2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

New Hillary Clinton Ad in Iowa: “Strong”

New Clinton Ad in Iowa: “Strong”

DES MOINES, IA – Iowans for Hillary announced today the release of a new television ad featuring Hillary’s plan to improve America’s economy and benefit the middle class.

The ad highlights Hillary’s strength, experience and ability to start working towards bringing the change America needs immediately. “A lot of people talk about America’s problems,” Hillary says in the ad. “But the next President has to be ready to solve them on day one.”

Following is the script for the ad:

“Strong”

TV:30

CLINTON:  “You know we have big economic problems ahead.  The price of oil is going way up; the price of our homes is going down.  The middle class is getting slammed.”

ANNOUNCER: If you want a strong economy, we need a strong President.

CLINTON:  “I’ll start by taking away those tax breaks that the administration has lavished on big corporations and give you a break instead.  I’ll create new jobs as we push for alternative energies and I’ll cut the deficit.  A lot of people talk about America’s problems, but the next President has to be ready to solve them on day one.”

“I’m Hillary Clinton and I approved this message.”

Mike Huckabee Receives Personal Endorsement Of Jerry Falwell Jr

Mike Huckabee Receives Personal Endorsement of Liberty University President Jerry Falwell Jr

Lynchburg, VA – Former Arkansas Governor and Presidential Candidate Mike Huckabee announced the personal endorsement of Liberty University President Jerry Falwell, Jr. Falwell is the son of the late Jerry Falwell, founder of Liberty University and Falwell Ministries.

"I knew Jerry's dad for more than 30 years and have admired the long tradition of Liberty University and the legacy for creating 'Champions for Christ'," Huckabee said. "Dr. Falwell's vision of helping students to start with nothing to believe they can change the world is exactly what our campaign is all about."

This endorsement comes one-day after Huckabee announced the formation of his Faith and Family Values Coalition, a team of 30 faith leaders who will join Huckabee in reaching out to Christian and social conservatives across the country. The team will also assist and advise Huckabee on policy issues that affect families and the faith community.

This is a personal endorsement and does not reflect the organizations Jerry Falwell Jr. represents.

Dodd Leadership Team And Organization In Place Across The State Of Iowa

DODD LEADERSHIP TEAM ENERGIZED AND READY TO HEAD INTO IOWA HOMESTRETCH
Leadership and Organization in Place Across the State for Final Caucus Push

DES MOINES – Presidential candidate Chris Dodd’s Iowa campaign is heading into the caucus homestretch with a strong organization and a state and county leadership team experienced and ready for the final caucus push.

“Chris Dodd’s campaign is a perfect example of the kind of organization Iowans have come to appreciate and expect,” said Bob Skow, Co-Chair of Dodd’s Iowa Leadership Team.  “This campaign prides itself on retail campaign events that allow Iowans to ask questions and hold a conversation with the candidate and on its hard-working, strong ground organization across the state.  Chris Dodd is the kind of results-based leader with both the experience and the electability to ensure we have a Democrat in the White House in 2009.”

“To have the support of so many Democrats across this state who have lent their leadership, their knowledge about Iowa and the caucuses, and their political and personal guidance throughout this process is truly humbling,” said Dodd.

“And there are countless other Democrats I’ve met along the way who are looking for political leadership to bring people together, end the bickering and divisive discourse we’ve become accustomed to, and help get this country back on track. I want to thank Iowa Democrats for their encouragement and their support, and I’m looking forward to meeting – and winning the support of – many more before January 3rd.”

The campaign’s state leadership team is listed below.

State Leadership Team

Sen. Jeff Danielson of Waterloo, State Co-Chair – Iowa Senate President Pro Tempore
Fred Hubbell of Des Moines, State Co-Chair – Chair, Iowa Power Fund
Bob Skow of Dallas Center, State Co-Chair – CEO, Independent Insurance Agents of Iowa and Former State Representative
Sen. Tom Hancock of Epworth – Iowa State Senator
Rep. Ray Zirkelbach of Monticello – Iowa State Representative
Sheriff Paul Fitzgerald of Colo – Story County Sheriff
Bob Fulwider of West Liberty – President, Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers of America
Steve Jackson of Cedar Rapids – Founder, The Phoenix Club
Jack Reed of Ottumwa – President, Iowa Professional Fire Fighters Association
Alan Steckman of Mason City – Former Iowa State Representative candidate
Terry Stewart of Dubuque – Chair, Dubuque County Democrats

Campaign Releases New TV Ad Focused on Obama’s Plan to Strengthen Our Schools

Campaign Releases New TV Ad Focused on Obama’s Plan to Strengthen Our Schools

DES MOINES – The Obama Campaign announced that Iowa teacher and Iowa State Education Association (ISEA) President Linda Nelson will join Senator Barack Obama on a conference call to announce her personal endorsement of the Senator’s campaign for president.

Nelson’s endorsement reflects her personal decision and does not indicate the support of the ISEA, which will not endorse a presidential candidate.

