Sunday, November 4, 2007

Barack Obama on SNL, Video Here

Colbert will not be a candidate, but a write in?

In this weeks National political digest, powered by the Detroit Free Press , published on November 4, 2007, many great stories.

South Carolina Democratic officials decided not to let Stephen Colbert get on the primary ballot in his native state. He's the guy who poses as a conservative talk-show host on Comedy Central.

"He's really trying to use South Carolina Democrats as suckers so he can further a comedy routine," said Waring Howe, a member of the Democrats' executive council.

Colbert had said he planned to run as both a Democrat and a Republican -- so he could lose twice. But in the end, he didn't even file for the Republican race, which would have required a $35,000 filing fee.

"I understand you have to keep a club exclusive," he said on his show, "but I paid less for my black market liver."

Gardner says New Hampshire primary tradition is as strong as ever.

Excerpts from Kevin Landrigan's article, "Faith plays role in primary debate," published in the Nashua Telegraph on Sunday, November 4, 2007.

As America’s third-whitest state, New Hampshire has fought to keep its first-in-the-nation primary for the last 18 months amid claims it’s insensitive to racial diversity.

So, it’s ironic that Secretary of State Bill Gardner’s final decision is whether he should slight religious minorities – in this case, certain Eastern Orthodox Christians – in setting the long-awaited primary date.“I’ve done a lot of research once I found out about this conflict,’’ said Gardner, a Roman Catholic. “We’re talking about literally hundreds of years of religious tradition. It can’t be just dismissed, and I’m giving it careful thought.’’

Political observers from coast to coast conclude Gardner will soon pick Jan. 8 as the primary date. It would come only five days after the Iowa caucus, but it would comply with state law that requires New Hampshire to vote at least a week before the next similar election.

The date will firm up further if the Michigan Democratic State Committee affirms Jan. 15 as its primary date when it meets Wednesday.

University of New Hampshire Survey Center Director Andrew Smith is a veteran watcher of this quadrennial primary squabble who regularly fields calls from national reporters and campaign operatives wondering when the New Hampshire Primary date will be set.

“It’s going to be January 8,” Smith said. “I’d be shocked if it’s anything else.”But for hundreds of Eastern Orthodox Christians living and worshipping in New Hampshire, Jan. 8 is the Feast of the Holy Mother of God, a day of obligation.Jan. 7 is Christmas for these Christians, who follow either the Julian calendar of Julius Caesar dating to 45 B.C. or the Gregorian calendar that Roman Catholic Pope Gregory XII decreed in 1582.

The Rev. Archpriest Alexandr Androsov heads the St. Peter and St. Paul Orthodox Church in Manchester, the state’s largest Russian denomination parish, which was founded in 1915 with about 100 members.

“We’ve heard abut this, and it’s not good for us,” Androsov said. Androsov said parishioners must get time off their jobs on Jan. 7 and 8 to attend services.

“My church is filled to the brim on both of those days because it’s our Christmas and the Feast of the Holy Mother,’’ Androsov said. “The majority are working people, and it’s not easy for them to practice their faith.’’

Last week, Gardner consulted with Rochester Democratic State Rep. Shawn Mickelonis, whose wife, Anastasiya, is from Belarus, where 89 percent practice Eastern Orthodoxy.“I asked Shawn what she would think if we had the primary on Jan. 8, and he said she would find it to be insulting to her,’’ Gardner said.

The state’s top election official has similar concerns on the timing of a December primary, since Hanukkah falls on Dec. 4-12 this year.

When the primary fight forced talk holding the New Hampshire Primary on a Saturday, Gardner had expressed religious worries about that scenario.

Gardner said whatever he decides about the date, the frontloading of primaries needs to be changed before 2012.

“Two days after New Year’s, we have Iowa caucuses, and two days after the Super Bowl, 22 states are holding primaries,’’ Gardner said. “That’s not a system that allows voters time to react to candidates who win or lose a contest. I’d like the campaign to go beyond February 5, but that doesn’t look likely.’

’Despite the upheaval, Gardner said at the close of the filing period Friday that the New Hampshire primary tradition is as strong as ever.

“At the door or on their way out they’ve said, ‘we’re with you, do whatever it takes, don’t hold back,’ ’’ Gardner said.

