Richmond Times-Dispatch: Former Atty. Gen. Jerry Kilgore Endorses Senator John McCain for President

Virginia politics keeps getting more and more interesting every day. Big McCain press conference to start in 30 minutes in Richmond.

Former AG Kilgore endorses McCain
Richmond Times-Dispatch, Thursday, Jan 31, 2008

Jerry W. Kilgore, a former Virginia Attorney General, today endorsed Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., for president.

Kilgore had been the Virginia state chairman for former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani, who dropped out of the presidential campaign Wednesday and endorsed McCain.

"John McCain understands that a president's first obligation is the security of the American people," said Kilgore, who served as Virginia's attorney general from 2002 to 2006. Kilgore said McCain has "the guts, wisdom, and integrity to lead our country in the midst of great challenges."

Kilgore will join Sen. John W. Warner, R-Virginia, and Del. Christopher B. Saxman, R-Staunton, in serving as a state co-chairman for the McCain campaign in Virginia.

Endorsements are picking up in Virginia ahead of the state's Feb. 12 presidential primary. Different groups of state legislators today are expected to announce endorsements of McCain and Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois.

Virginia FredHeads: John McCain or Mitt Romney?

I found this to be an interesting and very well written article for all FredHeads and YP4Fred supporters. As my father informed me who he voted for in yesterday's Florida GOP Primary and knowing now that Rudy is out of the race today, this will be a very interesting day in '08 GOP politics. I suppose it is true...as many of you have emailed and discussed with me on the phone...I cannot just sit on the sidelines. I will be supporting one of these two very soon. Be sure to click through below to read the entire article.

Why Fredheads Can Embrace John McCain and Mitt Romney
NorthStar
BY: Paul Ibrahim
(Excerpts included below)
January 29, 2008

Let’s face it: the majority of those who supported Fred Thompson did so because they sincerely believed that he was the only reliable conservative in the race. Few questioned his commitment to conservative principles. Not even his opponents, who picked on his speaking style and campaign schedule rather than his policy proposals, questioned his principles.

Upon Thompson’s withdrawal, Mitt Romney released the following statement: “Throughout this campaign, Fred Thompson brought a laudable focus to the challenges confronting our country and the solutions necessary to meet them. He stood for strong conservative ideas and believed strongly in the need to keep our conservative coalition together.”

Wow! One heck of an admission for a candidate whose campaign has centered on claiming the embodiment of Reaganite principles.
***
But Romney needs to understand that while ideology is paramount, Fredheads aren’t necessarily willing to sacrifice other crucial factors such as consistency, reliability and trustworthiness. This is where McCain comes in.
***

Sad Day for Conservatives: Fred Thompson Withdraws His Candidacy for President

(Pictured above: The Reason Fred Thompson entered the 2008 Race and the Reason We, here in Virginia, tried so hard to get FDT elected!)

I would like to thank all of the Virginia FredHeads from Arlington to Newport News to Roanoke for their support of Fred Thompson. It has been a roller coaster of a ride for the past ten months supporting FDT, but I loved it. Having worked on the Draft Fred Thompson and FredHead movement since March 2007, I can say that without a doubt Conservatives should stand tall and be proud. I first met FDT at the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast in Washington, DC and from then on, I knew he would be my candidate for President. Fortunately, we continue to have solid conservative leaders in the Commonwealth like Former Senator George Allen and Attorney General Bob McDonnell.

By choosing the only true conservative in the race, and the favorite of the Club for Growth, NRA, National Right to Life, Human Events, Radio Talk Show Hosts like Rush Limbaugh, Mark Levin, Bill Bennett and others, Bob McDonnell helped himself immensely with Conservatives in Virginia. I have seen the true passion of the Attorney General to support those Conservative Principles that ensure we can "All" enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Also, as many of you know, I volunteered for George Allen for years and was concerned about a possible match up between he and Bob McDonnell for Governor in 2009. Fortunately, that potential contest will not happen with George Allen's announcement and I believe FDT's campaign has tightened the bond between both Bob and George.

At the end of the Day, FDT was and remains right on his ideas. Was it getting in late or did his nuevo riche plan to use the Internet more than traditional campaigning do us in? I don't know for sure, but when it comes to issues, both George Allen and Bob McDonnell stood strong for freedom with the only 2008 GOP candidate who all conservatives agree was the best on our conservative issues of less government and more freedom.

I will say this, similar to Fred Thompson, I know where George Allen and Bob McDonnell stood on the issues in 1994, 2004 and today. They are consistent conservatives on both the fiscal and social side. That is lot more than can be said for some of the remaining candidates, especially Mitt Romney and Mike Huckabee. I will vote for our GOP Presidential Nominee in 2008, but depending on who the remaining GOP electorate selects, it may be a challenge for conservatives like me to do more.

Below is Fred Thompson's official statement:

A Statement from Fred Thompson
From the FredFile

Posted on January 22nd, 2008
By Fred in Statements

Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for President of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort. Jeri and I will always be grateful for the encouragement and friendship of so many wonderful people.

NRLC: Huge Crowd Marches for Life in Washington, DC

Huge March for Life Crowd Warms Washington, DC -- Part One of Four

National Right to Life (http://www.nrlc.org/)

Today's News & Views

January 23, 2007

When I told someone recently that when I covered the annual March for Life it would be for the 25th time, she asked me (in much more discrete terms) if this hadn’t gotten a bit old. I can honestly say that while the thought had not crossed my mind, her question did have the effect of helping me observe yesterday’s rally more keenly.

Unquestionably, the single most impressive fact is the size of the commemoration. Official tallies are no longer taken, so by necessity estimates are subjective. But in a word, in spite of very inclement weather on the East Coast, the assembly yesterday was gigantic.

I’ve begun to learn not to overreact to minor annoyances; something good may well come out of them. So when my camera jammed a half hour into the speeches, in lieu of rage, I calmly began to walk back to the office to pick up a replacement.

As I walked down Seventh Street, I witnessed what amounted to a kind of preliminary march to the one that would begin once all the speakers have inspired the attendees. There were thousands and thousands of people who had assembled a block over, parallel to the street from where the official march to the Supreme Court would commence.

As I continued my walk back to the office, I saw bus after bus unloading still more people. Everywhere I looked I saw additional pro-lifers, signs in hand. Part of this continuing rush was no doubt the result of weather-induced delays in arrivals. But the greater share was just that there were massive numbers of pro-lifers who were still pouring into Washington, D.C.

I have had the pleasure of hearing each of President Bush’s remarks broadcast to the March for Life. I particularly enjoyed yesterday’s talk, which blended substance with that I’m-glad-to-share-this-experience-with-you way the President has that is so endearing to those who’ve met him. He is one of us in an unmistakable way.

And then there were the kids! The yearly appearance of colossal numbers of young people is by now such an undeniable reality that even the mainstream media is focusing its coverage on the high school and college students who’ve come to the nation’s capital on January 22. It was a particular delight because the focus of this year’s National Right to Life News Commemorative Edition was, ”The Roe Generation: How Young People Are Changing America's View of Abortion.” [If you have not ordered extra copies, please call us at 202-626-8828.]

There are three other parts to Tuesday’s edition of TN&V: the President’s remarks, Congressman Chris Smith’s speech, and the wonderful opening statement at yesterday’s press conference delivered by NRLC President Dr. Wanda Franz. So let me quickly conclude with this.

Nobody likes losing. The Movement did not do well last November, not because of the abortion issue (which, as always, cut to the advantage of pro-life candidates), but because of all the other factors you don’t need me to rehash.

But pro-lifers are unmovable, unshakeable, and utterly committed to the long haul, however long that haul may be. NRLC President Dr. Wanda Franz put it beautiful in her opening paragraph yesterday: “We may have set-backs and bumps in the road, but we will never stray from the road we are on until the right to life of all Americans is, once again, secure.”

On Monday, that fidelity brought to Washington one of the two largest crowds I can remember seeing at the March for Life. My hat is off to them, and to the tens of thousands of pro-lifers who commemorated Roe in their local communities.

And it is that same commitment which explains why even though (as Rep. Smith put it) “There is no welcome mat for unborn children anywhere to be found in the new congressional leadership,” there are millions of pro-lifers around America whose hearts will always be open to the Littlest Americans.

If you have comments or questions to any of TN&V for today, please write Dave Andrusko at daveandrusko AT hotmail DOT com.

