2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Biden Campaign Announces Early Iowa Organization

Biden Campaign Announces Early Iowa Organization
Veteran Iowa Organizer Will Lead Grassroots Effort

Wilmington, DE - The Biden for President Campaign today announced that Bill Romjue, veteran Iowa organizer, will serve as Iowa State Director and named early members of the campaign’s statewide steering committee including several current and former elected officials, a former director of the State Party and key activists.

Early members of the Iowa Biden for President Steering Committee include: 

Polk County Treasurer Mary Maloney
Scott County Supervisor Roxanna Moritz
Dubuque County Auditor Denise Dolan
Former State Senator Tony Bisignano
Former Iowa Democratic Party E.D. Judy McCoy Davis
Former Democratic Congressional Nominee David O'Brien
Dubuque Party Activist Teri Goodmann
Dubuque Party Activist John Goodmann
Waterloo Party Activist Gary Kroeger
Waterloo Party Activist Steve Schmidt

“I am honored that each and every one of these individuals has joined our effort,” said Biden.  “Together, we will take our message of the need for a change in direction in American foreign policy and a renewed focus on the hopes and needs of our forgotten middle class across the state and country.”

“I am thrilled that Bill has joined our team and will lead our efforts in the ever-important state of Iowa,” said Luis Navarro, Biden’s Campaign Manager.  “He will be an incredible asset as we continue to build our organization in the state.  His experience and knowledge of the caucus process is unparalleled.”

Jennifer Tuttle Added To Chris Dodd Iowa Team

DODD ADDS ANOTHER WINNER TO IOWA TEAM
Manager of Loebsack Upset to Head Up Dodd’s Iowa Political Desk

WASHINGTON – Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd today announced that yet another proven Iowa winner has joined his campaign team. Jennifer Tuttle, campaign manager of Congressman Dave Loebsack’s stunning upset victory in 2006, will head the Iowa desk at Dodd’s campaign headquarters in Washington.

"Jennifer Tuttle helped pull off one of the biggest surprises in the 2006 election when she unseated an entrenched incumbent. Her knowledge of what it takes to win Iowa will be invaluable," said Dodd campaign Iowa State Director Marc Beltrame.

Tuttle adds another Iowa winner to a Dodd staff which already features Beltrame, formerly a senior advisor to Congressman Leonard Boswell, and Iowa press secretary Taylor West, formerly press secretary for Governor Chet Culver’s successful 2006 campaign.  She also joins Julie Andreef Jensen, John Kerry’s 2004 Iowa Political Director, who serves as National Deputy Political Director for Dodd.

Tuttle managed Loebsack’s campaign in Iowa’s Second Congressional District last year, defeating long-time incumbent Jim Leach.  She has also served as a program manager for the Sierra Club in Rhode Island.

"As many political watchers have already noted, Chris Dodd's message of proven leadership is attracting an effective, experienced and energetic team," said Dodd Campaign Political Director Scott Arceneaux. "Adding a proven talent like Jennifer Tuttle continues boosting our efforts in such an important state."

Referring to Dodd’s early staffing efforts in the state, former Iowa democratic Party Chairman Gordon Fischer, said that the hires, “are going to make [Dodd] a serious player.”

Dodd Announces New Hires In Political Department

DODD ANNOUNCES NEW HIRES IN POLITICAL DEPARTMENT

WASHINGTON -- Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd announced that three seasoned campaign veterans have joined his campaign. Jennifer Tuttle, Antwaun Griffin and Mat Pierson will serve in the campaign's political department.

"Chris Dodd's message of proven leadership is attracting an effective, experienced and energetic team," said Dodd Campaign Political Director Scott Arceneaux. "Adding these three seasoned professionals boosts our efforts in three important early primary and caucus states."

"Jennifer Tuttle helped pull off one of the biggest surprises in the 2006 election when she unseated an entrenched incumbent. Her knowledge of what it takes to win Iowa will be invaluable," said Dodd campaign Iowa State Director Marc Beltrame. Tuttle will head the Iowa desk in Washington.