Over three weeks, 44 candidates from the famous to the fringe signed papers and paid $1,000 to get on the ballot, the second-largest slate in the modern era.

McCain to speak at Franklin Pierce University

Arizona Senator John McCain, will visit Franklin Pierce University in Rindge on the 18th of November, following a weekend of campaining in the Granite State.

McCain who will go from the north country to the southernmost part of the state is slated to arrive in Rindge on the Straight-talk Express with his daughter in time for an event in Pierce Hall, around 5pm.

The McCain event is calling this a "marquee event," and should attract upwards near three-hundred people. (students, SW New Hampshire community members, rotary members)

The event will be a part of Franklin Pierce University's first in the nation partnership with Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa.

The event will start with a video by the McCain Campaign, an introduction from a Franklin Pierce Administrator, the Senator will make a speech on a topic to be named, and then open the floor for questions from the audience.

The event will be webcast live to the Wartburg community and the rest of the world.

The link will be available at http://www.franklinpierce.edu/, on the morning of the event.

Their will be Press Availablity inside the event hall, Student Media are encouraged to attend!

Edwards adds 11th and 12th field offices to New Hampshire

During a four-day campaign swing today, Edwards for President National Campaign Manager Congressman David Bonior opened new field offices in Rochester and Conway, bringing the New Hampshire field office total to 12 offices statewide.

“John Edwards is committed to running a grassroots campaign the New Hampshire way,” said Bonior. “We’re working hard every day to spread John’s message of bold change to the Granite State, and these new offices show John’s commitment to winning the New Hampshire primary.”

The new offices in Rochester and Conway are the eleventh and twelfth Edwards for President offices in New Hampshire. The other offices are located in Berlin, Laconia, Dover, Portsmouth, Derry, Nashua, Manchester, Keene, Lebanon and Concord.

Richardson talks veterans benefits plan in Iowa

Richardson touts benefit plan for vets
By MASON KERNS
REGISTER CORRESPONDENT
November 4, 2007

Waterloo, Ia. - New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson promoted his proposed veterans' benefits package Saturday, pledging to a Veterans of Foreign Wars post audience of 100 to end the "terrible mistreatment" that he said stems from a callous approach to veterans issues by the Bush administration.

The governor proposed spending $15 billion at the federal level to revamp the U.S. veterans' benefits system. Of that sum, $2.5 billion would fund a Heroes' Health Card program that would allow veterans to seek treatment at facilities of their choice as opposed to strictly government-run veterans hospitals. Another $4 billion would ensure that the Department of Veterans Affairs receives substantial mandatory funding each year, Richardson said.

The plan would also give all veterans a 5 percent break on their federal income taxes for life and eliminate all federal income taxes during their first year as civilians, initiatives that would cost $6.1 billion and $2.2 billion, respectively, in lost revenue.

Those and other veterans programs would be paid for by closing capital-gains tax loopholes.

Bill Derocher, a Waterloo construction worker, said to Richardson, "I'm curious: Am I the only one in this room that gives a damn about our national debt? When I take out a loan of $100,000 from a bank, I have to pay it back, with interest, or I'm going to prison."

"That's why I'm proposing a constitutional amendment to balance the budget," Richardson said, adding that the process would likely span many years.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Who has filed for the Primary?

Candidates for the upcoming New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election.

Filing period- October 15, 2007 to November 2, 2007.

No date for the Primary has been announced it should be announced no later than the 10th of November.

Monday, October 15, 2007
Robert E. Haines, republican
Jack Shepard, republican

Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Thomas G. Tancredo, r

Thursday, October 18, 2007
Michael Skok, d
Mark Klein, r
Mike Huckabee, r

Friday, October 19, 2007
Sal Mohamed, d
Chris Dodd, d

Monday, October 22, 2007
H. Neal Fendig, Jr., r
Tom Koos, d
Barack Obama, d

Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Randy Crow, d
John McCain, r
Albert Howard, r
Rudolph W. Giuliani, r
Henry Hewes, d
Ron Paul, r

