2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Mike Huckabee Hires Debra Vanderbeek In Granite State

Mike Huckabee Hires Debra Vanderbeek As Presidential Exploratory Committee Manager For Granite State

Little Rock, AR – Political veteran Debra Vanderbeek was hired to manage the Mike Huckabee for President Exploratory Committee in New Hampshire, it was announced today. 

“I’m very pleased that Debra has agreed to join my exploratory campaign in this capacity.  She has a distinguished track record of success in New Hampshire politics as well as the private sector,” Huckabee said.  “Importantly, she knows the people of this state – and her outstanding reputation will open up many doors.”

Vanderbeek, who will oversee the fundraising, volunteer and outreach efforts in the Granite State, is the latest to sign up for Huckabee’s effort. She joins New Hampshire State School Board member Fred Bramante and former City Chair of the Manchester Republican Committee Cliff Hurst who will serve as the New Hampshire Co-Chairs of his 2008 presidential exploratory committee.  Bramante and Hurst joined the Huckabee team last month.

“I’m excited to be managing Governor Huckabee’s campaign in New Hampshire,” Vanderbeek said.  “He is exactly the type of leader our nation needs and the type of candidate that New Hampshire expects.”

Huckabee, who served as governor of Arkansas from 1996-2007, announced he was forming a Presidential Exploratory Committee to explore a run for the White House on NBC’s “Meet the Press” with host Tim Russert in late January.

“New Hampshire voters want their candidates to earn their vote and that is exactly what Governor Huckabee will do,” Vanderbeek said.  “This will be a true grassroots campaign that goes town-to-town and door-to-door.”

“New Hampshire voters take their role in presidential politics very seriously – and they are responsible citizens who care who their next leader will be,” Huckabee said.  “I look forward to getting the chance to meet the people again and share my conservative values and ideas of vertical politics with them.”

Former Governor Mike Huckabee Delivers Signed No-Tax Pledge

Former Governor Mike Huckabee Delivers Signed No-Tax Pledge to Americans for Tax Reform

Little Rock, AR – Mike Huckabee officially delivered a signed Presidential Taxpayer Protection Pledge to Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) President Grover Norquist during ATR’s “Wednesday Meeting” in Washington, D.C. this morning.

The former governor announced he would sign the pledge on Friday, March 2, 2007 at the annual Conservative Political Action Conference.

“Having already been a longtime supporter of ending the death tax and cutting 90 taxes while governor, it was not difficult to pledge not to raise the income tax rates at the federal level,” Huckabee said.

By signing the pledge, Huckabee agreed to “oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates for individuals and/or businesses … and oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and credits, unless matched dollar for dollar by further reducing tax rates.”

“We applaud Governor Huckabee for signing the Presidential Taxpayer Protection Pledge,” Norquist said.  “Governor Huckabee recognizes that the challenge is to rein in spending and reduce taxes.”

Huckabee is a fiscal conservative who passed Arkansas’ first broad-based tax cut package in state history.  During his ten and a half years as Governor, he cut taxes more than 90 times, saving taxpayers almost $380 million.  He doubled the child care tax credit and eliminated the marriage penalty from the tax code.  He also cut welfare rolls by nearly 50 percent while balancing the state budget.

Huckabee formed a Presidential Exploratory Committee for a potential 2008 White House bid after departing office earlier this year.

ATR has sponsored the Taxpayer Protection Pledge since 1986 and offered the Pledge to all candidates for federal office since 1987.  The document is a written promise by legislators and candidates for office that commits them to oppose any effort to increase the federal income taxes on individuals and businesses.

“I continue to encourage every Presidential candidate to show their commitment to the U.S. taxpayer by signing the pledge,” Norquist said.

Mike Huckabee Announces Congressional Leaders

U.S. REPS. DON YOUNG  AND JOHN BOOZMAN TO SERVE AS CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS OF HUCKABEE FOR PRESIDENT EXPLORATORY COMMITTEE

Little Rock, AR – Former Governor Mike Huckabee announced Friday that U.S. Representative Don Young (R-AK) will serve as congressional chairman of his presidential exploratory committee and U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR) will serve as co-chairman. 

