Tracking the candidates in the 2008 election.
Created by spreadneck on Jun 15, 2008
Last updated: 03/11/10 at 06:15 PM
Today the Wall Street Journal delved into Obama's claim that he will cut taxes for '95%' of America. They said:
"It's a clever pitch, because it lets him pose as a middle-class tax cutter while disguising that he's also proposing one of the largest tax increases ever on the other 5%. But how does he conjure this miracle, especially since more than a third of all Americans already pay no income taxes at all? There are several sleights of hand, but the most creative is to redefine the meaning of 'tax cut.'"
Click here to read the full article.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=1cd99509-f817-4708-946f-2b4dc7f43505
The following post comes to us courtesy of our South Carolina Communications Director, BJ Boling, who attended one of the McCain debate watching parties. After having been in Columbia for the announcement tour last week and enjoying my fair share of South Carolina BBQ, I'm sorry I missed out on this one:
Read More...
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ca589caa-193f-49ed-b825-b3a011b8005e
John McCain said the following today at a press conference on the new agreement in the Senate on immigration reform and border security:The American people expect us to work in a bipartisan fashion to resolve compelling issues that affect our nation.
This is the first step, an important step, in moving forward with comprehensive overall immigration reform. Not only will this legislation finally accomplish the extraordinary goal of securing our borders, but it will also enhance interior enforcement and will put employers on notice that the practice of hiring illegal workers will no longer be tolerated. Before we can look at any program to deal with the undocumented workers currently in the U.S., or future workers wishing to enter, we must meet certain enforcement and security triggers that will let everyone know that we are serious about enforcing our laws and we’re not going to repeat the 1986 amnesty.
Senator Isakson, long ago, had a proposal that we had to take certain steps in order to make sure the American people know that our border enforcement is as complete as much as possible before we move forward with other issues...This is the first step. We can and must complete this legislation sooner rather than later. We all know that this issue can be caught up in extracurricular politics unless we move forward as quickly as possible.
This is a product of a long, hard trail of negotiation and I'm sure that there are certain provisions that each of us would not agree with. This is what the legislative process is all about; this is what bipartisanship is about, when there’s a requirement for this nation and its security that transcends party lines. I'm proud to have been a small part of it.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=3ee70fd6-928b-43e8-8b0a-8834fc428be0
John McCain has released a new video: Courageous Service
This video tells the story of John McCain's life of courage and dedication to our country. It features interviews with John McCain, stories of bravery from his fellow prisoners of war and much more.
Please watch the new video by clicking here and add your thoughts and comments to the discussion.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=b967718f-4595-4b12-89f2-0e4cdfb690cc
Today, John McCain will deliver a major address on foreign policy in the post-September 11 world at the Hoover Institute in California. In this speech, Senator McCain will call for a reorganization of America's foreign policy, defense and intelligence agencies to face the overwhelming challenge of the 21st century, the global war against terrorists:
Now it is our generation's turn to build. It is our generation's turn to restore and replenish the faith in our nation and our principles. We have suffered terrible attacks at the hands of a new enemy that relentlessly seeks our destruction. New dangers have arisen, great powers are emerging and seek to shift the international balance of power, and we are in the midst of two wars whose outcome will shape our future. Here at home there is discord and doubt, and our famous optimism as a people has begun to flicker. It must not. Ever since Jamestown, we have displayed courage in the face of adversity. We are a hardy, spirited and steadfast people, a nation of pioneers and inveterate problem solvers. Today, America remains the most attractive of nations, where people the world over wish to visit, study, live, start businesses, invest and look for inspiration in our values and our freedoms. That is why I believe we are about to enter our greatest and proudest years as a nation.
As we watch the growing influence of dictators and despots around the world (just today Hugo Chavez withdrew Venezuela from the IMF and World Bank), Senator McCain also recognizes that our nation, and our world, is once again entwined in a great struggle between freedom and despotism. It is not a challenge from which America can back away; throughout our history we have fought this fight for the security of our nation and the betterment of the entire world.
When he is elected President, John McCain will call a global summit of the world's democracies to face this new, but ongoing struggle - to promote our values of freedom, democracy, and economic opportunity - to act where the United Nations has failed to act:
Today we need to revive that vital democratic solidarity. We need to renew the terms of our partnership and strike a new grand bargain for the future…We should go further and start bringing democratic peoples and nations from around the world into one common organization, a worldwide League of Democracies. This would not be like the universal-membership – and failed - "League of Nations" of Woodrow Wilson but much more like what Theodore Roosevelt envisioned: like-minded nations working together in the cause of peace. The new League of Democracies would form the core of an international order of peace based on freedom. It could act where the UN fails to act, to relieve human suffering in places like Darfur. It could join to fight the AIDS epidemic in sub-Saharan Africa and fashion better policies to confront the crisis of our environment. It could provide unimpeded market access to those who share the values of economic and political freedom, an advantage no state-based system could attain.
UPDATE: Read the entire speech here.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=e9d37f07-8d57-476f-acaa-0be988d86405
Over at Real Clear Politics, Ralph Peter’s writes today about "John McCain's Integrity Problem...he has too much of it." Peters continues that America needs three things in our next president and commander-in-chief; three qualities which John McCain would embody as President: 1) "Strong, conscientious leadership"; 2) Honesty to tell you where they really stand; 3) "The ability to unify our nation after the election." These are just three of the many valuable qualities John McCain would embody as president that are highlighted in Peters' article.