Wednesday, October 24,2007
Kenneth A. Capalbo, d
William C. Hughes, d

Thursday, October 25, 2007
Vern Wuensche, r
Daniel Gilbert, r

Friday, October 26, 2007
Alan Keyes, r
Dennis J. Kucinich, d

Monday, October 29, 2007
John Edwards, d
Dal LaMagna, d
Mitt Romney, r
Fred Thompson, r

Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Bill Richardson, d,
Hugh Cort, r

Monday, October 29, 2007

Romney endorsed by Senator Judd Gregg

After a weekend in Washington, DC for a Media Convention hosted by the Associated Collegiate Press, I recieved an email fr0m, the Romney for President camp. The email says, Senator Judd Gregg and Kathy Gregg have both endorsed Governor Romney this morning. According to the state director Jim Merrill, Senator and Mrs. Gregg will be joining Governor and Mrs. Romney in Concord today for the Primary filing, and afterwards for a town hall meeting in Manchester.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Franklin Pierce University Professor named Veterans Chairman of Thompson New Hampshire Campaign

MANCHESTER, NH - The Friends of Fred Thompson announced today the appointment of David J. Kenney as Veterans Chairman of the New Hampshire presidential campaign.
Kenney is currently a Commander in the United States Navy Reserve. He served in a variety of active duty roles from 1975 to 1979. His military experience includes work in communications, information technology and security, and recruiting.
He is the current President of the Reserve Officers Association for the State of New Hampshire and Senior Officer of the Navy Funeral Honors Detail for New Hampshire. He is employed as an independent information technology consultant for local businesses and as an adjunct professor at Franklin Pierce University, teaching MIS and business courses.
Kenney has served as an advisor on veterans’ affairs to former New Hampshire Congressmen Jeb Bradley and Charlie Bass and worked for Veterans for Bush in 2000.
He will advise the New Hampshire campaign on veteran and military issues and will coordinate veterans’ campaign activities throughout the state.

Thanks to the New Hampshire Insider for this Story,

Monday, October 22, 2007

Richardson speaks about Healthcare, Energy, and Veterans Benfits

Plans for health care, higher education, and Energy policy, were points Presidential Candidate and former New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson outlined at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge New Hampshire Yesterday afternoon. Richardson a democrat is a former secretary for U.S. energy, and former UN Ambassador. Richardson's agenda speaks of eliminating the dependence on Foreign Oil. Richardson wants to make the mile per gallon average requirement around 55 miles per gallon, versus the 35 percent it is set at now. As for his Medicare policy, if elected Richardson says he would lower the eligibility age from 65 to 55, and shift medicare funding, to direct care for screenings, and testing.

Richardson says for health care, we must as a nation promote prevention and living healthy lives, starting early with children.

If Richardson were elected president, veteran health care would not just be given at VA hospitals. Richardson told the audience in Rindge that every veteran with a Hero health card, could receive treatment anywhere.

Friday, October 19, 2007

NY Times Op-Ed Columnist, David Brooks writes about Mike Huckabee

Mike Huckabee Opinion piece by David Brooks, filed from Rindge, NH.

David Brooks was at the Franklin Pierce event this week with the Huckabee campaign.

Click Here

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Brownback expected to withdraw from Republican presidential race

WASHINGTON (AP) - Kansas Senator Sam Brownback appears to beready to quit the Republican presidential race. He's expected to announce a decision tomorrow, and people closeto him say he's dropping out.

One person says the senator has enjoyed campaigning and meetingnew people, but it's the money that's torpedoing his candidacy. Brownback has been considered a longshot and had trouble raisingmoney.

He has brought in more than 4 million dollars over thecourse of the campaign, and it's been tailing off in recent months.In the third quarter of this year, he brought in his lowestquarterly amount with a little more than $800,000.

Brownback, who is in his second term, had said he would serve nomore than two terms in Senate. He is widely expected to seek theKansas governor's office in 2010.

Huckabee Visits Franklin Pierce: Calls for Overhaul of Tax, and Healthcare Systems

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee prior to an event at Franklin Pierce University, in a Student Media Press conference talked about his latest surge in Iowa and in New Hampshire, and his support for the political process in the two states.

Huckabee talked about filing for the New Hampshire Primary, which he is doing at this hour in Concord.

Huckabee says money has taken a lot of control of government, and the press has focused on who has raised money but not enough on the ideas, and that adds credibility to the candidate with the most money.

