2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Duncan Hunter Highligts Importance Of Veterans Day

DUNCAN HUNTER HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF VETERANS DAY

San Diego, CA - - - Presidential candidate and current Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Duncan Hunter, today made the following statement regarding Veterans Day.

"Veterans Day provides our nation the opportunity to reflect thankfully on the sacrifices of those who have served the cause of freedom.

"In the last century more than 619,000 Americans in uniform were killed on battlefields around the world protecting our nation and our way of life.

"We cannot thank them all sufficiently. It is beyond human capability to grasp the enormity of what they gave so the rest of us might enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. We can, however, reflect on the unique quality of America 's veterans and their service.

"From Bunker Hill to New Orleans, Gettysburg to San Juan Hill, Belleau Wood to Normandy, Chosin Reservoir to Khe San, Desert Storm to Kabul, Baghdad to Fallujah, American veterans have represented the finest of human qualities. "Greater love hath no man than he who lays down his life for another" is what the Bible tells us. Our veterans have made that sacrifice unflinchingly, with a character that General Douglas MacArthur described as "stainless." They make the sacrifice for their comrades in arms, their "buddies" and the immediate mission at hand. But in a greater sense they have made the sacrifice for millions of Americans whom they do not know and who do not know them.

"And uniquely, American veterans have not brought subjugation to the nations they prevailed in, but rather brought freedom.  From the Philippines to Japan , to Germany , to El Salvador and Panama … America has never coveted another nation, but has only asked that freedom be followed and that the institutions of freedom be established, often with American aid.

"All of us, secure in America 's blessings can honor our veterans today. We can do this by thanking them personally, by involving ourselves in the many organizations that serve veterans and their families and, finally, we can follow their model of selflessness by helping our fellow citizens wherever we see a need."

Ohio Governor Ted Strickland Endorses Clinton

Ohio Governor Ted Strickland Endorses Clinton
The Clinton Campaign today announced the endorsement of Ohio Governor Ted Strickland.

“These serious times call for a leader with Hillary Clinton’s strength and experience,” Gov. Strickland said. “Hillary has what it takes to win Ohio and take back the White House in 2008. Her commitment to rebuilding the middle class and expanding opportunity for all Americans is exactly what this country needs.”

“I am truly honored to have Governor Strickland’s support,” Clinton said. “He has united Ohioans to restore integrity and accountability to state government and move Ohio forward.”

Strickland was elected Governor in 2006 in a landslide victory on the strength of his Turnaround Ohio Plan, which focuses on the unbreakable link between economic growth and educational achievement.

Clinton Vows To Work Toward Energy Independence In New Ad Airing In Iowa, New Hampshire

Clinton Vows To Work Toward Energy Independence In New Ad Airing In Iowa, New Hampshire

After a week spent highlighting Hillary’s plan to address America’s energy and environmental challenges, the Clinton campaign today launched new ads in Iowa and New Hampshire emphasizing Hillary’s commitment to lead our country toward energy independence.

The new 30-second spots, entitled, “Energy Independence,” feature Hillary discussing her plans to end our dependence on foreign oil, create millions of jobs by investing in alternative energy, and end tax subsidies for oil companies.

Hillary unveiled her energy plan in appearances across Iowa and New Hampshire this week, outlining her goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% from 1990 levels to avoid the worst effects of global warming, cut foreign oil imports by two-thirds from 2030 projected levels, and catalyze a thriving clean energy industry.

Hillary would transform our economy from carbon-based to green and energy efficient, jumpstarting research and development by investing $15 billion annually in basic energy research and development, and deployment of clean energy technology.  She would also spur the green building industry by funding the retrofitting and modernization of 20 million low-income homes and taking concrete steps to reduce electricity consumption, including enacting strict appliance efficiency standards and phasing out incandescent light bulbs. 

Read more about Hillary’s plan to power America’s future here.

Following is the script for the Iowa ad:

“Energy Independence”

CLINTON: We could create millions of new jobs if we got serious about dealing with energy efficiency, new forms of energy.  That’s what I will do.

CLINTON: I will create a Strategic Energy Fund that will put $50 billion to work with wind and solar and biofuels.  And help us move away from our dependence on foreign oil.

CLINTON: And where would I get the money?

CLINTON: I would take the tax subsidies away from the oil companies.

CLINTON: Let’s do it together.

ANNCR: If you’re ready for change, she’s ready to lead.

CLINTON:  I’m Hillary Clinton and I approved this message.

Following is the script for the New Hampshire ad:

“Energy Independence”

CLINTON: We’ve got to get serious about ending our dependence on foreign oil.

CLINTON: We could create millions of new jobs through new energy.