Part Two (President Bush Thanks Pro-Lifers)
Part Three (Understanding Pro-Lifers)
Part Four (Remembering the Forgotten)

Attorney General Bob McDonnell Remembers the Hope and Courage of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

(Pictured above: Before speaking at the 'I Have a Dream' ceremony at Broad Rock Elementary in Richmond last summer, Attorney General McDonnell chats with second grader Summer Pettus, an aspiring pediatrician. The Attorney General's Office has partnered with the New York City-based I Have a Dream Foundation to give elementary schoolers academic help from second grade through High School, and then guaranteed tuition assistance for college or vocational school. This morning (1/21/08) the Attorney General attended the 30th Annual Living the Dream Mass Meeting Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Other Civil Rights Leaders at the Arthur Ashe Center in Richmond.)

COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Attorney General
Richmond, Virginia

Robert F. McDonnell
Attorney General
For Release: January 18, 2008

Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Website: www.vaag.com

Phone: 804-786-2071

Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

Richmond - Attorney General Bob McDonnell released the following statement regarding the observance of the Martin Luther King, Jr. official state holiday on Monday.

“Monday, our nation will pause to remember a strong and courageous leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Through his character and passion, America was changed. Many born after Dr. King’s passing will find a more just America because of his work. Dr. King embodied the words of Emerson, that if a man “plants himself indomitably on his instincts and there abide, eventually the whole world will come round to him.” While he died a young man, 40 years ago, his mark on our nation is clear, and thus we celebrate his life as a state holiday separately designated in 2000 by Governor Jim Gilmore.”

“Of course Dr. King was not alone in his work. His vision of justice and equality under law was carried forward by other pioneers in our country. Last August, Virginia lost one of these leaders, Dr. Oliver Hill. This summer, we will unveil the Virginia Civil Rights Memorial on the Capitol grounds in Richmond. The Memorial will feature likenesses of Dr. Hill, and other Virginia crusaders for civil liberties. This memorial will be a testament to the collective advancements of our society and to the enduring vision of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.”

###

Conservatives in '08: Battle for the Heart and Soul of the Republican Party

Click above or click here to see why the Reagan Coalition, First Principles and Conservatism matter!

(h/t LandofDaFree)

Fred Thompson's South Carolina Primary Speech

Click above or click here to watch Fred Thompson's South Carolina speech from last night. Also, please pray for FDT's mom as she is sick in the hospital in Tennessee.

Fred Thompson Breaks 21% in Last SC Poll Prior to Today's Election on His Way to Victory: The Fredmentum Continues

Latest SC GOP Primary Polling Shows Big Momentum for Fred Thompson Today:

American Research Group (1-18-08) 21%

SurveyUSA (1-16-08) 17%

Rasmussen Reports (1-16-08) 16%

Reuters/C-SPAN (1-16-08) 14%

FDTV Vlog: Huckabee Stop Your Push Polling Against Fred Thompson

Click above or click here to view South Carolinians rejecting Huckabee's push polls on the eve of the election and coming out for Fred Thompson further bolstering FDT's Big Mo' in SC.

A View to the Future of What Our Military is Preparing For Under a Clinton, Obama or Yes, Huckabee Presidency!

Huckabee and Clinton BFFs.

We all know how Bill Clinton downsized (or stripped) our military down to a paltry force. Click here to read how Fred Thompson would strengthen and revitalize our military and click here to read how FDT would take care of our Veterans and Military Personnel. As you can see, there is a clear choice here. Below you can see how our brave soldiers of the U.S. Army Armored Divisions, U.S. Navy & Coast Guard Surface Fleets and our U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force fighter wings would have to prepare for another Clinton, Obama or Huckabee as our next Commander-in-Chief!

CNN: Huckabee joins Clinton and Obama in Describing the U.S. Constitution as a "Living, Breathing Document"

In case you were worried about who the next President might nominate to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg or ole John Paul Stevens, you now know what you will get with the Huckster. Huckabee will nominate someone who believes they can legislate from the bench and shape the Constitution into whatever they need to render the results-oriented decision he or she wants!


This is all the more reason for Rudy Giuliani, Ron Paul and Duncan Hunter supporters in South Carolina to support Fred Thompson tomorrow in the GOP Primary. Your camps need a Fred victory to continue to keep your campaigns in the game. Come on board the FDT Express, you just may like what you find.

South Carolina - say good bye to additional U.S. Supreme Court Justice Nominees like Roberts, Scalia, Thomas and Alito if you elect Huckabee. (h/t HotAir for the CNN Clip)




The Constitution is Not a “Living, Breathing Document”
Posted on January 18th, 2008
From the FredFile
By Fred Thompson in Law, Judges

This morning I heard that one of the other candidates commented that the Constitution is a “living, breathing document.”

Frankly, I assumed this came from Senator Clinton or Senator Obama. It is identical to what Al Gore said when he was running for President in 2000, when he said he would look for judges “who understand that our Constitution is a living, breathing document, that it was intended by our founders to be interpreted in the light of the constantly evolving experience of the American people.”

Imagine my surprise when I learned that this statement actually came from my opponent, Governor Huckabee, in an interview with CNN this morning. Now I know Governor Huckabee was talking about amending the Constitution, but I don’t think he understood that he was using code words that support judicial activism.

He does not appear to understand that reliance on the notion that the Constitution is a living, breathing document is precisely the kind of wrong-headed thinking about the Constitution that gave us Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion across our nation, and Lawrence v. Texas, which decriminalized sodomy.

I do not believe the Constitution is a living, breathing document. I am committed to appointing strict constructionist judges to the bench if I am elected President, strict constructionists who believe the Constitution has a fixed meaning that can be applied to cases that come before the courts today. They do NOT believe the Constitution is a “living, breathing document,” whose meaning, constantly changing with the sifting sands of our culture, can be determined and applied by unelected judges.

I fear that this loose language about our Constitution calls into question Governor Huckabee’s appreciation and understanding of the issue of judicial activism and raises questions as to what kind of judges he would appoint were he to become President.

[NOTE: Mike Huckabee’s words today contradict what he says on his website. –Sean]

Richmond Times-Dispatch: Atty. Gen. Bob McDonnell on Higher Education

Higher Ed in the 21st Century
Friday, Jan 18, 2008

Richmond Times-Dispatch
By BOB MCDONNELL

Times-Dispatch Guest Columnist

www.inrich.com

With the General Assembly's 2008 session now under way, Virginians and their elected leaders are again focusing on policy and budget priorities. Education, mental health, public safety, immigration, and sound fiscal management are at the top of this year's issues.

With a divided General Assembly for only the second time in history, Virginians expect leaders to work across party lines to solve problems and get things done. In recent years bipartisan cooperation has produced advances in many areas, particularly in higher education.

Every capable young Virginian should have access to an affordable, high-quality college education. And our commonwealth's ongoing national leadership in economic development and technological innovation is directly tied to the quality of our higher education system.

Republicans understand this. In the 1990s, Govs. George Allen and Jim Gilmore reversed the devastating cycle of double-digit college tuition hikes, provided increased operating support for higher education, and made vital capital investments in our colleges and universities.

Virginia then moved to the forefront in attracting new job-creating businesses, many of them in the technology sector. Today, computer memory chips have replaced cigarettes as the state's leading manufactured export. The state's semiconductor chip fabrication plants never would have come to Virginia had it not been for Allen's commitment to invest in new engineering school facilities and programs.

Last fall, Gov. Tim Kaine ordered cuts in higher-education operating funds already approved by the General Assembly -- reductions he has carried forward into his new proposed budget. At the same time, his budget also contains substantial money for untested new government programs. While spending cuts and elimination of ineffective programs are absolutely necessary in Virginia government, the potential effect of these college cuts will be additional tuition increases on middle-income Virginia families who can least afford them.

IF KAINE gets mediocre marks on the issue of tuition affordability, he deserves a good grade for proposing continued capital investment that will ensure space at our colleges and universities for additional qualified Virginia students.

Most elected officials hear regularly from parents whose sons and daughters have finished near the top of their high school class, only to be turned down or wait-listed by Virginia colleges. With tens of thousands more talented, young Virginians seeking enrollment, the competition will get only more intense and the disappointments more frequent.

For that reason -- and because it will help produce valuable research, entrepreneurship, and sustained job growth in our knowledge-based economy -- I support adoption this year of a major, long-term, bond-financed plan for new capital investment in our public colleges and universities.

The case for prompt and prudent capital investment is strong: Virginia is among America's lowest-debt states. Interest rates are low. And our Triple-A bond rating gives us a unique opportunity to make sensible capital investments that will pay educational and economic dividends well into the future. Each year of delay means increased expense to Virginia taxpayers, since the annual inflation in construction costs actually is greater than the annual interest on the bonds.

TO BE PRUDENT, a bond package must be part of a responsible budget blueprint, the new debt-service burden must be affordable in the context of other spending obligations, strong protections against cost overruns must be crafted, and the bonds must be issued on a schedule that stays well within the state's debt-capacity model. It is on some of these grounds that the governor's overall budget and bond recommendations rightly will be closely scrutinized by the General Assembly in the weeks ahead.

