2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Local Leaders Join Senator McCain's Florida Leadership

LOCAL LEADERS JOIN SENATOR MCCAIN'S FLORIDA LEADERSHIP
Hillsborough County Officials Help Steer Arizona Senator's Effort

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Hillsborough County Commissioner Mark Sharpe and Hillsborough County Sheriff David Gee will help lead the Arizona Senator's campaign in the state of Florida.

"Whether he is opposing pork-barrel spending, promoting traditional values, or protecting our Second Amendment rights, John McCain's conservative record will make the difference in Florida," said Sharpe. "His commitment to a common sense approach to reform resonates with voters in this state."

"Senator McCain's record of service and his experience with the issues that are critical to making America safe make him the essential choice in this election," said Gee. "Our country faces tremendous challenges in the days ahead and John McCain's leadership will put in place the reforms our government needs to be effective."

Senator John McCain stated that he was proud of his support in Hillsborough County. "These are respected community leaders and I'm proud to have earned their support," said Senator McCain. "I look forward to a campaign and debate where we focus on the pressing needs facing our communities, government, and nation."

South Carolina Elected Officials Join Supporters Of McCain

SOUTH CAROLINA ELECTED OFFICIALS JOIN SUPPORTERS OF MCCAIN
57 Town, City & County Council Members Endorse Arizona Senator

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that fifty-seven town, city, and county council members from South Carolina will support the Arizona Senator as he seeks the presidency.

The local elected officials supporting Senator McCain will provide "on-the-ground" guidance to the campaign and play an instrumental role in furthering his grassroots organization in the Palmetto State.

"The thing that sets Senator McCain apart is his deep understanding of the issues facing our country and the fact that he has the necessary experience to do something about them," said Horry County Councilman Carl Schwartzkopf. "There's no learning curve with him. He is ready to lead from day one, and in times like these, that is a crucial distinction."

Spartanburg County Councilman Rock Adams noted Senator McCain's personal character as a chief reason for his support of the Arizona Republican. "John McCain has led a life defined by personal character and integrity," said Adams. "He is someone our children and grandchildren can look up to. I stood with him eight years ago and I am proud to do so again today."

Senator John McCain welcomed the newest additions to his South Carolina team. "It is very encouraging to have the support of so many local leaders. We are putting together a strong grassroots organization in South Carolina and these individuals are critical to its success," said Senator McCain. "I sincerely appreciate their leadership and I look forward to working with them as we strive to advance the principles of common sense conservatism."

Los Angeles Sheriff Joins Supporters Of McCain

LOS ANGELES SHERIFF JOINS SUPPORTERS OF MCCAIN
Baca Stands With Arizona Senator

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca will support the Arizona Senator's bid for the White House.

"I am proud to support John McCain. He has an impressive record of public service, and his strength on the issues that are critical to keeping us safe sets him apart," said Sheriff Baca. "John McCain is a steady hand who will be able to step into our country's most important leadership role with the experience to be successful. I know as president, Senator McCain will address America's toughest public safety problems."

Senator John McCain said that he was grateful to have the support of Sheriff Baca. "Sheriff Baca is a respected leader in California and he understands the security needs of our urban communities," said Senator McCain. "I am proud to have his support and very much welcome his help in our efforts."

Davenport Mayor Ed Winborn Joins Team McCain

DAVENPORT MAYOR ED WINBORN JOINS TEAM MCCAIN

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Davenport Mayor Ed Winborn will join the Arizona Senator's campaign in the state of Iowa.

Winborn joins 23 other mayors across the state as part of the Iowa Mayors for McCain coalition. Davenport is the largest city in the state of Iowa represented by a Republican mayor.

"As a fellow veteran, I know that John McCain has a background that prepares him to combat terrorism, and keep our country safe and secure" said Winborn. "His experience will allow him to get results on the big issues our country faces at home and abroad."

Winborn served 19 years on the Scott County Board of Supervisors and 11 years as its chairman of the board. He has also served as Scott County Recorder, chairman of the Scott County Solid Waste Commission, chairman of the Bi-State Metropolitan Commission, and vice-chairman of the Quad City Development Group. Winborn has experience in the private sector as the owner and operator of Winborn's Sporting Goods.

