2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Mitt Romney Announces Texas Statewide Finance Committee

Governor Mitt Romney Announces Texas Statewide Finance Committee

Boston, MA - Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced the Romney for President Texas Statewide Finance Committee. This group will help Governor Romney raise the resources and build the support needed to campaign in Texas.

"I am pleased to have the support of so many respected leaders in Texas," said Governor Romney. "For many years, they have stood as proud examples of civic and community engagement. Together, they will help our campaign as we communicate a vision for meeting the new generation of challenges confronting our nation."

Governor Romney has traveled to Texas on several occasions to meet with top political and business leaders. He was in the state yesterday for fundraising events, and also visited Texas earlier this month.

Edwards Support Strong in South Carolina

Edwards Support Strong in South Carolina
More than 50 Democratic leaders endorse John Edwards for President

Columbia, South Carolina - Today, the John Edwards for President campaign announced that more than 50 Democratic leaders from across South Carolina endorsed Senator John Edwards for President.  Building on Edwards' already strong base of support in his home state, South Carolina leaders from all levels of government joined his campaign, believing that Edwards is the best candidate for President.

"I am honored to have the support of all of these great South Carolina leaders," said Edwards.  "I look forward to campaigning in South Carolina and working with them over the upcoming weeks and months to share my vision of change with South Carolina voters."

State Senate Minority Leader John Land: "Senator Edwards chalked up an overwhelming victory in South Carolina in our last presidential primary and will win South Carolina once again."

State Representative Bill Clyburn: "I am proud to support John Edwards and his wife, Elizabeth.  John Edwards is the one candidate laying out specific proposals to help the people of South Carolina, his home state."

Mayor Bob Coble of Columbia: "It is imperative that South Carolina Democrats nominate a candidate who will bring bold new leadership to address the challenges our country faces."

Bill Richardson Unveils Bold, Innovative National Health Care Plan

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson Unveils Bold, Innovative National Health Care Plan
Richardson Plan Calls for Affordable Health Care For All Americans, No Tax Increase

Presidential Candidate Governor Bill Richardson of New Mexico today announced his health care plan at a forum of presidential candidates sponsored by the Service Employees International Union and the Center for American Progress Action Fund. The Richardson Plan is a realistic, common-sense solution based on new ideas and proven methods.

“American families are struggling under the current system. As a Governor, I deal with these issues every single day and I have the experience it takes to get the job done,” said Governor Richardson. “Imagine everyone having access to the same quality of healthcare as members of Congress and the President. Americans deserve no less.”

Many families’ budgets are stretched so thin that they are forced to rely on credit cards to pay their medical bills. To provide immediate relief, Richardson proposes capping credit card interest rates on necessary medical expenses. “The brother of New Mexico’s own Secretary of Human Services had to charge his medical bills and is now paying 17% interest. As President I will protect Americans from having to pay outrageous interest rates on the medical debt they have on their credit cards,” said Richardson.

Richardson’s health care plan guarantees that all Americans will have choices of high quality, affordable care by giving every American the choice to keep their current coverage or obtain coverage through an existing, well-established program. Under Bill Richardson’s plan:

Working families and small businesses will be able to purchase coverage through the same plan that members of Congress enjoy.
Americans 55 and older will be able to purchase coverage through Medicare.
Richardson will consider a “trade” with the states. Medicare funds care for seniors and persons with disabilities in exchange for states expanding their Medicaid and State Child Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP) to cover children and families.
Veterans will get access to the high-quality care they deserve, when they need it, without bureaucratic hassles. Richardson’s plan will give every veteran returning from active duty a Heroes Health Card that provides them with a choice of providers wherever they live. No one who has served in our military should have to drive 100 miles to the nearest VA facility just to get care.

In addition to making quality healthcare affordable for every American, Richardson’s plan will also keep costs under control for families and businesses:

Everyone who needs coverage will get an advance refundable tax credit based on income.
Richardson will clamp down on banks and credit card companies that charge outrageous interest rates for medical care debt. Lenders need to do their fair share.
Like auto insurance, all Americans will have to have health coverage and employers will pay their fair share of employee health care costs.
Richardson will invest in prevention, streamline administration, and support healthier lifestyle choices.

Richardson states that his plan can be paid for without raising taxes, noting that when some do not have access to affordable care, all Americans end up paying the price. He also pointed out that nearly 31% of healthcare expenditures are for administration instead of direct care.

“I don’t think our first answer as Democrats should always be to raise taxes,” said Richardson. “We can pay for this with a partnership between employers, employees, and government; with the efficiencies we’re creating; and by requiring everyone to have health insurance.”

Richardson also echoed his previous calls to withdraw troops from Iraq, stating that he would bring troops home from Iraq within a year and use some of the funds for health care.

Florida Legislators Pledge Support To McCain

Florida Legislators Pledge Support To McCain
Support Grows In The Sunshine State

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that six influential Florida elected officials will chair the Arizona Senator's Florida legislative leadership team.

Senator McCain's legislative leadership team in Florida will be co-chaired by state Senators Jim King and Durell Peaden, as well as state Representatives Adam Hasner, John Legg, David Simmons, and Bob Allen.