But the case for making higher education capital improvements a bipartisan priority is strong indeed. Virginians are measuring leaders of both parties according to their ability to forge practical solutions, and we Republicans will continue to lead on producing new ideas, getting results, and solving problems.

When it comes to higher education, we will agree with the governor when we can and disagree when we must. But we will continue to stand squarely for:

· Holding the line against pressures for higher tuition;
· Creating room for additional, talented students in our state higher education system; and
· Promoting job-creating research and economic development in partnership with our colleges and universities.

If recent history is a guide, it will be Republicans -- crafting responsible solutions that generate bipartisan support -- who will do the hard work necessary to ensure that Virginia has a well-designed, fiscally prudent plan to make higher education more affordable, accessible, and effective in creating education and job opportunities for Virginians.

We have done it before, and we will do it again this year.

Bob McDonnell is the attorney general of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Mike Huckabee Is Now Blatantly Flipping Positions to Win Over South Carolinians, but Voters are Fed Up and Flipping for Fred Thompson

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CONTACT: Joshua Gross

http://www.fred08.com/
January 17, 2008

Huckabee Flips Positions: So Voters Flip for Fred! Voters Want a "True Consistent Conservative Across the Board"

Columbia, SC - South Carolinians have had it with Mike Huckabee flipping his position every time a new poll comes out. They aren't fooled by his convenient election year conversions.

What do South Carolinians want? A consistent conservative who is tough on illegal immigration, fights for lower taxes, and will be strong on national security.

The proof?

Watch videos of these new Fred supporters on why they flipped for Fred and why they can't trust Huckabee:

Donald Wilson used to support Huckabee but he was concerned about "some things that when he was Governor he did on illegal immigrants," and even more troubled that "now he's changed his mind..." for election reasons. But "after hearing Fred," Donald is a Fred supporter. http://fredfile.fred08.com/blog/2008/flip-for-fred-donald-wilson-laurens-sc/.

Fed up with Huckabee's immigrations flips, Carol Davis flipped to Fred because "I'm very impressed with him, and especially about his immigration stance..."http://fredfile.fred08.com/blog/2008/flip-for-fred-carol-davis-in-laurel-sc/.

Turned off by Huckabee for not being "a very good fiscal conservative", Jessie Hardin flipped to Fred because "Fred Thompson is the true consistent conservative across the board". http://fredfile.fred08.com/blog/2008/flip-for-fred-jessie-hardin-greer-sc/.

Chris Griffin flipped to Fred because "[he's] better on national security and immigration" than Huckabee. Mike Huckabee is "not a consistent conservative and he's weak on national security."http://fredfile.fred08.com/blog/2008/flip-for-fred-chris-griffin-greenville-sc/.

To view more videos of people "Flipping for Fred", visit our website at http://www.fred08.com/Virtual/flip.aspx,

Mike Huckabee Competing for Olympic Gold in Flip-Flop Contest with Mittens Romney

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

http://www.fred08.com/
CONTACT: Joshua Gross
January 17, 2008

Huckabee's Hypocrisy: Another Flip Questions his Credibility
Huckabee - Competing for the "Gold" in Flip-Flops with Romney

Columbia, SC - After years of opposing the strict Columbia, SC - After Columbia, SC - After years of opposing the strict enforcement of America's immigration laws, Mike Huckabee conveniently changed his mind yesterday and signed a 'no amnesty pledge,' just in time for the South Carolina primary on Jan. 19th. Huckabee reportedly 'promised not to support any kind of special path to citizenship for illegal immigrants here in the U.S.' (Fox News, 1/16/08)

Yet in 2006, Huckabee said that opposition to such a path was "driven by racism or nativism." "'I do believe some of it is driven by racism or nativism,' he said of the opposition within his party to Mr. Bush's view that illegal aliens should not be deported but rather fined and eventually allowed U.S. citizenship. 'It's not amnesty to make people pay for breaking the law,' Mr. Huckabee said." (Washington Times, 5/17/06)

And in his own book - not some off the cuff comments that may have not been well thought out - Huckabee called specifically for a "a pathway toward legal status and citizenship" for illegal immigrants.

"It would be sheer folly to attempt to suddenly impose strict enforcement of existing laws, round up 12 million people, march them across the border, and expect them to stay. What does make sense is a revision of our laws, one giving those here illegally a process through which they pay a reasonable fine in admission of their guilt for the past infraction of violating our border laws and agree to adhere to a pathway toward legal status and citizenship." (Mike Huckabee, From Hope to Higher Ground, 2007, p. 117-118)

Huckabee's policy positions are a matter of convenience, not conviction. That's not leadership, it's populism. South Carolina voters deserve to know the truth about Huckabee's record.

Huckabee championed an effort to give illegal immigrants taxpayer-funded college scholarships and in-state tuition. (Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 1/27/05)

Huckabee opposed a raid on an Arkansas employer that utilized illegal immigrants. (Associated Press, 8/5/05)

Championed the effort to open a Mexican Consulate in Arkansas to issue identification cards to legal and illegal residents. (AP, 10/18/06)

Not only did Mike Huckabee flip on immigration yesterday, he also flipped on his long standing support for a national smoking ban.

[My two cents: In addition to Huckabee or Flipper II (as I will now call him) competing for the center pool at SeaWorld with Mittens on immigration, I am sure all of the Virginia and North Carolina tobacco farmers can see the true nature of how Tim Kaine and Mike Huckabee have a lot in common: they both want to ban smoking and put Virginia farmers out of business. Although we have come a long way from an agriculture-only based exporter to now exporting microchips, many farmers in Virginia still depend on the cash crop for their living, so you have to love Huckabee wanting to hurt our farmers in Virginia.]

Call to all Conservative Virginians, Marylanders and FredHeads: Tonight and Tomorrow Night (5pm to 9pm) Phone for Fred in South Carolina

It is essential we make calls today and tomorrow for Fred. We are riding a wave of momentum in South Carolina and we all know, Fred is our only hope to carry on the Conservative Platform and no other GOP candidate will carry the full Reagan Coalition to the General Election in November.

FredHeads! It is now or never so get to it. We are the only Pro-Economic Growth, Low Tax, Pro-Second Amendment, Pro-Life, Secure the Border/No Amesty, Foreign Policy Tested 2008 Ticket for the Republicans and so, do your best to bring it home for Fred.

Although I mentioned calling tonight and tomorrow night (1/17/08 and 1/18/08), feel free to call at anytime during the day as well. Please email me to let me know you called for Fred or have questions. When you login to http://www.fred08.com/, go to Phone for Fred and select South Carolina. Once you have selected South Carolina, you can call right then or download the call sheet and then come back to the web site later to enter your data. At this point, it is best to call live and enter the response real time. This is the message you will see when you click on Phone for Fred.

Welcome to our Phone for Fred online phone bank! Person to person contact is the most effective way to make a difference in an election. We created the Phone for Fred program for all of you Friends of Fred who want to volunteer and do more for Fred!

We need your help in the early primary states. Our Phone for Fred online phone bank makes it easy for you to make a difference!

Fred only needs a small commitment of time and you will soon see that your phone calls and person to person contact will help Fred win!

Fred Thompson's Momentum Continues in South Carolina

Despite push polling attacks from the Huckabee camp, Fred continues to roll and will overtake the Huckster. Don't you find it funny that in Iowa, Huckabee said he wouldn't run a negative campaign and now, feeling threatened by a true conservative who points out his liberal positions on taxes, immigration and total lack of foreign policy experience, Huckabee's team has resorted to attacking Fred with blatant untruths. Just remember how everyone thought Obama would win New Hampshire, Fred's momentum will carry him forward on Saturday as long as South Carolinians learn of Huckabee's liberal stances on crime, spending and immigration.

Check out the wave of SC support for Fred Thompson in the following SC Polls!

Rasmussen Reports
1/13/08 Fred Thompson 16% (+5%)
1/09/08 Fred Thompson 12%
1/06/08 Fred Thompson 11%

1/13/08 Mike Huckabee 19% (-9%)
1/09/08 Mike Huckabee 24%
1/06/08 Mike Huckabee 28%

Reuters/Zogby/C-Span
1/16/08 Fred Thompson 14% (+2%)
1/15/08 Fred Thompson 12%

1/16/08 Mittens Romney 12% (-1%)
1/15/08 Mittens Romney 13%

Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient Reflects on Fred Thompson's Strong Policy Positions

Click above or click here to view Major General James E. Livingston, USMC, Ret. Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient discussing his support of Fred Thompson's policies promoting the Successful Surge in Iraq and Stopping the Surge of Illegal Aliens over Our Borders.

