2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Chris Dodd Congratulates Al Gore On Nobel Prize Win

DODD CONGRATULATES AL GORE ON NOBEL PRIZE WIN
Shares Committment to Turning Back Clock on Global Warming

WASHINGTON - Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd today released the following statement congratulating Al Gore on his Nobel Peace Prize.

"I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to my friend and former colleague Al Gore, on being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.  As today's announcement confirms, reversing the effects of global warming is an issue of global justice and security. Al's tireless efforts to increase awareness of the threats of global warming have provided a powerful voice telling the world that we need to act now.

"I share Al's conviction that it will take bold leadership to turn back the clock on global warming.  I am committed to a carbon tax in order to make it more expensive for corporate polluters to produce harmful emissions while simultaneously making historic investments in the research and development of renewable technologies."

Romney For President Launches New Television Ad, "Jihad"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "JIHAD"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President launched its newest television ad, "Jihad."  The ad highlights Governor Romney's belief that we must strengthen our intelligence services and our military to confront "this century's nightmare, Jihadism."  Governor Romney has outlined a strong blueprint for strengthening our capabilities to defeat this threat.

The ad will begin airing as part of the campaign's rotation in Iowa today.  Script and viewing links are below. 

Script For "Jihad" (TV:30):

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY:  "It's this century's nightmare, Jihadism – violent, radical Islamic fundamentalism.

"Their goal is to unite the world under a single Jihadist caliphate.

"To do that, they must collapse freedom-loving nations like us.

"As President, I'll strengthen our intelligence services.

"Increase our military by at least 100,000.

"And monitor the calls Al-Qaeda makes into America.

"And we can and will stop Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

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

John Edwards Statement On Al Gore Receiving The Nobel Peace Prize

EDWARDS STATEMENT ON GORE RECEIVING THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Today, Senator John Edwards released the following statement:

“Congratulations to Al Gore.  The Nobel Peace Prize rewards three decades of Vice President Gore’s prescient and compelling – and often lonely – advocacy for the future of the Earth.  His leadership stands in stunning contrast to the failure of the current administration to pursue policies that would reduce the harm of global warming.

“The Nobel Committee's recognition of Vice President Gore shines a bright light on the most inconvenient truth of all – the selection of George Bush as president has endangered the peace and prosperity of the entire planet.

“Two terms later, Americans are ready for bold change, ready to be patriotic about something other than war and ready to take action to stop global warming before it's too late.  The stakes are sky-high – as Al Gore predicted, our Earth is in the balance.”

Iowa State Representative David Jacoby Endorses Obama

State Representative David Jacoby Endorses Obama

DES MOINES – State Representative David Jacoby of Coralville today announced his support for Barack Obama’s campaign for President citing his experience working across the aisle to bring about real change.  Representative Jacoby is the second legislator to endorse Senator Obama this week. 

“People from all walks of life are drawn to Senator Obama because of his message of hope and unity,” Representative Jacoby said.  “Barack’s ability to build consensus to tackle the tough challenges we face make him the best candidate to bring our country together and make the real progress we so desperately need.” 

“We’re proud to have Dave’s support as we continue to build our grassroots campaign for changing the way we do politics in Washington, D.C.” Senator Obama said.  “With the help of dedicated community leaders like Representative Jacoby, we will reach out to Iowans one by one in the true spirit of the Iowa caucus tradition.”

To date, including Rep. Jacoby, Senator Obama has received a total of 13 endorsements from Iowa state legislators: Rep. Elesha Gayman, Rep. Tyler Olson, Sen. Bob Dvorsky, Sen. Bill Heckroth, Sen. Tom Rielly, Sen. Rich Olive, Rep. Helen Miller, Sen. Steve Warnstadt, Sen. Frank Wood, Rep. Janet Petersen, Rep. Pam Jochum, and Rep. Donovan Olson.  Former Iowa State Party Chair Gordon Fischer, Iowa Attorney General Tom Miller and State Treasurer Mike Fitzgerald have also endorsed Senator Obama’s campaign for change.

Iowa State Rep. McKinley Bailey Endorses Joe Biden

REP. McKINLEY BAILEY ENDORSES JOE BIDEN
Iraq Veteran Cites Biden's "Knowledge and Experience"

Des Moines, IA (October 11, 2007) - Today at the Iowa State Capitol, Sen. Joe Biden received the endorsement of State Representative McKinley Bailey, a returning Iraq war veteran. At 26, he is the youngest serving Democratic member of the Iowa State Legislature.  Bailey appeared along with Iowa House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy and explained why Iowans should support Sen. Biden for the Democratic nomination for President. 

"After returning from serving in Iraq, I quickly grew frustrated by my impression that leaders in both political parties did not understand the fundamental challenges to ending the war in Iraq," said Rep. Bailey.  "When I first learned of Sen. Biden's plan, I realized that was the ticket - a political solution, not a military one.  I am endorsing him because from day one, our next president must make decisions on the direction in Iraq and I am convinced Senator Biden has the knowledge and experience to bring our troops home without leaving a situation that requires another generation of Americans to return in a decade."