In the press conference, Huckabee fired at Fred Thompson staying persistent with the challenge, to Thompson about holding a Lincoln Douglas Style debate.

Huckabee, in his event at Pierce, expressed his interest in overhauling the “broken tax system," and to transform the healthcare system. Huckabee proposes that under his overhauling, the IRS goes away. Huckabee believes, there is not a "healthcare crisis" but instead a "health problem," but says this can not be changed in a campaign cycle but instead in a generational cycle.

Interesting note, Huckabee a Boston Fan admires the Red Sox, but was a Yankees fan growing up. His true baseball love, is the Texas Rangers, but said they wont make the World Series in his life time. Mark Martin is Huckabee's favorite Nascar Nextel Cup driver.

To check out the entire Student Media Press Conference, CLICK HERE

The entire event at Franklin Pierce will be available soon.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Presidential Primary Filing Period

The filing period for the upcoming New Hampshire Presidential Primary begins on Monday, October 15, 2007 and ends on Friday, November 2, 2007


Candidates may file with the Secretary of State's Office during business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The office will be open until 5:00 on the last day of the filing period (November 2, 2007)Filings will be accepted in person, by representative, or by mail. Only filings made in person will be accepted on the LAST day of the filing period.

Visit... http://www.sos.nh.gov/prespimdate.htm

Deval Patrick to Endorse Obama

Governor Deval Patrick To Endorse Barack Obama
by Todd Beeton, Wed Oct 17, 2007 at 08:02:44 PM EST
From The Boston Globe:

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick will endorse Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, giving the Illinois senator a much needed boost in New Hampshire and help blunt Hillary Clinton's courting of African-American leaders.

Senior administration officials confirmed that Patrick called Obama today to confirm his plans to endorse his presidential candidacy. The two talked briefly and aides began working out details for a large public rally in Boston next week.

Interesting Collections of the Day

Though they may spar across the political aisle, Vice President Dick Cheney is close enough to Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama to call him "cousin." Boston Herald Article

Democrat and presidential candidate Joe Biden says he only needs a fourth-place finish in the Iowa Caucuses to stay in the race. That's different from what he said more than a month ago. Back then, he would need to at least tie for third.
WHO TV.com Story

Tom Tancredo Tuesday became the first major presidential candidate to get his name on the primary ballot in New Hampshire. CNN Political Ticker Story

Senator John Edwards begins the second day of his two-day, nine-county "Barnstorm for Rural America" in Rock Rapids, Iowa; where he will discuss his plan to support rural firefighters. JohnEdwards.com

Someone in Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign mistakenly e-mailed a copy of working draft of a campaign document which isn't earth-shattering but still an interesting read. So onto The Swamp it goes. Featured on the SWAMP, a blog at baltimoresun.com


The Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee today announced Lee County Sheriff Michael Scott and Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson have endorsed Mayor Giuliani for President. From Team Rudy

State workers in New Mexico continue to pump money into Gov. Bill Richardson's presidential bid, giving his campaign about $78,000 during the past three months. From the Las Cruces Sun

Former US vice president Al Gore said Wednesday that his Nobel Peace Prize triumph had not altered his intention to stay out of the 2008 presidential race. From the AFP

New Hampshire Fundraising Numbers

Thanks to our buddy Cosmo over at the New Hampshire Presidential Watch... www.nh2008.blogspot.com

During the third quarter, Mitt Romney and Barack Obama raised the most money in New Hampshire. In an interesting tidbit, Obama, Romney, Paul, McCain and Giuliani were all able to raise more money than Hillary Clinton.

Below are the totals:

Republicans:

Romney $85,400
Paul $46,146
McCain $33,167
Giuliani $31,706
Huckabee $10,825
Thompson $9,450
Brownback $2,762
Tancredo $555
Hunter $60

Democrats:

Obama $125,538
Clinton $28,170
Richardson $24,745
Biden $19,500
Edwards $13,555
Dodd $3,200
Kucinich $3,035

Globe Article on Iraq, Democratic Candidate Stance on Iraq

In the article, "Veterans take their war views to the trail" featured today in the Boston Globe, written by Irene Sege a great set of stories are written. I think it does a wonderful job of laying out the campaigns feelings. This article gives people an opportunity to quickly see who believes what they believe. This little clip below, I found very interesting.