John McCain has dedicated his life to serving our country, and it will truly be a shame if we can't recognize the value he would bring to the presidency. Voters must realize the difference between a "parrot" candidate ("someone who merely tries to please the audience at the moment") and a president. Right now John McCain is the only candidate who can be a president for he will not base his campaign around the talking points provided to him by his staffers:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ea4c8f78-8689-4e8c-a963-6d2829c4142f
More good polling news for John McCain in the first three caucus/primary states.
From the American Research Group:
Iowa: McCain 25%, Giuliani 23%, Romney 16%
New Hampshire: McCain 30%, Romney 23%, Giuliani 21%
South Carolina: McCain 32%, Giuliani 23%, Thompson 13%, Romney 10%
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=da1fb621-19fc-4f7a-9a21-a15c9def9ec3
The Hill newspaper today reported that Hillary Clinton has requested 26 earmarks worth about $148.4 million in the defense authorization bill that was recently marked up by the Senate Armed Services Committee. That is more earmarks than any other single member except the Chairman, Senator Carl Levin.
John McCain, the most senior Republican on the Armed Services Committee, and true to his record as one of Congress' foremost opponents of pork, requested no earmarks.
As he’s said often on the campaign trail, as President of the United States, McCain will veto every pork-laden bill that crosses his desk and make the authors of those wasteful projects famous. He started this afternoon at a press conference in California.
We should remember that this presidential election has major consequences…
To read more about Hillary Clinton, the "President of Pork," and her requested earmarks, click here to read The Hill.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=987b4986-d2f3-45c7-a6b2-11aadd5bd8e1
Great new polling numbers today out of the early primary states of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina! According to the American Research Group, John McCain is leading in all three states.
In Iowa, John McCain is leading the race for the Republican nomination with 26% of the support from likely caucus goers. Rudy Giuliani is second with 19%, followed by Mitt Romney at 14% and Fred Thompson at 13%.
In New Hampshire, 29% of likely Republican primary voters pick John McCain, followed by Romney with 24% and Giuliani with 17%.
In South Carolina, McCain again leads the field with 36% of the support of likely primary voters. Giuliani is in second place with 23% while Fred Thompson places third with 10%.
Early polls are just that, early polls; we all know the only poll that matters is the one on Election Day. But, these are encouraging numbers. John McCain is the most qualified person running for President and the only candidate ready to lead from day one. He is not only well positioned to win the nomination, but his recent steadfast opposition against surrender in Iraq, demands for fiscal restraint and energy independence, and announcement tour are resonating with voters in the key early primary states.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=3069c78e-2fa7-4e50-b120-07cc41ee3fab
It opened at 5:05 pm with Boy Scout Troop 225 from Sioux City – led
by Jeremy Malenosky -- presenting the colors of the United States of
America. The room was standing room only, with people stuck along
the walls, pushed up against the press risers, peering in from the
doorway, and all the chairs filled. Young and old alike came here to
see John McCain. Experienced Iowa northwest campaign hands put the
size of the crowd at over 325 people.
Marlys Popma, a prominent social conservative in the state of Iowa, told
the crowd, "I hope you will join me in supporting a great man, a great
candidate and an American Hero – John McCain." After she finished,
the 2008 Iowa Campaign Chairman for John McCain, Dave Roederer, spoke
to the group. He talked about the dangers the United States is
facing and that he made his decision to serve Senator McCain based on
the fact "that the one person in either party who is best positioned
to protect our children and grandchildren during these times is John
McCain."
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=86063d8a-09db-499b-9cae-3b5414a931df
The following report is from Tempe, Arizona, where John McCain finished the final stop of his announcement tour yesterday evening. This report comes to us courtesy of Max Fose, a long time McCain staffer and friend with whom I had the pleasure of working in the 2000 campaign. Max was McCain 2000's eCampaign Director, at a time when there really wasn't such a thing as an eCampaign. Working together with Becki Donatelli, Max helped the campaign raise over $6.7 million online in the 2000 primaries, revolutionizing online politics at the time. Max and Becki remain today important advisors to our online efforts; it is great to all be working again together on behalf of John McCain.
The following is Max's report from Tempe City Hall...
April 28, 2007
Hundreds of supporters welcomed John and Cindy home today to Arizona at the last stop on his announcement tour. It was a hot – 101 degrees – in downtown Tempe but it didn't stop the enthusiastic support Arizona has for John McCain.
