2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Gerald Ford 1976 Convention Speech Anniversary

President Gerald R. Ford's Remarks in Kansas City Upon Accepting the 1976 Republican Presidential Nomination on August 19, 1976.

"Mr. Chairman, delegates and alternates to this Republican Convention:

I am honored by your nomination, and I accept it with pride, with gratitude, and with a total will to win a great victory for the American people. We will wage a winning campaign in every region of this country, from the snowy banks of Minnesota to the sandy plains of Georgia. We concede not a single State. We concede not a single vote.

My fellow Americans, I like what I see. I have no fear for the future of this great country. And as we go forward together, I promise you once more what I promised before: to uphold the Constitution, to do what is right as God gives me to see the right, and to do the very best that I can for America.

God helping me, I won't let you down.

Thank you very much."

Full Speech Text

John McCain To Name Running Mate August 29th In Dayton, Ohio

The Politico is reporting that John McCain will name his running Mate August 29th In Dayton, Ohio.

McCain to name VP on Aug. 29
By MIKE ALLEN | 8/18/08 7:31 PM EST

"Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) plans to celebrate his 72nd birthday on Aug. 29 by naming his running mate at a huge rally in the battleground state of Ohio, Republican sources said."

Dayton, Ohio was home to the Wright Brothers, inventors of the airplane.

George Bush 1988 Convention Speech Anniversary

George Bush Acceptance Speech at the Republican National Convention on August 18, 1988.

"I have many friends to thank tonight. I thank the voters who supported me. I thank the gallant men who entered the contest for the presidency this year, and who have honored me with their support. And, for their kind and stirring words, I thank Governor Tom Kean of New Jersey - Senator Phil Gramm of Texas - President Gerald Ford - and my friend, President Ronald Reagan.

I accept your nomination for President. I mean to run hard, to fight hard, to stand on the issues - and I mean to win.

There are a lot of great stories in politics about the underdog winning - and this is going to be one of them.

And we're going to win with the help of Senator Dan Quayle of Indiana - a young leader who has become a forceful voice in preparing America's workers for the labor force of the future. Born in the middle of the century, in the middle of America, and holding the promise of the future - I'm proud to have Dan Quayle at my side.

Many of you have asked, "When will this campaign really begin?" I have come to this hall to tell you, and to tell America: Tonight is the night.

For seven and a half years I have helped a President conduct the most difficult job on earth. Ronald Reagan asked for, and received, my candor. He never asked for, but he did receive, my loyalty. Those of you who saw the President's speech this week, and listened to the simple truth of his words, will understand my loyalty all these years.

But now you must see me for what I am: The Republican candidate for President of the United States. And now I turn to the American people to share my hopes and intentions, and why - and where - I wish to lead.

And so I know that what it all comes down to, this election - what it all comes down to, after all the shouting and the cheers - is the man at the desk.

My friends, I am that man.

I say it without boast or bravado, I've fought for my country, I've served, I've built - and I will go from the hills to the hollows, from the cities to the suburbs to the loneliest town on the quietest street to take our message of hope and growth for every American to every American.

I will keep America moving forward, always forward - for a better America, for an endless enduring dream and a thousand points of light.

That is my mission. And I will complete it.

Thank you. God bless you."

Full Speech Text

Al Gore 2000 Convention Speech Anniversary

Remarks as prepared for delivery by Al Gore at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday, August 17, 2000 in Los Angeles, California.

"I speak tonight of gratitude, achievement, and high hopes for our country.

Tonight, I think first of those who helped get me here - starting with the people of Tennessee. Then, those who braved the first snows of Iowa and New Hampshire -- and all of you here, from all over this country, who have come with me into the warm sunlight of this great city.

While I can't thank each of you individually in words, I do so in my heart.

And I know you won't mind if I single out someone who has just spoken so eloquently, someone I've loved with my whole heart since the night of my high school senior prom -- my wife, Tipper. We've been lucky enough to find each other all over again at each new stage of our lives - and we just celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary.

I want to acknowledge with great pride our four children: Kristin, Sarah, and Albert;

Our oldest daughter Karenna and her husband Drew;

And the youngest member of our family, who a little over a year ago was born on the Fourth of July -- our grandson Wyatt.

I'm honored tonight by the support of a leader of high ideals and fundamental decency, who will be an important part of our country's future -- Senator Bill Bradley.