Sen. Biden noted, "McKinley is one of Iowa's most promising political leaders and I am proud that he has pledged to support my campaign.  I am in awe of all that he has already accomplished, including his exemplary work on behalf of his fellow veterans."   

"We are excited to have McKinley join the Biden team here in Iowa," said Majority Leader McCarthy. "His work with veterans as well as his own service to our country will prove invaluable to helping Joe Biden win the Iowa caucuses."

Governor Bill Richardson Unveils National Education Policy

Governor Bill Richardson Unveils National Education Policy
Richardson releases $60 billion plan for pre-K to college and beyond, details specific cuts to pay for it

MANCHESTER, NH-- New Mexico Governor and Democratic Presidential candidate Bill Richardson this morning unveiled a comprehensive national education policy at Manchester High School West in Manchester, New Hampshire.

"My Democratic opponents have been cautious in confronting President Bush on this issue," Richardson said. "Just as they trusted him on the Iraq war and the Patriot Act, they trusted him on No Child Left Behind. Now some say fix it; others say tweak it. Senator Clinton says reform it. I have two words for No Child Left Behind: scrap it. The key to a good education is not narrow testing or Washington wisdom. The key is a good teacher in every classroom. When I am President, teachers will have a national average starting salary of $40,000. I also vow to hire 100,000 new math and science teachers."

The $60 billion plan covers the entire American education system, from pre-K to college and beyond.

"As President, I will provide universal access to quality pre-K programs to all four-year-olds," Richardson said. "I also will fund Head Start fully. The benefits of early education are clear and extensive. We put in place a full-day kindergarten program and initiated statewide pre-K for every four-year-old in New Mexico."

Richardson vowed that he would put the arts back in America's schools.

"Arts education is not a silver bullet, but it is a lighted bridge," Richardson said. "Students who engage in the arts are more likely to get involved in community and charitable work. These students also perform better in the classroom. I will substantially increase investment in arts-in-education programs. I will pay for musical instruments and music teachers in underserved communities around the country. The federal government will offer extra matching funds to states that draw up their own comprehensive art programs."

Richardson also put forward a national service program that would help young Americans pay for college.

"As President, I will create a national service program that pays for two years of college in return for one year of service," Richardson said. "We need more college graduates, and we need more men and women who are willing to serve their fellow citizens. The spirit of service that fought the Nazis in the forties and sustained the Peace Corps in the sixties still is alive and well in America today."

Richardson specifically detailed how the plan would be funded and challenged his Democratic opponents to do the same.

"The vision I have outlined is bold and comprehensive," Richardson said. "It also is expensive. Unlike the timid plans of others, mine is a $60 billion investment in our nation's future. To those who ask how we can afford it, let me be specific. I will cut billions of dollars in loan subsidies to private banks and lenders. Furthermore, last week I outlined a detailed plan for defense modernization that saves $57 billion by cutting Pentagon waste and outdated, unnecessary weapons systems, many of which were designed for the Cold War.

"I issue a challenge to each of my opponents: be bold and be specific. Follow my lead and tell America how you will make our education system the greatest in the world."

Hillary Clinton’s Plan to Make College Affordable for America’s Families

Hillary Clinton’s Plan to Make College Affordable for America’s Families

In the 21st Century, a college education is more important than ever. Hillary Clinton believes it's time for a new bargain with the American people – a bargain that gives all Americans willing to work hard the tools they need to get ahead.  Her plan will make college more affordable and accessible so that every American who has earned it and wants to go has the chance to get a college degree. 

By providing a $3,500 tuition tax credit—more than 50% of the cost of tuition at the average public institution—and increasing Pell grants, Hillary’s plan will unlock the doors to higher education for millions of young Americans. In addition, Hillary will simplify the student aid process and strengthen incentives for students interested in public service.

“When it comes to higher education – we shouldn’t be playing catch-up with the world – we should be leading it.  Because the skills and knowledge of our workforce will determine whether America can compete and win in the global economy,” Clinton said.

“I believe that college shouldn’t just be a privilege for the wealthy – but an opportunity for anyone with the talent, determination and ambition to learn.  And I believe that every American should have access to lifelong learning opportunities – from apprenticeships, to community college, to the most select four-year institutions. 

“This tax credit is at the heart of my plan – the key to unlocking the doors of higher education for students across America, many of whom never dreamed they’d be able to attend. And the key to unleashing the power of the American economy as well.”

As President, Hillary will make college more affordable and accessible by:

• Lowering the cost of college through a $3,500 tuition tax credit, enough to cover more than 50% of the cost of tuition at the average public institution for many families.
• Increasing the Pell Grant.
• Strengthening community colleges and training programs.
• Improving college graduation rates.
• Providing additional aid for people who do public service.
• Simplifying student aid.
• Providing clear information about the real cost of college well in advance to help families plan.