Senator John McCain expressed his appreciation for Winborn's support. "Ed has shown his commitment to this country through his dedication to the military, business career, and public service," said Senator McCain. "I'm proud to have the support of such an accomplished Iowa leader."

What They're Saying, Part III: John McCain At Reagan Library Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART III:
JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE

John McCain "Came Out Firing Last Night" With "Great Energy" And "Passion"

Fox News' Gretchen Carlson: "[A] lot of the reviews this morning are saying, hey, McCain came out firing last night. A lot of people saying he had so much energy ..." (Fox News' "Fox And Friends," 5/4/07)

Republican Strategist Joe Watkins: "McCain had great energy last night. If you were a McCain supporter and you had dropped off, well, you would be back after seeing his performance last night, because he was right on point with a whole lot of things. He showed his character and the fact that he is not willing to waver when it comes to his stance with regard to Iraq. And he talked about a whole host of other issues as well. I think he was very, very good last night." (MSNBC's "News Live," 5/4/07)

Fox News' Carl Cameron: "John McCain came out swinging. ...Last night on Iraq specifically, and the War on Terror, he made it a point to be, undeniably, to be the most aggressive, forceful, sort of committed defender of U.S. and national security, and at one point he went so far as to say he would follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell." (Fox News' "America's Newsroom," 5/4/07)

The Arizona Republic's Dan Nowicki: "McCain's line about chasing terrorist mastermind Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell' was probably the most-quoted of the evening." (Dan Nowicki, "McCain Central" Blog, www.azcentral.com, Accessed 5/4/07)

NBC 7News Boston's Andy Hiller: "McCain proved he still has passion ..." (Andy Hiller, "Hiller Instinct: Republicans Rumble," WHDH-TV Website, www1.whdh.com, 5/3/07)

New York Daily News' Michael Goodwin: "John McCain was passionate and vigorous ..." (Michael Goodwin, "Giuliani Is Not-So-Artful Dodger," [New York] Daily News, 5/4/07)

The American Spectator's Philip Klein: "McCain came across as experienced and energetic ..." (American Spectator Blog, www.spectator.org, 5/4/07)

John McCain "Able To Exhibit His Leadership" With "Honest, Direct, Commanding And Forceful" Performance

Sen. Jon Kyl (R-AZ): "[H]e obviously was able to exhibit his leadership, addressing the two key issues of our time: the wasteful Washington spending as well as the necessity of leading in the world on national security matters. In both cases obviously he has the experience and has taken the leadership on those matters, so I thought it was a good way for him to demonstrate to the American people ... exactly why he ought to be elected president." (Fox News' "Fox And Friends," 5/4/07)

Human Events' David Ferguson: "Honest, direct, commanding and forceful. I could tell John McCain was in the race to win." (David Ferguson, "And The Winner Is" Human Events' Right Angle Blog, 5/4/07)

Gordon Stables, Director Of Debates, USC Debate Squad: "Senator McCain was strong both not only in restoring a fiscal credibility theme to the debate but also on security matters." (MSNBC's' "News Live," 5/4/07)

Fox News' Michael Barone: "I think there are several memorable moments. You had John McCain saying he would go to the gates of hell to find our enemies." (Fox News,' "Fox News Live," 5/4/07)

San Francisco Chronicle's Carla Mariucci: "McCain, as he has in countless town hall meetings in Iowa and New Hampshire, positioned himself as a seasoned statesman and strove to deliver some straight talk' to voters about the war in Iraq, energy independence and the need to guard against Islamic extremism while stressing his own political credentials. I may not be the youngest candidate in this race, but I am the most prepared' to assume the White House, he said." (Carla Mariucci, "GOP Hopefuls Gather Under Reagan Mantle," San Francisco Chronicle, 5/4/07)

