2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

John McCain 2008 Launches New Radio Ad, "Grow," in Florida

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW RADIO AD, "GROW," IN FLORIDA

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today launched a new radio ad to run statewide in Florida. The new ad highlights John McCain's preparation to confront America's economic and national security challenges. The 60-second ad is entitled "Grow."

Script for "Grow" (:60-Radio)

ANNOUNCER: Senator John McCain

JOHN MCCAIN: Floridians are concerned about the threat of radical Islamic extremism and their economic security.

There's no one more qualified to meet our national security threats.

I've been dealing with these issues my entire adult life.

I'll make the Bush tax cuts permanent, reduce taxes on 25 million middle class families, and veto wasteful government spending.

ANNOUNCER: John McCain has an economic plan that makes conservative common sense.

A tax cut plan for 25 million middle class families.

He'll make it harder for Congress to raise your taxes by requiring a 3/5 majority to do it.

John McCain knows economic security is a matter of national security.

John McCain is the one man with the judgment and experience to be commander in chief.

He'll stand up to the Islamic extremists and put America first.

JOHN MCCAIN: There is no one who will work harder to protect our shores and protect your pocket books.

I'm John McCain and I approved this message.

ANNOUNCER: Paid for by John McCain 2008.

John McCain 2008 Launches New Radio Ad, "Mayor Crotty," in Florida

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW RADIO AD, "MAYOR CROTTY," IN FLORIDA

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today launched a new radio ad featuring Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty. The ad highlights John McCain's economic stimulus plan, his ability to keep America safe, and his personal leadership qualities.

The ad, entitled "Mayor Crotty," will run in the Greater Orlando area.

Script for "Mayor Crotty" (:60-Radio)

RICHARD CROTTY: This is Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty of Orlando.

After looking carefully at each presidential candidate, I know John McCain is by far the best to lead in these troubled times.

He has a detailed plan to get our economy moving again with tax cuts, less spending and fiscal conservative management.

Facing a war on two fronts, John McCain knows our military and how to lead and protect America.

Most importantly is that John McCain has the most integrity and character.

Even when it is unpopular, he will look you in the eye and tell you the truth.

John McCain is widely respected and has received the endorsement of Florida's major newspapers.

They recognize John McCain's character, leadership, and electability.

This is Mayor Richard Crotty, and I'm voting for John McCain.

I hope you'll join me Tuesday.

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

ANNOUNCER: Paid for by John McCain 2008.

John McCain 2008 Launches New Radio Ad, "Recognize," in Florida

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW RADIO AD, "RECOGNIZE," IN FLORIDA

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today launched a new radio ad, entitled "Recognize," highlighting John McCain's support from General Norman Schwartzkopf and over 100 retired admirals and generals.

"Recognize" will run in Florida's I-4 Corridor and Panhandle.

Script for "Recognize" (:60-Radio)

ANNOUNCER: A leader can recognize another leader.

A commander can recognize a commander in chief.

That's why General Norman Schwartzkopf, the successful commander of Dessert Storm, has endorsed John McCain for President.

And why over a hundred other generals and admirals agree with General Schwartzkopf that John McCain has demonstrated the type of courageous leadership our country sorely needs at this time.

John McCain. The one man who believes Americans want a leader, not a follower.

The one man who has the judgment and experience to be commander-in-chief.

The one man who always put his country before himself.

The one man who will do what's best for America, not just what's easy.

John McCain is the one man prepared to lead the country in a time of crisis.

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

ANNOUNCER: Paid for by John McCain 2008.

Edwards Campaign To Air Supporter-Created Ad In February 5th State

EDWARDS CAMPAIGN TO AIR SUPPORTER-CREATED AD IN FEBRUARY 5TH STATE
Winning entry in “My Vote, My Voice” ad contest focuses on Edwards’ commitment to rural America

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Today, the John Edwards for President campaign announced the grand prize winner of the “My Vote, My Voice” ad contest, an entry entitled “Dear Rural America” created by brothers Neil and Drew Schimmenti of San Jose, California. On Tuesday, the Schimmenti brothers flew to New York City to meet with Sen. Edwards and to develop their concept into a 30-second television spot. The campaign will air the Schimmenti’s ad in Oklahoma prior to the February 5th Super Tuesday primary.