It was a great event that brought out long-time supporters such as Dewey Sutton. Dewey served in the armed forces and continues to serve today as a member of the Arizona National Guard. He has also been a great volunteer here in Arizona and has put up signs and walked neighborhoods on many of John McCain's campaigns. Senator McCain made a point to thank the members of our armed services, like Dewey Sutton, for their service to our country.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=d8ed5cfc-7e13-4d99-9ea7-1f7dadfc4409
The second half of John McCain's interview on the O'Reilly Factor aired last night on Fox News. Some excerpts:If it was not for the issue that we were just discussing, that 9/11 changed this country and the world and our challenge, I would not be running. I believe my whole life, my inspiration, my heroes, and my experience have qualified me to serve. I'm not the youngest candidate, but I'm the best prepared. I am committed to seeing this nation through one of the most difficult periods of our history, and like Ronald Reagan, I approach it with optimism, with hope and belief in the American people, in the future of this nation, and that our best days are ahead of us. (Fox News, "The O'Reilly Factor," 5/31/07)
I think that most Americans appreciate the fact that this is a titanic struggle between everything we stand for and believe in and radical Islamic extremism. We have to win. We can win. We will win. We will never surrender. They will. (Fox News, "The O'Reilly Factor," 5/31/07)
I will say that this strategy has only been going on for about four or five months. Neighborhoods in Baghdad, I emphasize, are safer, not safe, and there have been improvements. (Fox News, "The O'Reilly Factor," 5/31/07) Please watch the interview below:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=a9c5264c-e4ff-4d4e-bf37-0a9262fd7f14
While Christian and Mark were traveling in South Carolina with Senator McCain and the crew, the eCampaign's version of the "Olson Twins" (Ben Olson and I) and Justin Germany left Manchester, New Hampshire yesterday morning.
At 4:00 am (we are pretty sure Christian and Mark were still in bed but who knows), we were off for Boston to catch a 7:00 am flight to Chicago and then on to Des Moines. Instead of sleeping while Ben drove the sixty odd miles to Logan Airport, Justin and I kept Ben awake talking all about the exciting events of the previous day in New Hampshire. In particular, we were all excited after staying up, despite the early departure, to watch Senator McCain and his wife Cindy on Larry King Live. Although we might be bias, the consensus was that they were outstanding.
Arrival in Des Moines was in keeping with the weather from the previous day; we were met with a chill in the air and rain on the ground. Fortunately, today is another day and since the events in Iowa are inside, weather is less of an issue.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=3b3f31a0-a12e-44cd-8de5-64b92bd518e4
This afternoon, John McCain criticized the many earmarks Senators have started sneaking into authorization and appropriations bills, including the nearly $150 million in earmarks Hillary Clinton has added to the Defense Authorization bill. He pledged to fight those earmarks on the floor of the Senate saying, "We can't do this earmarking and pork-barreling if we ever are going to be careful and serious stewards of the taxpayer's dollars."
Following McCain's comments, the Associated Press reports, "A Clinton campaign spokesman (Luis Vizcaino) says the New York senator has worked hard to advance measures that protect US troops abroad and assist their families at home."
Is that how the Clinton Campaign spins voting against the funding for our troops actively engaged in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan but then trying to sneak in nearly $150 million in unwanted projects to help the big defense contractors in her home state?! Are these the priorities we should expect from the next Clinton Presidency?
There is one candidate in the race with a record of fighting pork and only one candidate we can trust to follow through on his promise to veto every pork-laden bill that crosses his desk when he is president…that is John McCain.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=e842fd81-74ed-4d79-9ef6-ebd4aef50637
Manchester to Columbia could not have been a greater contrast. In Manchester yesterday, it was cold and rainy. At the Adluh Flour Mill in Columbia, the sun was shining bright outside and it was hot in the jam-packed room for the rally. The rally signs not only looked great in crowded room, they also made for good fans to cool off the participants.Attorney General Henry McMaster warmed up the crowd with a "What does America need??? John McCain!!" chant before introducing the Speaker of the House Bobby Harrell who introduced Senator Lindsey Graham. Senator Graham said as he introduced his good friend and colleague John McCain, "No one can ever claim that Washington has changed John McCain," and with that John and Cindy McCain took the stage as "Barbara Ann" played from the loudspeakers.
Senator McCain was in a humorous mood to begin the rally, cracking jokes about a Governor in prison and the O'Reilly brothers at a bar in New York. He then touched on many of the same subjects we've heard over the course of the tour, adding this time that Justice Alito and Chief Justice Roberts are two of the finest members our Supreme Court and noted his pride in the role he and Senator Graham played in helping them reach the Court.He made a point to thank the young military school cadets in the audience and all of the veterans in attendance before telling the story about Mark Robbins, a soldier he met at a military hospital in Germany who had been wounded in Iraq. Mark Robbins, laying in his hospital bed, took Senator McCain's hand and thanked him for standing by the troops. He told the Senator that we could win in Iraq, a case John McCain has been also making to the American people. Closing his remarks, Senator McCain told the crowd that Mark Robbins is right and that he'd take his word for it any day over Harry Reid's.
So ends my journey on the John McCain announcement tour. As the tour is headed off to Charleston and then to Iowa, I'm heading back home to Virginia. I'm looking forward to continued reports from the road by fellow eCampaign staffers Mark SooHoo, Trygve Olson and Ben Olson, no relation. I'm sure we'll all enjoy SooHoo, Olson and Olson's reports!!
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=9c46174b-4d3d-4b0d-8c9c-539e952e7d08
As no one would want to read the musings of an eCampaign Director like myself on the topic of economics, we are fortunate to have the following briefing on "McCainonomics 101," courtesy of Dr. Doug Holtz-Eakin, the Director of Economic Policy for John McCain 2008. Doug has previously served as the Director of the Congressional Budget Office and as the Chief Economist for the President Bush's Council of Economic Advisers.