"The campaigns of Democrats Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, Edwards, Bill Richardson, and Dennis Kucinich all have at least one Iraq veteran lending a hand in New Hampshire. Former senator Mike Gravel, an afterthought in the polls who would immediately withdraw from Iraq, travels with the outspoken antiwar veteran he hired as head of security. On the Republican side, McCain - Vietnam veteran, former prisoner of war, father of two sons in the military - counts more Iraq vets among his New Hampshire volunteers than do his rivals. "His family's not too good to fight this war," says Newbery."



The story can be found by clicking here.



Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Dodd moves New Hampshire staff to Iowa?

It appears that Chris Dodd is shifting his focus. It appears that in a move to shift his campaining focus some New Hampshire staffers are being moved to Iowa. This is according to a campaign worker that is familiar with the situation. More to come...

Monday, October 15, 2007

Huckabee to File New Hampshire Primary Candidacy Papers

Wednesday October 17th

12:15 p.m. ET – Manchester, NH – Speaks at the Primary Insight Presidential Candidate Forum. Devine Millimet, 111 Amherst Street. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

2:15 p.m. ET – Nashua, NH – Tours BAE Systems and meets with employees. 95 Canal Street. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

5:45 p.m. ET – Manchester, NH – Speaks at AARP-NH Divided We Fail Issues Forum. Executive Court Banquet Facility, 1199 South Mammoth Road. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

7:30 p.m. ET – Nashua, NH – Participates in live interview by Myron Kandel of The Initiative for Corporate Responsibility with live audience for broadcast by New Hampshire Public Television. Daniel Webster College, Collings Auditorium, 20 University Drive. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

7:30 a.m. ET – Rindge, NH – Speaks at Jaffrey Rindge Rotary. Franklin Pierce College, Hampshire Room in the Emily Flint Campus Center Building, 20 College Road. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

9:00 a.m. ET – Rindge, NH – Speaks at Franklin Pierce College. Pierce Hall, 20 College Road. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

11:00 a.m. ET – Peterborough, NH – Makes campaign stop at the Peterborough Diner. 10 Depot Square, Peterborough. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

4:00 p.m. ET – Concord, NH – Files candidacy papers at Secretary of State’s Office. State House, Room 204, North Main Street. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

4:45 p.m. ET – Concord, NH – Attends reception at Huckabee Campaign Office. 143 North Main Street, Suite 103. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

6:45 p.m. ET – Amherst, NH – Makes campaign stop at Republican Party Fundraising event at the home of Rep. Steve Stepanek. 1 Colonel Wilkins Road. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

Friday, October 19, 2007

8:00 a.m. ET – Bedford, NH – Speaks at Politics and Eggs event at the Bedford Village Inn, 2 Olde Bedford Way. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

10:00 a.m. ET – Concord, NH – Plays with Concord High School jazz band and speaks to students. 170 Warren Street. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

2:00 p.m. ET – Manchester, NH – Participates in WMUR Commitment 2008 Candidate Café. Merrimack Restaurant, 786 Elm Street. (Closed Press)

6:30 p.m. ET – Whitefield, NH – Speaks at The Androscoggin Valley Republican Committee Ronald Reagan Dinner. Mountain View Grand Resort, Mountain View Road. Contact: Debra Vanderbeek, Tel: 603-986-9145.

Huckabee, Richardson to visit Franklin Pierce and the Fitzwater Center

Mike Huckabee will speak at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge, New Hampshire at 9am on Thursday. On Sunday the action on the trail continues at Franklin Pierce, as they will host Governor Bill Richardson, as part of the Fitzwater Connections Series, connecting voters and students of the Monadnock region with the candidates.

For more information please contact Steven Dodrill, Student Director of the Fitzwater Connections Program at 603-899-4169, or at fitzconnectdodrill@gmail.com

Sunday, October 14, 2007

Edwards Endorser Named

The Edwards Campaign tell us Senator John Edwards won the endorsement of Friends of the Earth Action, one of the leading environmental groups in the country, today at an announcement event in Dover, New Hampshire.

