming weeks and months … I can't do them all justice with a short statement.  But let me say this - I'm not new to the challenges that face our country and our world, but I know we need a new dedication to Democratic principles and values … and we need a president with the experience to start the healing both here and abroad.

Here in New Mexico, we are in the middle of our Legislative session, working to raise the minimum wage, expand health care, crack down on sexual offenders and cut taxes for working families.  I am committed to seeing these efforts through.

However, the national debate about the future of our country has begun and I believe I have a different perspective to offer.    

I know I am not a favorite in this race. 

As an underdog and Governor of a small, western state I will not have the money that other candidates will have.

However, I believe these serious times demand serious people who have real world experience in solving the challenges we face.  I humbly believe I am the best equipped candidate to meet these challenges.

Thank you, God bless you, and God bless the United States.

Bill Richardson Announces Presidential Campaign Exploratory Committee

For Immediate Release
January 21, 2007

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson Announces Presidential Campaign Exploratory Committee

Richardson has unparalleled experience and proven record of success as a Congressman, UN Ambassador, Energy Secretary, and Governor

SANTA FE, NM--New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson today announced the formation of a Presidential campaign exploratory committee, with the clear intention of seeking the Democratic nomination for President in 2008.

"I am taking this step because we have to repair the damage that's been done to our country over the last six years," said Richardson. "Our reputation in the world is diminished, our economy has languished, and civility and common decency in government has perished."

"The next president of the United States must get our troops out of Iraq without delay. Before I became Governor of New Mexico, I served as Ambassador to the United Nations and as Secretary of Energy. I know the Middle East well and it's clear that our presence in Iraq isn't helping any longer," said Richardson.

"Our next President must be able to bring a country together that is divided and partisan," said Richardson. "It is clear that Washington is broken and it's going to take a return to bipartisanship and simple respect for each other's views to get it fixed. Most public policy solutions these days are coming from Governors and state government. On issues like the environment, jobs, and health care, state governments are leading the way. And that's because we can't be partisan or we won't get our jobs done. That's a lesson I've learned as Governor and that's what I'll do as President."

When New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson speaks about embracing diversity, the American dream, and public service, he speaks from unparalleled experience. Born November 15, 1947 in Pasadena, California to an American father and Mexican mother, Governor Richardson grew up in Mexico City before moving to New England, where he attended high school and college. He has dedicated his life to public service, as a United States Congressman, Ambassador to the United Nations, Secretary of Energy, and now as Governor of New Mexico.

This past November, Richardson won re-election to his second term as Governor of New Mexico with a resounding 69% of the vote, the largest margin of victory in state history. He was supported by Democrats, Republicans and Independents, winning in both urban and rural counties. New Mexicans overwhelmingly endorsed Governor Richardson's aggressive efforts to improve education, cut taxes, build a high-wage economy, expand health care access, invest in renewable energy and make New Mexico safer.

Bill Richardson's fiscally responsible governing style has allowed New Mexico to tackle important priorities, while maintaining a balanced budget and the highest reserves in state history. He cut $230 million in bureaucratic waste, invested in new opportunities for New Mexico's children and returned more than $1 billion dollars in taxes to working families. His innovative policies have turned New Mexico's economy around, with 84,000 new jobs, rising personal income and a growing high tech sector that includes manufacturing, aviation, and renewable energy.

As Secretary of Energy to President Bill Clinton, Bill Richardson implemented tough efficiency standards to save energy. And as Governor, he has made New Mexico the Clean Energy State by requiring utility companies to produce energy through renewable resources and reduce carbon emissions.

Before becoming Governor, Bill Richardson served in Congress for 15 years and helped President Clinton pass the economic plan that created millions of jobs and led America to its first balanced budget in 30 years.

Appointed by President Clinton as the Ambassador to the United Nations, Bill Richardson worked with world leaders to build alliances and help prevent the development of nuclear weapons in North Korea. Bill Richardson has been nominated four times for the Nobel Peace Prize for negotiating the release of hostages, American servicemen and political prisoners in North Korea, Iraq, and Cuba. Governor Richardson recently negotiated a 60-day cease fire in war-torn Darfur following direct talks with rebel leaders and the President of Sudan.

As Chairman of the Democratic Governor's Association, Governor Richardson raised more than $28 million for gubernatorial candidates and helped elect the first Democratic majority of governors since 1994. Governor Richardson also served as Chair of the Western Governors Association, Border Governor's Conference and the 2004 Democratic National Convention.

Bill Richardson has been married to his high school sweetheart, Barbara, for 33 years. Richardson received a BA from Tufts in 1970 and a MA from Tuft's Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in 1971.