"McCainonomics" 101
By Dr. Doug Holtz-Eakin
Economics – don't stop reading! – has a terrible public relations problem. Economists are described as accountants without the personality (not true, take a look at this). The whole enterprise has been labeled the "dismal science" (unfortunate, since the goal is to maximize social well-being – economics is actually the "happiness science"); and the two questions economists are asked most – Will there be a recession? What stock should I buy? – are the ones they answer worst.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=1a6f8f56-ca9b-4ee1-882e-a9fd2aae0a36
It is a big week for all the Republican Presidential candidates as all ten will be on stage together for their first debate of this election season. The debate will be broadcast live from the Ronald Reagan Library this Thursday, 8:00 PM Eastern, on MSNBC and webcast on The Politico, www.politico.com.
With ten candidates on stage and only ninety minutes, plus the chatty Chris Matthews moderating, the amount of time each candidate will have to present his case to the American people and answer questions will be limited. My question to you as we lead up to the debate, - what questions would you like to see Chris Matthews ask the candidates?
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=0d3f89b0-5962-4366-b066-201686e64def
On Sunday, John McCain will face off against his Republican opponents at the Fox News GOP Debate in Orlando, FL.
The 90 minute debate will be shown on the Fox News Channel at 8PM EDT. Please tune in to watch this important debate, taking place only 74 days out from the Iowa Caucuses.
If you missed the last fox news debate, click here to watch the reaction of the Fox News focus group to John McCain's performance.
John McCain will also appear on Fox News Sunday with Chris Wallace at 9AM on your local FOX TV station.
There is a lot of action tomorrow and if past debates are any measure, John McCain will not let us down!
Update: Tonight John McCain delivered his speech to the Presidency IV forum in Orlando, FL. Click Here to read the speech.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=2947db2c-4cc2-45d5-9c37-a41e2dc49c2f
On Tuesday, February 12th, Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia hold their presidential primaries. If you live in either of these states, please be sure to get out and vote for John McCain!
To find your polling location, please click your respective link below:
Washington DC
Maryland
Virginia
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=d7356d3b-3fac-4dd9-8553-baa5e388ac20
ABC News: This Week With George Stephanopoulos will host a 90 minute Republican Presidential Debate on Sunday morning, August 5 2007 live from Iowa.The debate will be shown on your local ABC station. Please check the ABC News website for more information on local air times.
As always the JohnMcCain.com Blog will have an open forum during the debate. So get your cup of coffee, tune in to ABC News and come to JohnMcCain.com to join the discussion.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=875db04d-f71c-4c8a-aedb-e3f490e1c4ca
About fifteen fellow veterans, driving American-made Harley Davidson motorcycles, and some officials from the local Republican Party greeted the plane carrying Senator McCain and his wife Cindy as they landed at Sioux Gateway Col. Bud Day Field. With American flags flying off the back of their bikes, the vets gave Senator McCain's motorcade a true Midwestern welcome to Sioux City. With the bikers in the lead, the motorcade made its way across town and down the main street with people looking on and waving.
Upon arrival at the hotel next to the Sioux City Convention Center, the veterans on their bikes, Senator and Mrs. McCain, and their guests had a special surprise waiting for them. Waiting to meet them was a hometown hero - Congressional Medal of Honor winner and namesake of the Sioux Gateway airport, Colonel Bud Day.
Senator McCain jumped out of the Suburban to say hello to his old friend and fellow POW, Col. Day, and then went over together to spend time talking with the veterans who had greeted him at the airport. Cindy McCain while watching all this unfold was heard saying "what a great welcome to Sioux City, this is great."
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=2764966a-0e95-425f-90de-484e0c6d62f8
When your wake call consists of, "Good morning, the forecast in Greenville is severe storms with a strong likelihood of hail," you know it is going to be an interesting day. Will the weather dampen today's tour, or will John McCain and the crowds coming out to see him feed off the storm's energy like they did yesterday afternoon in Manchester, NH?
It is a long busy day ahead for the McCain Announcement Tour. Rallies here in Greenville, then off to Columbia and Charleston. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit worn out, but then again, I'm trying to keep up with John McCain, a task few can honestly accomplish. The man has boundless energy and I know in an hour when we depart the hotel he'll be hopping ready to go while I, and most others here, will still be a little blurry eyed, and he's already been up for over an hour doing television interviews!
Then again, he's also smarter than us all. While he wisely retired to his room when we arrived last night at the hotel, we - staff, press, friends and family - couldn't resist recounting the highlights of yesterday’s events at the hotel bar.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=e52f9b42-e776-40e0-b0fc-0a194afaaf5f
I wanted to share with you this letter that former Secretary of State George Schultz sent to introduce Senator McCain at the Hoover Institution earlier this week. Secretary Schultz was not able to be there in person, but sent the following letter to Mr. John Raisian, Director of the Hoover Institution. In particular, this line stands out to me as exactly the quality we need in our next President:
Senator McCain is a serious man making serious proposals about important issues. Instead of sound bites, there is careful reasoning.
Here is the entire letter:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=0cca8d24-a12b-479b-81f9-d95855dab799
Cindy McCain has long been an advocate for children and worldwide health care for children. She is actively involved in a number of charitable efforts on behalf of children and serves on the Board of Directors of Operation Smile, a non-profit organization whose mission is to repair cleft lips, cleft palates and other facial deformities for children around the world. Just returning from a trip with Operation Smile to Vietnam, Cindy was on the CBS Early Show yesterday morning to discuss the trip and her husband's presidential campaign. Please watch below:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=db908617-1462-41ee-973a-2212e75e9ac3
I snapped a few pictures when we arrived yesterday as they were beginning setupIt is a beautiful morning here in Portsmouth, NH and the event site is beginning to buzz with action. The sat trucks rolled in this morning and began setting up the sticks while Justin Germany, the eCampaign's videographer, tried to beat them down to the press platform to begin what will be an all day battle for position.