“John’s pledge to rural America is genuine,” said Neil Schimmenti. “We wanted to contribute to this effort with a simple message that help is on the way.”

“There is a big difference between being politically aware and politically active,” said Drew Schimmenti. “We made this video because we care about our country and want to influence its direction.” Originally from Nantucket, Massachusetts, the Schimmenti brothers currently live in San Jose, California, where they are passionate about progressive politics, creating social change and both contribute to lateforlife.com.

Edwards’ commitment to helping rural America has been central to his campaign. Born and raised in rural mill towns in South Carolina, North Carolina and Georgia, Sen. Edwards’ proposed “Rural Recovery Act” is a bold and comprehensive economic recovery plan for rural America, the details of which can be found on the campaign’s website at http://www.johnedwards.com/issues/rural/. Yesterday, in his hometown of Seneca, South Carolina, Edwards concluded a two-day “Back Home, Back Roads Barnstorm” of the Palmetto State’s small, rural towns, joined by special guests including Grammy-award winning musician Dr. Ralph Stanley, actor and activist Danny Glover and former Georgia Congressman and “Dukes of Hazzard” star Ben “Cooter” Jones.

The Edwards campaign launched the “My Vote, My Voice” contest on December 28th, 2007, offering everyday Americans the chance to have their voice heard by creating an original ad describing why they support John Edwards. In the weeks that followed, the campaign was flooded with entries from across the country.

The Schimmenti brothers’ grand prize winning entry was chosen by a panel of judges including: Elizabeth Edwards, Edwards national campaign manager Congressman David Bonior, Elizabeth Edwards’ brother and NYU Tisch Film School professor Jay Anania, actor and activist James Denton, bloggers Jane Hamsher and Christy Hardin Smith of FireDogLake, Wisconsin Democratic Party Chair Joe Wineke, and Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson.

Minnesota Secretary Of State Announces First-in-the-Nation, Non-Partisan Precinct Caucus Finder

Secretary of State Mark Ritchie Announces First-in-the-Nation, Non-Partisan Precinct Caucus Finder

St. Paul, Minn. - Jan. 15, 2008 - Minnesota Secretary of State Mark Ritchie announced today the launch of a Precinct Caucus Finder, a new free service to help citizens across Minnesota locate their political party's caucus via the Internet. The Secretary of State's office worked with all major and minor political parties in Minnesota to create a one-stop, easy-to-use online search tool with precinct caucus times and locations.

"I thank all the political parties that came together to partner with this office to make this service to Minnesotans a reality. Citizens are served best when we work together," Mr. Ritchie said. "This caucus finder is an important new service that helps citizens take ownership of our democracy."

Minnesotans interested in attending a precinct caucus should go to the Secretary of State's Web site at www.sos.state.mn.us and click on the Precinct Caucus Finder link. The caucus finder will display the precinct caucus times and locations provided by the political parties. If a date and location are not available for a political party's caucus, the Web site directs users to a link to the political party's Web site for more information.

Precinct caucuses are free and open to the public. To participate at a caucus you must be eligible to vote in the November 4, 2008 general election and likely to support the candidates of that political party. The office has prepared a precinct caucus brochure available for download at www.sos.state.mn.us/docs/mnprecinctcaucuses.pdf. The Republican, Democratic and Independence parties are scheduled to meet for their respective caucuses on Feb. 5, "Super Tuesday." The Democratic and Republican Parties will also hold "straw polls" at their caucuses for presidential candidates.

The Constitution Party will caucus on Feb. 2, and the Green Party will caucus on
March 4. The Independence Party will continue to meet online in a virtual caucus through March 4. The results of the presidential straw polls, as provided by the political parties, will appear on the Secretary of State's Web site at www.sos.state.mn.us.

