2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Edwards Campaign Unveils Two New Television Ads In New Hampshire And South Carolina

EDWARDS CAMPAIGN UNVEILS TWO NEW TELEVISION ADS IN NEW HAMPSHIRE AND SOUTH CAROLINA

In new spots, Edwards says that saving the middle class will be an epic battle and America needs a president who is ready to fight

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Today, the John Edwards for President campaign began airing two new 30-second television spots in New Hampshire and South Carolina.

In “Born For,” which is airing in New Hampshire, Edwards tells voters that standing up to powerful interests on behalf of the middle class is the fight he was born for. In “Native Son” Edwards reminds South Carolina voters he was born in their state and his parents and grandparents worked in the mills there to provide him a better life.

Included below are full transcripts of both ads, as well as links to watch or download high resolution versions of the spots.

“Born For” – New Hampshire (30 seconds): 

Full Transcript:         

I’m John Edwards and I approve this message.

For 25 years, corporate greed has gotten its way in Washington

Destroying American jobs and the middle class -

While the establishment did nothing.

Insurance lobbyists killed health care.

Energy giants make billions from insane gas prices.

And more jobs were lost.

As much as we like to think so, good intentions won’t change a thing. 

Corporate greed won’t be stopped without a president who fights for you.

Saving the middle class will be an epic battle,

And that’s a fight I was born for.

“Native Son” – South Carolina (30 seconds):

Full Transcript:         

I was born here in South Carolina.

My parents and grandparents worked in the mills here.

Like yours, they did it to give us a better life.

I was the first in my family to go to college.

And I spent my life fighting for middle class families hurt by powerful interests.

Big corporations control Washington now.

They’re not going to give up without a fight.

Saving the middle class is going to be an epic battle.

It’s a fight I was born for.

I’m John Edwards.

I approve this message and I will never forget where I came from.

Thompson Launches Closing TV Ad in Iowa, "Substance"

Thompson Launches Closing TV Ad in Iowa, "Substance"

McLean, VA -Senator Fred Thompson today launched a new 30-second television ad, titled "Substance," which will begin airing today in Iowa. 

Below is the script for the new ad.

Substance (30 seconds)

Fred Thompson: I'm Fred Thompson and I approve this message.

Announcer:  The Wall Street Journal says Fred Thompson's tax cut plan "leads the GOP field."

A leading economic group calls it a plan "conservatives can rally around."

The conservative National Review says only Thompson has outlined "specific, conservative policies" on immigration. 

Investor's Daily says Thompson's national security plan features a "Reaganesque rebuilding of our military."

And the National Right to Life Committee endorsed him because they know he can win.

Fred Thompson.  The clear conservative choice.

Hillary Clinton To Offer Caucus-Eve Closing Argument

Hillary Clinton to Offer Caucus-Eve Closing Argument
Two-minute Message Will Air Across Iowa On Jan. 2nd

DES MOINES, IA – The Clinton Campaign today announced that Hillary will make her final closing argument to Iowans in a two-minute televised appearance on January 2nd on the eve of the caucuses.  The taped message will air during every 6 p.m. newscast throughout the state. 

Hillary continues her “Big Challenges, Real Solution Tour --Time to Pick A President” today with events in Lawton, Denison, Carroll and Guthrie Center while President Clinton will be in Decorah, New Hampton and Oelwein.

As she travels across the state, Hillary will continue to make the case that in the face of great challenges, she has the experience to make change happen starting on day one.  America faces a war abroad and a troubled economy at home -- critical moments that demand a President who is tested, ready to lead on Day 1 and offers real solutions to the big challenges we face.  And that person is Hillary Clinton.

Iowa State Senator Brian Schoenjahn Endorses Edwards For President

STATE SENATOR BRIAN SCHOENJAHN ENDORSES EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT
Endorsement Adds to Edwards’ Growing Momentum Leading up to the Iowa Caucuses

Independence, Iowa – Today, at an event in Independence, State Senator Brian Schoenjahn (D-Arlington) will officially endorse Senator John Edwards for President. Schoenjahn believes Edwards is the best Democrat to win the caucuses, help Democrats win in November and fight for hard-working middle class families.  He has been impressed by Edwards’ detailed plans to change our country, especially his plans to strengthen our schools by overhauling No Child Left Behind and to help rural first responders.  Schoenjahn’s endorsement adds to Edwards’ growing momentum in Iowa.