Fred Thompson Receiving Solid Support from Veterans; FDT best fit to be Commander-in-Chief and Hit the Ground Running from Day One

Click above or click here to view a real American hero, Major General James E. Livingston, USMC, Ret. Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient, who supports Fred Thompson as being the most qualified Commander-in-Chief.

Fred Thompson is a Big Hit in Aiken, SC - Overflowing Crowds Everywhere the Bus Tour Goes

Click above or click here to view a Vlog from Aiken, SC. Below is the Aiken event I was talking about at Papa Russ's BBQ that we helped out with...turned out to be another great success for FDT! Looks like Fred found a couple of converts as well.

Click above or click here to view another great Vlog endorsement this time from a fireman named Daniel Williams from Graniteville, SC.

Check out this one-on-one interview with Fred Thompson in Aiken (on the right side of Politics webpage) on WRDW-CBS affiliate News Channel 12 in Augusta and
Check out this video from the Augusta Chronicle of FDT in Aiken, SC.

Fred Thompson Visits Aiken
By Julia Sellers South Carolina Bureau
August Chronicle
Monday, Jan. 14, 2008

AIKEN - Undecided voters stood on chairs and bumped elbows just to hear Republican presidential candidate Fred Thompson on Monday.

Although his visit to Aiken was delayed by a couple of hours, the 200 to 250 residents who came to Papa Russ's Barbecue for his campaign stop wanted to see for themselves if he would get past his television persona and hit on real issues.

"I think we may have decided on a candidate, but we wanted to experience him
personally," Mark Thompson, of Aiken, said of his family's wait for the visit.

...While some voters were looking for the right answers from Mr. Thompson, diehard supporters drove to Aiken in an effort to sway the undecided. "I'm not from South Carolina, but I'll be contacting people in South Carolina because the alternative is unacceptable and I'll have to pay for it," said Dianne Thomas, of Charlotte, N.C. "He has more depth that's not always shown in a sound bite."

The former U.S. Senator from Tennessee is on a tour bus campaign in South Carolina this week.

More Evidence as to Why Former Romney Supporters in SC and elsewhere are Flocking to Fred Thompson; Romney "Fakes It" with an Unemployed Michigan Mom

Yes ladies and gentlemen, it seems that after relentless attacks against us and now McCain, Team Romney just doesn't get it. It is one thing to stand for our First Principles and let Conservatism guide your way, as is the case for FDT, but it is a completely different story to be fake about your positions and do anything possible to get votes, including pose with a Campaign Staffer's mom, who just happens to be unemployed and then go on CBS and tell Michigan you feel their pain, but not telling anyone of the paid campaign staffer connections? Can we say--the Wolverine State was Set Up by Mitt Romney? I predict this story could very well hurt Mitt Romney today in Michigan, if it gets out in time. Isn't that always the story folks? You learn of this, but its just too darn late to get it out.

Will enough South Carolinians find out just how liberal Huckabee is on immigration, economics & spending, taxes and crime in time by Saturday and will people learn of this story about Romney by today? What was Mitt thinking? He probably thought he could slide this by until after the polls closed?

From Blogs for Fred Thompson on this story:

[Mitt's] sit-down with this Michigan mom was about as spontaneous as his change of heart on abortion, immigration, taxes etc. These changes did not come out of deep empathy and principle, but out of a cold, calculating willingness to adapt to whatever he thinks he must do to get the GOP nomination. This is why Romney is at the very bottom of GOP candidates [to] support. At least the others have some genuine commitment to what they claim to believe.

Romney photo-op was with staffer's mom
By: Kenneth P. Vogel

Jan 14, 2008 09:14 PM EST

(h/t BFFT on Michigan Set Up)

A well-publicized weekend photo-op for Mitt Romney turns out to have been missing a piece of information that might have undermined its credibility: the unemployed single mom at the center of the event was the mother of a Romney staffer.

Local and national media outlets, including Politico.com, reported that Romney was the picture of empathy as he sat at the Marshall, Mich. kitchen table of 51-year-old Elizabeth Sachs, a single mother of two who lost her job as a retail manager – as well as her health insurance – and is running out of money as she tries to sell her house to move to Florida.

What wasn’t reported – and what the Romney campaign did not reveal at the time – was that one of Sachs’ sons, Steve Sachs, is a paid employee of Romney’s campaign, organizing five counties in Michigan....

***

Talking to a small handful of reporters after Romney and most of his press pack had left the kitchen, Sachs offered details about her age, job situation, and her effort to sell her home. When asked about her children, she only said that one was "20, soon to be 21" and that another was a teenager.

The Associated Press distributed a photograph of Romney and Elizabeth Sachs kitchen chat, which ran on the Boston Globe’s Web site and CBS’s Harry Smith interviewed Romney from Sachs’ home.

Fred Thompson's Brand New Campaign Ad for South Carolina "Always Conservative"

Click above or click here to see Fred's new SC campaign ad. Now flush with campaign cash from his red truck fundraiser, Fred will roll to victory. As a little bonus, FDT is asking everyone to donate $10.00 at 10:00PM Local time, so for us that's in 4 minute! Click here to donate $10.00.

Breaking News from Rasmussen: Fred Thompson in Statisical Tie for Second Place in South Carolina GOP Primary!!!!

Hooray FredHeads, YP4Freds and Thompson StormTroopers! I knew our work in SC would pay off! Fred Thompson has made a monumental leap in the SC Primary. In only the last four days since the FoxNews Myrtle Beach Debate, Fred has climbed into a statistical tie for second place behind McCain! Although Rasmussen confirms that 20% of the SC GOP is undecided, I would say it is much closer to 40% undecided. Of those undecideds, I would say half have no idea as to Huckabee's "Liberal" stances. So, there is still plenty of time this week for Fred to pull it out and he will.

Watch friends---by Friday night, we will be All Hands on Deck as we pass Senator John McCain for the SC win.

As the truth comes out about Mike Huckabee's liberal positions on economics, foreign policy and immigration, you will see the Huckster slide in SC continue. I assume Huck will find his political fortunes with Mittens and Rudy at the bottom of a certain lake in Lexington, SC that knows the Fredheads all too well, but I digress.

As discussed last night, Charleston gave up on Rudy and Mittens' going dark at his HQ in Columbia and dropping all ads in SC cannot be a good sign that Romney wants to win SC! Check out this great news from Rasmussen:

Election 2008: South Carolina Republican Primary
South Carolina: McCain Leads, Thompson Gaining
Rasmussen Reports
Monday, January 14, 2008

Over the past several days, the only real movement in South Carolina’s Republican Presidential Primary has been a four-point gain for Fred Thompson and a five-point decline for Mike Huckabee.

The big winner from that trade-off is John McCain.

The latest Rasmussen Reports telephone survey shows McCain at 28%, Huckabee at 19%, Mitt[ens] Romney at 17%, and Fred Thompson at 16%. Rudy Giuliani and Ron Paul are tied with 5% support....

Thompson has been directly challenging Huckabee on the campaign trail and hoping to gain some traction that will keep his campaign afloat....

The race remains very fluid with 8% of voters undecided and 11% saying there’s a good chance they could change their mind....

Poll's margin of error is (+/- 3%)

The State Newspaper (Columbia, SC): Fred "Thompson is more straight up about immigration and about smaller government."

SC Churchgoers search for GOP candidate
By Seanna Adcox - The Associated Press

The State (Columbia, SC)

www.thestate.com

Sunday, January 13, 2008

COLUMBIA - The faithful in South Carolina are still looking for the Republican presidential candidate who is the answer to their prayers.

Churchgoers on Sunday at the Redemption World Outreach Center in Greenville to those who attended services at the First Baptist Church in Columbia gave high marks to the four GOP candidates who have spent the most time in the state — Sen. John McCain of Arizona, Mitt Romney, Mike Huckabee and Fred Thompson.

In South Carolina, where the GOP votes on Jan. 19, white evangelicals account for 53 percent of the state's likely Republican voters, according to the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press.

Yet, churchgoers remain divided over their choices...."I'd be comfortable with four of the six of them," said Steve Folks, 56. He considers former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani too liberal on social issues and said he "just hasn't connected with" former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, who is a Mormon.
***
It's tougher for Charlie Moss. He said he's still deciding between Huckabee, Thompson and Romney.... Moss said he won't vote for McCain because he backed an immigration bill that would have created a pathway to citizenship for most illegal immigrants.
***
[Debbie] Perini attends Redemption World Outreach Center in Greenville, which boasts 13,000 members and an electronic message board touting a 24-hour prayer hot line. High-definition televisions in the lobby broadcast sermons, and the typically fired-up service lasts more than two hours. Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama spoke there a few months ago.