There's someone else who will shape that future -- a leader of character and courage. A defender of the environment, and working families --

The next Vice President of the United States, Joe Lieberman.

I picked him for one simple reason: he's the best person for the job.

For almost eight years now, I've been the partner of a leader who moved us out of the valley of recession and into the longest period of prosperity in American history. I say to you tonight: millions of Americans will live better lives for a long time to come because of the job that's been done by President Bill Clinton.

So to the young people watching tonight, I say: this is your time to make new the life of our world. We need your help to rekindle the spirit of America.

And I ask all of you, my fellow citizens: from this city that marked both the end of America's journey westward and the beginning of the New Frontier, let us set out on a new journey to the best America.

A new journey on which we advance not by the turning of wheels, but by the turning of our minds; the reach of our vision; the daring grace of the human spirit.

Yes, we have our problems. But the United States of America is the best country ever created -- and still, as ever, the hope of humankind.

Yes, we're all imperfect. But as Americans we all share in the privilege and challenge of building a more perfect union.

I know my own imperfections. I know that sometimes people say I'm too serious, that I talk too much substance and policy. Maybe I've done that tonight.

But the Presidency is more than a popularity contest. It's a day-by-day fight for people. Sometimes, you have to choose to do what's difficult or unpopular. Sometimes, you have to be willing to spend your popularity in order to pick the hard right over the easy wrong.

There are big choices ahead, and our whole future is at stake. And I do have strong beliefs about it.

If you entrust me with the Presidency, I know I won't always be the most exciting politician.

But I pledge to you tonight: I will work for you every day and I will never let you down.

If we allow ourselves to believe, without reservation, that we can do what's right and be the better for it -- then the best America will become our America.

In this City of Angels, we can summon the better angels of our nature.

Do not rest where we are, or retreat. Do all we can to make America all it can become.

Thank you - God bless you - and God bless America "

Full Speech Text

THE 2008 CONVENTION: RENEWING AMERICA'S PROMISE - TUESDAY, AUGUST 26

THE 2008 CONVENTION: RENEWING AMERICA'S PROMISE - TUESDAY, AUGUST 26
Democrats to Highlight House Leadership & Rising House Stars

Featured Speakers: Xavier Becerra, Nydia Velazquez, Linda Sanchez, Tammy Baldwin and Mike Honda Chris Van Hollen and Top DCCC Candidates for Change 

DENVER –The Democratic National Convention Committee (DNCC) and the Obama for America Campaign announced today that Tuesday night’s program for the Convention, Renewing America’s Promise, will feature leading voices from the U.S. House of the Representatives. 

“House members and House candidates have been advocating a strong message of change for America since the 2006 election,” said House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Permanent Chair of the 2008 Convention, who will have a prominent speaking role on Monday, August 25th, the opening night of the Convention. “As the people’s representatives in Congress, it is our duty to hold the White House accountable to the needs of Americans who are struggling to get by. We desperately need change in the White House to move this country in a New Direction and renew America’s Promise.”

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and House Democratic Caucus Chair Rahm Emanuel will speak Tuesday, as will DCCC Chair Chris Van Hollen, who will use his time to showcase his top candidates for change.

Representatives Nydia Velazquez (D-NY), Linda Sanchez (D-CA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) will speak to Tuesday’s theme of Women and Economy.  Representative Mike Honda (D-CA) will also speak.

Representative Xavier Becerra (D-CA), Assistant to the Speaker of the House, will speak late Tuesday night.

Other House Members speaking during Convention week include:

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, Permanent Chair of the 2008 Convention, will deliver a major address on Monday, August 25th to open the Convention.

House Majority Whip James Clyburn and Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) will speak on Securing America’s Future on Wednesday night of the Convention.

National Obama Co-Chair Representative Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL) will also speak late Monday night to help tell Barack Obama’s life story and vision for the future.

Convention organizers stressed the program could still change and additional House Members could be included as part of future program announcements.

The Democratic National Convention will be held in Denver from August 25th through August 28th.

Volunteers Spruce Up Minneapolis And Saint Paul In Preparation For The 2008 Republican National Convention

VOLUNTEERS SPRUCE UP MINNEAPOLIS AND SAINT PAUL IN PREPARATION FOR THE 2008 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION

MINNEAPOLIS SAINT PAUL, MINN. (August 16, 2008) – Volunteers rolled up their sleeves today throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul in an effort to spruce up the cities as they prepare to host 45,000 visitors to the 2008 Republican National Convention. The metro-wide community clean up was organized by the cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul and the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee, which is planning the convention.