“John Edwards is the Democrat we need to win in the White House and help Democratic candidates in November 2008,” said Schoenjahn.  “As a volunteer EMT, I am proud to support his plan to fight for fair funding levels for rural first responders. And as the husband of a dedicated teacher and a member of the Senate Education Committee, I believe he has the best plan to ensure that all children get a great education. I am proud to be a part of John Edwards’ campaign and look forward to working to make him our next president.”

“Brian Schoenjahn is a true Iowa leader and I am proud to have his support,” said Edwards.  “Brian has worked hard to build a better life for the next generation of Iowans through his advocacy for family farmers, small towns and all of Iowa’s children.  I look forward to working with him to build an America where hard-working families can get ahead.”

Schoenjahn joins a growing list of Iowans who are supporting Edwards.  Edwards has recently been endorsed by First Lady Mari Culver and family farm advocate Chris Petersen.  In November, Edwards was endorsed by Congressman Bruce Braley.

Edwards continues to gain strength in Iowa.  He is currently touring Iowa on his “America Rising: Fighting for the Middle Class” bus tour, where he is drawing energetic crowds who are responding to his vision of an America, where the middle class, not powerful interests, can get ahead.

Romney For President Launches New Television Ad, "Future"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "FUTURE"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President launched its newest television ad, "Future."  The ad highlights the choice Republicans will have to make when it comes to strengthening our country.  Senator McCain opposed strengthening our economy through lower taxes.  He has pushed legislation allowing every illegal immigrant to stay in the United States.  Governor Romney took a different course.  He cut taxes and spending in Massachusetts.  He has consistently opposed amnesty for illegal immigrants.  On election day, Republicans will have a choice between two very different records and visions for our future.

The ad will begin airing today as part of the campaign's rotation in New Hampshire.

Script For "Future" (TV:30):

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY: "I'm Mitt Romney and I approved this message."

ANNOUNCER: "John McCain, an honorable man.  But is he the right Republican for the future?

"McCain opposes repeal of the death tax, and voted against the Bush tax cuts twice.

"McCain pushed to let every illegal immigrant stay here permanently.

"Even voted to allow illegals to collect Social Security.

"And Mitt Romney?  Mitt Romney cut taxes and spending as Governor.

"He opposes amnesty for illegals.

"Mitt Romney.  John McCain.  There is a difference."

John McCain 2008 Launches New Television Ad, "Endorsed"

JOHN MCCAIN 2008 LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "ENDORSED"

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced a new television ad to run in New Hampshire. The ad, entitled "Endorsed," highlights John McCain's endorsements by over 20 newspapers all across New Hampshire. Granite State editorial boards spanning the ideological spectrum -- from the New Hampshire Union Leader to the Portsmouth Herald -- recognize that John McCain is the only candidate with the experience, credibility and character to lead as commander in chief from day one.

"Endorsed" will run on New Hampshire and Boston television.

Script for "Endorsed" (:30-TV)

ANNCR 1: After taking a close look,

20 newspapers all across New Hampshire endorse John McCain.

Here's what they're saying:

ANNCR 2: McCain campaigns with decency

ANNCR 1: The right stuff ...

ANNCR 2: To become among our greatest presidents

ANNCR 1: Principled

ANNCR 2: Character

ANNCR 1: Integrity and honor

ANNCR 2: Impeccable national security credentials

ANNCR 1: McCain transcends partisanship

ANNCR 2: Most trustworthy

ANNCR 1: The man to lead America

ANNCR 2: All across New Hampshire newspapers agree

ANNCR 1: The choice is clear. For President: John McCain

JOHN MCCAIN: I'm John McCain and I approve this message

Martin Sheen To Campaign With Bill Richardson In Iowa

Martin Sheen to Campaign with Bill Richardson in Iowa on December 30-31
Sheen Officially Endorses Richardson for President

SANTA FE, NM-- Actor and activist Martin Sheen today officially endorsed New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson for President. He will campaign in Iowa with Richardson on Sunday, December 30 and Monday, December 31, during the final days before the state’s Democratic caucuses.