“John Edwards understands that we must accept responsibility for conserving natural resources and act with urgency to stop the crisis of global warming,” said Brent Blackwelder, president of Friends of the Earth Action. “He has led on this issue, with the best plan to halt global warming and protect the environment. He has the strength and courage to stand up to the big corporations that are abusing our planet. And he is the only top-tier candidate in this race who opposes new nuclear plants in the U.S. For these reasons, we trust John Edwards to work for a healthy environment and fight for the rights of regular people in our country and around the world.”

Friday, October 12, 2007

Thompson Endorses Rudy

This afternoon former four-term Wisconsin Governor, Health & Human Services Secretary and presidential candidate Tommy Thompson endorsed Rudy Giuliani.

An Interview with Steve Grubbs, an advisor to Thompson during his candidacy, is expected monday.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Dennis will be appearing on Comedy Central's 'The Colbert Report'

Dennis will be appearing on Comedy Central's 'The Colbert Report' this Tuesday, October 16th at 8:30pm ET.
This Tuesday, Kucinich will show his commical side, , as he accepts Stephen Colbert's challenge to Empty his Pockets!

Edwards Granite State Enivonmental Endorsement

On Saturday, October 13th, and Sunday, October 14th, Senator John Edwards will return to New Hampshire for two days of Graniteroots campaigning. On Saturday, at the Keene town hall event, Edwards will deliver a major speech on reforming our government and returning democracy to the people. On Sunday, Edwards will receive the endorsement of a prominent national environmental organization whose president will join him on the campaign trail throughout the day.

Saturday, October 13th

12:00pm
Keene Town Hall
Speech on Open Government
Railroad Square, off Main St., Keene.

1:00pm – Press Availability

2:00pm
Goffstown House Party
Brzozowski Residence
33 Ashlar Dr., Goffstown

3:10pm – Press Availability

3:45pm
Hopkinton Town Hall
330 Main St., Hopkinton.

4:50pm – Press Availability

7:15pm
Northfield Town Hall
Winnisquam High School
435 W. Main St., Tilton.

8:20pm – Press Availability

Sunday, October 14th


11:00am
Endorsement of National Environmental Organization
Home of Jennifer Peterson
246 Dover Point Rd., Dover

11:10am
Dover House Party
Home of Jennifer Peterson
246 Dover Point Rd., Dover.

12:00pm – Press Availability

12:30pm
Hampton House Party
Muns Residence
5 Nersesian Way, Hampton

1:45pm – Press Availability

3:00pm
Hudson Town Hall
Hudson Memorial School
1 Memorial Dr., Hudson

3:50pm – Press Availability

That is a mighty expensive Fleece!

the John McCain for President campaign as a thank you to its supporters are bringing back the McCain fleece!

According to an email from the campaign you can show your support for John McCain by wearing the official McCain fleece.

The email says that with your immediate donation of $200 or more, you can join others with your very own embroidered black and white fleece.

Quite an expensive fleece! I hope it keeps all of those that wear them warm here in New Hampshire.

Mike Gravel to Visit with Franklin Pierce Democrats

An Evening with Senator Mike Gravel, being hosted by the Franklin Pierce Democrats. Thursday, October 18 at 8:00pm, location is to be determined.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Republicans Choose Hillary as Democratic Candidate

I found it very interesting that the way the republican candidates in the debate held at the University of Michigan, constantly mentioned Hillary Clinton.

They feel that Hillary has already recieved the democratic nomination when the Primary in New Hampshire is still a couple months away. I will be interested to hear the response from other democratic candidates.

Any one else find that interesting?

Obama Speaks in Londonderry

Obama talks about environment, energy
By TRENT SPINER
Union Leader Correspondent

The issue - the environment - was new yesterday, but the message was the same for Democratic Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois.

Obama blamed Washington politics for the failure of presidents as far back as Richard Nixon to deliver on promises of energy independence.

"The truth is, our energy problem has become an energy crisis because no matter how well intentioned the promise, no matter how bold the proposal, they all fall victim to the same Washington politics," Obama said yesterday.

He appeared at a town hall meeting with about 350 people sitting in a field at Mack's Apple Orchard.

Obama said yesterday that his environmental plan isn't the greatest ever written, and his health care plan is nearly identical to that of his top rivals. But he painted himself as the different candidate, one who can unite Americans around a common purpose.