"Antwaun Griffin's experience throughout the country, and particularly in the South, lends another valuable addition to Senator Dodd's already strong campaign team in South Carolina," Arceneaux said. Griffin heads the Dodd campaign's South Carolina desk in Washington.

"Mat Pierson's extensive work in field organizing is going to be essential to Senator Dodd's New Hampshire campaign, and his knowledge of the delegate selection process is a great catch for the campaign," said Dodd campaign Senior Advisor Maura Keefe. Pierson moves from the campaign's operations department to the New Hampshire political desk in Washington.

"Many political watchers have already concluded that Senator Dodd is building a strong team," Arceneaux said. "Adding such experienced talent to the political department is another step in building a winning organization."

Jim Oberstar And 25 Minnesota Leaders Endorse John Edwards

CONGRESSMAN JIM OBERSTAR AND 25 MINNESOTA LEADERS ENDORSE JOHN EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT 

Chapel Hill, North Carolina - The John Edwards for President campaign announced today that U.S. Congressman Jim Oberstar, Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and 25 other Minnesota DFL leaders endorsed John Edwards for President. The Minnesota leaders include three state senators and 10 state representatives. Among those endorsing Edwards for President are State House Majority Leader Tony Sertich, State Senators Thomas Bakk, Steve Murphy and Ann Rest and former Chair of the Metropolitan Council Ted Mondale. 

"Jim always stands up for the people of Minnesota, whether it's fighting to raise the minimum wage, standing up for veterans' rights or working to bring our troops home from Iraq," said Edwards. "I am proud to have his support and the support of these outstanding Minnesota leaders, who continue to fight for progressive causes." 

Congressman Oberstar endorsed Senator Edwards saying: 

"John Edwards is a trustworthy, honorable and dignified man. When he says that he wants to transform America you believe him. His life experiences have prepared him for the job. 

"The next president faces tremendous challenges and John Edwards has a plan to provide relief for the 47 million uninsured Americans by providing them with universal health coverage. He has called for a national goal of eliminating poverty within 30 years, with policies rooted in the core American values of opportunity for everyone and responsibility from everyone. And he has a plan to restore America's moral leadership by cleaning up the mess in Iraq. A John Edwards presidency will transform America for the better." 

Mondale endorsed Edwards saying: 

"John Edwards has struck a nerve with progressive democrats in Minnesota. By providing bold leadership and detailed proposals on the core issues, he is earning the strong support of Minnesota's political leaders." 

The Minnesota DFL leaders endorsing Edwards for President are: 

State Senators
Sen. Thomas Bakk
Sen. Steve Murphy
Sen. Ann Rest 

State Representatives
House Majority Leader Tony Sertich
Rep. Jim Davnie
Rep. Alice Hausman
Rep. Thomas Huntley
Rep. Sheldon Johnson
Rep. John Lesch
Rep. Erin Murphy
Rep. Aaron Peterson
Rep. Marsha Swails
Rep. Ryan Winkler 

Former State Senator
Becky Lourey 

Former State Representative
Andrew Dawkins 

Former Duluth AFL-CIO Presidents
Randy Asunma
Mary Rosenthal
George Sundstrom 

Community Leaders
Ted Mondale, former Chair of the Metropolitan Council
Scott Benson, Minneapolis City Council member
Gail Dorfman, Hennepin County Commissioner
Retired Judge Gerald Heaney
Alan Netland
Laura Nevitt, Governor Howard Dean 2004 Minnesota State Director
Erik Peterson

Brian Calley Joins Supporters Of McCain

Brian Calley Joins Supporters Of McCain
Michigan State Representative Endorses Common Sense Conservatism

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Michigan State Representative Brian Calley will support the Arizona Senator on his road to the White House.

"I am privileged to announce my support for John McCain as he seeks the White House," said Calley. "Senator McCain is a leader with a distinguished conservative record that will resonate with Michiganders."