Mark Beck, who also attends Redemption World, said he hasn't decided between Huckabee and Thompson and plans to do some research to help him make a final decision. Thompson, he said, has a slight edge because of his tough talk on illegal immigration.

"Thompson is more straight up about immigration and about smaller government," said Beck, of Greer.
———

Associated Press Writer Jacob Jordan in Greenville contributed to this report.

FDT All-Call: Continue the Fredmentum in SC by Filling Up Fred's Red Pickup Truck

I know the goal is now $1,000,000 and 10,000 new friends by tomorrow, but as I say let's roll with it all week until South Carolina or at least let's shoot for $1.25 million by tomorrow at midnight at 12,500 new friends. Click here to go to Fred08 and donate!

Click here to see updated totals on how much $$$ FDT has received to fill the red truck.

I will say this, gasoline in South Carolina is about 10-15 cents cheaper per gallon than it is in Northern Virginia. Wish we could get $2.70 and $2.80 per gallon gas prices in NoVa and to think Timo Kaine wanted to raise the gas tax?

Report from Virginia Thompson Troops on the Ground in SC 1-13-08

(Pictured above: A Handful of our FredForce from SC, VA, MD and other states at the SC State Capitol in Columbia)

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, this Virginians for Fred (South Carolina-style) report is fresh off my first-hand experience. After being part of a massive effort this weekend of FredHeads and YP4Fred coalition members to sway voters toward FDT, I can tell you this. FRED CAN WIN SOUTH CAROLINA! This momentum is real. I wasn't in Iowa, but I have seen it here in SC!

Our little force, one of many in the Palmetto State for Fred, canvassed nearly 1000 houses just in the greater Columbia area alone yesterday, I am talking door-to-door people and let me tell you, we are shaping the electorate for FDT. Rudy and Mitt are no more than black holes in South Carolina. Their supporters are in a vacuum looking for another candidate. Fred is actively picking up their votes throughout Spartanburg, Greenville, Columbia and Charleston.

Having talked personally to many South Carolinians, having run from many big dogs and met some very friendly people, I can tell you Fred's Myrtle Beach debate dominant performance is having an impact. (Plus it helps Fox has replayed it 3 times) People in South Carolina are reacting favorably to Fred Thompson. Conservatively, I would say Fred is in the top two choices of most SC Republicans and on his way to number one as of today.

Mitt Romney's HQ is dark. His CR and other followers now abandoned for Michigan. I saw it Mittens is gone from SC. Although McCain's HQ is right across the street from Fred's and I ran into Senator Lindsey Graham and his campaign manager at the Clarion Hotel (they were both very nice and we chatted about the RNC in NYC in 2004--good times), I believe that Fred's momentum is resonating and will carry him over McCain in South Carolina.

(Pictured above: Some more Fred volunteers walking in the Pro-Life parade through the University of South Carolina campus)

At a big Pro-Life rally on the steps of the South Carolina Capitol, there were three campaigns present: FDT, in force, Ron Paul's folks complaining about the Federal Government, how the U.S. government caused 9-11, how the U.S. entered into a secret North American Union deal and generally just being a distraction (saw it, not just spanking the Paulites for no reason) and then of course, there was Mike Huckabee's folks. It is pretty obvious who the Pro-Life candidate of choice was: Fred Thompson. Mittens supporters were no where to be found. I didn't see anyone for McCain, but they were probably elsewhere in the state. We already knew Rudy was for abortion on demand.

The honest reaction from South Carolinians in Lexington, Columbia, West Columbia and Charleston to Fred is very very positive and it helps that the South Carolina Citizens for Life Endorsed Fred. This message needs to get out even more in South Carolina that the SC Pro-Life organization endorsed Fred. In a nutshell, it is clear that Huckabee does not know how to react to Fred taking the campaign fight to him. If you notice in the Myrtle Beach FoxNews debate and subsequently today, on CNN, Fred's truthful assertions that the Huckster is bad on immigration, economics and foreign policy go unanswered when you watch Huckabee's responses. He deflects because he cannot answer. It is starting to work. People for Huckabee at the rally had no idea how bad he is on taxes and immigration.

Here are some liberal specifics that I have seen on what the Huckster stands for: (1) a liberal pro-amnesty immigration policy with in-state college tuition to illegal aliens, when that isn't even guaranteed for the children of our military (2) a "regressive" sales tax that would increase prices by 30%, choke our economy and at the end of the day, never be passed in Congress (3) increased taxes, such as shown by his record in Arkansas--note his increase in net taxes while Huck was Governor of Arkansas (he can't deny it) and (4) Huckabee's utter lack of knowledge when it comes to foreign policy. It goes on and on and on, but listen carefully when you listen to Huckabee, he returns these questions with a witty comeback or joke, but HUCKABEE NEVER DENIES HIS LIBERAL RECORD and TENDENCIES. I am more convinced than ever that Huckabee is our Jimmy Carter in 1976. Do we really want to elect Carter?

South Carolinians will see through Huckabee's liberal policy postions and get with the program to support the only true Conservative in the field and after the last few days, I believe they will.

Keep an eye out on a cool even tomorrow in Aiken, SC at Papa Russ' BBQ. Wish I could be there, but sure it will be awesome. Look for some FDTV coverage of it.

Fred Thompson's Big Mo Continues in South Carolina

After the big win at the debate in Myrtle Beach, the Red Truck "SC" Blogburst II exceeding its goal and heading toward $800,000 raised in one week, South Carolina Right to Life sending out mailers and a Pro-Life Rally tomorrow, we are all on our way down to Columbia to put all we have into Fred's efforts in South Carolina!
Fred's "Clear Conservative Choice: Hands Down!" Bus Tour of South Carolina

01/11/2008 - 9:30 am

Radio Town Hall in Surfside Beach, SC

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina - Surfside Jenny’s

01/11/2008 - 1:30 pm

Meet Fred in Moncks Corner, SC

Moncks Corner, South Carolina - Gilligan’s Restaurant

01/11/2008 - 6:00 pm

Meet Fred in Mount Pleasant, SC

Mount Pleasant, South Carolina - Sticky Fingers

01/12/2008 - 8:30 am

Radio Town Hall in North Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina - Perkins Restaurant

01/12/2008 - 11:45 am

Meet Fred Thompson in Lady's Island

Lady’s Island, SC, South Carolina - Barbara Jean’s

Human Events Endorses Fred Thompson for President

Human Events Endorses Fred
Human Events * Leading the Conservative Movement * Since 1944
The Editors
January 11, 2008

We begin by recalling the profound words of Ronald Reagan at the Conservative Political Action Conference Feb. 15, 1975: “A political party cannot be all things to all people. It must represent certain fundamental beliefs which must not be compromis ed to political expediency or simply to swell its numbers.” We believed that then, and we believe it now. The issue for us — and for the conservative community — boils down to which of the candidates is most representative of the fundamental conservative principles we believe in. The answer is Fred Thompson.
…
We conclude that Thompson is a solid conservative whose judgment is grounded in our principles.

http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=24398

Romney Gives Up and Pulls Out of South Carolina - Conservative Voters Coming Home to Fred Thompson

Unlike Fred's Southern Strategy and his now one-on-one with Huckabee, Romney was all about IA and NH.

Romney may not play at all in S.C.
January 10, 2008
Jonathan Martin

CHARLESTON, S.C. — Mitt Romney is going off the air in South Carolina, at least through next week’s Michigan primary. And he may not contest the Palmetto State at all.
***
“It’s time for Mitt Romney to give it a try.” Asked if they were committed to South Carolina, spokesman Kevin Madden didn’t answer directly. “We are very competitive across all these early primary states,” Madden said.
***
Romney has touted his ability as the sole GOP candidate with the capacity to play in every state. That he is now on his way to writing off a seemingly pivotal contest reflects the extraordinary setbacks his campaign has suffered with back-to-back losses in Iowa and New Hampshire — and the pressing strategic decisions they’re now grappling with as a result of those defeats.

The shift is all the more remarkable considering just how much Romney has invested in South Carolina. Romney deployed his first staffer to the state in June 2006 and has been on the air here since Labor Day.
***
A last-minute decision to move out of South Carolina offers another face-saving opportunity: The more the campaign downplays Romney's chances there, the better a solid second-place finish looks.

BlogBurst II for South Carolina, less than 48 hours left to fill the Red Truck! We can do it!

Take a look at the front page of Fred08.com and you’ll see the red pickup truck. Fred needs $540,000 for media in South Carolina. Fred's supporters were so generous before when Fred needed money to run ads in Iowa. We need that same kind of support again.