Edwards Campaign Breaks Online Fundraising Record

EDWARDS CAMPAIGN BREAKS ONLINE FUNDRAISING RECORD

In the first 25 days of this quarter, campaign has raised more online than the whole 4th quarter – the vast majority of which will be doubled by federal matching funds

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – As a sign of John Edwards’ growing grassroots support across the country, today the Edwards campaign announced that it has raised more than $3 million online during the first 25 days of the quarter – more than it raised during the whole 4th quarter of last year.  Just yesterday, the campaign had one of its best fundraising days, taking in more than $230,000 in contributions. The vast majority of online contributions will be doubled by federal matching funds.

“First, we want to thank everyone who has contributed,” said senior advisor Joe Trippi.  “More and more Americans want to get involved in our campaign because they recognize that John Edwards is the only candidate in this race with the backbone to say we are in a fight for the middle class and we can’t negotiate or take money from powerful entrenched interests if we are going to have change – we have to take them on.  Our campaign relies on the support of regular Americans, and with their support we can bring real change to America.”

The Edwards campaign has been built on reaching out to all Americans – not just those who can give the maximum donation to the campaign.  Edwards is the only candidate who has never taken a dime from Washington lobbyists or PACs. He continues to gain new support as he travels the country to talk with voters about his plans to fight for the middle class. 

-  Edwards enjoys strong grassroots support with 93 percent of online contributions coming in amounts of $100 or less.

-  Fifty-two percent of those making contributions online this quarter are new contributors. 

Americans are also responding to Edwards’ Tuesday night debate performance, where he remained focused on the issues that really matter to voters. During the hour following Tuesday night’s debate, the campaign saw a significant spike in online fundraising – setting the pace for days of donations arriving in record amounts.  Building on the momentum from Tuesday’s debate, today the campaign released new two ads in South Carolina that highlight Edwards’ commitment to talking about the challenges facing America, instead of attacking his opponents.

WHAT THEY'RE SAYING: About Gov. Romney At The Boca Raton, FL, GOP Debate - Vol. III

WHAT THEY'RE REALLY SAYING ABOUT GOV. ROMNEY AT THE BOCA RATON, FL, GOP DEBATE – VOL. III

MSNBC's Pat Buchanan: "I got to say that I think clearly Mitt Romney dominated tonight. His performance was flawless. He looked presidential." (MSNBC's "Live," 1/24/08)

Buchanan: "I think Romney clearly won tonight." (MSNBC's "Live," 1/24/08)

Buchanan: "He looked terrific. He got off the best two lines of the night." (MSNBC's "Morning Joe," 1/25/08)

Buchanan: "I think he was crisp and strong." (MSNBC's "Morning Joe," 1/25/08)

Buchanan: "If Romney is in the lead tonight and people are looking at this, he looks to me like a man, quite frankly that can beat Hillary Rodham Clinton and can be president of the United States." (MSNBC's "Live," 1/24/08)

ABC News' Jake Tapper: "Romney, who is in a dead heat with McCain for first place in some recent polls here in Florida, had perhaps the best night, presenting a polished and confident demeanor." (Jake Tapper, "GOP Debate: Not Quite A Smoka In Boca," ABC News' Website, www.abcnews.go.com, Posted 1/24/08)

The Washington Post's Michael D. Shear And Juliet Eilperin: "The debate offered Romney a chance to shine as he received several opportunities to discuss economic issues and his experience in the private sector." (Michael D. Shear and Juliet Eilperin, "Republicans Play To Right In Fla. Debate," The Washington Post, 1/25/08)

The Weekly Standard's Dean Barnett: "With that preamble out of the way, I must unequivocally state that last night was an enormously successful evening for Romney. He's a serious guy, and a capable one. That came through last night." (Dean Barnett, "Boca Break Down," The Weekly Standard, www.weeklystandard.com, 1/25/08)

Time's Mark Halperin: "… Romney came out strong, unapologetic and on message." (Mark Halperin, "GOP Debate Report Card," Time, "www.time.com, Posted 1/25/08)

Halperin: "[Romney] settled comfortably into the 'looks and sounds like a president' zone that is one of his chief assets." (Mark Halperin, "GOP Debate Report Card," Time, "www.time.com, Posted 1/25/08)

Halperin: "[Romney] Seemed to anticipate an eventual one-on-one contest with McCain, and displayed the confidence of a man who feels certain he has a spot in the finals. Bottom line: Benefited more than anyone else from the oddly low-key nature of a high-stakes." (Mark Halperin, "GOP Debate Report Card," Time, "www.time.com, Posted 1/25/08)