"It's an honor to have the strong support of such dedicated and well respected members of the U.S. Congress,” said Huckabee.

"As Governor of Arkansas and NGA Chairman, I worked closely with Don on a range of critical issues, including transportation – which is a passion we both share.  I’ve seen him in action and respect his commitment – not only to the people of Alaska, but to our country.  I have deep respect for the job he has done in Congress, and I know he’ll do a great job as chairman of my congressional team."

“I’m also honored to have the home-state support of John Boozman,” Huckabee said.   “I always knew when I asked something of him, he would do whatever he could to help the people of Arkansas.  He’s a talented and dedicated member of the House of Representatives – and I’m pleased that he’ll be assisting Don Young in his efforts.”

In a February 22, 2007 letter to House Republicans, Young articulated his support for Huckabee – and urged his GOP colleagues to support Huckabee’s bid for the presidency.

“Last month, Mike formed a Presidential Exploratory Committee because he believes – as I do – that it’s time for Americans to experience a reawakening of the conservative values that make our country a land of opportunity and a beacon of hope and freedom around the world,” wrote Young in a letter that was hand-delivered to Members’ offices.

On 'hot button' issues, such as energy independence, Iraqi freedom, and excellence in education, “Mike and I couldn’t agree more,” Young wrote.

He added: "Mike is a true conservative.  During his tenure as Governor, he balanced the state budget, reduced welfare by nearly 50 percent and signed the first-ever, broad-based tax cut in 160 years, which amounted to a $90 million refund to taxpayers.  All told, he fought for passage of more than 90 tax cuts and left the State of Arkansas with a surplus of more than $800 million."

“I’m proud to support my friend, Mike Huckabee,” agreed Boozman. “He’s governed according to conservative principles – and what’s more, he has a proven record of working with people, regardless of party, to get things done which actually make lives better.”

Young, who was re-elected in November 2006 to his 18th term, also praised Huckabee's bipartisan approach: “As chairman of the 50-state National Governors Association, Mike put partisan politics aside to work closely with Governors, Members of the U.S. House and U.S. Senate – of both parties – and the Administration, in order to achieve results on complex issues, including Medicaid reform and the reauthorization of the highway bill."

Young concluded by touting Huckabee’s ability to set goals and achieve them.  “I’m proud to stand behind Mike Huckabee in his efforts to take this country to higher ground – and I hope you will too,” he wrote.

Mike Huckabee Opens New Campaign Headquarters And Launches New Website Design

Mike Huckabee Opens New Campaign Headquarters In Little Rock

Little Rock, AR -- Mike Huckabee announced today the opening of the Mike Huckabee Presidential Exploratory Committee headquarters in the One Union West Capitol Building at 124 W. Capitol St., Suite 1200, in downtown Little Rock. The office will serve as the home base for the logistics, fundraising and communications aspects of the campaign.

“I felt is was very important to locate campaign headquarters in the heart of downtown Little Rock because this is my home,” Huckabee said. “The values I’ve grown up with here in Arkansas have guided my political career. As we move around the country in this campaign, it’s nice to come back to the headquarters in Little Rock, where my heart is.”

Huckabee, who calls himself a "son of the South," served as governor of Arkansas from 1996-2007, and as lieutenant governor from 1993-96.

“It’s no secret the campaign for president can be exhausting and exciting at the same time,” Huckabee said. “This state is where I am invigorated and it's the source of much of my energy.”

Campaign Manager Chip Saltsman, who previously worked as senior political advisor for then-U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist’s volunteer political action committee, will work out of the office in Little Rock.

“One of the first big decisions Gov. Huckabee made after forming an exploratory committee is that he wanted the office to be based in Little Rock --not Washington, D.C.,” Saltsman said. “Right away I knew this was a campaign based on American values, not those of the Washington Beltway.”