The American Spectator's Quin Hillyer: "John McCain did a good job when asked about which Democrat other than Lieberman he would invite into his Cabinet. Rather than go with a politician, McCain talked about going to innovators and business leaders such as ones in Silicon Valley and saying, Now, come serve your country.' He effectively took a political question and raised it above politics, into the realm of patriotism. He has a unique ability to pull that off because it really is genuine from him, straight from his heart." (American Spectator Blog, www.spectator.org, 5/4/07)

What They're Saying, Part II: John McCain At Reagan Library Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING, PART II:
JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE

John McCain Was "Big Winner" Of Debate, Straight Talk Express "Has Fresh Plugs And New Tires And Looks To Be Running On Premium Ethanol"

Des Moines Register's David Yepsen: "John McCain was his old self in Thursday night's Republican presidential debate: Feisty, pointed and a straight-talker who wasn't afraid to tell Republican activists things they didn't want to hear. It made him the big winner of the night." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07

Yepsen: "Thursday night's debate indicated McCain's Straight Talk Express' has fresh plugs and new tires and looks to be running on premium ethanol." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07)

Yepsen: "McCain seemed to understand the limitations of the format and took advantage of it. His voice was forceful and his mannerisms aggressive. While Romney looked like the executive, McCain acted the part." (David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "Forceful McCain Talks His Way Straight To Top Of Field," Des Moines Register, 5/4/07)

The Washington Post's Howard Kurtz: "John McCain must have had an extra bowl of Wheaties. I've watched him in dozens of situations he's usually discursive and conversational and his delivery has never been punchier. He was tough on Iraq, on Iran, said he would follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell, and kept vowing to veto pork." (Howard Kurtz, "Showtime In Simi Valley," The Washington Post, 5/4/07)

London Times' Tim Reid: "John McCain last night capped a resurgent week for his presidential campaign with a forceful and combative performance in the first televised debate among the 10 Republican contenders. Mr McCain, who according to new polls has bounced back from a lackluster start and now leads his major rivals in the key early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina, appeared more sure footed than the current frontrunner, Rudy Giuliani. But Mr McCain is clearly gaining traction and has recaptured much of the straight talk' persona that marked his 2000 primary battle against Mr Bush." (Tim Reid, "McCain Makes Ground In Republican Face-Off," The [London] Times, 5/4/07)

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "Several conservative bloggers gave McCain the victory. He was, in their eyes, the most credible candidate telling them what they wanted to hear (and even a little of what they didn't)." (National Journal's "On Call" Blog, nationaljournal.com, 5/4/07)

Eye On 08 Blog: "McCain won today. Of the big three, he moved forward." (Eye On 08 Blog, "Final Thoughts," www.eyeon08.com, 5/3/07)

The Weekly Standard's Fred Barnes: "McCain was forceful on the imperative of winning in Iraq with a new strategy now in place." (Fred Barnes, "The Big Ten," The Weekly Standard, 5/4/07)

John McCain's Performance Was "Impressive And Strong"

Former Governor Tom Ridge (R-PA): "I certainly think [McCain] turned in a very strong performance. I think there was a lot of energy, a lot of passion. His performance was impressive and strong. He kept on message, established his priorities, continued his courageous stand on lot of these very difficult and controversial issues. I think he did well." (MSNBC's "Post-Debate Analysis," 5/3/07)

Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL): "He served over 20 years in the Navy, over 20 years in the Senate. He is a man of experience. He has battled all of these issues throughout his adult life. He knows in this issue of war and peace, he knows what war is like, and he knows the consequences of failure. That is why he wants to get the job done right in Iraq against these Islamic extremists which is the phrase that he used which I think gets at the core of the battle that we are engaged in. I think he did a good job. John McCain, consistent conservative but with passion." (MSNBC's "Tucker Carlson Live," 5/4/07)

What They're Saying: John McCain At Reagan Library Debate

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING:
JOHN MCCAIN AT REAGAN LIBRARY DEBATE

"John McCain Won" With "Grade-A Performance"

Red State Blog's Erick Erickson: "John McCain won. Let's not dance around this. John McCain was willing to be blunt, critical, and honest." ("Red State" Blog, "Who Won & Who Lost First Take," www.redstate.com, 5/3/07)