This is a wide open race. In Iowa Fred showed there was a hunger for clear conservative leadership. Republicans want someone who will keep the Reagan coalition together. Fred has the conservative ideas, the leadership, and the experience to do that.

Like he did in Iowa Fred is traveling all over South Carolina talking directly to the people telling them the truth. But he’ll need commercials on TV to support him. $540,000 will do that. We added an additional challenge. We want 1,000s new Friends of Fred. We want more people to be a part of our movement. Now, you have two ways to help Fred: get your friends and neighbors to become Friends of Fred or donate to Fred’s conservative cause. Spread the word about both our challenges. Send e-mails, talk them up on blogs, and use social networks like Facebook to get the word out. In Iowa Fred knew you would come through for him; he knows you will do it again.

UPDATE: Fred just eclipsed $500,000 in only 5 days. That’s amazing. Come on Virginia and Fredheads throughout the South, let's put Fred over the top!

Thompson's Troops to South Carolina

Like the call to Thornton Mellon at the Dive Meet in the Great 1986 film Back to School---Come on Thornton, We Need Ya! We are coming down tomorrow to help FDT out. Come with us!

THOMPSON'S TROOPS IN SC

After the successful deployment of Thompson's Troops into Iowa, the time has come to deploy volunteer forces, from all across the country, into South Carolina. Thompson's Troops helped us finish strong in Iowa and with your help we will win in South Carolina!

Make History with Fred Thompson
As we head into the final 9 days before South Carolina's primary, the campaign is asking for the help of its strong grassroots organization to propel Fred across the finish line on January 19th. This campaign began as a grassroots attempt to bring Fred Thompson into the race, and this campaign will continue to work with those same grassroots activists to ensure a strong performance on January 19th in South Carolina.

Commit to Travel to South Carolina

In the final two weeks before the primary, we are asking you to commit your time and resources to the South Carolina primary. We need volunteers who are willing to:

• Recruit supporters at local events
• Help mobilize and turn out our Fred supporters in the final days and hours before the primary
• Make phone calls
• Go door-to-door

The campaign is looking for volunteers who are willing to pay their own way (travel, lodging, and food expenses). If you can commit to this we will work with you to:

• Fly into a specific location
• Help locate affordable accommodations
• Train and explain the tasks you will perform while in South Carolina
• Have a great time

Time Frame

We need volunteers anytime between now and January 19th. Any amount of time you can commit will benefit the organization, but we will especially need help in the final 72 hours before the primary, which is Saturday January 19th.

Financial Commitment

Volunteers can help the campaign out in a number of different ways when traveling to South Carolina and we appreciate all your help. It is important that campaign finance limits and restrictions are followed when a volunteer is using their resources when traveling on behalf of the Friends of Fred Thompson Campaign. If you have any questions or concerns, please click on this link (FEC Volunteer Rules) to read a full explanation of rules and regulations.

To Join Thompson's Troops, email or call thompsonstroops@fred08.com / 803.251.3526 or click on the link below.

Sign Up to Join Thompson's Troops

Thank you in advance of your hard work. A victory in South Carolina will launch Senator Thompson into the remainder of the primary season.

Attorney General Bob McDonnell Reflects on Today's Announcement by his friend and FDT Virginia Co-Chairman, George Allen

(Pictured above: Three Great Political Leaders who Stand for Conservative Principles)

Statement of Attorney General Bob McDonnell on George Allen Announcement
By Attorney General Bob McDonnell
Press Releases (www.bobmcdonnell.com)
January 8, 2008 - 4:00:00 PM

"This morning, I had a lengthy phone conversation with my longstanding goodfriend, Governor George Allen. In that conversation he relayed to me his decision not to run for Governor in 2009.

In my opinion, George Allen, was the most visionary reform Governor of the last 50 years. Remarkably, he accomplished major reform as a Republican Governor with a Democratic majority in both houses of the General Assembly. Now, a decade after his term ended, the fruits of his labor continue to better the people of our Commonwealth. From abolition of parole, to welfare reform, to high educational standards of accountability, to family protections, George Allen revolutionized Virginia's government. His bold and principled leadership and great enthusiasm for good government have left an indelible imprint on the Commonwealth.

George Allen has given over 25 years of exemplary public service, while raising 3 children. I know the decision not to run was a difficult decision for George and Susan to make. I know they talked it over, and I know they prayed over it. At the conclusion of this process they determined that this was not the right step to take at this time. George Allen may not be running for Governor, but he has much more to contribute to the legacy of freedom and democracy in Virginia and America. I know George knows this, but I will never hesitate to pick up the phone and call him when it comes to the important policy matters facing Virginia, because his great strength is his passion for ideas and innovations that make people's lives better. Conservatives and entrepreneurs everywhere will always seek out George Allen for his insights and advice.

I respect George Allen's decision, and wish he, Susan, Tyler, Forrest, and Brooke the very best in 2008."

AG Bob McDonnell Announces 2008 Legislative Agenda

COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA
Office of the Attorney General
Richmond 23219

Robert F. McDonnell
Attorney General
For Release: January 8, 2008
Website: www.vaag.com
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Phone: 804-786-2071
Email: Tucker.Martin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us

Attorney General McDonnell Announces 2008 Legislative Agenda

-Agenda Consists of Proposals related to Consumer Protection, Mental Health Reform, Illegal Immigration, Public Safety, Environmental Protection, and Effective Government-

Richmond - Attorney General Bob McDonnell announced his 2008 legislative agenda today at a morning press conference in Richmond. The package of bills, highlighted by proposals to reform Virginia’s mental health laws, combat criminal illegal immigration, improve the prisoner reentry process, protect Virginia’s environment, and promote open and responsible government, is the Attorney General’s third legislative package since taking office in January 2006.

Reflecting upon the success the Attorney General’s previous two previous legislative agendas have enjoyed, and the reality of the current budget climate in Virginia, the 2008 agenda is a smaller package of proposals than previous editions. The Attorney General’s first two legislative packages produced significant policy reforms in combating sexual predators, protecting children online, and securing private property rights, in addition to significant achievements on a number of other issues. To read more about the success of the Attorney General’s previous legislative packages please visit:

2006: http://www.vaag.com/PRESS_RELEASES/NewsArchive/0606_McDonnell_Legislation_Takes_Effect_Saturday.html

2007:
http://www.vaag.com/PRESS_RELEASES/NewsArchive/062907_NewLaws.html

***
[Here are two of my fave Green '08 legislative initiatives:]

Protecting Virginia’s Environment
Phosphate Free Dishwashing Detergents
Patrons: Delegate John Cosgrove (R-Chesapeake):

Bans the use of phosphorus in detergents for household dishwashing machines since phosphorus is one of the primary sources of water pollution and environmental damage.
The ban would take effect on January 1, 2010.

“Go Green” School Initiative
Patron Delegate Scott Lingamfelter(R-Prince William):

Requests the Board of Education to study the use of certain cleaning and maintenance products in the public schools.
The bill would also require the Board of Education to establish a year-long pilot program in which participating schools would purchase and use only cleaning products certified as environmentally sensitive or green by the independent Green Seals national certification program.

Breaking News: George Allen Will Not Run for Governor of Virginia

Breaking News from WJLA ABCNews Channel 7 in Washington, DC/Northern VA:

Allen Won't Run for Virginia Governor
WJLA Channel 7
Posted 10:25 am Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Richmond, Va.

Former Gov. George Allen will not be a candidate for the same office next year, he announced Tuesday in a statement to The Associated Press. Allen, who was governor from 1994 to 1998 and U.S. Senator from 2001 until last year, made his plans public to end speculation about the 2009 governor's race for which two candidates have already announced their intentions.

So the question is Who Will Be Our GOP Nominee? I think the road is now clear for our other Virginia Statewide Fred Thompson Co-Chairman, Attorney General Bob McDonnell. Having worked on Senator Allen's 2000 and 2006 campaigns for U.S. Senate, this was going to be something that really gnawed at all of us as to what to do, but this now clears the way for Bob McDonnell to run as our Republican nominee next year against either Brian Moran or Creigh Deeds.

In case you missed my Run Bob Run buttons at the RPV Advance, when I thought Senator Allen wasn't running, then I heard he was, now I have seen he is not, now we can go full out for AG Bob McDonnell.

Fred Thompson to Appear on Tonight's (Monday, 1-07-08) O'Reilly Factor

Fred will be on The O’Reilly Factor tonight. FredHeads have wanted Fred on that show for months. Now, it will happen.

Tune in tonight at 8:00 P.M. EST on the FoxNews Channel. Hopefully, we can see Fred in the No Spin Zone--unlike when he interacts with other FoxNews contributors.

