2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

MINNESOTA-BASED COMPANIES TO BE REPRESENTED IN GIFT BAGS FOR 2008 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION

MINNESOTA-BASED COMPANIES TO BE REPRESENTED IN GIFT BAGS FOR 2008 REPUBLICAN NATIONAL CONVENTION
Items for 22,000 Bags Provided By 27 Companies including 3M, General Mills, Northwest Airlines, Carlson Companies, Cargill and The Travelers Companies

MINNEAPOLIS SAINT PAUL, MINN. (August 29, 2008) – Several Minnesota-based companies will have a presence in the more than 22,000 gift bags that will be distributed to delegates and media attending the 2008 Republican National Convention. From commemorative Convention Post-It notes by 3M to Nature Valley granola bars by General Mills, visitors will get a taste of the many Fortune 500 businesses that call Minneapolis Saint Paul home.

“We appreciate the generosity and support of our local companies as well as the national organizations that donated items for the gift bags,” said Jeff Larson, CEO of the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee. “We also are proud of the contributions of nearly all of Minnesota’s Fortune 500 companies and we want the world to know these businesses are here and that Minneapolis Saint Paul truly is a great place to live, work, and run a business.”

The delegate gift bags are sponsored by FedEx and the media gift bags are sponsored by Coca Cola/Southern Company. The 22,000 bags were compiled by Baskets By Design, a locally owned fulfillment company.

The following items will be included in the 2008 Republican National Convention gift bags:

Company: Product

3M: Logoed Commemorative Convention Post-It Notes
Aflac: Republican delegate Aflac Duck complete with credential (says “Aflac” when squeezed)
American Wind Energy Association: Collectible Lapel Pin
AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals, LD: Healthy Living Pedometer
AT&T: Commemorative Lapel Pin with Trivia Card plus Free Ringtone Giftcard
Cargill Incorporated: Truvia Zero Calorie Sweetener
Carlson Companies: Free Appetizer at T.G.I. Friday’s
Chesapeake Energy Corp: Wildflower Seed Packet
Eli Lilly and Company: Sport Bottle with Hand Sanitizer and Healthy Living Guide Book
Ford Motor Company: Flashlight Keychain with Compass and Safety Whistle
General Mills, Inc.: Nature Valley Crunchy Granola Bars
Kraft Foods: Elephant-shaped Kraft Macaroni and Cheese
Mall of America: Mall of America 2008 Super Savings Coupon Book
Minneapolis 311: 311 Information Hotline Postcard
MSP 2008 Host Committee: Official Convention Guide and Regional Map
Northwest Airlines: Commemorative Luggage Tag and NW Traveler Magazine
MPower: Festive Megaphone with Gourmet Popcorn
Qwest: Cell Phone Recycling Envelope and Internet Safety Tip Card
Direct Selling Association: Copy of A Family Memoir, Faith of My Fathers by John McCain
West: Pocket guide to the Constitution of the United States
The Travelers Companies, Inc.:  Red Compact Umbrella
UPS: Breath Mints in a Pocket-Size UPS Truck
Verizon Wireless: Postage-paid “Hopeline” Mailing Envelope
Visa Inc./U.S. Bank:  Commemorative Water Bottle
Votimus: VOTIMUS Political Information Flyer
Walgreen Company: Walgreens Brand Hand Sanitizer

CivicFest Opens: Minnesotans to Experience Once-in-a-Lifetime Celebration of History and Democracy

CivicFest Opens: Minnesotans to Experience Once-in-a-Lifetime Celebration of History and Democracy; Free Admission to First 5,000 Attendees

Opening day ceremony includes civic engagement declarations from a local youth and elected officials; State of Minnesota and City of Minneapolis declare Aug. 29 CivicFest Day

MINNEAPOLIS SAINT PAUL, Minn. (Aug. 29, 2008) – CivicFest, a non-partisan celebration of American and Minnesotan history, democracy and the U.S. presidency, today opens its doors to the public after more than 5,000 hours of construction.

Produced by the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee and held in conjunction with the Republican National Convention, CivicFest is a showcase of more than 35 world-class, museum-quality exhibits, taking place at the Minneapolis Convention Center from Aug. 29 through Sept. 4.

“An event of this magnitude will leave a lasting impression on our community for years to come,” said Cynthia Lesher, president of the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee. “We’re proud to offer CivicFest as an opportunity for all citizens to participate in the convention experience and take an active role in civic engagement.” 

Opening day festivities include a public declaration of civic engagement by a local youth and elected officials, proclamations from the state of Minnesota and city of Minneapolis declaring Friday, Aug. 29 CivicFest Day: A Day to Commit and Engage in Civics, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony opening the doors to CivicFest. The first 5,000 attendees are admitted free.