Also today, the campaign will begin airing a new 30-second television ad, entitled “Choices I Had,” in which Obama discusses his commitment to strengthening America’s schools.  In the ad, Senator Obama discusses his plan to ensure every child gets the same educational opportunities that allowed him to succeed, and he stresses parents’ responsibility to do their part in helping kids learn.

"Choices I Had" Script

My parents weren't rich. My father left me when I was very young.

The one thing I was able to get was a great education.

We should give every child the same chances that I had.

By investing in early childhood education and recruiting a whole new generation of teachers. But government alone is not going to solve the problem.

Obama's Education Plan:

• Expand early childhood education
• Recruit a new generation of teachers

We need parents to turn off the television and instill in our children a sense of excellence.

We've got to ask more of ourselves if we want the kind of world class education that they need.

Barbra Streisand Endorses Hillary Clinton

Barbra Streisand Endorses Hillary Clinton

Legendary filmmaker, artist, and Democratic activist, Barbra Streisand, today endorsed Hillary Clinton for President. Streisand cited Clinton’s ability to bring about change and the historic nature of her campaign as reasons why she is supporting Hillary’s candidacy.

"Madame President of the United States...it’s an extraordinary thought. We truly are in a momentous time, where a woman’s potential has no limitations," said Streisand. "Hillary Clinton has already proven to a generation of women that there are no limits for success. She is driven by her passion for public service and her belief in the enormous potential of our country. Smart, capable and strong in her convictions, Hillary has transcended the dictates of what is thought to be possible for our time.

"Hillary is a powerful voice for change as we find our country at an important crossroads. Under her leadership, our country will regain its respect within the global community. She will prioritize issues of global climate change, universal health care and rebuilding a strong economy. After 8 long years, the public will once again have faith in their government.

"Another former first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt once wrote, ‘In government, in business, and in the professions there may be a day when women will be looked upon as persons. We are, however, far from that day as yet.’ More than 50 years later 'that day' is now upon us…and Hillary Clinton is ready to shatter through that glass ceiling for all women."

Streisand has been working on behalf of Democratic candidates for over forty years, performing at fundraisers and participating in campaign events. In addition, the Streisand Foundation has raised millions for causes including the environment, women’s equality as well as human and civil rights and liberties.

"I’m honored to have Barbra’s support," said Clinton. "Barbra has used her immense talent to be an advocate for truth, justice, and fairness and I deeply appreciate her confidence in my candidacy as we work together to change the direction of our nation."

Richardson Talks Education In New Iowa Ad, "Bold Plan"

Richardson Talks Education in New Iowa Ad
Richardson continues to make education a central campaign issue in "Bold Plan"

COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson today released a new ad in Iowa on education entitled "Bold Plan." In the ad, the narrator talks about Richardson's vision for the American education system and his experience in dealing with the issue.

Richardson has made education a central part of his Presidential campaign by proposing a $60 billion plan that includes universal pre-kindergarten, 100,000 new math and science teachers, 250 new math and science academies, and a national service program to help pay for college.

"Unlike my colleagues, I am not going to tinker around the edges of No Child Left Behind," Richardson said. "I think that we need to be bolder. I will get rid of it. I also will establish an average national starting salary for teachers of $40,000, and I will invest heavily in math and science so that our kids are competitive in the global marketplace. As Governor of New Mexico, I have not just talked about education; I have done something about it. Americans are ready to act. Now we need real leadership."

Richardson will pay for his education plan by cutting outdated weapons systems and reducing our nuclear weapons arsenal. As Governor, Richardson has implemented an education initiative that has New Mexico ranked second in the country in education reform by the Fordham Foundation.

"Bill Richardson has spent his career using bold leadership to tackle big problems," campaign manager Dave Contarino said. "On the big issues, such as education, energy, jobs, and Iraq, Governor Richardson is offering the strongest solutions and the most detailed plans.

"This ad continues to reinforce our message that Governor Richardson has both the most experience in the race and the most powerful vision for change."

"Bold Plan" was produced by Steve Murphy and Mark Putnam of Murphy Putnam Media. The new ad follows on the heels of increasing momentum for Governor Richardson in the early states of Iowa and New Hampshire. Richardson has registered 12% support in both the recent Iowa CBS/New York Times and New Hampshire CNN/WMUR/UNH polls.

Thompson Launches New TV Ads, "Service" & "Marie"

Thompson Launches New TV Ads, "Service" & "Marie"

McLean, VA -Senator Fred Thompson today launched two new 30-second television ads, titled "Service," and "Marie."

Below are the transcripts of the new advertisements.

Service (30 seconds)

Fred Thompson: 

I'm Fred Thompson and I approved this message.

Announcer:

Called to public service in challenging times.

A young federal prosecutor, tough on crime.

Fred Thompson.

A courageous reformer - fighting corruption in both parties.

Helping to expose the truth during Watergate and sending a crooked Democratic Governor to prison.

Fred Thompson.