First Family of South Carolina Presidential Politics' Endorses Mike Huckabee

'First Family of South Carolina Presidential Politics'

 

Endorses Mike Huckabee, Campbells say Huckabee is 'Best to Lead America'

COLUMBIA, SC - Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee announced Monday that former South Carolina First Lady Iris Campbell will serve as Honorary South Carolina State Chair of his Presidential Exploratory Committee - and that Campbell's youngest son, Mike Campbell, will serve as a Senior National Advisor to the campaign.

"I am tremendously pleased and honored to have the winning support of such a gracious and politically-savvy First Lady, Iris Campbell, and her son, Mike Campell, a rising star both in South Carolina and nationally," said Huckabee during a news conference today. "I look forward to their guidance and leadership in this critically-important state as we move forward."

Mrs. Campbell stated, "Mike Huckabee is a tremendous leader who will make a great President.  He is a true conservative and a man of character and vision.  Mike is the kind of individual Carroll would have enjoyed helping and I am proud to offer my support and look forward to helping him get elected.  "

Mike Campbell joined, "Governor Huckabee is the only candidate with proven conservative credentials.  In addition, his executive experience and common-sense approach to governing will serve our nation well.  He is a genuine leader who possesses true conviction on the challenges facing our nation and doesn't have to attempt to re-invent himself for the sake of getting elected.  People throughout South Carolina and across America can identify with Mike Huckabee and will elect our next President."

Since 1980, the late Governor Carroll Campbell and his family have played an integral role in helping each candidate they have chosen to support (Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bob Dole, and George W. Bush) win the South Carolina GOP Presidential Primary - and ultimately the nomination. 

 

In the late 1970's, then-Congressman Carroll Campbell, along with close friend Lee Atwater, mapped out a plan to hold a South Carolina presidential primary early enough to play a significant role in the nomination process. 

In 1980, the first South Carolina primary was held.  That year the SC party established led by Sen. Strom Thurmond and former Gov. Jim Edwards supported early frontrunner, John Connelly.  However, Carroll and Iris Campbell decided to support the underdog, Ronald Reagan.

Carroll Campbell signed on to be Reagan's state chairman. Together, the Campbells and Lee Atwater delivered a resounding victory for Reagan in South Carolina.  Since then, no Republican has won the nomination or the presidency without first winning in South Carolina and having Campbell family's support.  Many credit Reagan's victory in 1980 to Carroll Campbell.

Barbara Bush has stated that "neither my husband nor my son would have been president had it not be for the efforts of Carroll and Iris Campbell."

South Carolina plays an integral role in the Republican nomination process. It has been the firewall state for those who came up short in Iowa and New Hampshire and has consistently provided the nominee the initial momentum to win the Republican nomination.

Having learned at the feet of his masterful father, Mike Campbell, the Campbell's youngest son, is continuing the late Governor's legacy.  In June 2006, he won a three-way primary for Lieutenant Governor of South Carolina by 8% -- before narrowly losing in a run-off two weeks later (by less than 2%) to the incumbent.  Despite his loss, he is widely considered a rising star within the GOP. 

Said Huckabee:  "The Campbell family is an icon in South Carolina politics. Mike Campbell has keen political instincts and ability - and will no doubt make a comeback. I am proud to have him - and Iris - on my team."

Bramante and Hurst to Co-Chair Huckabee for President Exploratory

Bramante and Hurst Co-Chair Huckabee for President Exploratory Committee in New Hampshire
 
   Nashua, NH – Mike Huckabee announced Friday that New Hampshire State School Board member Fred Bramante and former City Chair of the Manchester Republican Committee Cliff Hurst will serve as the New Hampshire Co-Chairs of his 2008 presidential exploratory committee.
   
“Fred and Cliff have a long history of dedication to the Republican Party in New Hampshire ,” Huckabee said today during a lunch for New Hampshire business leaders in Nashua . 
   
The former Arkansas governor said: “Cliff and Fred are very well-respected in the Granite State and across the country for their commitment to community service.  I’m honored to have them on my team.”
   