Well-known for his portrayals of iconic fictional and real-life Presidents on television, Sheen is also a respected and energetic activist for a number of humanitarian causes.

"Bill Richardson has the proven record of success and the real-world experience that this country needs in our next President: he is ready for prime time," Sheen said. "In this, the most important Presidential election of our time, with so much on the line, I believe that Bill Richardson is the only one who can create the change that we so desperately need to restore America's standing in the world and to get our country back on the right path at home."

In addition to the popular television show The West Wing, Sheen has appeared in dozens of feature films and on Broadway. Sheen's record of activism is as extensive and varied as his acting career. He has been active in the peace, civil rights, and environmental movements for decades, and he has campaigned extensively for Democratic candidates for public office.

"Martin Sheen effectively uses his celebrity and acting success to bring attention to important grassroots causes to create positive change," Governor Richardson said. "He has demonstrated on behalf of nuclear disarmament, and he has walked with Cesar Chavez. I am inspired by his activism and am proud that he is supporting my campaign. Martin is used to backing the underdog in the fight, and I am confident that his participation will put the exclamation point on my grassroots campaign and help me finish very strongly in Iowa.

"I am looking forward to Martin showing me around the White House, and I hope that I can serve as many terms in the White House as his characters have."

Sunday, December 30, 2007-- Central Time

WHEN: Sunday, December 30 at 3:30 PM
WHAT: Final Presidential Job Interview with Special Guest Martin Sheen
WHERE: People's Court, 216 Court Avenue, 3rd Floor, Des Moines, IA

WHEN: Sunday, December 30 at 7:00 PM
WHAT: Final Presidential Job Interview with Special Guest Martin Sheen
WHERE: Best Western Starlight Inn, Zodiac Ballroom,1518 3rd Avenue NW, Fort Dodge, IA

Monday, December 31, 2007-- Central Time

WHEN: Monday, December 31 at 8:30 AM
WHAT: Final Presidential Job Interview with Special Guest Martin Sheen
WHERE: Location in Ames, IA TBD

United States Mint Reveals What The Four New 2008 Presidential $1 Coins Will Look Like

United States Mint Reveals What the Four New 2008 Presidential $1 Coins Will Look Like
Launching Pilot Program to Increase Circulation of Presidential $1 Coins

WASHINGTON - Jingling in your pockets in 2008 will be Presidential $1 Coins bearing the images of James Monroe, John Quincy Adams, Andrew Jackson and Martin Van Buren-the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth Presidents of the United States. The United States Mint released photographs of the four coins today.

The United States Mint will be putting a new Presidential $1 Coin into circulation every three months in 2008 beginning with the James Monroe Presidential $1 Coin on February 14. The John Quincy Adams Presidential $1 Coin will follow May 15. Then look for the Andrew Jackson Presidential $1 Coin on August 14 and the Martin Van Buren Presidential $1 Coin on November 13.

"We hope the next four Presidential $1 Coins will not only jingle in pockets but be spent as well," said United States Mint Director Ed Moy. "These coins are convenient. Each Presidential $1 Coin weighs less than four quarters, and they're especially useful for vending machines and mass transit."

The United States Mint is launching a business-to-business pilot program in metropolitan Washington, D.C., to increase the use of Presidential $1 Coins and to stimulate business and bank customer demand nationwide.

This local market initiative will focus on key stakeholders within metropolitan Washington, D.C., whose involvement will be pivotal in identifying and overcoming barriers to circulation. The initiative will emphasize that the Presidential $1 Coin is not just for collectors, but also a convenient alternative for many transactions.

"We will be working with several local retailers and banks in a concentrated area to facilitate the increased circulation of Presidential $1 Coins," said Director Moy. "We want to see more of these coins used in daily transactions and given out as change like other denominations."