“Minnesotans have always been known for their hospitality and it was great to see the enthusiasm of so many people who showed up to volunteer their time to help us get ready for one of the biggest events Minneapolis Saint Paul has ever seen,” said Cynthia Lesher, president of the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee. “This is truly our time to shine in the eyes of the nation and the world, and we have now added a little more sparkle as we get ready to roll out the welcome mat.”

Individuals spent the day cleaning and polishing windows, streets, parks and green spaces throughout Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Volunteers were asked to report to the Metrodome Parking Lot on 5th Street and 11th Avenue in Minneapolis or the Conseco Upper Lot on Broadway Street and Kellogg Blvd. E in Saint Paul to receive a clean up assignment and supplies. The first 100 volunteers to the Metrodome received tickets to the Minnesota Twins afternoon game against the Seattle Mariners. The first volunteers to the Saint Paul location received one of the following: free tickets to the Renaissance Festival; free tickets to the Great River Water Park; unlimited ride wristbands at Como Town amusement park at the Como Zoo; free tickets to the Minnesota Children’s Museum; free tickets to the Minnesota Historical Society; or buy one, get one free ticket vouchers for the Minnesota Swarm.

The metro-wide community clean up is just one of the events being held during the month-long Spruce Up MSP campaign. Additional events include an airport clean up and signage campaign, and the grooming of Mall of America with new flowers, landscaping and paint. In addition, more than 220 taxis were cleaned as part of the Taxi Cab Wash held at the Metrodome on August 5.

Residents and business owners also have been asked to spruce up their spaces by displaying an American Flag; hanging red, white and blue decorations; washing windows; and sweeping sidewalks and porches.

Individuals that choose to Spruce Up their homes and businesses will have an opportunity to submit a photo and win a Red Carpet Convention Package that includes a pair of tickets to three of the best parties during the Convention including the media party and the delegate welcome party. To participate in the “Spruced Up” photo contest, people should submit photos of their “spruced up” spaces to photos@msp2008.com. Photos will be judged by a city official from Minneapolis, Saint Paul, Bloomington, and the Host Committee.

The 2008 Republican National Convention will be held September 1-4 at the Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul,

John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Maybe"

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW TV AD: "MAYBE"

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest television ad, entitled "Maybe." The ad highlights Barack Obama's "false" and "misleading" attacks in Ohio. The ad will air in Ohio.

Script For "Maybe" (TV :30)

ANNCR: Maybe the applause has gone to his head ...

Saying John McCain cost Ohio jobs, though it's just not true.

It's Obama's taxes that will hurt Ohio families.

Higher taxes on your paycheck, your life savings, your electric bills.

His taxes are a "recipe for economic disaster."

That's the real Obama.

Ready to tax. Not ready to lead.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor Program Celebrates 1,000 Hours of Community Service

2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor Program Celebrates 1,000 Hours of Community Service

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Staff participating in the 2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor program marked the initiative’s 1,000th hour of community service today while volunteering at a home being built in Woodbury, Minn., for Sergeant Marcus Kuboy, a wounded Iraq War veteran. The milestone is the culmination of 11 months of activities, during which convention staff has participated in a variety of community service projects in and around Minneapolis-Saint Paul.

"Our staff has been touched by the generosity of our host cities, and the American Neighbor program is our small way of saying thank you," said Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention. "It is fitting that the program reached the 1,000-hour milestone while working on a home for Sergeant Marcus Kuboy, an American hero who epitomizes Senator McCain’s call to serve a cause greater than self-interest."

Home for Our Troops, a non-profit organization that builds homes for severely-wounded American troops, broke ground on the home for SGT Kuboy in April. A joint project of the 2008 Republican National Convention, the Credit Union National Association and its affiliated Minnesota Credit Union Network, and the National Journal Group, the home has been specially adapted for SGT Kuboy.

The home construction project is part of the 2008 Republican National Convention’s American Neighbor volunteer program, a service initiative aimed at giving back to the Minneapolis-Saint Paul area and inspiring Republicans across the nation to take action in their own communities. Over the past 11 months, convention staff has participated in several volunteer projects across the Minneapolis-Saint Paul metro area. They have served meals at the Dorothy Day Center, organized and shipped food donations at Second Harvest Heartland and assisted in an Earth Day Watershed Cleanup event. In addition, staff members spent more than 250 hours volunteering at the Special Olympics, which were held in June.