CLINTON: Let’s start investing in what I’ve called a Strategic Energy Fund that will put $50 billion dollars to work with wind and solar and bio fuels

CLINTON: And where would I get the money?

CLINTON: I would take away the tax subsidies from the oil companies.

CLINTON: They don’t need your tax dollars any more.

ANNCR:  If you’re ready for change, she’s ready to lead.

CLINTON:  I’m Hillary Clinton and I approved this message.

Iowa Democratic Party Jefferson Jackson Dinner November 15, 2003 Video

First Read On John Kerry's Comeback At The 2003 IDP Jefferson Jackson Dinner

First thoughts: Comeback country

Today, November 09, 2007, 2 hours ago | Domenico Montanaro

From Chuck Todd, Mark Murray, and Domenico Montanaro
*** Four years ago… : As the Atlantic’s Marc Ambinder has smartly noted, John Kerry’s speech at the Iowa Democratic Party’s Jefferson-Jackson dinner -- which took place almost four years ago to this day -- marked the beginning of his comeback. (In fact, Saturday happens to be the four-year anniversary of when he overhauled his campaign team.) In his J-J speech, Kerry said that what Iowans needed was a president (i.e., Kerry), not a message (i.e., Howard Dean). "We need to offer answers, not just anger,” Kerry said. “So Iowa, don't just send them a message next January; send them a president." That speech and another one in New Hampshire were “the two critical message points for us,” says Stephanie Cutter, who served as Kerry’s communications director. Laura Capps, who was the campaign’s Iowa spokeswoman, adds that while Dean had more supporters attend the dinner, the pro-Kerry troops were out in full force. “We definitely felt like we won,” she tells First Read. “J-J solidified it was possible” that Kerry could pull off a win in Iowa, which he did on his way to the Democratic nomination.

Caucus for Priorities Endorses Edwards For President

CAUCUS FOR PRIORITIES ENDORSES EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT
Coveted endorsement – representing 10,000 Iowa caucus goers – adds to Edwards’ growing momentum in Iowa

Des Moines, Iowa – Today, Senator John Edwards accepted the endorsement of Caucus for Priorities, a project of the Priorities Action Fund, a 10,000-member strong grassroots organization dedicated to educating the public about the inequities of our current federal budget.  The organization, launched by Ben & Jerry’s co-founder Ben Cohen, praised Edwards for his plans to root out wasteful Pentagon spending while investing in priorities like universal health care and education.   

The endorsement gives Edwards another important boost heading into the Iowa Democratic Party’s Jefferson Jackson Dinner. 

“Caucus for Priorities proudly endorses John Edwards for president,” said Priorities Action Fund Founder Ben Cohen.  “For months, our members have attended his town hall meetings across Iowa and found him to be a leader who listens – and always gives the straight answers Americans deserve from their president.  As Commander-in-Chief, he’ll do whatever it takes to keep us safe – but he’ll also make sure Americans have health care, strong schools, and the opportunity to get ahead.  He’ll eliminate billions in wasteful Pentagon spending, and put our budget back in line with our values.”

“Caucus for Priorities does such important work bringing awareness to the issue of waste in our military budget and the backward budget priorities in Washington that so often leave the interests of regular families behind,” Edwards said.  “I am honored to accept this endorsement today, and determined to be a voice for all those who believe we can defend our country without continuing to neglect the needs of our citizens. 

Caucus for Priorities has over 10,000 members who have pledged to caucus for a candidate who is committed to cutting wasteful military spending and providing more money for urgent priorities like education, health care, renewable energy research, and other needs.  Additionally, the organization has staff in every part of the state who will help educate caucus goers about Edwards’ leadership on ending military waste and investing in priorities like education and health care.

The endorsement adds to Edwards’ growing grassroots strength across the state.  Today, the Edwards campaign became the first campaign to announce steering committees in all 99 Iowa counties.  The committees are made up of community leaders and party activists who will lead the campaign’s effort in their county.  Last month, Edwards reached a milestone in his campaign: having visited and taken questions from Iowans in every county.  Edwards is committed to being a voice for all Iowans, no matter where they live.

Romney For President Launches New Television Ad, "Change Immigration"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "CHANGE IMMIGRATION"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President announced its newest television ad, "Change Immigration."  The ad highlights Governor Romney's plan to reform our immigration system by securing the border, cutting back on funding for cities that ignore federal immigration laws and opposing amnesty.  Governor Romney has a record of enforcing our immigration laws.  He deputized the State Police to enforce federal immigration law, opposed driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, and vetoed in-state tuition for illegal immigrants.

The ad is airing as part of the campaign's rotation in Iowa and New Hampshire.  Script and viewing link are below.

Script For "Change Immigration" (TV:30):

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY:  "We all know Hillary Clinton and the Democrats have it wrong on illegal immigration.