National Review's David Freddoso: "By the time he was done, Romney even demonstrated that he understands why a one-time rebate is not a real economic stimulant." (David Freddoso, "The Debate Begins," National Review's The Corner, www.corner.nationalreview.com, Posted 1/24/08)

Townhall's Jennifer Rubin: "Romney had perhaps his best debate performance… He was at his best when speaking on economics and he successfully ducked a question from Giuliani on his position on a national catastrophic insurance fund." (Jennifer Rubin, "Republican Debates Offer Little Foresight," Townhall, 1/25/08)

Rubin: "He forcefully rebuffed the moderator's inquiries about how much of his personal fortune he has spent on the campaign. He too should be pleased that voters saw a confident, economically literate candidate." (Jennifer Rubin, "Republican Debates Offer Little Foresight," Townhall, 1/25/08)

Orlando Sentinel's Scott Maxwell: "Overall, Mitt Romney had a good night. He sounded informed, human and comfortable. And he handled several tough questions with ease." (Scott Maxwell, Op-Ed, "Debate Was A Good Night For Everyone But Pimps, Gamblers, Non-Republicans," Orlando Sentinel, 1/25/08)

RedState's Alexham: "There weren't many fireworks between our candidates last night, but one did stand out in a big way: Mitt Romney. He was good. Very good." (Alexham, "Romney Rising: And This Time, It's For Real," RedState, www.redstate.com, Posted 1/24/08)

Alexham: "I think we are finally seeing the real Mitt Romney: The smart, wonkish, well-mannered, technocrat, problem-solving businessman. That's who Mitt Romney is, and he has finally revealed his true persona to the rest of us. And I, for one, appreciate it." (Alexham, "Romney Rising: And This Time, It's For Real," RedState, www.redstate.com, Posted 1/24/08)

Alexham: "Romney is at his best when he is engaged in wonkish problem solving ..." (Alexham, "Romney Rising: And This Time, It's For Real," RedState, www.redstate.com, Posted 1/24/08)

Alexham: "Be who you are Mitt, and you may just become the next president of the United States." (Alexham, "Romney Rising: And This Time, It's For Real," RedState, www.redstate.com, Posted 1/24/08)

Edwards Campaign Unveils New Television And Radio Ads In South Carolina

AS RIVALS CONTINUE TO TEAR EACH OTHER APART, THE “GROWN UP” WING OF THE DEMOCRATIC PARTY RELEASES TWO NEW ADS 
Edwards campaign unveils new television and radio ads in South Carolina one day before voters head to the polls

Columbia, South Carolina – As Senators Clinton and Obama continue to squabble, the John Edwards for President campaign today released two new ads in South Carolina focusing on the issues that really matter to the American people in this election. 

The new 30-second television spot “Grown Up” includes clips from last Monday’s South Carolina debate where Senators Clinton and Obama launch viscous personal attacks against each other. These attacks are contrasted with Edwards’ “grown up” response where he reminds voters that this election is not about us personally – but rather “what we are trying to for this country.” 

In the new radio ad, “What Really Matters,” Edwards says he is “proud to represent the grown up wing of the Democratic Party.”

“While Senator Clinton and Senator Obama seem intent on tearing each other down, I'm intent on building you up,” Edwards says in the 60-second ad. “And, as your President, I'll fight everyday to strengthen the middle class, create good paying jobs, stop unfair trade deals, and make our government work for the American people, not for a bunch of irresponsible corporations.”

Today, on the last day before the primary, Edwards is campaigning across South Carolina to meet with voters and tell them, as president, he will never forget the voices of South Carolina’s working families. Joined by James Lowe, his parents Bobbie and Wallace Edwards, his daughter, Cate, and Rev. James Blassingame of Sumter, South Carolina, Edwards is discussing his bold plans to make sure America’s working families have a voice in Washington. 

Transcripts are included below.

“Grown Up,” (30 seconds – television)

SENATOR OBAMA: While I was working on those streets, you were a corporate lawyer sitting on the board of Wal-Mart.