Now in its tenth year on the air, “The O’Reilly Factor” on the FOX News Channel remains the dominant number one cable news program in the USA. In fact, it has been the highest rated broadcast for more than 200 straight weeks! Blending news analysis with investigative reporting, “The Factor” has gained international prominence as well — it is now seen in more than 30 countries.

Top Story: Iran Provokes Three U.S. Navy Ships! Another Reason Why We Need Fred Thompson (Foreign Affairs Experience)

(Pictured above: Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer USS Hopper (DDG 70). Hopper is homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii and scheduled assignment is supporting the Global War on Terror. This is the USN ship approached by the Iranian boats. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John L. Beeman)

(Pictured above: The guided missile cruiser USS Port Royal (CG 73). Port Royal is homeported in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

U.S. Navy photo by Journalist 2nd Class Zack Baddorf.)

(Pictured above: Guided missile frigate USS Ingraham (FFG 61). Ingraham is homeported at NS Everett, Washington. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate Airman Jonathan M. Cirino.)

(Pictured above: Mark 38 .25mm machine gun manned during a small boat training exercise aboard the guided missile frigate USS Ingraham. U.S. Navy photo by Photographer's Mate 2nd Class Jeremie Kerns)

In a nutshell, America: we live in a dangerous world. We cannot let Obama, Mittens or Huck learn on the job. As you will see as this story plays out, our weapons were live and we nearly took out these five Iran Revolutionary Guard Navy (IRGCN) vessels. According to a Pentagon source quoted in today's Washington Examiner, the five Iranian boats forced the U.S. ships to take evasive maneuvers and said the Iranians radioed something like "we're coming at you and you'll explode in a couple minutes."

The three USN ships pictured above are based in Pearl Harbor and Everett, WA. Can you imagine what could have happened if these radicals did not turn back just in time from their game of "Chicken." They were within 200 yards of our USN ships! I don't like to think about another potential confrontation this time with Iran, but what I do want out of this '08 election is a sense that we have a Commander-in-Chief who is a Leader and knows what the heck he is doing and not someone asking their lawyers what he should or should not do. See the USN Press Release below:

Three U.S. Navy Ships Approached by Iranian Boats

Story Number: NNS080107-05
Release Date: 1/7/2008
Top Story

From: Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet Public Affairs

BAHRAIN (NNS) -- Following a routine transit through the Strait of Hormuz, Jan. 6, three U.S. Navy ships operating in international waters in the Persian Gulf were approached by five Iranian small boats that demonstrated irresponsible confrontational behavior near the U.S. ships.

U.S. Navy ships USS Port Royal (CG 73), USS Hopper (DDG 70) and USS Ingraham (FFG 61) were steaming in formation at approximately 8 a.m. as they finished a routine Strait of Hormuz transit when five boats, suspected to be from the Islamic Republic of Iran Revolutionary Guard Navy (IRGCN), maneuvered aggressively in close proximity of the Hopper. Following standard procedure, Hopper issued warnings, attempted to establish communications with the small boats and conducted evasive maneuvering.

Coalition vessels, including U.S. Navy ships, routinely operate in the vicinity of both Islamic Republic of Iran Navy and IRGCN vessels and aircraft. These interactions are always correct on the U.S. part and reflect a commitment to accepted tenets of international law and common practice.

For more news from Commander, U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/Commander, U.S. 5th Fleet, visit www.navy.mil/local/cusnc/

Wall Street Journal: Fred Thompson, A Conservative Steeped in Realistic Expectations

Unlike the ABC debate, I didn't get to watch the FoxNews debate, but I read that FDT did well and Huckabee got taken to school on multiple issues including his love of tax increases. Mittens and McCain did ok. In an editorial on page A13 of today's print WSJ, they have two interesting pieces: McCain's Promise and The New New Mitt. The two articles are pretty much a Tale of Two Very Different Candidates, both with everything riding on tomorrow. With that said, the key internal quote headline from The New New Mitt: "New Hampshire voters know Romney's record better than most. That could spell trouble." Let's hope it does. Onward FredHeads! Prepare for SC! Also, the red truck is back, stop by www.fred08.com to fill the tank. More on this later...

Republican Candidates Spar In New Hampshire Forum
Wall Street Journal Online
By ALEX FRANGOS
January 7, 2008

NASHUA, N.H. -- The heat was turned down a bit, but five Republican presidential candidates continued their snipping at the final group campaign event before the New Hampshire primary Tuesday.
***
Former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson portrayed himself as a conservative steeped in realistic expectations, dismissing the running debate over who is the best agent of change. "Change has been a part of every election since the dawn of elections, if you weren't an incumbent," he said.

Mr. Thompson discounted Mr. Huckabee's proposal to replace the federal income tax with a national sales tax, saying it could lead to constitutional complications down the road. Mr. Thompson touted his own plan that would simplify the existing tax code. "We ought to move toward a flatter tax, that's why I proposed a move in the right direction toward reform, something that could actually get passed, unlike a lot of things we wish would happen but never will," he said.
***
Mr. Huckabee continued his friendship pact with Mr. McCain. Mr. Huckabee has defended McCain's record on immigration and on the question of the senator's age. "I've met his mother," who is 95 years old, Mr. Huckabee said. "Of all the things we could criticize John McCain on, I wouldn't even go there."

The two are rivals for the Republican nomination but have an unstated common cause: knocking out Mr. Romney [add FDT and make that three rivals if I had any say], who was counting on wins in Iowa and then New Hampshire. Mr. Huckabee bested him in Iowa; Mr. McCain is hoping to do the same in New Hampshire.
***

The Atlantic: Fred Thompson Won the ABCNews New Hampshire Debate

Fred Thompson clearly won the debate stepping up when it came to immigration and spanking Mittens when it came to health care. On the other hand, Mittens seemed to be on the defensive the entire night and often looked like a deer in headlights.

What the Media is Saying About Fred Thompson's Debate Performance
George Stephanopoulos: "I think Fred Thompson had a terrific night."

From the Fred08 Newsroom
January 5, 2008
For Immediate Release

"I think Fred Thompson had a terrific night." (George Stephanopoulos, ABC)

"Fred Thompson won the debate." (The Atlantic)

"[Fred Thompson] came to play tonight." (ABC)

"[Thompson] and McCain sound like the adults on stage." (The Atlantic)

"Fred Thompson talking some serious substance too -- man, maybe I underestimated him." (ABC)

"Every answer was thoughtful and well-crafted; his tone matched the tone of the question; he wisely refrained from interjecting in the back and forth squabbling. He very deftly reminded viewers that he served on key Senate national security panels and is bringing his experience to bear." (The Atlantic)

"Still, it summed up what is likeable about Thompson - direct, clear, and logical." (National Review)

"Thompson is excelling on policy and style." (The Atlantic)

"Fred Thompson does get bonus points ... for intellectually honesty." (ABC)

[Update: Mittens now trailing by 6-8% behind McCain in NH. Best jab of the debate night: "Mitt you are the candidate of 'change'" by John McCain. Second best from Rudy to Mittens, approximate quote: "If Ronald Reagan was running you would probably put him in a negative ad too over immigration." Below are a few bonus quotes and my personal faves showing FDT is the man!]

"Fred Thompson does a great job of making the free market case for health care, in contrast to Romney's statism." (American Spectator)

"I think even the most ardent Romney supporters would agree that he didn't handle the question on his MA health-care plan all that well. There was a bit of a deer-in-the-headlights look when Thompson challenged him on the plan." (NBC)

"[Mittens] was backed into a corner on mandates in health care by Fred Thompson." (The Atlantic)

"How could [Mittens] have let Fred Thompson best him on a debate over healthcare? (ABC)

Happy Birthday to the Young Republican Federation of Virginia Chairwoman: Lori-Ann Miller

Yes, the Leader of Young Republicans in the Commonwealth of Virginia has a birthday today, Sunday, January 6th.

Happy Birthday!

ABC News/Facebook Debate Starts at 7:00P.M. EST

Watch the New Hampshire GOP Debate on ABC starts at 7:00P.M. EST. Let's hope Charlie Gibson does a good job as Moderator. Debate starting now on foreign policy...good for us, not for others...

Fred Thompson Finishes Second In Wyoming GOP Caucuses

Details to follow, but Fred Thompson finishes in second place! There is still one Delegate that had not been allocated to a campaign, but it would not change the results, Fred finished Second!
Will provide more details when available...