Senator John McCain spoke to having Brian Calley's support. "I am honored to have his endorsement and look forward to his leadership in Michigan," said Senator McCain.

McCain Announces Georgia Advisory Committee

McCain Announces Georgia Advisory Committee
Peach State Leaders Back Common Sense Conservatism

ARLINGTON, VA U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that seven influential Georgia Republicans will advise the Arizona Senator's campaign in the Peach State.

Senator McCain's advisory committee in Georgia will be led by state Senator Jeff Mullis, Chairman Alec Poitevint, Derrick Dickey, Leigh Ann Wood Gillis, Clint Murphy, John Sours, and Jay Walker.

The members will use their combined years of experience and understanding of Georgias political landscape to provide leadership to Senator McCain's campaign.

"Georgians that are concerned about principled leadership in the Oval Office should back John McCain," said state Senator Jeff Mullis. "His time in office is a case study in accomplishing meaningful reform without buckling to special interests or Washington D.C. insiders."

"This is a pivotal election for the future of our country and supporting John McCain's brand of leadership couldn't be more important," said Poitevint. "Whether it's because of the tireless assault on the security of our country or Americas traditional values, we need John McCain's credibility on security and proven conservative credentials."

"John McCain's straight talk with voters and his strong record on conservative issues make him the right type of leader to represent the citizens of Georgia," said Dickey.

"The political culture in this state favors a candidate with a strong, conservative record like John McCain," said Gillis. "There is an expectation of consistency and effectiveness from elected officials in this state, and that will help Senator McCain's campaign efforts immensely."

"John McCain is a public figure Americans will be proud to elect in 2008 and I believe that will be the defining difference," said Murphy. "Our country needs a renewed vision of optimism and John McCain's passion for the direction of this country makes him a special candidate."

"John McCain's commitment to the important principles that make this country a force for freedom is beyond question," said Sours. "Senator McCain is incredibly well respected among Georgians for his military service and tireless efforts to improve our way of life."

"Our country needs a leader that is passionate about reform, and Senator McCain is the effective and tested conservative in this race," said Walker. "His record on the issues that matter contributes a great deal to his appeal in Georgia."

Senator John McCain stated that he was proud of the support he has received from Georgia Republicans. "These are respected leaders that have strong ties in Georgia and Im proud to have their support," said Senator McCain. "I look forward to their counsel and combined efforts toward renewed leadership for our country and party."

Mitt Romney Names Glenda Hood To Florida Committee

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY NAMES FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE GLENDA HOOD TO THE FLORIDA STATEWIDE STEERING COMMITTEE

Boston, MA - Governor Mitt Romney today announced the endorsement of former Secretary of State and former Mayor of Orlando Glenda Hood.  She will serve as Co-Chair of his Florida Statewide Steering Committee and Chair of the Florida Municipal Elected Officials and Community Leaders Committee.

"I am very pleased to have Glenda join our strong and growing team in the Sunshine State," said Governor Romney.  "Glenda's wealth of experience as an accomplished leader at the local, state and federal levels will be a tremendous asset in Florida as we work to bring real change to Washington.  I look forward to continuing to vigorously campaign in Florida and investing the time and resources necessary to secure victory here."

Hood joins a respected team of leaders on the Florida Steering Committee, led by former Lt. Governor Toni Jennings, former Speakers of the House Allan Bense and John Thrasher, former Chairman of the Republican Party of Florida Al Cardenas and U.S. Congressman Tom Feeney.

"I am proud to support Governor Romney and will work hard to spread his fresh and optimistic vision for America to Floridians across the state," said Glenda Hood.  "He is the true conservative in this race, committed to strengthening our families, our military, our economy and our individual liberties.  Our country is at a crossroads right now, and Governor Romney's agenda of innovation and transformation is the right direction for America."