The Bill Richardson for President Exploratory Committee will be headquartered in New Mexico. To view Governor Bill Richardson's video statement in both English and Spanish please go to: www.richardsonforpresident.com

Clinton Website Garners Online Support In Early Hours

CLINTON CANDIDACY GARNERS HUGE ONLINE RESPONSE

Campaign web site signs up 100 new members per minute, racks up 10,000 messages of support within 6 hours of announcement

Clinton candidacy hailed online as “profoundly moving”; “top tier”; “exciting”; “remarkable”; “smart”; and “news of a generation”

Demonstrating the groundswell of enthusiasm generated by her historic candidacy, Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s announcement for President lit up the internet today, garnering rave reviews in the blogosphere, and thousands of supporters flocking to her web site each hour. Within just six hours of the announcement going live on her campaign web site, Senator Clinton’s candidacy attracted thousands of messages of support, and widespread accolades online.

OVERWHELMING RESPONSE WITHIN HOURS OF GOING LIVE:

SIGN UPS = 100 per minute
MESSAGES OF SUPPORT = 10,000
VIDEO WEBCAST SIGN-UPS = 7,700
BLOG CONTEST SUBMISSIONS = 2,200

Brownback Announces Run for President in Topeka, Kansas

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
NEWS RELEASE

January 20, 2007

Brownback Announces Run for President
Delivers remarks from Heritage Hall in Topeka, Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. - U.S. Senator Sam Brownback today announced his candidacy for President of the United States. He delivered the following remarks from Heritage Hall in his hometown of Topeka, Kansas:

"I am declaring today my candidacy for President of the United States.

"Ours is a great nation and I make one pledge to you, to use our greatness for goodness.

"We are a great nation because our greatness is built on the foundation of fundamental goodness. If ever we lose our goodness, we will surely lose our greatness. Our purposes, from the time of our nation's founding, have always been bigger than we are. They must be if we are to fulfill our destiny.

"But destinies are built on daily achievements. Inch by inch, step by step, we press on to our higher calling. Today I wish to state what I believe those next steps are, for our nation and for our people.

"Two hundred years ago this year, a little known British Parliamentarian by the name of William Wilberforce finally achieved success after a lifetime of effort to end the slave trade in the British Empire. A committed Christian who believed his faith should be a force for good in Britain and around the world, Wilberforce had two great passions: ending the slave trade and renewing the culture. Although his goals appeared impossibly lofty, both were achieved.

"He used Britain's greatness for goodness.

"Our mandate today has a similar feel. If William Wilberforce were alive today, I believe he would be passionately fighting for the dignity of every human life everywhere, without regard to race, wealth, or status. He would also feel compelled to take up the vital cause of renewing the family and the culture.

"These are our fights today.

"We must fight for the downtrodden, the voiceless and the powerless. We must fight for freedom and justice. To do otherwise would be a betrayal of our heritage.

"But, our land needs healing.

"Our people need hope.

"Our world needs help.

"We need reconciliation. Lincoln properly observed that, 'a house divided against itself cannot stand.' We are divided and need healing.

"We need to rebuild our families. We need stronger families! We need people belonging and committed! By doing so, we will reduce poverty, strengthen our nation and increase hope.

"We need to support the foundational institution of marriage as the union of a man and a woman for life. We should support marriage, not tax it. It's wrong to take away welfare benefits just because someone gets married. Marriage remains the best place to raise children--not the only place, but the best.

"We must stop wasteful spending that steals a families' income and then insults them by throwing their money away on pork-barrel projects.

"And we need more opportunities--not more taxes. I've never voted for a tax increase, and I certainly will never sign one!

"But that's not enough. We need a different income tax system altogether. This one, the Internal Revenue Code, should be taken behind the barn and killed with a dull axe.

"I propose the creation of an alternative flat tax, which lets the people choose which system works for them.

"We need a social security system in which all Americans are given a choice in how to prepare for their retirement; a choice they do not presently have. No one should be required to leave the current system, and everyone must be guaranteed their current level of benefits. Every American should be given this freedom.

"We are a large nation. Let's start embracing American-sized goals that lift us up and pull us together!

"Let's put our energies into conquering the number one fear in America: the fear of getting cancer. We can end deaths by cancer in ten years. The last two years have seen a decrease in deaths by cancer. It's time to put this killer to death. With our intense effort, we can make it a chronic--rather than a terminal--illness. What a gift to humanity!

"We need high-quality, affordable health care for everyone. Here, let me step back for a moment. I am a conservative. A conservative that believes in addressing problems, not ignoring them. We must address our health care problems with market-based solutions, not government-run health care. We can, and we must. This topic requires our urgent attention.