A consistent conservative in the U.S. Senate, a 100% pro-life record, voting for three major tax cuts and fighting for conservative judges.

Fred Thompson - True conservative for President.

Marie (30 seconds)

Fred Thompson: 

I'm Fred Thompson and I approved this message.

Marie Ragghianti:

30 years ago, I discovered my state's Governor was selling early release to violent criminals.

When I spoke up, I was threatened and fired.

That's when I turned to Fred Thompson.

I was convinced he had the courage to take on my fight.

And I was right.

The Governor went to prison and I got my life back.

Fred is a man of genuine integrity.

Announcer:

Fred Thompson, President

Iowa State Representative Deborah Berry Endorses Barack Obama

State Representative Deborah Berry Endorses Barack Obama

DES MOINES – The Obama Campaign today announced that State Representative Deb Berry of Waterloo has thrown her support behind Senator Obama’s candidacy for president.  Citing his track record of building consensus to solve tough challenges, Berry has committed to joining Obama’s campaign to change politics in Washington, D.C.

“Barack Obama is the best candidate to bring our country together, inspire hope and unity, and work across the aisle to get things done,” Representative Berry said.  “Barack Obama is the agent for change that we need in this country, and I have confidence and trust in him to fulfill the duty of President of the United States.  America is ready for real leadership, not more of the same Washington, D.C. conventional thinking, and that’s why I’m proud to support Barack Obama’s campaign to unite our divided nation and tackle the tough challenges we face.”

“Representative Berry has been a tireless leader in her community, and she will play a vital role in our campaign’s outreach efforts in Waterloo and across Iowa.”  Senator Obama said.  “Representative Berry’s commitment and dedication are evident through her record of public service, and I’m proud to have her join our grassroots movement for change.”

To date, including Rep. Berry, Senator Obama has received 17 endorsements from Iowa state legislators including Rep. Ako Abdul-Samad, Sen. Bob Dvorsky, Rep. Elesha Gayman, Sen. Bill Heckroth, Rep. David Jacoby, Rep. Pam Jochum, Rep. Helen Miller, Sen. Rich Olive, Rep. Donovan Olson, Rep. Tyler Olson, Rep. Janet Petersen, Rep. Brian Quirk, Sen. Tom Rielly, Rep. Mark Smith, Sen. Steve Warnstadt, and Sen. Frank Wood.  Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and State Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald have also endorsed Senator Obama’s campaign for change.

Obama Unveils Interactive Online Caucus Education Center

Obama Unveils Interactive Online Caucus Education Center

DES MOINES – The Obama for America campaign today unveiled an interactive online Iowa caucus education center to help empower Iowans who want to support Senator Obama’s campaign for real change in Washington. The new tools complement the face-to-face caucus education program that Obama field organizers have been conducting with first time caucusgoers of all ages for months. The caucus education center can be found here: https://Iowa.BarackObama.com/caucus.

“This comprehensive online resource will offer Iowans of all ages the information they need to stand for Barack Obama on Thursday, January 3 and help him bring the kind of change our country can believe in,” said Nick Kimball, Obama’s Iowa New Media Director.

The caucus center has several elements:

A short video, hosted by former Iowa Democratic Party Chairman Gordon Fischer, lays out the basics of the caucus process.

• Animated graphics that explain step-by-step what will happen on caucus night. 
• A caucus location finder. As soon as caucus locations are finalized by the Iowa Democratic Party, caucus-goers will be able to enter their home address to find their caucus location.
• A form to request help with child care or transportation on caucus night.
• An interactive caucus math tool. With this tool, caucus-goers can set up “virtual caucuses” and see firsthand how caucus math affects the final delegate count.

“We’ve been meeting individually with our supporters for several months to make sure they have the knowledge they need to participate in the caucuses,” said Kimball.  “These new resources complement those efforts, and will help us turn the enthusiasm we’ve seen into organization and support for Barack Obama on January 3.”

The campaign also unveiled a new field office mapping function today, which locates each of the campaign’s 35 field offices on a map of Iowa.  The interactive mapping function allows users to navigate the state and learn about the Obama campaign organization in local areas by viewing:

• Pictures of local offices
• Local office contact information
• Pictures and video associated events in the local area

Romney For President Launches New Television Ad, "Take Charge"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "TAKE CHARGE"

The ad highlights Governor Romney's record of enforcing our immigration laws and opposing efforts to increase the benefits for illegal immigration.  As President, Governor Romney will work to secure our border, reform our immigration system and fight sanctuary policies. 

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

Script For "Take Charge" (TV:30):

ANNOUNCER:  "Illegal immigration – we need smart, tough solutions, not just talk.

"What will it take to fix it?  Technology, new ideas, guts, values – Mitt Romney.

"He said no to driver's licenses for illegals; no to in-state tuition; fought for English in the classroom.

"The only candidate with a proven record of fixing the big problems.

"From day one: Mitt Romney will do what he does best – take charge, demand results, no excuses."

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