2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Obama Campaign Airs New TV Ads in Texas

Obama Campaign Airs New TV Ads in Texas

Austin, TX - The Obama Campaign is up with four new television ads airing across Texas in the final days leading up to March 4th.

Safe features retired Air Force General Tony McPeak discussing Senator Obama's judgment to oppose the war in Iraq before it began and before it was popular to do so - the same judgment that makes him the best choice to keep America safe as Commander in Chief. General McPeak served 37 years in the Air Force and retired as Air Force Chief of Staff in 1994. McPeak is a national campaign co-chair and foreign policy advisor who brings 37 years of service, including over 6,000 hours as a command pilot, to the Obama Campaign.

Return highlights Senator Obama's record of standing up for America's troops and veterans and his commitment to keeping our country safe by maintaining the finest military in the world and ensuring our veterans get the care and benefits they have earned.

In Direction, Senator Obama lays out his vision to take the country in a new direction by standing up to special interests, being straightforward with the American people, ending the war in Iraq, and reclaiming the American dream for working families.

In Second, Senator Obama discusses his commitment to uniting our country and overcoming the bitter political divisiveness of the past to bring change we can believe in to Washington.

Scripts for the new ads are below:

Safe - General Tony McPeak: As a combat pilot, and head of the Air Force during Desert Storm, lives depended on the judgments I made.

And judgment is what we need from our next commander-in-chief.

Barack Obama opposed this war in Iraq from the start, showing insight and courage others did not. And he's our best hope to restore our security and our standing in today's world.

The old Washington hands have let us down. We need a new leader to lift America.

Return - Barack Obama: As your commander-in-chief, my job will be to keep you safe.

Part of keeping you safe is maintaining the finest military in the

world... And it means caring for our troops when they come home.

Announcer: On the Veterans Affairs Committee, Barack Obama passed measures to improve care for wounded warriors; give shelter to homeless veterans; and expand mental health services for returning heroes.

BO: We have a solemn obligation to honor those who have served on our behalf.

Direction - Barack Obama (direct to camera): For years, we've watched politicians divide us, seen lobbyists put their interests ahead of ours and heard our leaders tell us what we want to hear, instead of what we need to hear.

I'm Barack Obama. We need a new direction to end the war, take on special interests that block reform, close tax loopholes that give them a break instead of you.

On Tuesday, help change Washington. Let's bring Democrats, Republicans and Independents together, not just to win an election, but to transform a nation - and that's why I approve this message.

Second - Barack Obama (at rally): America is listening, and not just Democrats, but Republicans and Independents who want to believe again.

I don't want to spend the next year or the next four years re-fighting the same fights that we had in the 1990's.

I don't want to pit red America against blue America... I want to be the President of the United States of America.

Obama Campaign Releases Response to "3:00 AM" Ad

Obama Campaign Releases Response to "3:00 AM" Ad

Chicago, IL - The Obama for America campaign today released the following advertisement in response to Senator Clinton's "3:00 AM" ad.

"Ringing"

:30

SCRIPT: It's 3 a.m. and your children are safe and asleep. But there's a phone ringing in the White House. Something's happening in the world. When that call gets answered, shouldn't the president be the one - the only one - who had judgment and courage to oppose the Iraq war from the start... Who understood the REAL threat to America was al-Qaeda, in Afghanistan, not Iraq. Who led the effort to secure loose nuclear weapons around the globe... In a dangerous world, it's judgment that matters. I'm Barack Obama and I approved this message.

Telephone Hotline 1964 Lyndon B. Johnson TV Ad

This ad entitled "Telephone Hotline" is from the 1964 campaign of Lyndon B. Johnson. It may be the first use of the concept that it is important who is at the other end of the "hotline" during a crisis. (Copyright Democratic National Committee 1964).

Senator Jay Rockefeller Endorses Barack Obama

SENATOR JAY ROCKEFELLER ENDORSES BARACK OBAMA
Chairman of Senate Intelligence Committee Says Obama is Right Leader to Meet Nation’s Challenges

CHICAGO, IL – Today, Senator Jay Rockefeller, the Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, endorsed Barack Obama for president, citing his judgment on the Iraq war and national security issues, and calling him the right candidate to lead our country during a time of instability at home and abroad.