His self-depiction of a Washington outsider and independent thinker has been the chief argument for an Obama administration. Throughout his town hall-style meeting, he returned to his theme of change and said his rivals are ill-suited to enact a new version of the environmental standards.

"I know change makes for good campaign rhetoric, but when these same people had the chance to make change happen, they didn't lead," Obama said.

Obama remains in a tight race against Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton and former Sen. John Edwards in polls and fundraising. He did not directly name them yesterday. Instead, he said the existing leaders in Washington have failed - a charge that earned him applause among the mostly Democratic-leaning crowd.

In specifics, Obama would not pledge to stop all new nuclear power plants, but stressed that questions of spent fuel storage and costs have to be addressed.

"We shouldn't simply remove nuclear power from the equation," Obama said.
Obama took tough questions from one voter who opposes the upcoming free trade bill that would add Peru as a trading partner. Obama, who voted against the recent Central American Free Trade Agreement, said he would support Peru's inclusion.

"What I'm not willing to do is to say, on a blanket basis, we're not going to do trade agreements. I think that would be a mistake. We're not going to draw a moat around the United States' economy," he said.

Some in the crowd of mainly Democrats said it is too early to decide for whom they will vote.
"I think he is very smart, very smart indeed, said Marjean Bailey, a former Episcopalian minister who drove from Maine to hear Obama speak. She would like to see Clinton get the presidential nomination and take Obama as her running mate.

"He was honest," said Lorraine Farmer, a Massachusetts resident. Farmer said she was a lifelong Republican until 2004.

Steve Forbes Shows Support for Giuliani

Rudy Giuliani recieves endorsement from Steve Forbes, a wealthy businessman.

"I was reminded of the stark contrasts between the candidates," said Forbes in an email to Rudy supporters. "Rudy Giuliani’s record vividly stands above the rest. No one has more executive experience and a record of getting results."

Forbes a National Campaign Co-Chair & Chief Economic Advisor, said "We can trust a Giuliani administration to cut taxes and lead our nation out of deficits, anonymous earmarks and runaway spending. He will bring back fiscal responsibility through government accountability. We know he can accomplish these things because he has the proven record and experience to get it done."

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

Clinton in Derry

Hillary returns for an event at the Adams Memorial Opera House in Derry. Hillary Clinton at the Adams Memorial Opera House 29 West Broadway (Route 102), Derry, NH

Wednesday, October 10 Doors Open at 12:30 p.m.

RSVP by clicking here...
http://www.hillaryclinton.com/actioncenter/event/view/?id=3743

Wife of Mitt Romney campaigns in New Hampshire

Ann Romney will be in New Hampshire over the next few days campaigning for her husband.

Tomorrow:

Hampton – afternoon tea with the Seacoast Republican Women at the Lane Memorial Library at 2:45pm

Portsmouth – for the opening of Romney for President’s Seacoast Office, Parade Mall, 195 Hanover Street, at 4:45pm

Thursday:

Tuftonboro – coffee with local residents at the Tuftonboro General Store, Rte. 109-A at 8:15am

Laconia – meeting with local residents at the Taylor Home, 435 Union Avenue, at 10:20am

Debate in Michigan for Republicans

Republican Candidates including Fred Thompson who will participate in his first presidential debate will be apart of this CNBC/MSNBC/Wall Street Journal Republican Presidential Debate in Michigan.

The debate will be carried live on CNBC from 4:00 – 6:00 pm est, replaying on MSNBC at 9:00 pm. It is expected to focus on economic issues.

Saturday, October 6, 2007

Huckabee to Speak in Rindge, NH

Mike Huckabee will meet with students and rotary club members at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge in two seperate meeting times, on the morning of October 18th. Huckabee will be meeting inside Pierce Hall.

The student gathering is being organized by the Marlin Fitzwater Center for Mass Communications, through the Fitzwater Connections series, connecting voters with the candidates.

Elizabeth Edwards, remains active in New Hampshire

On Sunday, October 7th and Monday, October 8th, Elizabeth Edwards will return to New Hampshire for two days of house parties and town halls.

Elizabeth will discuss John Edwards' plan to guarantee universal health care.