Mitt Romney Announces Ohio Committe Chairs

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES OHIO FINANCE STEERING COMMITTEE CHAIRS

Boston, MA – Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced the Romney for President Ohio Finance Steering Committee led by S. Craig Lindner and Nancy Heffner Donovan.  The Ohio Finance Steering Committee will help Governor Romney raise the resources needed to campaign in Ohio and across the nation.

"I am proud to have the support of this respected group of Ohio leaders who through hard work and dedication to their community stand out as sterling examples of Republican values," said Governor Romney.  "Their backing will be of enormous help to me as I campaign to share my vision of how we will overcome the next generation of challenges facing our nation."

Governor Romney has made several trips to Ohio to meet with top business and political leaders and visited the state earlier this month.

With today's announcement, Craig Lindner said, "My family and I have gotten to know Governor Romney well.  He is a proven leader – a man with extraordinary character and integrity and all the values and abilities which we feel will make him a great President.  My father, Nancy and I are proud to support Mitt Romney for President."

Clinton Endorsed By National Organization for Women

Clinton Endorsed by National Organization for Women During Day of Women’s Outreach

Billie Jean King also endorses Clinton; campaign mobilizes women supporters through web chat and Ferraro fundraising appeal

Hillary Clinton was endorsed by the National Organization for Women’s political arm and sports legend Billie Jean King during a day of women’s outreach that included a live web chat for supporters with the women running Hillary’s campaign.

“At this time in our history, this country needs a strong, experienced and principled leadership to restore faith in our government and repair its credibility at home and abroad,” said Kim Gandy, chair of NOW PAC. “Senator Clinton has a long history of support for women's empowerment, and her public record is testimony to her leadership on issues important to women in the U.S. and around the globe.”

As part of its endorsement, NOW PAC will launch a “Make History with Hillary” campaign to raise money and mobilize its membership to support Hillary’s historic candidacy. The largest feminist advocacy group in the country, NOW has more than 500,000 members in all 50 states and has been a leading advocate for women’s rights for more than 40 years.

Tennis great and social activist Billie Jean King also endorsed Hillary today, calling her “A winner who has the vision, the drive and the knowledge to lead this country.” 

“It’s an honor to be supported by these accomplished women,” Clinton said. “No one has been more committed to equal rights and ending discrimination in our society.”

To cap off the day of outreach to women voters, the campaign sent an email from former Vice Presidential candidate Geraldine Ferraro urging supporters to help Hillary finish the first fundraising quarter strong, while the women running Hillary’s campaign fielded questions during a live web chat.

Campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle, Director of Policy Neera Tanden, Senior Adviser Ann Lewis and Senior Policy Adviser Leecia Eve said the women’s vote in the 2008 election would be crucial and explained how supporters could get involved in the campaign. Women are expected to be the X-factor in this election, making up 54% of all voters.

Jacksonville Leaders Endorse Mitt Romney

JACKSONVILLE LEADERS ENDORSE GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY 

Boston, MA – Governor Mitt Romney today announced that three Jacksonville leaders have endorsed his candidacy for President of the United States, including State Representative Dick Kravitz and Jacksonville City Councilmen Lake Ray and Art Shad. All three will serve on Governor Romney's Duval County Steering Committee. 

"I'm honored by the tremendous support our organization continues to receive in Florida," said Governor Romney. "Representative Kravitz and Councilmen Ray and Shad are all accomplished and respected leaders in Jacksonville. I appreciate their counsel and their commitment to finding innovative solutions to the new generation of challenges America faces." 

These Jacksonville leaders join two other fellow prominent Northeast Floridians, former Speaker of the House John Thrasher and State Representative Jennifer Carroll, on the Romney team. Both are members of Governor Romney's Florida Steering Committee. 

"I respect Governor Romney's unwavering, strong and principled conservative values, values that are appealing to Floridians across the state who believe we must hold the line on federal spending, keep taxes low, strengthen our military and protect traditional family values," said Representative Jennifer Carroll. "I am proud to join fellow Jacksonville leaders in supporting Governor Romney's candidacy and the strong, new leadership he will bring to Washington."