Senator Rockefeller said, “Today, I’m proud to lend my support and strong endorsement to Barack Obama and his candidacy for President of the United States. Barack Obama is the most qualified person – Democrat or Republican – to lead our country in the face of enormous challenges – the very real threat of terrorism, economic uncertainty, and instability at home and abroad.

“As Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, I am all too aware that the threats we face are unconventional.  They are sophisticated.  They are constantly changing and adapting.  And they are very serious. What matters most in the Oval Office is sound judgment and decisive action.  It’s about getting it right on crucial national security questions the first time – and every time. 

“The indisputable fact is Barack Obama was right about Iraq when many of us were wrong.  It was a tough call and the single greatest national security question, and mistake, of our time.  Today, we remain a country at war, and countless mistakes over the last six and a half years have made us less safe.  The stakes have never been higher, and that is why we must take a stand.

“I am not just supporting Barack Obama because of his strength on national security.  I am equally proud of his commitment to rebuild America – so that we’re a country of equality and prosperity – where no segment of society is left behind.  I know Barack Obama will fight and win the battle for health care, good paying jobs, and energy security.   

“Barack Obama is a uniquely gifted, brilliant and strategic thinker, who genuinely understands the hopes and desires of the American people.  There is nothing sheltered about his life; he’s always had to work hard, and he’s always fought to make his community and his country better.   

“A leader like Barack Obama just doesn’t come along very often, and as voters who care passionately about the future of our country, we cannot afford to squander this opportunity.”

Senator Obama said, “Senator Rockefeller’s leadership in the Senate has strengthened our national security and advanced economic opportunity, and I am honored to have his support. Nobody understands the unconventional threats of the 21st century better than Jay Rockefeller, and I look forward to partnering with him as President to strengthen our intelligence community and protect our homeland. Together, we will work to reclaim the American Dream for working families at home, and to restore our security and standing abroad.”

New National Security Ad Asks Voters Who They Want In The White House During A Crisis

New National Security Ad Asks Voters Who They Want In The White House During A Crisis
"It's 3AM and your children are safe and asleep. Who do you want answering the phone?"

AUSTIN, TX - The Hillary Clinton campaign unveiled a new national security ad that asks voters who they want answering the phone at the White House during a crisis. The 30-second spot called "Children" will begin airing in Texas starting this Friday. The ad points to Hillary Clinton's strength and experience to be president at this time and the clear positive choice she represents.

"One of the most important duties of the President is ensuring the safety of the American people," said retired General Wesley Clark. "Inevitably, another national security crisis will occur. And when it does, voters shouldn't have to wonder whether their President will be ready. As President, Hillary will be ready to act swiftly and decisively."

"The stakes for our nation have never been higher," said Retired General John Watkins. "As someone who has met with world leaders and is a leader on national security in the US Senate, I am confident that Hillary Clinton is ready to serve as our nation's Commander in Chief on day one. She would come to the job more prepared than most of our recent Presidents and certainly with better judgment."

"America faces a number of daunting challenges. I am confident that Hillary Clinton will meet these challenges and that she has the experience and judgment necessary to be Commander-in-Chief today," said former Secretary of the Navy John Dalton. "As President, I am also confident that she will re-establish our moral authority and our leadership throughout the world."

The ad begins airing on the same day that Clinton is scheduled to hold a campaign rally with veterans and flag officers in Waco.

The script for "Children" follows:

It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep

But there's a phone in the White House and it's ringing

Something's happening in the world

Your vote will decide who answers that call.

Whether it's someone who already knows the world's leaders, knows the military - someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world

It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep

Who do you want answering the phone?

Utah Senators Unite Behind John McCain For President

UTAH SENATORS UNITE BEHIND JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Utah Senators Orrin Hatch and Bob Bennett have endorsed John McCain for president.

"John McCain has the experience and maturity necessary to lead our country," said Senator Hatch. "There will be no learning curve when he enters the Oval Office. Unlike his rivals on the Democratic side, John's motorcade will not need training wheels."

John McCain thanked Senators Hatch and Bennett for their support, stating, "I appreciate Orrin and Bob's support of my campaign and look forward to working with my colleagues towards victory in November. Their advice and counsel on issues important to voters in Utah will be a great asset to our campaign."