Power Line Blog's Paul Mirengoff: "Frankly, I think John McCain had the best night." (Power Line Blog, powerlineblog.com, Accessed 5/3/07)

National Review's Jim Geraghty: "[I] think he gave a grade-A performance. Fired up, some good lines, and in command." (Jim Geraghty, National Review's "The Hillary Spot" Blog, 5/3/07)

National Journal's Marc Ambinder: "[McCain] was in the zone " (Marc Ambinder, National Journal's Hotline "On Call," "Pre-Spin Analysis: Not Hardball," hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com, 5/3/07)

McCain "Looked Really Energetic Off The Top," Delivered "Crisp" Answers

CBN's David Brody: "McCain looked really energetic off the top, obviously trying to show that he is a serious leader who is a guy who knows how to get things done." (CBN's Brody File Blog, www.cbn.com, Accessed 5/3/07)

NBC's Chuck Todd: "McCain looks to be the most prepared tonight. His answers are crisp and ready for air." (MSNBC's First Read Blog, 5/3/07)

Todd: "McCain solid." (MSNBC's First Read Blog, 5/3/07)

NBC's David Gregory: "McCain came out firing early." (MSNBC's Post-Debate Coverage, 5/3/07)

McCain "Forcefully" Said He Would Follow Bin Laden "To The Gates Of Hell." "Mr. McCain then came back and said forcefully that he would do whatever is necessary' to capture Osama bin Laden and then exploded with a big finish: I'll follow him to the gates of hell.'" (Kathryn Q. Seelye, The New York Times' "Caucus" Blog, "Liveblogging The GOP Debate," blogs.nytimes.com, 5/3/07)

Chicago Tribune's Jill Zuckman: "I think that John McCain has to be feeling very good tonight when it comes to the issue of abortion. He's been consistently opposed to abortion throughout his political career." (MSNBC's Post-Debate Coverage, 5/3/07)

The Atlantic's Andrew Sullivan: "McCain was easily the strongest on spending " (The Atlantic's "Daily Dish Blog," "Instapudit," theatlantic.com, 5/3/07)

CNN's Bill Schneider: McCain's Answer On Spending "Highlights His Strength: His Experience In Government." "McCain's answer on spending highlights his strength: his experience in government. When he talks about cost overruns in defense acquisitions, he sounds like he understands the problem from experience." (CNN's "Political Ticker" Blog, "Schneider: McCain Touts Experience," www.cnn.com, 5/3/07)

McCain's Team In New Jersey Continues To Grow

MCCAIN'S TEAM IN NEW JERSEY CONTINUES TO GROW
Local Leaders Prefer Arizona Senator's Common Sense Record

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Keith Davis of Atlantic County, Rick DeMichele of Camden County, and Rita Shade of Salem County will help lead the Arizona Senator's campaign in the state of New Jersey.

The members will leverage their combined years of experience and understanding of New Jersey's grassroots political landscape to provide strategic guidance and leadership to Senator McCain's campaign.

"Senator McCain's experience, service, and commitment to the American way of life make him the right leader for our time," said Davis. "He's the type of conservative that will grow business, reinforce Republican values, and adapt our government to the challenges that lie ahead."

"Conservatives in New Jersey appreciate a leader that is willing to beat-back government regulation and protect traditional values," said DeMichele. "John McCain's record of fiscal restraint and government reform make him the essential choice for our state."

"Whether you're concerned about the changes facing the global community or local economy, John McCain has proven he is willing to enact reforms to make us stronger," said Shade. "His record of fighting to cut waste in budgets and increase government accountability really means something in New Jersey."

Senator John McCain spoke to how pleased he was to be gather additional support in New Jersey. "I am proud that these respected community leaders are joining me in fighting for an improved, more effective America," said Senator McCain. "I appreciate their support and look forward to working with them."