Bramante, a two-time GOP gubernatorial candidate, worked on John McCain’s 2000 presidential campaign.  Last week, he announced his endorsement of Huckabee.

Bramante, the founder of Daddy’s Junky Music stores, says he appreciates Huckabee’s passion for education and the role the arts play in it. “Mike Huckabee understands that in order for America to compete, we need to have a creative economy and that comes from arts and education,” Bramante said.
   
Hurst served as a civilian clergy in the military in Europe and has worked in various leadership positions in human resources, sales and marketing and public relations.  He recently sat on the executive board of the New Hampshire State Republican Party.
   
“I first met Mike Huckabee in August of 2005 and I’ve never known a person at that level who was so open and had such compassion for people,” Hurst said.  “I feel that character matters, and once you get to know Mike Huckabee, you realize he is truly a man of character.”

Mike Huckabee Hires John "Chip" Saltsman As Campaign Manager

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee Hires John "Chip" Saltsman as Campaign Manager

Little Rock, Ark -- Mike Huckabee today officially announced the hiring of John "Chip" Saltsman as campaign manager for his exploratory bid for the White House, effective immediately.

As Huckabee's campaign manager, Saltsman will oversee the political, fundraising, and communications aspect of the campaign as well as the day-to-day operations.

"Chip brings a distinguished career of political expertise to our effort," said Huckabee. "He'll be a strong and focused manager of our strategy and direction as we continue to build a competitive team for the challenges ahead."

Saltsman previously worked as senior political advisor for then-U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist's volunteer political action committee, Once Frist announced he did not plan to join the 2008 race for
president, Huckabee said he began talking to Saltsman about joining his team.

Saltsman is also a two-time Pioneer for President George W. Bush. One of his most notable achievements was in 2000, when he helped deliver former Vice President Al Gore's home state to Bush.

Saltsman said: "I have a great deal of respect for Governor Huckabee. He's a candidate who can rally the Republican base as well as reach out to centrists and independents."

"Chip's vast knowledge of the process and his principled commitment to a campaign with integrity is exactly what I've been looking for," said Huckabee.

The former Arkansas governor spent the past two days on a political tour of Iowa. On Monday, he filed paperwork to form a Presidential Exploratory committee with the Federal Election Commission.

Vander Plaats And Carroll To Lead Iowa Huckabee Team

VANDER PLAATS, CARROLL JOIN MIKE HUCKABEE EXPLORATORY COMMITTEE AS STATE CHAIR, CO-CHAIR

URBANDALE, IA - Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee announced last night that 2006 lieutenant governor nominee Bob Vander Plaats of Sioux City and former House Speaker Pro Tem Danny Carroll of Grinnell will serve as the Iowa chairman and co-chairman, respectively, of the Huckabee for President Exploratory Committee.

Speaking at in a "Meet Mike Huckabee" event, Huckabee lauded Vander Plaats and Carroll as "two of the most recognized and respected conservative leaders in Iowa."

"No Iowa conservative enjoys a broader statewide political base than Bob Vander Plaats. He has built an impressive grassroots network through his clear vision of the future, hard work and an unwavering commitment to core conservative values," Huckabee said. "His support for a potential presidential campaign is a big, big boost for us and clearly signals that Iowa 's conservatives are receptive to my message of hope."

He continued, "Danny Carroll earned great respect during 12 years in the General Assembly as a conservative leader who always held true and firm true to his principles yet worked so successfully with people from across the political spectrum to accomplish meaningful results in health care, tax policy, education and economic development. Iowa 's social conservatives know that Danny Carroll has always been a clear, strong voice on the issues that matter most to them."

Carroll said, "Mike Huckabee has the solid experience in state government that is essential for anyone pursuing the office of president. His views reflect the values of everyday hardworking Americans and he will make a great president if he decides to take the next step on the road to the White House after completing his exploratory campaign."