Two Minnesota Superdelegates Support Barack Obama

TWO MINNESOTA SUPERDELEGATES SUPPORT BARACK OBAMA
Minnesota DFL Chair Brian Melendez and Associate Chair Donna Cassutt Back Obama

Chicago, IL – Today, the Chair and Associate Chair of the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party endorsed Barack Obama.  Chair Brian Melendez and Associate Chair Donna Cassutt —to Minnesota superdelegates — backed Obama, citing his overwhelming win in the Minnesota caucuses and ability to bring new voters into the process.

Chair Brian Melendez said, “Before Super Tuesday, I decided that, as a superdelegate, I would support whichever candidate won the presidential-preference ballot in Minnesota — and Senator Obama and his campaign for change won it decisively. I also decided that I would hold off on announcing this decision in the hope that voters in other states would decide the nomination and that the superdelegates would not affect the outcome.

“Now, however, it appears that the superdelegates’ votes may affect the outcome. I am therefore announcing that I will support Senator Barack Obama for president. I have heard loud and clear the voices of the more than 214,000 enthusiastic DFLers who attended their precinct caucuses. As their elected party chair, I respect their choice, and will be pleased to honor it by casting my vote for Senator Obama at the Democratic National Convention.

“DFLers shattered all turnout records at precinct caucuses this year, braving a cold winter night, long lines, and bustling crowds. We may have supported different candidates for president this year so far, but we are all energized and ready to keep Minnesota blue this November for the ninth presidential election in a row.”

Associate Chair Donna Cassutt said, “Hope, the passion for change, and the belief in the possibilities for our great nation: the over 214,000 Minnesotans who turned out to the DFL precinct caucuses this year showed that all of these are alive and well in Minnesota. Reflecting the enthusiastic and overwhelming support for Senator Barack Obama at our caucuses, I will gladly cast my vote as a superdelegate to the Democratic National Convention for Senator Obama.

“With the incredible grassroots energy and the number of folks new to the political process, I am confident that we will not only win Minnesota’s electoral votes in November, but also take back our beloved Paul Wellstone’s Senate seat and usher in a new era of common-sense, progressive politics.”

Senator Obama won the Minnesota Caucuses on February 5th with 66 percent of the vote.

Former Secretary Of State James Baker Endorses John McCain For President

FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE JAMES BAKER ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that former Secretary of State James Baker has endorsed John McCain for president.

Secretary Baker released the following statement on his endorsement:

"I am proud today to endorse John McCain for President of the United States. Senator McCain is a great American leader, a true hero, a thoughtful and a dedicated Republican, and a person whom I greatly admire.

"I support John McCain because he has the critical leadership qualities, real-world experience, and resolute moral compass that our next president will need in order to responsibly address the daunting global and domestic challenges that lie ahead.

"John McCain offers the 'roll-up-your-sleeves, bottom-line approach' that Americans, and especially Texans, demand of their leaders.

"Texans also cotton to concise country sayings that make a strong point. So while we are here in my home state, let me add that John McCain has a lot more than just the hat ... he has the cattle to go with it.

"In short, ladies and gentlemen, John McCain has the vision, experience and know-how to provide strong leadership and guidance for our great nation. I wholeheartedly endorse his candidacy to become the 44th President of the United States."

John McCain released the following statement on Secretary Baker's endorsement:

"Secretary Baker has a distinguished record of service to our country and our party. I look forward to his counsel and am honored to have his support."

NEW OHIO ADS: Governor Strickland Calls Hillary The Fighter Ohio Needs, Touts Her Commitment To Helping Ohio Families

NEW OHIO ADS: Governor Strickland Calls Hillary The Fighter Ohio Needs, Touts Her Commitment To Helping Ohio Families

COLUMBUS, OH- Ohio Governor Ted Strickland touts Hillary’s economic agenda and ability to stand up for all Ohioans in new TV and radio spots airing across the state this week. A second radio spot highlights Hillary’s plan to fix NAFTA and create jobs across Ohio.

In the new 30- second television spot titled “Fighter,” Governor Strickland calls Hillary Clinton a fighter who knows how to deliver. Governor Strickland highlights Hillary’s agenda to create new jobs in all parts of Ohio making sure America works for everyone.

In a new 30-second radio spot titled “Faith,” Governor Strickland praises Hillary’s deeply held values and her commitment to working every day to better the lives of Ohioans and all Americans.