“During the Republican National Convention, we hope delegates, visitors and locals will share in our commitment to civic involvement by experiencing CivicFest,” said Maria Cino, president and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention. “Whether it’s greening their community or volunteering as an electoral judge, we invite all attendees to pledge their civic commitment in the Declaration of Civic Engagement book that will be featured at CivicFest.”

CivicFest embodies the civic history and founding roots of our country and welcomes visitors to experience American political history and to pledge their civic commitment, while taking in dozens of educational and entertaining exhibits. A 60- by 20-foot, one-foot-to-one-inch exact scale replica of the White House, full-scale Oval Office replica, Air Force One fuselage, presidential limos, former first ladies’ inaugural ball gowns and more than 150 authentic American flags will all be on display.

About CivicFest
CivicFest: A Very Minnesota Celebration is a family-friendly, once-in-a-lifetime interactive and multimedia experience, featuring more than 35 educational and entertaining exhibits, historic memorabilia and artifacts celebrating Minnesota and American history, democracy and the U.S. presidency. CivicFest is being produced by Maxene Fernstrom and Gerard McTernan for the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee. For more information, visit www.civicfest.org.

About the Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee
The Minneapolis Saint Paul 2008 Host Committee is the nonprofit, non-partisan entity charged with promoting the commerce, image and prestige of Minneapolis Saint Paul and the entire region in preparation for the 2008 Republican National Convention. The Host Committee is made up of community leaders who are committed to educating people and businesses to come to Minnesota to work, live, play, visit and invest. For more information, visit www.msp2008.com.

Senator Coleman On Senator John McCain’s Selection Of Governor Sarah Palin

A STATEMENT FROM SENATOR COLEMAN
Statement On Senator McCain’s Selection Of Governor Palin As His Running Mate

ST. PAUL – The following is a statement from Senator Coleman regarding Senator John McCain’s selection of Governor Sarah Palin as his running mate.

“John McCain has made a bold and historic choice in selecting Governor Sarah Palin to join him on the Republican ticket as his Vice President.  As a wife, mother, former Mayor and as Alaska’s first female Governor, Sarah Palin brings a wholly American experience to the table in this campaign.  She’s been a strong, independent leader on fiscal responsibility, the environment and energy.  And, as a former Mayor myself, I am thrilled with the idea that she will bring that ‘getting things done’ point of view with her to Washington, D.C.  With this ticket, the message to America is very, very clear.  We must remain rooted to our principles of a strong, prosperous and peaceful nation, and continue to focus on revitalizing our nation economically and defending our national security interests.”

Statement From Senator Obama And Senator Biden On Governor Palin

Statement from Senator Obama and Senator Biden on Governor Palin

“We send our congratulations to Governor Sarah Palin and her family on her designation as the republican nominee for Vice President.  It is yet another encouraging sign that old barriers are falling in our politics.  While we obviously have differences over how best to lead this country forward Governor Palin is an admirable person and will add a compelling new voice to this campaign,” said Senator Barack Obama and Senator Joe Biden.

Republican Party of Minnesota Statement On Gov. Sarah Palin

Gov. Sarah Palin 
Agent Of Change With Proven Results

St. Paul – Republican Party of Minnesota Chair Ron Carey released the following statement regarding Sen. John McCain’s selection of Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate.

“Gov. Sarah Palin is a bold and energetic choice for Sen. John McCain's running mate.  In her time as Alaska's Governor, she has been a solid conservative, true reformer, and a powerful voice for families.  She will be a dynamic addition to the ticket and will speak to Minnesota's hockey moms, outdoor sports enthusiasts, and independents.”

John McCain Selects Alaska Governor Sarah Palin As Vice Presidential Running Mate

JOHN MCCAIN SELECTS ALASKA GOVERNOR SARAH PALIN AS VICE PRESIDENTIAL RUNNING MATE

ARLINGTON, VA -- U.S. Senator John McCain today announced that he has selected Alaska Governor Sarah Palin to be his running mate and to serve as his vice president.

Governor Palin is a tough executive who has demonstrated during her time in office that she is ready to be president. She has brought Republicans and Democrats together within her Administration and has a record of delivering on the change and reform that we need in Washington.

Governor Palin has challenged the influence of the big oil companies while fighting for the development of new energy resources. She leads a state that matters to every one of us -- Alaska has significant energy resources and she has been a leader in the fight to make America energy independent.

In Alaska, Governor Palin challenged a corrupt system and passed a landmark ethics reform bill. She has actually used her veto and cut budgetary spending. She put a stop to the "bridge to nowhere" that would have cost taxpayers $400 million dollars.

As the head of Alaska's National Guard and as the mother of a soldier herself, Governor Palin understands what it takes to lead our nation and she understands the importance of supporting our troops.

Governor Palin has the record of reform and bipartisanship that others can only speak of. Her experience in shaking up the status quo is exactly what is needed in Washington today.