Romney For President Launches New Radio Ad, "Stop Spending"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW RADIO AD, "STOP SPENDING"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President launched its newest radio ad, "Stop Spending."  The ad features Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), a leading voice for fiscal discipline, addressing the need for leadership that will change Washington and "end the earmark favor factory."  That leadership can only come from Governor Mitt Romney who has a record of fiscal leadership from outside of Washington. 

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

Script For "Stop Spending" (Radio:60):

SENATOR JIM DEMINT:  "Washington politicians call it earmarking, but Americans just call it wasteful pork barrel spending, and taxpayers are sick of it.

"This is Senator Jim DeMint, leading the fight to stop wasteful government spending.  That's why I need your help to elect a President next year who will force Congress to end the earmark favor factory.  We need a leader who has the courage and the strength to take on entrenched Washington politicians.

"I believe that leader is Mitt Romney.  Mitt is a successful businessman.  He's turned around hundreds of companies by cutting waste and leading with new ideas. 

"He used his business skills as Governor of Massachusetts – issuing over 800 vetoes of wasteful spending and eliminating a $3 billion debt.

"Mitt Romney is the kind of leader America desperately needs.  Please go to MittRomney.com and help change Washington."

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

ANNOUNCER:  "Paid for by Romney for President, MittRomney.com."

Governor Mitt Romney Announces Nevada Romney For President Staff

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES NEVADA ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT STAFF

Boston, MA – Governor Mitt Romney today announced additions to the Nevada Romney for President organization.  These three staff members will join previously announced State Director, Joe Brezny, and Senior Adviser, Ryan Erwin, and a rapidly growing grassroots network of volunteers committed to delivering victory for Governor Romney in the Silver State.  They will build Governor Romney's grassroots organization in Nevada, as well as coordinate volunteer efforts for Governor Romney leading up to the Nevada Caucuses next year. 

"Nevada will play an important role in deciding the next Republican presidential candidate, and I look forward to working with this talented team to bring conservative change to Washington," said Governor Romney.  "With their hard work on Election Day, every voter will know I will bring fiscal responsibility to Washington, strengthen families, and keep our military strong."

John McCain Unveils Health Care Reform Plan

JOHN MCCAIN UNVEILS HEALTH CARE REFORM PLAN

ARLINGTON, VA -- In a speech today in Des Moines, Iowa, John McCain will unveil his vision for reforming America's health care system.  McCain will outline a comprehensive plan to make the American health care system responsive to the needs of families, assuring quality care at lower costs by harnessing market competition.

"I believe Americans want to be part of a system that offers high quality care; that respects their individual dignity and is available at reasonable cost," said John McCain.  "I offer a genuinely conservative vision for health care reform, which preserves the most essential value of American lives -- freedom.  We can build a health care system that is more responsive to our needs and is delivered to more people at lower cost.  We must reform the health care system to make it responsive to the needs of American families."

John McCain: Bold Solutions For American Health Care

John McCain believes health care reform should make the entire system responsive to the needs of American families -- assuring quality care at lower costs by harnessing market competition.

• Put Families In Charge Of Their Health Care Dollars And Give Them More Control Over Their Care While Improving The Quality Of Care And Lowering Costs By Promoting Competition.
• Reform The Tax Code To Eliminate The Bias Toward Employer-Sponsored Health Insurance And Provide All Individuals With A Refundable $2,500 Tax Credit ($5,000 For Families) As Incentive To Buy Health Insurance.  Individuals purchasing innovative -- portable, multi-year -- policies that cost less than the full credit can deposit the remainder in health savings accounts.
• Promote Open Health Care Markets To Encourage Competition And Lower Costs To American Families.  Promote open health care markets by permitting providers to practice nationwide, allowing families to purchase health insurance across state lines and through any willing sponsor, supporting innovative delivery systems, and thus promoting rapid deployment of 21st century information systems.
• Pass Tort Reform To Eliminate Frivolous Lawsuits And Excessive Damage Awards To Lower Health Care Costs.  Provide a safe harbor for doctors that follow clinical guidelines and adhere to patient safety protocols.
• Promote Personal Responsibility And Prevention Of Chronic Conditions To Lower Health Care Costs And Foster A Healthier Population.  We must do more to take care of ourselves to prevent chronic diseases when possible, and more to adhere to treatment after we are diagnosed with an illness.  Childhood obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure are all on the rise.  We must again teach our children about health, nutrition and exercise.
• Foster The Development Of Routes For Safe, Cheaper Generic Versions Of Drugs To Lower The Costs Of Vital Treatments.  Develop safety protocols that permit re-importation to keep competition vigorous.
• Reform The Payment Systems In Medicare To Compensate Providers For Diagnosis, Prevention, And Care Coordination, Improving The Quality Of Care While Lowering Costs.  Medicare should not pay for preventable medical errors or mismanagement.