The other 30-second radio spot titled “Jobs,” outlines Hillary’s plan to invest in the middle class and to strengthen the economy. Hillary will create new jobs in Ohio and fix NAFTA, ensuring that free trade is fair trade.

Following is a script for “Fighter”

Ted Strickland:

We need a president who first of all is going to be a fighter.

That's the way I see Hillary Clinton.

Hillary's always been an advocate for the middle class.

She's got great plans to create new jobs in every part of Ohio.

I think she's a person of deep faith.

I think she's a person who has devoted her life to caring about other people­ making sure that America works for everyone, not just the privileged few.

She's fighting for us.

And that's the kind of President we need.

Hillary Clinton: I'm Hillary Clinton and I approved this message

Following is a script for “Faith”

Ted Strickland:

“We need a president who’s tough, who’s determined, but we also need a president who really deeply cares about the American people. “

ANNC:

Governor Ted Strickland on Hillary Clinton…

Ted Strickland:

“I’ve known Hillary for fifteen years, admired her since the day I met her. “She’s a person of deep faith, who is driven by deeply felt-values, everything she does is an effort to make life better for other people. She’s also a person who I believe understands Ohio very deeply. Hillary Clinton is the candidate who can best provide the leadership that America and Ohio needs to revitalize our economy, to bring healthcare to our people, to make education high quality and affordable for all of our children and she is most capable of bringing this war to an honorable end…What Ohioans I think need more than anything else is to have confidence that their presidents going to be working for them and Hillary Clinton is a person who will be that kind of president. She’s fighting for us.”

ANNC:  Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President

HRC:  “I’m Hillary Clinton, candidate for president, and I approved this message.”

Following is a script for “Jobs”

Man #1: “The economy in this state is terrible.”

Woman #1: “We need jobs very badly in Ohio.”

Man #2: “We need a leader who cares about the people.”

Announcer: She’s fighting for America’s middle class.

Man #1: “Hillary Clinton can and will turn this country and economy around.”

Man #2: “We’ve had steel mills here that have left. Casting plants that have left.”

Man #3: “These corporations are taking these jobs overseas.”

Woman #1: “Hillary has gone on record saying that NAFTA was a mistake.”

Man #1: “Hillary does have a plan to fix NAFTA. She wants to change it from free trade to fair trade.”

Man #3: “She wants to fix the problems.”

Announcer: She’ll end 55 billion dollars in giveaways to corporate special

interests and invest it to rebuild the middle class, create jobs, expand student loans and cut taxes for working families.

Man #2: “She has the knowledge. She has the ability.”

Man #3: “Hillary Clinton has the will it takes to get up every morning and fight for working families here in the United States of America.”

Woman #1: “She’s going to bring job back here to Ohio.”

Announcer: Paid for by Hillary Clinton for President.

Hillary Clinton: I’m Hillary Clinton, candidate for President, and I approved this message.

Matt Gonzalez is Nader’s Vice Presidential Running Mate

Matt Gonzalez is Nader’s Vice Presidential Running Mate

In 2000, Gonzalez was elected to the 11 member San Francisco Board of Supervisors, which supervises a city with a budget of $6 billion. He became President of the Board three years later.

Gonzalez worked as a deputy public defender in San Francisco from 1991 2000, developing extensive trial experience.

Gonzalez is a 1987 graduate of Columbia University and a 1990 graduate of Stanford Law School.

At a press conference in Washington, D.C., Nader said that he first met Mr. Gonzalez during an anti-Iraq war speaking tour in California.

“I found him to be unwavering in his principles and committed to his politics with clear eloquence and humane logic,” Nader said. “I wanted someone who served in government and who knows what kind of challenges our cities face and who has a record of accomplishment in areas such as election reform, criminal justice, and the creation of the highest minimum wage in the country.”

“He profoundly understands that what we are trying to do is make this a better, stonger democracy,” Nader said. “We're both honored to be running together and look forward to addressing issues, conditions, and solutions ignored by the other major party candidates.”

Nader said that he chose Gonzalez because he “wanted someone who shares my sense of justice and opposition to the corporate state control over our society.”

“I wanted someone who is ready and able to stand up and fight the good fight,” Nader said. “I chose Matt Gonzalez because he's demonstrated – through his legal, civic, and political career – his steadfast commitment to the values and directions that have characterized my work and hopes for our country and its role in the world.”