Huckabee, who left office on Jan. 9 after more than 10 years as governor, has toured the country and appeared on national programs in recent days to discuss his fifth book, "From Hope to Higher Ground: 12 STOPs to Restoring America's Greatness." Time magazine has named him one of the five "Best Governors in the Nation" and his leadership on national Medicaid reform and education were among the reasons Governing magazine named Huckabee as a "Public Official of the Year" and AARP presented him with a national "Impact" award.

Mike Huckabee Files Exploratory Committee Paperwork

Mike Huckabee Files Exploratory Committee Paperwork

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee announced Monday he has filed the necessary paperwork to form an exploratory committee as part of a 2008 presidential bid.

"This is an opportunity for me to show the American dream is still alive," Huckabee said to a group of state GOP leaders Monday in Little Rock. "By filing papers with the Federal Election Commission, I'm officially taking the next step to become a candidate for President of United States."

The formation of an exploratory committee allows Huckabee to raise money and hire a campaign staff for a presidential run. He said details of the organization will be announced in future weeks.

Huckabee, 51, left office on Jan 9. "People want an authentic conservative who has a proven record of results," he said.

Huckabee announced his plans to form an exploratory committee yesterday on NBC's 'Meet the Press' morning show with host Tim Russert.

"America loves an underdog," Huckabee told Russert. "One of the reasons that I'm running for president is because I think that America needs folks who understand what it is to start at the bottom of the ladder and climb their way to the top."

Huckabee became Arkansas' 44th Governor in 1996 when his predecessor resigned. Huckabee was elected to a full four-year term as governor in 1998, attracting the largest percentage of the vote ever received by a Republican gubernatorial nominee in Arkansas. He was re-elected to another four-year term in November 2002. He was the third longest serving governor in the history of Arkansas, having served ten and a half years.

Huckabee served as chairman of the National Governors Association and chairman of the Education Commission of the States. During his tenure as governor, Huckabee made great strides in improving education, increasing access to health care, updating technology in state government and revamping the state's roadways.

Huckabee, a fiscal conservative, pushed through the Arkansas Legislature the first major, broad-based tax cuts in state history. He led efforts to establish a Property Taxpayers' Bill of Rights and created a welfare reform program that reduced welfare rolls in the state by almost 50 percent.

Last year, Huckabee campaigned in nearly 30 states on behalf of Republican candidates, state parties and conservative groups. He plans to travel to Iowa, his ninth trip to the Hawkeye State, on Tuesday. Huckabee has events scheduled in Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, Grinnell, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Tipton and Bettendorf.

Mike Huckabee Announces Future Plans And Website

Mike Huckabee posted these comments on his new website and by e-mail to supporters regarding his plans for the future.

Mike Huckabee's comments regarding his plans for the future...

Dear Friends and Supporters,

Over the past several months, I have received growing encouragement from conservative activists and leaders for me to become a candidate for President. I have sought counsel and advice from my family, close friends, political advisers, and most importantly from above. Our nation only stays strong as we are willing to take a stand, take a risk, and hopefully make this country a safer, more prosperous, and healthier place. Today, I am ready to take that stand.

I ask you to join me in the effort to take a message of hope and optimism to the people of America. This morning on "Meet the Press" with Tim Russert I announced that on Monday, January 29, 2007, I am filing papers creating the Huckabee for President Exploratory Committee, Inc.

Soon, a new website will be available at http://www.explorehuckabee.com/. I encourage you to visit the website as soon as it is available and register if you haven't already done so. There is also a link for you to "Tell a Friend" and I really need your help in doing just that. Please take the time to click on the "Tell a Friend" link and let others know how they can become involved too. You will find a place to list one or more email addresses and type in your own email message. Please set a goal of letting at least five friends know today how they too can become involved with the Huckabee for President Exploratory Committee, Inc...

I learned a lot in training for the 4 marathons I've run. The hardest part is taking the first step and saying "I will do it." I've taken that step. The road ahead is not a sprint, but truly a marathon. The journey begins and I hope you'll be with me for every step of the way!

With gratitude and hope,

Mike Huckabee