The members will leverage their combined years of experience and understanding of Florida's political landscape to provide strategic guidance and leadership to Senator McCain's campaign.

"In these challenging times, we need someone of Senator McCain's character and proven leadership capabilities to guide our nation," said Senator King. "I am honored to lend him my support and to help others understand why he is the best choice for President at this time in our history."

"John McCain provides real leadership on fiscal issues and he has real credibility on defense issues," said state Senator Durell Peaden. "His lifelong dedication to principled decision making and honorable conduct is what our country and our party need right now."

"Senator McCain is an American hero who understands the volatile nature of the world we live in. He has demonstrated strong leadership time and again to combat the global War on Terror, and stand firm on the safety and security of Israel," said state Representative Adam Hasner.

"The Republican Party has a long tradition of commitment to conservative principles, and when Floridians closely examine John McCain's consistent record, they will find that he is far-and-away the best candidate to continue that tradition," state Representative John Legg said.

"John McCain is a leader who is focused on ushering in a new level of pride and belief in the American way of life," said state Representative David Simmons. "Senator McCain's dedication to the root beliefs of our party and his passion for the future of our nation will make him the next great leader of our time."

"Florida Republicans have an expectation of tested leadership and John McCain's exemplary record of military and elected service, coupled with his proven ability to create reform, will elevate him in our state," said state Representative Bob Allen.

Senator John McCain stated that he was proud of the support he has received from these elected Florida Republicans. "These men are respected leaders in their communities and have real experience wrestling with the important issues of our day," Senator McCain said. "Along with Florida voters, I will turn to these leaders. Their counsel will be very helpful and their support invaluable."

Teresa Beckham Gramm Joins As Economic Advisor To McCain

Teresa Beckham Gramm Joins As Economic Advisor To McCain

ARLINGTON, VA - U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign announced today that Rhodes College Economics Professor Teresa Beckham Gramm has come on board as a senior economic advisor with a focus on international trade.

Gramm spoke to Senator McCain's conservative economic values. "The American work force is ever changing and John McCain is someone who understands this dynamic," said Gramm. "Senator McCain is a fiscal conservative and solution-oriented leader. I am honored to be a part of his team."

Senator John McCain expressed appreciation for Gramm's support and counsel on economic issues. "Teresa is an expert in the field of international economics, and understands that in a global economy, America must continue to play a lead role in education and innovation," said Senator McCain. "I am fortunate to have such a talented mind on my team."

Gov. Tom and Christie Vilsack Throw Support Behind Clinton

Gov. Tom and Christie Vilsack Throw Support Behind Clinton
Highlight the Senator’s Experience, Strength, and Leadership

Des Moines, IA – At the Greenwood Elementary School in Des Moines, former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack and First Lady Christie Vilsack threw their support behind Senator Hillary Clinton today.

“At this critical time, Hillary Clinton has the experience, strength and vision our country needs to get us back on track and moving in the right direction,” said Governor Vilsack.  “There is no candidate who will create a stronger and better America than Hillary Clinton.” 

“Hillary shares our commitment to health care, education and ending the war in Iraq,” added Christie Vilsack.  “She has a sensible and realistic plan of action for America and the know-how to get things done in Washington.”

Governor Vilsack has been named a co-chair of Hillary’s national campaign and Christie Vilsack has been named a co-chair of her Iowa campaign. The Vilsacks will join Hillary as she reaches out to rural Iowans during a tour of the four corners of the Hawkeye state next week.

“I am so deeply honored to have earned the support of one of America’s finest Governors and First Ladies,” said Senator Clinton.  “The Vilsack administration truly lifted Iowa – improving the quality of education in the state, expanding health care to thousands of children and becoming a national leader in the push for energy independence.”

Vilsack served two terms as Iowa governor and was first elected in 1998.  He honored a self-imposed term-limit pledge and did not seek reelection in 2006.  His leadership led to the creation of 30,000 new jobs, expansion of insurance coverage to more than 90,000 Iowa children and made Iowa a leader in renewable energy.
Highlight the Senator’s Experience, Strength, and Leadership

Des Moines, IA – At the Greenwood Elementary School in Des Moines, former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack and First Lady Christie Vilsack threw their support behind Senator Hillary Clinton today.

“At this critical time, Hillary Clinton has the experience, strength and vision our country needs to get us back on track and moving in the right direction,” said Governor Vilsack.  “There is no candidate who will create a stronger and better America than Hillary Clinton.” 

“Hillary shares our commitment to health care, education and ending the war in Iraq,” added Christie Vilsack.  “She has a sensible and realistic plan of action for America and the know-how to get things done in Washington.”

Governor Vilsack has been named a co-chair of Hillary’s national campaign and Christie Vilsack has been named a co-chair of her Iowa campaign. The Vilsacks will join Hillary as she reaches out to rural Iowans during a tour of the four corners of the Hawkeye state next week.

“I am so deeply honored to have earned the support of one of America’s finest Governors and First Ladies,” said Senator Clinton.  “The Vilsack administration truly lifted Iowa – improving the quality of education in the state, expanding health care to thousands of children and becoming a national leader in the push for energy independence.”