Erik Eskola Interviews Tim Pawlenty On WCCO Radio

Erik Eskola Interviews Tim Pawlenty On WCCO Radio

Erik Eskola just interviewed Tim Pawlenty moments ago on WCCO radio. During the interview, Governor Pawlenty indicated that he would do his radio show from the Minnesota State Fair and would not be in Dayton, OH today.

When asked if that meant he was not John McCain's choice for Vice President, the Governor said, "I'm going to be at the State Fair, I'm not going to be in Dayton, I think you can draw your own conclusions."

2008 Republican National Convention’s New Web Site Goes Live

2008 Republican National Convention’s New Web Site Goes Live
Convention Web Site Features Cutting-Edge Media Portal, Highlights "Country First" Theme

SAINT PAUL, Minn. - Today, the 2008 Republican National Convention officially launched its new Web site for the week of the convention. The site includes several cutting-edge features that will give journalists and other visitors to www.GOPConvention2008.com unprecedented access to convention news and information.

"The convention’s Web site will enable Americans to log on, experience the convention as it happens, and learn about John McCain’s unparalleled record of service and sacrifice. The site will offer unprecedented access to convention proceedings and will help demonstrate why John McCain is best qualified to lead our country," said Maria Cino, President and CEO of the 2008 Republican National Convention.

As a courtesy to members of the press, the new Web site includes a media portal, where daily and hourly schedules, press releases, media advisories, speech text, speaker bios, pictures, video, and RSS feeds will be posted.

The convention Web site will also feature six live streaming video channels that will provide exclusive footage captured from within the Xcel Energy Center, including the backstage area and Radio Row. In addition, the site will feature state pages where people can connect with other Republicans from their state, links to social networking sites, and the Grand Ol’ Blog, the official convention blog.

Today’s launch of the new Web site is part of this week’s on-going efforts to welcome John McCain and more than 45,000 convention attendees to Saint Paul.

Bill Clinton 1996 Convention Speech Anniversary

Address by President Bill Clinton at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois on August 29, 1996

"Mr. Chairman, Mr. Vice President, my fellow Democrats, and my fellow Americans: Thank you for your nomination. I don't know if I can find a fancy way to say this, but I accept. (Applause.)

So many -- so many have contributed to the record we have made for the American people, but one above all -- my partner, my friend, and the best Vice President in our history, Al Gore. (Applause.)

Tonight, I thank the city of Chicago, its great Mayor and its wonderful people for this magnificent convention. (Applause.) I love Chicago for many reasons -- for your powerful spirit, your sports teams, your lively politics, but most of all, for the love and light of my life, Chicago's daughter, Hillary. (Applause.)

My fellow Americans, 68 nights from tonight the American people will face once again a critical moment of decision. We're going to choose the last President of the 20th century and the first President of the 21st century. (Applause.) But the real choice is not that. The real choice is whether we will build a bridge to the future or a bridge to the past; about whether we believe our best days are still out there or our best days are behind us; about whether we want a country of people all working together or one where you're on your own.

Let us commit ourselves this night to rise up and build the bridge we know we ought to build all the way to the 21st century. (Applause.) Let us have faith -- and let us have faith -- faith -- American faith that we are not leaving our greatness behind. We're going to carry it right on with us into that new century -- a century of new challenge and unlimited promise.

Let us, in short, do the work that is before us, so that when our time here is over, we will all watch the sun go down -- as we all must -- and say truly, we have prepared our children for the dawn.

My fellow Americans, after these four good, hard years, I still believe in a place called Hope, a place called America.

Thank you, God bless you, and good night." (Applause.)

Full Speech Text

Bill Clinton 1996 Convention Speech Anniversary

Address by President Bill Clinton at the Democratic National Convention at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois on August 29, 1996

"Mr. Chairman, Mr. Vice President, my fellow Democrats, and my fellow Americans: Thank you for your nomination. I don't know if I can find a fancy way to say this, but I accept.

So many -- so many have contributed to the record we have made for the American people, but one above all -- my partner, my friend, and the best Vice President in our history, Al Gore.

Tonight, I thank the city of Chicago, its great Mayor and its wonderful people for this magnificent convention. I love Chicago for many reasons -- for your powerful spirit, your sports teams, your lively politics, but most of all, for the love and light of my life, Chicago's daughter, Hillary.

My fellow Americans, 68 nights from tonight the American people will face once again a critical moment of decision. We're going to choose the last President of the 20th century and the first President of the 21st century. But the real choice is not that. The real choice is whether we will build a bridge to the future or a bridge to the past; about whether we believe our best days are still out there or our best days are behind us; about whether we want a country of people all working together or one where you're on your own.

My fellow Americans, after these four good, hard years, I still believe in a place called Hope, a place called America.

Thank you, God bless you, and good night."

Full Speech Text