"We must be energy self-reliant in North America in the next fifteen years--at the same time we need to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere. This is possible using our ingenuity, resources, and determination.

"Also, we need judges who want to be judges, not legislators.

"And for goodness sakes, the last thing we need in America is to take God out of our public lives and institutions! We need to embrace our nation's motto 'In God We Trust,' not be ashamed of it. Search the record of history. To walk away from the almighty is to embrace decline for a nation. To embrace him leads to renewal, for individuals and for nations.

"Something most people feel deeply in their hearts is the need for a culture of life--a culture that doesn't allow the strong to exploit the weak--a culture of compassion instead of a culture of convenience. Life is beautiful. We all know this. Let's start following our hearts and work to protect all innocent human life.

"We are a nation at war. I just returned from Iraq and Afghanistan. Our troops--the finest, most courageous people our nation has to offer--are fighting for the cause of liberty in places that have never known her. It is a long fight. We will win. We cannot lose our will to win! We must win to redeem our troops' sacrifice. Let us resolve to have a bipartisan strategy for the war. We need unity here to win over there. This is not the time for partisanship on any side. Lives--and our future--are at stake.

"We will achieve these goals, not through government action, but by tapping into our innate goodness as a society and working together. This is how America has always achieved great goals.

"At the end of the day, it comes back to the basics: faith, family, and freedom. America is great because she is good. That goodness is not based in Washington, or New York, or even Topeka. It is based in the hearts of the American people. This is a goodness whose author is the divine. A goodness that doesn't let us rest until our neighbor is at peace. A goodness that feels the chains of another rub on our own skin. A goodness from God that demands our vigilant action.

"How much better we will be as we seek to live the great commandment to love God and one another.

"Yes, we are great and that is a humbling thing, for to whom much is given, much is required.

"Let us, in this generation, continue our destiny of greatness by focusing on the heart, a heart full of good. That's what I'll seek to do everyday.

"So it is with sincere humility and a determination to do good that I declare my candidacy for President of the United States.

"God bless you all, and may God continue to bless this great nation!

Hillary Clinton Presidential Exploratory Committee Announcement Video Transcript

Hillary Clinton Presidential Exploratory Committee Announcement Video Transcript:

HILLARY CLINTON: I announced today that I am forming a presidential exploratory committee.

I'm not just starting a campaign, though, I'm beginning a conversation -- with you, with America. Because we all need to be part of the discussion if we're all going to be part of the solution. And all of us have to be part of the solution.

Let's talk about how to bring the right end to the war in Iraq and to restore respect for America around the world.

How to make us energy independent and free of foreign oil.

How to end the deficits that threaten Social Security and Medicare.

And let's definitely talk about how every American can have quality affordable health care.

You know, after six years of George Bush, it is time to renew the promise of America. Our basic bargain that no matter who you are or where you live, if you work hard and play by the rules, you can build a good life for yourself and your family.

I grew up in a middle-class family in the middle of America, and we believed in that promise.

I still do. I've spent my entire life trying to make good on it.

Whether it was fighting for women's basic rights or childrens' basic health care. Protecting our Social Security, or protecting our soldiers. It's a kind of basic bargain, and we've got to keep up our end.

So let's talk. Let's chat. Let's start a dialogue about your ideas and mine.

Because the conversation in Washington has been just just a little one-sided lately, don't you think? And we can all see how well that works.

And while I can't visit everyone's living room, I can try. And with a little help from modern technology, I'll be holding live online video chats this week, starting Monday.

So let the conversation begin. I have a feeling it's going to be very interesting.

Hillary Clinton Announces "I'm In" On New Presidential Exploratory Website

Hillary Cinton Announces "I'm In" on her 2008 Presidential Exploratory Committee Website.

I'm in. And I'm in to win.

Today I am announcing that I will form an exploratory committee to run for president.

And I want you to join me not just for the campaign but for a conversation about the future of our country -- about the bold but practical changes we need to overcome six years of Bush administration failures.

I am going to take this conversation directly to the people of America, and I'm starting by inviting all of you to join me in a series of web chats over the next few days.

The stakes will be high when America chooses a new president in 2008.

As a senator, I will spend two years doing everything in my power to limit the damage George W. Bush can do. But only a new president will be able to undo Bush's mistakes and restore our hope and optimism.

Only a new president can renew the promise of America -- the idea that if you work hard you can count on the health care, education, and retirement security that you need to raise your family. These are the basic values of America that are under attack from this administration every day.

And only a new president can regain America's position as a respected leader in the world.

I believe that change is coming November 4, 2008. And I am forming my exploratory committee because I believe that together we can bring the leadership that this country needs. I'm going to start this campaign with a national conversation about how we can work to get our country back on track.