In 2007, more than 800 million Presidential $1 Coins were ordered by the Federal Reserve and put into circulation. The first four coins, with the images of George Washington, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, are circulating throughout the economy.

Each Presidential $1 Coin will be shipped to banks and other financial institutions in rolls and small bags, unmixed with other $1 coins. Banks may order and store each Presidential $1 Coin up to two weeks before its introduction so financial institutions will have supplies on hand on the release date. The coins will be available to banks in unmixed rolls and bags for four weeks after their introduction. However, banks may re-order Presidential $1 Coins after the four-week window, in case there are remaining supplies. The special ordering process begins again two weeks prior to the date on which each new Presidential $1 Coin is released. To boost awareness and usage, the United States Mint is offering financial institutions and retail businesses free informational materials about the program at www.usmint.gov/$1coin.

Students, teachers, parents and educational organizations also can download lesson plans and other free educational materials at https://www.usmint.gov/kids/.

John McCain Mason City Iowa Photos

John McCain 2008 Announces Iowans Of Faith Coalition Leadership

John McCain 2008 Announces Iowans of Faith Coalition Leadership

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the leadership of its Iowans of Faith for McCain coalition. The group will continue the campaign's efforts to reach out to Iowa's faith-based community and build on John McCain's grassroots organization in the state.
The Iowans of Faith for McCain coalition brings together people who support pro-life issues, traditional marriage and family values. Its members support John McCain's commitment to pro-life principles, traditional family values and making America a stronger nation. The coalition includes several supporters of former presidential candidate Senator Sam Brownback (R-KS).

"As a pastor and as a former vice president of Iowa Right to Life, I decided to support the candidate most likely to work with Congress to appoint and gain confirmation of strict constructionist judges, ultimately resulting in the reversal of Roe v Wade," said Phil Carroll of Grace Church in Des Moines and Co-Chair of Iowans of Faith for McCain. "That candidate is most assuredly John McCain. This would have been enough for me, but when you add his national security experience, honesty, integrity, and ability to play it straight with the American people, then no other candidate can even come close."

John McCain thanked Pastor Carroll and the coalition, stating, "I am grateful for the support of these community leaders who are committed to traditional families and truly dedicated to service. I look forward to their counsel as we continue to grow our Iowa campaign."

IOWANS OF FAITH FOR MCCAIN COALITION LEADERSHIP

Bob Anderson, Swisher
Julia Anderson, Hubbard
Pat Anderson, Cedar Falls*
Pastor Chuck Austin and Marie Austin, Des Moines
Mary Beltman, Sibley
Mary Bowman, Cedar Rapids*
De Byerly, Mason City
Stacey Cargill, West Des Moines
Pastor Phil Carroll, Des Moines
Sheryl Carter, Sully
Sarah Cutshall, Corwith*
Mark Daggy, Des Moines
John and Kathy Farrand, Cedar Rapids*
Mark Flanders, Muscatine*
Sherrin Gifford, Cedar Rapids*
Lowell and Christina Goemaat, Sioux Center*
Ralph Goemaat, Sioux Center*
Linda Grahm, Garner*
Jay Heine, Urbandale*
Joe and Carol Hill, Rock Rapids
Nola Hirdman, Story City
Former Sen. Julie Hosch, Cascade
Kathy Kasson, Iowa City*
Former Rep. Ralph and Karen Klemme, LeMars
Lee McClure, Clinton
Isaiah McGee, Waukee
Sen. Larry McKibben, Marshall
Dana Phillips, Central City*
Marlys Popma, Colfax
Holly Reilly, Cedar Rapids*
Tim and Emma Rittgers, Des Moines
Tim Rylersdaam, Sioux Center
Nick Schadler, Dubuque*
Maxine Sieleman, Des Moines
Cork Smalley, Des Moines
Fred and Barb Taylor, Waukee
Jerry Tweeten, Forest City
Henry and Alma Veldhuizen, Sully
Ken and Theresa Welch, Slater*
Wendy Wilcox, Cedar Rapids*
Jerry Yancey, Burlington*
Samona Yentes, Clive
Heidi Zalb, Des Moines*

*Former Senator Sam Brownback supporters