John McCain 2008 Launches New TV Ad: "Taxman"

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW TV AD: "TAXMAN"

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today released its latest television ad, entitled "Taxman." The ad highlights Barack Obama's agenda to raise taxes that are a "recipe for economic disaster." The ad will air in key states.

Script For "Taxman" (TV :30)

ANNCR: Celebrity? Yes. Ready to lead? No.

Obama's new taxes could break your family budget.

The press warns the "taxman cometh".

Obama's taxes mean "higher prices at the pump".

Obama's taxes a "recipe for economic disaster".

Higher taxes. Higher gas prices. Economic disaster.

That's the real Obama.

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

Bob Dole 1996 Convention Speech Anniversary

Senator Bob Dole Accepts Nomination on August 15, 1996 in San Diego, California.

The folks in Hollywood would be happy to know that I finally found a movie I liked -- the one I just saw.

This is a big night for me, and I'm ready. We're ready to go.

Thank you, California. And thank you, San Diego for hosting the greatest Republican convention of them all. The greatest of them all.

Thank you, President Ford and President Bush. And God bless you, Nancy Reagan for your moving tribute to President Reagan.

By the way, I spoke to President Reagan this afternoon, and I made him a promise that we would win one more for the Gipper. Are you ready?

Thank you. And he appreciated it very much.

Ladies and gentlemen, delegates to the convention, and fellow citizens, I cannot say it more clearly than in plain speaking. I accept your nomination to lead our party once again to the Presidency of the United States.

And I am profoundly moved by your confidence and trust, and I look forward to leading America into the next century. But this is not my moment, it is yours. It is yours, Elizabeth. It is yours, Robin. It is yours, Jack and Joanne Kemp.

And do not think I have forgotten whose moment this is above all. It is for the people of America that I stand here tonight, and by their generous leave. And as my voice echoes across darkness and desert, as it is heard over car radios on coastal roads, and as it travels above farmland and suburb, deep into the heart of cities that, from space, look tonight like strings of sparkling diamonds, I can tell you that I know whose moment this is: It is yours. It is yours entirely.

And who am I that stands before you tonight?

I was born in Russell, Kansas, a small town in the middle of the prairie surrounded by wheat and oil wells. As my neighbors and friends from Russell, who tonight sit in front of this hall, know well, Russell, though not the West, looks out upon the West.

And like most small towns on the plains, it is a place where no one grows up without an intimate knowledge of distance.

And the first thing you learn on the prairie is the relative size of a man compared to the lay of the land. And under the immense sky where I was born and raised, a man is very small, and if he thinks otherwise, he is wrong.
I come from good people, very good people, and I'm proud of it. My father's name was Doran and my mother's name was Bina. I loved them and there's no moment when my memory of them and my love for them does not overshadow anything I do -- even this, even here -- and there is no height to which I have risen that is high enough to allow me to allow me to forget them -- to allow me to forget where I came from, and where I stand and how I stand -- with my feet on the ground, just a man at the mercy of God.

We are the party that trusts in the people. I trust in the people. That is the heart of all I have tried to say tonight.

My friends, a presidential campaign is more than a contest of candidates, more than a clash of opposing philosophies.

It is a mirror held up to America. It is a measurement of who we are, where we come from, and where we are going. For as much inspiration as we may draw from a glorious past, we recognize American preeminently as a country of tomorrow. For we were placed here for a purpose, by a higher power. There's no doubt about it.

Every soldier in uniform, every school child who recites the Pledge of Allegiance, every citizen who places her hand on her heart when the flag goes by, recognizes and responds to our American destiny.

Optimism is in our blood. I know this as few others can. There once was a time when I doubted the future. But I have learned as many of you have learned that obstacles can be overcome.

And I have unlimited confidence in the wisdom of our people and the future of our country.

Tonight, I stand before you tested by adversity, made sensitive by hardship, a fighter by principle, and the most optimistic man in America.

My life is proof that America is a land without limits. And with my feet on the ground and my heart filled with hope, I put my faith in you and in the God who loves us all. For I am convinced that America's best days are yet to come.

May God bless you. And may God bless America. Thank you very much."

Full Speech Text