This is a big election with some very big questions. How do we bring the war in Iraq to the right end? How can we make sure every American has access to adequate health care? How will we ensure our children inherit a clean environment and energy independence? How can we reduce the deficits that threaten Social Security and Medicare?

No matter where you live, no matter what your political views, I want you to be a part of this important conversation right at the start. So to begin, I'm going to spend the next several days answering your questions in a series of live video web discussions. Starting Monday, January 22, at 7 p.m. EST for three nights in a row, I'll sit down to answer your questions about how we can work together for a better future. And you can participate live at my website. Sign up to join the conversation here.

I grew up in a middle-class family in the middle of America, where I learned that we could overcome every obstacle we face if we work together and stay true to our values.

I have worked on issues critical to our country almost all my life. I've fought for children for more than 30 years. In Arkansas, I pushed for education reform. As First Lady, I helped to expand health care coverage to millions of children and to pass legislation that dramatically increased adoptions. I also traveled to China to affirm that women's rights are human rights.

And in the Senate, I have worked across party lines to get billions more for children's health care, to stop the president's plan to privatize Social Security, and to make sure the victims and heroes of 9/11 and our men and women in uniform receive the fair treatment they deserve. In 2006, I led the successful fight to make Plan B contraception available to women without a prescription.

I have spent a lifetime opening opportunities for tens of millions who are working hard to raise a family: new immigrants, families living in poverty, people who have no health care or face an uncertain retirement.

The promise of America is that all of us will have access to opportunity, and I want to run a 2008 campaign that renews that promise, a campaign built on a lifetime record of results.

I have never been afraid to stand up for what I believe in or to face down the Republican machine. After nearly $70 million spent against my campaigns in New York and two landslide wins, I can say I know how Washington Republicans think, how they operate, and how to beat them.

I need you to be a part of this campaign, and I hope you'll start by joining me in this national conversation.

As we campaign to win the White House, we will make history and remake our future. We can only break barriers if we dare to confront them, and if we have the determined and committed support of others.

This campaign is our moment, our chance to stand up for the principles and values that we cherish; to bring new ideas, energy, and leadership to a uniquely challenging time. It's our chance to say "we can" and "we will."

Let's go to work. America's future is calling us.

Two Years Until Inauguration Day 2009

The next Inauguration ceremony is scheduled to take place on January 20, 2009, exactly two years from today's date.

Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies

Hillary Clinton To Launch Presidential Bid On Website

Clinton to launch 2008 presidential bid
By BETH FOUHY and MARC HUMBERT, Associated Press Writers

NEW YORK - Democratic Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton will embark on a widely anticipated campaign for the White House Saturday, a former first lady intent on becoming the nation's first female president.

Clinton was expected to disclose plans to form a presidential exploratory committee on her Web site, according to Democratic officials familiar with the matter.

Yahoo News AP Story

Senator McCain Announces New Media Team

SENATOR MCCAIN ANNOUNCES NEW MEDIA TEAM
Stevens & Schriefer Group And Strategic Perception Align With Arizona Senator

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's exploratory committee today announced that Stuart Stevens and Russ Schriefer of the Stevens & Schriefer Group and Fred Davis of Strategic Perception will join Mark McKinnon and the firm of Stevens Reed Curcio & Potholm as media consultants to the Arizona Senator's exploratory committee.

Russ Schriefer will oversee the day-to-day media operation and Davis will serve as the exploratory committee's chief creative consultant.

Stuart Stevens has built his political career helping elect more governors and senators than any other Republican media consultant.

Stevens said, "John McCain represents a brand of common sense conservatism that resonates with Republican voters because it is based on shared values. I look forward to communicating those messages on behalf of the Senator."

Russ Schriefer has been a successful political strategist and media consultant for over twenty years. He has consulted on countless campaigns throughout the country and has extensive presidential experience. Schriefer worked on the team that helped produce advertisements for Bush-Cheney '00 and '04.

"It is indeed an honor to work with Senator McCain and his team," said Schriefer. "The Senator is the only true conservative in the race that can defeat the Democrats and maintain control of the White House."

Fred Davis is one of the top creative, media consultants in the country. He worked closely with the Bush-Cheney '04 advertising and strategy teams, and has helped numerous political candidates deliver their viewpoints with great precision.

"John McCain represents the kind of committed conservative leader both our party and nation need," said Davis. "It will be my honor to help Senator McCain earn the Republican nomination and represent our party in the general election."

Senator McCain stated that the assembled media team is well respected and highly regarded, and will help communicate his conservative values. "These guys are the best in the business, and should I seek the presidency, I am confident that they will help deliver our message of common sense conservatism to voters across this great land. I look forward to working with such a distinguished group of individuals."