Scott Beason Joins Supporters Of McCain

SCOTT BEASON JOINS SUPPORTERS OF MCCAIN
State Senator To Head Social Conservatives For McCain In Alabama

ARLINGTON, VA. - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Alabama state Senator Scott Beason will chair the Social Conservatives for McCain coalition in Alabama.

"John McCain has a consistent, conservative record on life, guns, and other issues that are vitally important to social conservatives across Alabama," said Senator Beason. "I am proud to join his long list of supporters and look forward to sharing Senator McCain's common sense conservative message with my fellow Alabama Republicans."

Senator John McCain said he welcomed Beason's advice and counsel, and praised his conservative credentials. "Scott Beason and I share a pride in serving and leading as conservatives," said Senator McCain. "I am happy to welcome a fellow Ronald Reagan Republican to our team, and I look forward to working with him in the weeks and months ahead."

Iowa Leaders Join Team McCain

IOWA LEADERS JOIN TEAM MCCAIN
Campaign Unveils Mississippi Valley Leadership Team

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the Mississippi Valley Leadership Team in advance of the Arizona Senator's return to eastern Iowa next week.

This leadership team constitutes the campaign's county chairs from Dubuque County south along the Mississippi River to the Missouri border. Included in the group are elected officials, longtime Republican Party activists, and other Iowa volunteers who are energized by Senator McCain's common sense conservative message.

"Senator McCain is dedicated to fighting terrorism and has been a determined advocate for a strong foreign policy that will allow us to maintain the freedom we enjoy as Americans," said Dubuque County Chair Sandy Moses. "I look forward to working with my fellow Mississippi Valley leaders to spread Senator McCain's positive vision throughout the Hawkeye State."

Scott County Chair Jim Goff cited Senator McCain's experience in supporting his candidacy. "Senator McCain has the experience to tackle the big problems that face our country both abroad and here at home," said Goff. "His consistent, conservative track record makes him the clear choice for Iowans."

This influential leadership team will continue to build on Senator McCain's volunteer grassroots organization in the state.

Senator John McCain expressed his gratitude for the group's strong support. "I am extremely grateful to have this gifted group of Iowans volunteering their time and energy on my behalf," said Senator McCain. "With their help we will continue to grow our strong organization of committed grassroots supporters."

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY LEADERSHIP TEAM

Clinton County
Maurice Griggs - Clinton County Chair & Former Clinton County GOP Central Committee Member

Des Moines County
Joy Menne - Des Moines County Chair

Dubuque County
Sandy Moses - Dubuque County Chair & Dubuque County GOP Treasurer
Barbara Smeltzer - Dubuque County Co-Chair & Former Dubuque County GOP Secretary
Steve Bateman - Dubuque County Co-Chair & Former Dubuque County GOP Chairman
Asbury Mayor Rick Anderson - Dubuque County Mayor for McCain
Dyersville Mayor Jim Heavens - Dubuque County Mayor for McCain
Representative Steve Lukan - Dubuque County Legislator for McCain

Jackson County
Marion "Junior" Miller - Jackson County Chair & Jackson County Chair for 2006 State Senate Candidate
Bellevue Mayor Virgil Murray - Jackson County Mayor for McCain

Lee County
Robert Abel - Lee County Chair & Lee County GOP Central Committee Finance Director

Louisa County
Lee Eutsler - Louisa County Chair

Muscatine County
Dewayne Hopkins - Muscatine County Co-Chair
Jim Ludman - Muscatine County Co-Chair
Don Mead - Muscatine County Co-Chair
Maurene Failor - Muscatine County GOP Activist

Scott County
Sheriff Dennis Conrad - Scott County Honorary Chair
Jim Goff - Scott County Chair
John Bishop - Scott County Co-Chair
James Donnelly - Davenport Precinct Chair
Lauralie Salter - Bettendorf Precinct Chair
Bruce and Susan Boyler - Bettendorf Precinct Co-Chair
Carolyn Peterman - Bettendorf Precinct Co-Chair
Michael Salter - Bettendorf Precinct Co-Chair
Elizabeth McDermott - LeClaire Precinct Co-Chair
Michael Froeschle - LeClaire Precinct Co-Chair