SENATOR CLINTON: I was fighting against those ideas when you were practicing law and representing your contributor, Rezko, in his slum landlord business in inner-city Chicago.

EDWARDS: This kind of squabbling - how many children is this gonna get health care? How many people are gonna get an education from this? This is not about us personally. It is about what we are trying to do for this country.

I'm John Edwards and I approve this message.

“What Really Matters” (60 seconds – radio)

ANNOUNCER:  The middle class is being squeezed.  An economic crisis looms.  Our nation is at war.  And too many Americans have no health care.

And what do we get from two Washington politicians running for President?

Nasty squabbling and personal attacks.

It's time we had a grown up in the White House who understands us and will actually get something done for the middle class.

EDWARDS: I'm John Edwards and I approved this message because I'm proud to represent the grown up wing of the Democratic Party.

While Senator Clinton and Senator Obama seem intent on tearing each other down, I'm intent on building you up.

This campaign isn't about us personally.  It's about what we're trying to do for this country.

I understand the struggles middle class families face, just like mine did right here in South Carolina.

And, as your President, I'll fight everyday to strengthen the middle class, create good paying jobs, stop unfair trade deals, and make our government work for the American people, not for a bunch of irresponsible corporations.

It's time we had a President who will stand up for the American people.

ANNOUNCER: Paid for by John Edwards for President.

South Florida Sun-Sentinel Endorses John McCain For President

SOUTH FLORIDA SUN-SENTINEL ENDORSES JOHN MCCAIN FOR PRESIDENT

"McCain offers the right mix of experience and ideological autonomy that should strike a chord with restless voters. ... McCain supported the Iraq war, but was an early and vocal critic of the way the war has been mismanaged. He is right, however, to oppose a precipitous withdrawal of U.S. troops, a decision that could leave Iraq with a weak or failed state that could ultimately threaten U.S. security. ... Where McCain is strongest, however, is the moral authority he would restore to the American presidency. [McCain's] 'straight talk,' and straight action would go a long way toward bridging divisions with allies across the globe." -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Excerpts From "McCain The GOP Choice In Florida's Presidential Preference Primary"
Editorial
South Florida Sun-Sentinel
January 27, 2008

The wisdom in moving Florida's presidential primary ahead of next month's Super Tuesday vote has been proven. ...

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel Editorial Board recommends Republican voters choose Arizona Sen. John McCain. McCain offers the right mix of experience and ideological autonomy that should strike a chord with restless voters. ...

Mike Huckabee At The GOP Debate In Boca Raton, Florida

Mike Huckabee Delivers Strong Performance at GOP Debate In Boca Raton, Florida

Boca Raton, FL - Former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee scored major points during tonight's Republican Presidential debate in Boca Raton, Fla., emphasizing his plan to strengthen the U.S. economy, his successful record in Arkansas, and his vision for America's future.

"A few months ago, at the debate in Dearborn, Michigan, we were asked how about the economy, everyone said it's going great," Huckabee said.  "I was the only one who said it may be great if you're at the top, but it's not so good if you're the ones carrying the luggage, serving the food, or driving the cabs."

"People need a president who understands the totality of the impact of the economy, not just how it affects those at the top," Huckabee said.

"I wasn't in Washington the time, and that's the reason they should elect me because I wasn't there messing this all up," Huckabee said.

On the issue of the war, Huckabee said he supported President from the very beginning and "we owe him encouragement, not scorn."

"Now we can look back and say there were not weapons of mass destruction, but that doesn't mean there were not any," Huckabee said.  "It's easy to second guess a president, but I hope,  if we are elected  president, we can stand by our decision and not back down from our decision based on the results of some polls."

When asked about the Fair Tax, Huckabee said "people love it because Americans are currently penalized for productivity in this country."

"The Fair Tax encourages people to work, earn and save," Huckabee said.  "The average American realizes there has to be a better system. The current system is irrevocably broken."

When asked about his faith, Huckabee said it gives him a solid core which guides his everyday decisions.

"For me to run from my faith would be impossible," Huckabee said.  "I don't feel a person has to share my faith to share my love of this country."