Robert Novak Catches "Mittens" Campaign as Secret Source of Yet More Untruths

Yes Ladies and Gentlemen, Mitt Romney is desperate. In case you weren't a believer after the bogus anti-Fred website his SC campaign set up, the mysterious fliers put under the hotel room doors at the RPV Advance last month, the bogus calls into early states, Romney's Campaign Operating Chief who "allegedly" falsely posed as a State Trooper, now here is even more proof. Mitt's Team is pulling out all stops attacking Fred Thompson and trying to create unfounded issues between Thompson and McCain. Romney has dirty Mitts! Check this out:

Published reports that Fred Thompson soon will withdraw from the Republican presidential contest and endorse Sen. John McCain have been traced in part to Mitt Romney's campaign, trying to stir up strife between McCain and Thompson.

From Robert Novak's Post at Townhall.com (h/t BFFT)

Right to Life of Wyoming Endorses Fred Thompson

Fred Thompson Announces Endorsement of Right to Life of Wyoming

From the Fre08 Newsroom

January 4, 2008

For Immediate Release

McLean, VA - Today Fred Thompson announced the endorsement of Right to Life of Wyoming.

"We're proud to endorse Senator Thompson for president because he has a long track record of supporting pro-life principles," stated Steven Ertelt, President of Right to Life of Wyoming. "Senator Thompson had a 100% pro-life voting record during his tenure in Congress. Today, he supports overturning the Roe v Wade decision which allowed for unlimited abortions, he opposes euthanasia, and he opposes forcing taxpayers to fund scientific research that requires the destruction of human life."

Right to Life of Wyoming (RTLW) is the state affiliate of the National Right to Life Committee which has endorsed Senator Thompson for President, along with 13 other state affiliates.

"I'm blessed and honored to have the endorsement of the Right to Life of Wyoming for President of the United States," said Senator Thompson. "Thirteen right to life organizations from coast to coast have voted to endorse my candidacy, and more likely will, because they know I have stood with them yesterday, I stand with them today, and will stand with them tomorrow. They know I have the ability to win this election. They know I believe in the sanctity of life and as President I will do all that I can to do to protect life."

Fred Thompson is pro-life. He believes in the sanctity of human life and that every life is worthy of respect. He had a 100% pro-life voting record in the Senate and believes Roe v. Wade was a bad decision that ought to be overturned. He consistently opposed federal funding to promote or pay for abortion and supported the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act....

Wyoming GOP Convention Tomorrow - Thompson with Strong Support

Click above video or click here from the Casper Star-Tribune, Wyoming's Online News Source (www.trib.com)

With the Wyoming GOP Convention tomorrow, here is a recap of Fred Thompson's Recent Speech on Energy Policy in Casper, Wyoming.

Wyoming GOP eager to make mark
By JARED MILLER
Casper Star-Tribune (via Billings Gazette)
January 4, 2008

CHEYENNE - Wyoming Republicans will make history Saturday when they become the first in the country to select delegates for the national GOP convention. True, Wyoming's early county conventions haven't generated the profile of Iowa's caucuses, but they have resulted in the state's first-ever serious look by presidential candidates.
***
There have also been calls on behalf of candidates from national GOP figures - including Mary Matalin, a former counselor to Vice President Dick Cheney, who is supporting Thompson, the former U.S. senator from Tennessee."

The response has been terrific," Matalin said by telephone Thursday, noting that state GOP members have been keenly interested in Thompson's stance on important national issues. "The thing about Wyoming people, they just like the straight talk. I'm not spinning anybody and not offering any pointers."
***
Drake Hill, a former state GOP chairman and a local coordinator for the Thompson campaign, said he and other volunteers are making a final push today.

He has been struck by how informed committee members have become about the candidates. Immigration and national security seem to be the issues people are most interested in, he said. "They also want to find somebody who can be a leader on foreign policy," he added.
***
Who'll prevail in Wyoming? Those Republicans who have chosen a candidate aren't shy about explaining why. Rep. Lorraine Quarberg of Thermopolis is backing Thompson, in part because of his "quiet confidence."

"He [Fred] just believes in the same things I believe in," said Quarberg, who attended the national GOP convention in 1992. "He's strong on limited government, keeping our taxes at a minimum and Second Amendment rights."
***

(h/t Reformed Chicks Babbling)

Stick a Fork in Mittens "the Attacker" Romney

Yes, folks I am sure you all know how I just hate to inform you all of the inevitable doom that faces the Mittens' camp, but here it is folks. After spending $80 million (including at least $7 million in Iowa) on his campaign and reportedly $240.00 per voter in Iowa, Team Mittens is done.

With a surprising close 4th place finish and plenty of momentum going his way in New Hampshire, John McCain will win New Hampshire over Mittens. I believe this McCain win (and hopefully our top-tier finish) will allow McCain to similarly do well in Michigan squashing Mittens.

For us, that means let's do well in those two states, but then it will be a "Battle Royale" with the pro-tax, pro-catch and release of criminals, pro-in-state college tuition for illegals, but not for the children of military Huckster in the Palmetto State.

Yes, ladies and gentlemen, South Carolina will be a fight for the soul of the Republican Party and the Firewall for all Conservatives who believe in small government, lower taxes, secure borders, Mom and apple pie. With Fred's endorsement by the South Carolina Citizens for Life organization, we will be mobilized and fighting tooth and nail to win South Carolina. Please stay tuned as we plan our trip to South Carolina and Blogbursts galore for our efforts in South Carolina.

Fred Thompson Places Strong Third In Iowa and Receives Ticket to the Next Dance!

Click above or Click Here to watch Fred's Post Iowa Caucus Speech

Fred Thompson Delivers Address Following Iowa Caucuses
"Were going to have a ticket to the next dance... The fight goes on, my friends."
From the Fred08.com Newsroom
January 4, 2008
For Immediate Release

Des Moines, IA - Tonight, Fred Thompson addressed supporters following the Iowa Caucuses at 10:45 p.m. CST tonight. Click here to listen to the audio of FDT's address.

Fred Thompson Poised to do Well in Iowa; Strong Win, Place or Show for FDT!

Update: Yes, I had it wrong, one secret ballot for the GOP IA Caucus, so no 15% level for GOP like the Dems, but it looks like Fred finished 3rd either way. On to NH and SC.

Check out all of these late-December polls in Iowa. Clearly Fred's Bus Tour allowed him to reach out to regular Iowans to show them he is someone who is authentic, someone you and I can trust and someone who is a real "Conservative." After the second round of caucusing, it is very plausible that Fred will end up second or win, with the support of caucus goers for McCain, Rudy, Hunter and Paul.

Recent Strong Third Place Polling Results for FDT:
Strategic Vision (R)--16%
Strategic Vision (R)--15%
Mason-Dixon-----------14%
Mason-Dixon-----------13%
CNN-----------------------13%
Zogby/C-SPAN-------12%
Quad City Times-----11%

Contrarily, check out Romney's late slide in Iowa polls:
Zogby/C-Span Tracking Poll
12/31-----25% (-3%)
12/30-----27% (-1%)
12/29-----28%

Richmond Times-Dispatch: In Virginia, There's No 2008 GOP Frontrunner; Thompson has Support...

As we can see here in Virginia, the GOP race is still quite fluid as Evangelicals also have trouble rallying around a flip-flopper in Romney and a pro-tax, pro-amnesty candidate in Huckabee.

Despite Huckabee's Iowa Rise, Virginia Evangelicals Split
Richmond Times-Dispatch
January 2, 2008
By Andrew Cain
Times-Dispatch Politics Editor

***
So far, "no one has risen to the point of being able to capture everyone's heart," said Chris Freund, a spokesman for the Richmond-based Family Foundation. That was borne out Sunday in brief interviews with two dozen attendees at Faith Landmarks Ministries, a nondenominational evangelical megachurch in Henrico County.

More than half had not settled on a presidential candidate. Among those who stated a preference, four named Huckabee, but others voiced support for former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, Arizona Sen. John McCain, former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson, and even two leading Democrats -- New York Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama.
***
Huckabee, a Baptist preacher before he entered politics, has the backing of Jerry Falwell Jr., chancellor of Liberty University. But religious broadcaster Pat Robertson, founder of the Christian Coalition, backs former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

Meantime, Thompson has the support of Attorney General Bob McDonnell and former Sen. George Allen, as well as the Virginia Society for Human Life, the state's leading anti-abortion group.
***
Even if Huckabee wins in Iowa, there is no guarantee he can survive the ga[u]ntlet until Virginia's primary.

Larry Sabato, a political analyst at the University of Virginia, says Huckabee faces a must-win Jan. 19 in South Carolina....

As Iowa voters trudge to their caucuses, Sabato said, this much is uncertain about the fight for the GOP presidential nomination: "There's no front-runner, and there's no clear path to victory."

Fred Thompson's Clear Conservative Choice Message to Iowa Voters

Click above or click here to see Fred's message to Iowa Voters. This is a great address that gets into a decent amount of detail as to why Iowans and all conservatives should support FDT for President.