Vilsack served two terms as Iowa governor and was first elected in 1998.  He honored a self-imposed term-limit pledge and did not seek reelection in 2006.  His leadership led to the creation of 30,000 new jobs, expansion of insurance coverage to more than 90,000 Iowa children and made Iowa a leader in renewable energy.

Rudy Giuliani Radio Ad To Air On Rush Limbaugh And Sean Hannity Shows

Rudy Giuliani Radio Ad To Air On Rush Limbaugh And Sean Hannity Shows

"Rush" Radio Script

Hi, this is Rudy Giuliani. 
I’m running for President and I approve this message. 
I’d like to invite you to visit my new website, JoinRudy2008.com. 
My campaign is about leadership and optimism. 
We need strong leadership to stay on offense in the War against Terrorists. 
We need supply side policies and reduced government spending to keep the economy growing. 
Please go to JoinRudy2008.com or call 1-800-RUDY408.  That’s 1-800-783-9408.

(Paid for by the Rudy Giuliani Presidential Exploratory Committee Incorporated.)

"Hannity" Radio Script

Hi, this is Rudy Giuliani. 
I’m running for President and I approve this message. 
I would like to invite you to visit my new website, JoinRudy2008.com. 
My campaign is about leadership and optimism. 
We need strong leadership to stay on offense in the War against Terrorists. 
We need supply side policies and reduced government spending - fiscal discipline – to keep the economy growing. 
I need your support in this campaign. 
Please go to JoinRudy2008.com to sign up or volunteer.

(Paid for by the Rudy Giuliani Presidential Exploratory Committee Incorporated.)

"Why Hillary Is My Choice" Tom Vilsack e-Mail

I'm not someone to play coy about my intentions. When I make a decision, I go all in and follow through. Hillary Clinton has the same determination, and it is something I have always admired.

When I first ran for governor of Iowa in 1998, many people didn't give me much of a chance. But not Hillary. She told me she'd do everything she could do to help, and she followed through. She stood by my side, and Iowa is better for it. She helped ignite the spark that changed Iowa from a red state to a blue state.

By standing with Hillary now we'll help show that we are strong enough to win back the White House -- and America will be stronger and better for it...

Christie and I plan on spending the next 10 months helping Hillary win the Iowa caucuses and the other states necessary to win the Democratic nomination -- and after that, the White House in 2008.

I am proud to do it because of all the candidates running, she has the best ideas, the most energy, and the values and vision to lead our country in the right direction after eight long years of George W. Bush.

She's going to put an end to the war in Iraq. She's going to make sure every American has access to affordable health care. She's going to make us energy secure. And I know she'll put children and families first -- she has fought for them for decades...

I just returned from my first real vacation in nine years, and I am ready to get back to work -- because we don't have time to wait.

This country wants real change.

That's why I announced I'm endorsing Hillary today, and that's why Christie and I are going to travel around our state and the country, introducing Hillary to our friends and talking to everyone we meet about why Hillary is the right choice for Iowa and America.

We're going to give this campaign everything we've got...

I'm excited about joining this campaign. Thanks for your support.

Sincerely,
Tom Vilsack

Mitt Romney Announces New Hampshire Staff

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES NEW HAMPSHIRE STAFF

Boston, MA – Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced the staff members of his New Hampshire Leadership Team.  Leading Governor Romney's efforts in the state will be New Hampshire native and Manchester attorney Jim Merrill as State Director. 

Governor Romney also announced that Jamie Burnett will serve as Political Director and Kristy Stuart will be the state's Field Director.

"The team we have assembled in New Hampshire represents years of campaign experience in the Granite State.  I look forward to working with them as we continue sharing our vision for bringing real change to Washington and putting conservative principles back to work," said Governor Romney.

With today's announcement, State Chair Bruce Keough said, "Governor Romney already enjoys considerable support in the Granite State.  Together, we will help ensure that Governor Romney's belief in lower taxes and smaller government continues to resonate with the people of New Hampshire.  This team is strong with years of experience in grassroots campaigning."

Bay Buchanan Aboard Team Tancredo

Bay Buchanan aboard Team Tancredo

(Washington, D.C.) - Congressman Tancredo (R-CO) announced late last week that Bay Buchanan has joined Team Tancredo and will serve as a senior advisor.  Buchanan brings a tremendous amount of experience and instant credibility to a campaign that continues to gain traction each day. 

Bay Buchanan served as Treasurer of the United States under President Reagan and has years of experience on the presidential campaign trail--both with President Reagan and her brother Pat.  Bay is also the Chairman for Team America, the PAC founded by Tancredo which is devoted to securing our borders.

Congressman Tancredo said, “I am absolutely thrilled to have Bay [Buchanan] join my team.  She has been a valuable advisor and close friend for a long time and will be an invaluable asset to my campaign.”

When asked about her new position Bay Buchanan stated, “Congressman Tancredo is the only Republican candidate with a national following.  He is a hero to conservatives across this country and I am honored to have the opportunity to be part of what promises to be an exciting campaign.”

Earlier last week the campaign announced it had exceeded its $1,000,000 fundraising goal.