"Our party should not make that mistake.

"As Governor, I authorized the State Police to enforce immigration laws.  I opposed driver's licenses and in-state tuition for illegal aliens. 

"As President, I'll oppose amnesty, cut funding for sanctuary cities and secure our borders.

"Legal immigration is great, but illegal immigration – that's got to stop.

"I'm Mitt Romney and I approved this message."

Obama Campaign Airs New TV Ad, “High and Dry”

Campaign Airs New TV Ad, “High and Dry”, on Keeping Promise to America’s Workers
Obama’s Discusses Plan to Strengthen Retirement Security and Reclaim American Dream

DES MOINES – At a roundtable discussion in Ottumwa, Senator Barack Obama today discussed his plan to reclaim the American Dream by strengthening retirement security, providing incentives to increase personal savings and ensuring retirees receive the benefits earned from a lifetime of hard work.    

“Americans who work hard their entire lives have earned a retirement that is secure and dignified,” Obama said today.  “But Washington is not working to preserve this fundamental part of the American dream. That’s why my agenda for retirement security will lift up savings for working people, and reform bankruptcy laws to protect your pensions.”

Senator Obama’s plan to strengthen retirement security includes steps to ensure private companies properly fund their pension plans.  Obama will also protect employees and retirees in corporate bankruptcy court by ensuring pension benefits and jobs aren’t the easiest thing for companies to shed. Click here for a fact sheet on Senator Obama’s plan to strengthen retirement security: http://iowa.barackobama.com/RetirementSecurityFactSheet

Today’s roundtable took place as the Obama Campaign aired a new television advertisement entitled, “High and Dry.”  The ad features David Hartgrave, a Cedar Rapids resident whose pension was raided when CEO’s decided to pull $19 million from the pension fund leaving Hartgrave with $379 each month.   

“I’m telling the CEOs it hurts America when they cash out, and leave workers high and dry,” Obama says in the television ad.  “It’s an outrage.  You’ve gotta have somebody in the White House who believes it’s an outrage.”

Jefferson Jackson Dinner Slated To Be Largest Gathering In History

Jefferson Jackson Dinner Slated to Be Largest Gathering in History

DES MOINES – The Iowa Democratic Party today announced additional details about the 2007 Jefferson Jackson Dinner on Saturday, November 10th, 2007 at 7:00 pm CST. The Dinner is expected to draw a record crowd of 9,000 attendees.

The Dinner will feature speeches by Senator Joe Biden, Senator Hillary Clinton, Senator Chris Dodd, Senator John Edwards, Senator Barack Obama and Governor Bill Richardson. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi will serve as the Master of Ceremonies.

The Jefferson Jackson Dinner will be held in Vets Auditorium in Des Moines. Additional speakers will include Senator Tom Harkin, Governor Chet Culver, Lieutenant Governor Patty Judge and Congressman Leonard Boswell.

Thompson Announces Tennessee Leadership Team

Thompson Announces Tennessee Leadership Team
Distinguished Tennessee Republicans Working for Thompson Campaign

McLean, VA -Senator Fred Thompson announced his extensive Tennessee political leadership team today.  Senator Howard Baker will serve as the honorary chairman of the Tennessee delegation, joined by 13 honorary co-chairs and 61 honorary state chairs, reflecting the depth of support for Senator Thompson in Tennessee. This leadership team includes two former United States Senate majority leaders, current and former members of Congress, former governors, and every Republican member of the Tennessee state legislature.

"I am grateful for the wide support I'm receiving from my home state of Tennessee," said Senator Fred Thompson. "This group of old friends, former colleagues, and distinguished Tennesseans will provide invaluable support for my bid for the presidency."

Sen. Howard H. Baker, a longtime political mentor of Sen. Thompson, brings a lifetime of distinguished public service as the honorary chairman of the Tennessee leadership team. His long career as a public servant began in 1966, when Baker became the first Republican popularly elected to the U.S. Senate from Tennessee.  In addition to gaining national recognition as vice-chairman of the Senate Watergate Committee in 1973, Baker served two terms as Senate Minority Leader and concluded his Senate career in 1985 after two terms as Majority Leader.

There are 13 honorary co-chairs for the Tennessee leadership, an illustrious list of senators, governors, congressmen, and a lieutenant governor. They are Senators Lamar Alexander, Bob Corker, and Bill Frist; Congressmen Marsha Blackburn, David Davis, Jimmy Duncan, Zach Wamp, Van Hilleary, Bill Jenkins, and Ed Bryant, Governors Don Sundquist and Winfield Dunn, and Lieutenant Governor Ron Ramsey.

Senator Lamar Alexander , a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, the third ranking Republican on the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and member of the Senate Rules Committee.