Senator McCain got in late last night after his flight from NY was delayed because Air Force One was in the airspace...we're all working hard to make sure it is President McCain closing down airspace beginning in January 2009!
I had a brief opportunity to read the opening comments on our blog, thanks to everyone for participating. I'm glad we're able to provide an open forum for discussion, both positive and negative, and it seems we're already enjoying both! I notice there was some discussion of last night’s Daily Show. Unfortunately, I did not have an opportunity to watch (no Comedy Central on the hotel television system). I'll have to try to watch it later online when I can find an internet connect suitable to watching video!
Graniteprof is pointing us to some excellent news from the CNN/WMUR poll earlier this month. "Just two months ago, McCain's net favorables (favorable minus unfavorable) among conservatives stood at a paltry 14 percent. In the latest poll, McCain now stands at + 47 among conservatives."
There is definitely something in the air here in NH, I can feel it...Check in later for more updates from the road.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=f90ad709-6b79-400c-b76d-9a92309bf592
The Arizona Republic, a paper with which John McCain has had a rocky relationship (to put it mildly), today has written
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=b6ae5060-130f-4c36-843a-1e56a4543485
As you can see, we've changed a few things on JohnMcCain.com. We have a new design, a new look and some new tools to help us in the fight to get John McCain elected. This is only the beginning of what's to come, so stay tuned.
Take a look around and let us know what you think!
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=cf48f957-2c50-4bac-9e51-8ba591a237af
Yesterday, Senator McCain held a conference call with a number of conservative bloggers; high on the list of topics was immigration. Much of the post-call coverage has centered around Senator McCain's humorous comments about one of his opponent's multiple positions on immigration reform; but there was also a substantive discussion of why he is supporting the current compromise in the Senate.There has been a lot of traffic on this blog over the last few days about the Senate compromise. Many have expressed their opposition and we at McCain 2008 are glad to provide a forum for open and honest discussion of this and other issues about which people feel passionately. One thing on which we all agree – our immigration system is fundamentally broken and the status quo is not acceptable. The current system perpetuates a de facto amnesty. It's a matter of maintaining our economic prosperity but also strengthening America's national security, which is why the head of the Department of Homeland Secretary strongly supports the bill.
Before most of the other provisions in the bill can go into effect, Border Patrol must be expanded to 18,000 agents with additional field and investigative agents hired; 370 miles of fencing and 200 miles of vehicle barriers must be erected; ground-based radar and camera towers must be installed; unmanned aerial vehicles must be deployed; the "catch-and-release" policy must be ended; a tamper proof employed ID card must be in use; and other so-called "triggers" must be met.
Some people would like to stop at that point, but the reality of the situation is that there are not enough votes in the Congress to tackle this national security crisis piecemeal. Only a comprehensive solution can gather the votes to pass Congress and be signed by the President and only a comprehensive approach will, in John McCain's view, fix our current broken system. That is why Senator McCain has worked diligently with fellow conservatives, such as Senator Kyl of Arizona and Georgia Senators Chambliss and Isakson, on a comprehensive solution that will secure our borders, bring illegal immigrants out of the shadows under stiff requirements, and provide for better enforcement of our immigration laws. That is exactly what the current compromise does and it is the only proposal on the table capable of attracting enough support to become law. Senator McCain said numerous times on the call that if someone has a viable alternative solution he would be happy to consider it; yet, no such proposal exists that would deal effectively with our failed immigration system.
Senator McCain also discussed the process that this compromise is about to undergo. It is a starting point and all relevant amendments and changes will be considered by the Senate. Then, the House of Representatives will have to act as well. Pending differences will have to be worked out between the two chambers before the bill goes to the President for signature. In other words, we are still at the beginning of this process and much can and will change before a final agreement is reached. But, the fundamental premise remains that only a comprehensive approach can attract the support to pass. Senator McCain believes we must fix this urgent national security problem; doing nothing is not acceptable.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ddd223e1-8d1a-43a1-bc23-f27f7d8e7f9c
Last night, John McCain recognized that this long fought election year has entered a new phase and we now have an opponent on the Democratic side. Speaking to a crowd in New Orleans, John McCain began the General Election campaign by outlining some of the differences between himself and Barack Obama. Watch some excerpts of it below:
Bliptv_player("967789","430","320");
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=37b7fcd0-b928-4d61-8be8-42b5eeee96f5
After a quick 30 minute flight from Greenville to Columbia, we found ourselves in an unusual situation...early. So we sent the press on ahead to the rally site, the historic Adluh Flour Mill, and hung out on the tarmac for a while.On this beautifully sunny day in Columbia I find myself sitting in a hot van typing with my thumbs on a Blackjack and uploading photos via a slow wireless broadband connect...so this is what it is like to be the
campaign blogger! At least it is not hailing...
Our state leadership, including Senator Lindsey Graham, Attorney General Henry McMaster, and Speaker of the House Bobby Harrell, have been filling us all in on the latest political news in this important primary state. In both polling and organization, the McCain South Carolina effort is strong.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=dc89f0eb-c6c2-4280-91a8-af66b35780d0
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mayor Rudy Giuliani have recently endorsed John McCain for President, and they appeared together this week in Los Angeles. Watch clips from the press conference here: Bliptv_player("645386","300","251");
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=0518b5ba-8549-4e06-becb-e72fc2044ba9
As we at the campaign prepare for tonight's debate at the Ronald Reagan Library, I was reminded about a speech Senator McCain gave last year at the Reagan Library, about his values, about our party, and about the vision of Ronald Reagan. As he is now running for President and returning tonight to the Reagan Presidential Library, this speech reminds us of the leadership we have come to respect in Senator McCain, the kind of leadership to which we look forward in President McCain.
He recognized, back in June of last year, that our party had lost its way:So why has our party, the party of small government, lately adopted the practices of our opponents who believe the bigger the government the better? I'm afraid it because at times we value our incumbency more than our principles. We came to office to reduce the size of government. Lately, we have increased the size of government in order to stay in office. And soon, soon, if we don't remember what we were elected to do, we will lose both our principles and our office...Unfortunately, our party did not find its way before the November elections and the American people responded in just the way Senator McCain expected; they removed us from the majority in Congress. Tonight, I know we will hear why we can expect differently when John McCain is elected President.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=c9121276-2b23-42aa-999f-8288850b7089
After a brief hiatus from the blogosphere, this half of the Olson twins is back and coming to you from the city of tomorrow's big Republican Presidential Primary debate – Columbia, South Carolina.
The debate is being held at the Kroger Center and is hosted by the great Americans at the South Carolina Republican Party and Fox News.
Upon arrival, Dave Rexrode, McCain 2008's National Coalitions Director, and I were greeted with sunny skies. The feel of a big event was in the air even at Dulles Airport in Washington, DC. On the flight were several reporters who are coming down to cover the debate, including CNN’s John King.
Over the next two days, I will provide the McCain blog fans with regular updates from the ground here in Columbia as Senator McCain's team prepares for the second debate. Expectations are high after Senator McCain's strong performance at the first debate out at the Reagan Library in California.
Also, please be sure to join us tomorrow night for another open forum on the blog during the debate, 9:00 PM eastern time and broadcast live on Fox News.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=141a21ed-960a-4ab6-abb3-375fb90ce3d6
As John McCain embarks this week on his official announcement tour, we are proud to launch the long awaited official McCain 2008 blog! My name is Christian Ferry and I am the campaign's National eCampaign Director.
It is an honor for me to be writing the first post of the official McCain 2008 blog. I feel like it has been a long time coming. I first became involved in McCain world in February 1999 when I joined the staff of McCain 2000. I never really imagined that, seven years after that campaign ended, I'd be back again working for a McCain presidential campaign and preparing to head out on the road for another announcement tour. I'm very proud to have the opportunity to once again be part of John McCain’s race for the White House.
We at McCain 2008 look forward to being on the campaign trail ahead with you – on the announcement tour, at the town hall meetings, on the Straight Talk Express, and online here at JohnMcCain.com. We hope you will visit frequently. We'll be joined regularly here by Senator McCain himself, by other campaign staff, by supporters across the country, and by some of his closest friends from the Naval Academy, from his time in Vietnam, and from his long and distinguished career in public service.
Thanks for visiting and let the conversation begin…
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=6c120b2d-dd83-44f6-bf70-0a36e2f8d1ae
Mitt Romney has recently attacked our campaign, alleging that we selectively edited a video of his press conference where he not only voiced his commitment to pro-choice policies after his abortion epiphany, but also made clear that he has changed his position on federal funding of stem cell research. We will let you decide for yourself. Watch the entire press conference below.
Click To Play
By the way, John McCain has had a consistent, 24 year, pro-life record.
In the News:
ABCNews: Romney's Pro-Life Conversion: Myth or Reality?
NYTimes: Romney Faces Another 'Flip-Flop' Question: Has He Changed on Stem Cells?
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=5d733909-874a-463a-9df5-6a66e78846e5
John McCain likes to say, "I am running for President of the United States because I believe in the greatness of this nation as a beacon of goodwill throughout the world." On this Independence Day, consider a cause greater than yourself by supporting one of these fine organizations:
America Supports You
Thank our troops for their service to our nation. They put their lives on the line each and very day for the freedom we enjoy. Tell them how much you appreciate their service.
Marine Corp Law Enforcement Foundation
Help the families of brave men and women who have died serving the cause of freedom.
Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund
Paying tribute to and supporting those who have sacrificed for our nation.
Click here for more causes greater thank your own self-interest...
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=de7005d4-e0bf-4894-8df3-4fe4678d5805
It was a very cold and very rainy evening rally in Manchester, but the crowd of dedicated McCainiacs pressed through, even as the Straight Talk Express got caught up in traffic and ran late to the rally.
When Senator McCain arrived, he seemed to feed off the energy and bad weather. While the bus stayed dry parked under a nice big tent, Senator McCain walked off into the rain under a Boston Red Sox umbrella and on to the stage. Much of the staff retreated to the more dry accommodations near the bus. As Senator McCain says, you can't expect much when you get your staff off work-release programs!
When interrupted by some people exercising their freedom of expression and speech, the Senator paused, and then reminded the crowd that these are the cherished rights for which we all fight, saying, "Live free or die," the motto of the State of New Hampshire. The crowd went nuts. Again echoing the themes of earlier in the day, McCain relayed to the crowd his vision for America. Recounting how we’ve been let down in the past, Senator McCain reminded us that he believes in the great good of the American spirit and the American dream.
Now, we're heading off to the Manchester airport for a flight tonight to Greenville, SC. While today's events are over, the tour, and the campaign to come, has just begun.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ee36ff52-c5aa-4125-ae16-1d37a65a8d3f
Just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday, this afternoon the New Hampshire Secretary of State announced the date of the much anticipated New Hampshire Primary.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
We've been expecting it for a while but now it's for certain - in 47 days from now the voters of New Hampshire will make a crucial decision affecting the future of our country. We trust it will be the correct one.
It's crunch time now and every day counts. We must do everything possible to spread the word about John McCain and make sure that he is the nominee of our party.
Please have a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday and stay tuned for more updates from the campaign trail.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=922114fa-4f80-489e-9be0-58768da9377a
David Yepsen, the dean of the Iowa political press corps, has an excellent article in today's Des Moines Register about John McCain's strong debate performance. The debate is sure to build on the progress Senator McCain's campaign is making in Iowa. As seen in the recent polling, McCain is leading in Iowa because his message of a better, optimistic, victorious, and secure America is resonating in the first caucus state.
Says Yepsen, "John McCain was his old self at Thursday night's Republican presidential debate: feisty, pointed and a straight-talker who wasn't afraid to tell Republican activists things they didn't want to hear. It made him the big winner of the night."
And, "Thursday night's debate indicated McCain's 'Straight Talk Express' has fresh plugs and new tires and looks to be running on premium ethanol."
Leading in Iowa with "fresh plugs," "new tires," and a full tank of "premium ethanol"...that's a good place to be in the first state to vote in the 2008 Republican nomination battle.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=bbe51749-00f9-4a7c-9239-6b4702b441ce
This afternoon, Senator McCain will deliver a major policy address on the growing threat of tyranny in Latin America. Nearly twenty years since the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the Cold War, despotism is back on the rise in our own hemisphere, fueled by soaring oil prices and fanned by anti-American fanatics throughout the world. While the media and unfortunately, our foreign policy, is so heavily focused on the Middle East, anti-Americanism is on the rise in Latin America, from Havana to Caracas to La Paz to Managua.
As global oil prices have skyrocketed, Hugo Chavez has used those profits to establish a one-party, socialist dictatorship in Venezuela. His support has breathed new life into the Castro regime in Cuba and helped restore Daniel Ortega to power in Nicaragua. With backing from Chavez, an anti-American leftist nearly won the presidency in Mexico last year. As Middle Eastern terrorists continue their war on our way of life, they have a new friend in Mr. Chavez and are finding fertile ground to set up camp in our own backyard.
John McCain is prepared to stand up to the thugs in Latin America and will not forget that the countries of this region should be natural partners of the United States. As President, he will not passively await the demise of the Castro dictatorship and will not lift the embargo against that country until political prisoners are released, free media is legalized, and open and honest elections are scheduled. He will stand up to the Democrats in this country and their isolationist, special-interest friends to expand free trade in the region with our democratic allies. He will revitalize our foreign diplomacy by re-establishing an independent agency to promote America and the American message, which President Clinton wrongly abolished. Finally, John McCain will create a worldwide League of Democracies where the democratic countries of Latin America - such as Brazil, Columbia, Mexico, Chile, and Peru – have a voice to confront common problems based on shared values, a voice they are denied in the United Nations Security Council.
Ronald Reagan fought for our democratic values and against Communism throughout the world. Now, nearly twenty years since Reagan left office, tyranny reminiscent of the evil empire Reagan helped defeat is again spouting roots in the Western Hemisphere. Following the tradition of President Reagan, President McCain will not shy away from this great challenge.
Sign the petition
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=df53b5d0-af40-42a9-b7b8-acf3ce565b12
This weekend, former Louisiana Governor Buddy Roemer had the opportunity to introduce John McCain at a town hall meeting in Ankeny, IA. Click below to watch the introduction. It's a bit long, but definitely worth it.
YouTubeSingle("R-W6h2qH3uY","360","280");
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ff30ab11-7bda-4d65-8b84-5cb439663dd7
Cindy McCain was on Fox News last night with Greta Van Susteren talking about the campaign, her background, and the McCain family.
Part 1
Part 2
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=7c922b53-d112-4596-a394-60410122ab9d
After a brief hiatus from the blogosphere, this half of the Olson twins is back and coming to you from the city of tomorrow's big Republican Presidential Primary debate – Columbia, South Carolina.
The debate is being held at the Kroger Center and is hosted by the great Americans at the South Carolina Republican Party and Fox News.
Upon arrival, Dave Rexrode, McCain 2008's National Coalitions Director, and I were greeted with sunny skies. The feel of a big event was in the air even at Dulles Airport in Washington, DC. On the flight were several reporters who are coming down to cover the debate, including CNN’s John King.
Over the next two days, I will provide the McCain blog fans with regular updates from the ground here in Columbia as Senator McCain's team prepares for the second debate. Expectations are high after Senator McCain's strong performance at the first debate out at the Reagan Library in California.
Also, please be sure to join us tomorrow night for another open forum on the blog during the debate, 9:00 PM eastern time and broadcast live on Fox News.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=141a21ed-960a-4ab6-abb3-375fb90ce3d6
Thirty years ago today, Elvis Aaron Presley passed away. We remember Elvis as an incredible talent whose music and life continues to touch millions around the world. His status as the "King of Rock and Roll" and an American cultural icon cannot be disputed.
In a statement released August 16, 1977, the White House remembered Elvis:
Elvis Presley's death deprives our country of a part of itself. He was unique and irreplaceable. More than 20 years ago, he burst upon the scene with an impact that was unprecedented and will probably never be equaled. His music and his personality, fusing the of white country and black rhythm and blues, permanently changed the face of American popular culture. His following was immense, and he was a symbol to people the world.
Elvis was not only "The King," he was a veteran who answered his nation's call to service in 1958 when drafted into the US Army, leaving behind a successful music and acting career to do his duty. We should remember his service and respect it.
Today as we remember the life of Elvis Presley, hundreds of thousands of American soldiers, airmen, sailors, marines, guardsmen and first responders too are answering their nation's call to service and protecting our freedom. Our volunteer military is the finest fighting force in the world and we are grateful for their service.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=d904c9ec-651c-49e2-a0cd-9317fbe3cd0e
When your wake call consists of, "Good morning, the forecast in Greenville is severe storms with a strong likelihood of hail," you know it is going to be an interesting day. Will the weather dampen today's tour, or will John McCain and the crowds coming out to see him feed off the storm's energy like they did yesterday afternoon in Manchester, NH?
It is a long busy day ahead for the McCain Announcement Tour. Rallies here in Greenville, then off to Columbia and Charleston. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a bit worn out, but then again, I'm trying to keep up with John McCain, a task few can honestly accomplish. The man has boundless energy and I know in an hour when we depart the hotel he'll be hopping ready to go while I, and most others here, will still be a little blurry eyed, and he's already been up for over an hour doing television interviews!
Then again, he's also smarter than us all. While he wisely retired to his room when we arrived last night at the hotel, we - staff, press, friends and family - couldn't resist recounting the highlights of yesterday’s events at the hotel bar.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=e52f9b42-e776-40e0-b0fc-0a194afaaf5f
Tonight John McCain gave voters straight talk on important issues like immigration, Iraq, and out of control government spending. It's clear that the other candidates give their opinion but on issue after issue John McCain speaks from experience. Only John McCain has the experience and background to step in on day one and be a strong commander in chief.
Watch Gov. Buddy Roemer's take on John McCain's performance:
YouTubeSingle("itl_BBwENdg","380","320");
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=c47581e9-ee0c-4619-945c-83edf8db1e5b
There seems to be some confusion about the difference between the words Flak and Flack. For clarification, we offer the following about the origin of the word:Flak: an acronym derived from a German compound word Flieger Abwehr Kanone (anti-aircraft gun) that has made it into common usage.
vs.
Flack: a staffer in the Obama campaign press operation.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=94c6553d-f9eb-4f75-9396-4b89ff94e8e5
Over at Real Clear Politics, Ralph Peter’s writes today about "John McCain's Integrity Problem...he has too much of it." Peters continues that America needs three things in our next president and commander-in-chief; three qualities which John McCain would embody as President: 1) "Strong, conscientious leadership"; 2) Honesty to tell you where they really stand; 3) "The ability to unify our nation after the election." These are just three of the many valuable qualities John McCain would embody as president that are highlighted in Peters' article.
John McCain has dedicated his life to serving our country, and it will truly be a shame if we can't recognize the value he would bring to the presidency. Voters must realize the difference between a "parrot" candidate ("someone who merely tries to please the audience at the moment") and a president. Right now John McCain is the only candidate who can be a president for he will not base his campaign around the talking points provided to him by his staffers:
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=ea4c8f78-8689-4e8c-a963-6d2829c4142f
Today, John McCain will address the Associated Press's Annual Meeting in Washington, DC. Tomorrow, he will travel to Pittsburg, PA to give a major economic speech at Carnegie Mellon University and then do the MSNBC Hardball College Tour. Please check your local listings for exact times.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=662841a1-d14e-4cbe-9fd7-7af3d25ad17b
Over at RedState.com, a leading conservative blog, CEO Erick Erickson has come to the conclusion that if the election were held today, he'd be voting for John McCain to be the Republican nominee for President.
This is significant because it shows that Senator McCain's consistent and steadfast support for the war on terror, for our mission in Iraq, and for the fight against pork and wasteful spending is resonating with the core Republican constituency. A careful reading of Erickson's previous writings will reveal a number of areas where he has not agreed with Senator McCain in the past – including: campaign finance reform, interrogation techniques, and the Senate compromise on judicial nominees (which by the way opened the door for the confirmation of Chief Justice Roberts and Justice Alito).
While things are always changing in politics, and particularly in the blogosphere, this is a good illustration of why Senator McCain is leading in the early states and gaining in the national polls…of why he is the best positioned candidate to win the Republican nomination and the Presidency. Our country is at war against an enemy set on the complete destruction of our way of life – John McCain is the only candidate with the experience and steadfast resolve to lead us in this challenging time, to fight back to Congress' constant desire to waste money, and to restore America's sense of hope and optimism.
http://www.johnmccain.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=4646113b-de87-4c4e-b215-0e5ecc466ace
Update Sources