Sunday, October 7th

2:15pm
Elizabeth Edwards health care discussion and house party
Home of Chris Miller
44 Carter Hill Rd., Concord
3:30pm - Press Availability

4:30pm
Elizabeth Edwards town hall
Plymouth State University
17 High St., Quad in front of the Student Union, Plymouth
5:55pm - Press Availability

6:15pm
Elizabeth Edwards town hall
Lincoln Town Hall
148 Main St., Lincoln
7:45pm - Press Availability

Monday, October 8th

10:30am
Elizabeth Edwards health care discussion and house party
Home of Rep. Susi Nord
32 Murray Hill Rd., Candia
12:00pm - Press Availability

12:45pm
'Women Making a Difference' Clubhouse at Fells
1 Fells Dr., Amherst
2:10pm - Press Availability

Presidential Candidate Spending, Summer Quarter

REPUBLICANS

John McCain- $6 million in the past three months, with $3.6 million cash on hand.

Fred Thompson-9.3 million dollars in the past three months in his first full quarter in the Republican presidential contest.

Rudy Giuliani raised 11 million dollars

Mitt Romney raised 10 million dollars lending his campaign $8.5 million in the past three months from his personal account.

DEMOCRATS

Hillary Clinton reported raising 27 million dollars from July through September, Her total includes 22 million set aside specifically for the rimary race.

Barack Obama brought in 20 million dollars for the period, including 19 million dollars for the primary.

John Edwards- brings in 7 million dollars during the summer quarter, announcing last week he would accept public financing of his campaign during the primaries, a move that would give him an infusion of several million dollars but also would limit his spending to about 50 million during the entire primary season.

Bill Richardson- more than 5 million dollars during the last three months. That brings the total for the New Mexico governor for the year to more than 18 million dollars.

Biden talks: Focus on New Hampshire Campaign

According to the Associated Press....With the dates for New Hampshire'spresidential primary and Iowa's caucuses likely moving up to early January, Democratic hopeful Joe Biden said today he plans to focus more of his time in both states this fall.


During the rest of October, the Delaware senator said he'll bein New Hampshire at least 11 days and in Iowa 14 days, barring anycritical votes in the Senate. Biden has been in New Hampshire just twice since August 14th.

Eyes on the Primary Schedule

From the Associated Press:

Congressional Democrats from Florida have sued their own party, hoping to restore the national convention delegates that were stripped from the state because itscheduled an early presidential primary.

The lawsuit claims the party violated the Constitution andfederal voting laws by taking away Florida Democrats' ability tohave a say in choosing the presidential nominee.

The national party's rules committee voted to take away Florida's 210 delegates after the state party chose to go alongwith a January 29th primary. Party rules say states cannot hold their 2008 primary contests before February 5th, except for Iowa,Nevada, New Hampshire and South Carolina.

Meanwhile, South Carolina Democrats will decide within two weekswhether to ask national party leaders to move the state's primaryto January 19th and make it the party's first contest in the South.

Associated Press Poll-Clinton Ahead

A new national poll suggests Hillary RodhamClinton is moving even farther ahead of her ahead of her rivals forthe Democratic presidential nomination. The AP-Ipsos numbers put her ahead of Barack Obama by more than20 points. The poll gives Clinton 46 percent support, compared to25 percent for Obama. The rest of the Democratic field is down in the single digits. John Edwards pulls in 9 percent, while New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson and Delaware Senator Joe Biden each have 2 percent.Connecticut Senator Chris Dodd has 1 percent. The race appears much closer in Iowa. There, Clinton, Obama andEdwards are in a tight three-way contest.

Monday, October 1, 2007

Gingrich will not run

Newt Gingrich, appeared on "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" Sunday, announcing he is chosing his "American Solutions" project over a presidential run. Read about it here

FORUM: Youth Vote and the '08 Presidential Primary

Come hear what four Presidential Primary campaign workers, from Edwards, McCain, and Romney have to say about the importance of the youth vote.

On Tuesday at 11am, inside Franklin Pierce University's Rindge New Hampshire campus, the Marlin Fitzwater Center for Communication will hold its weekly Tuesday Briefing Series, the public will have an opportunity to hear what the campaigns have to say about the youth vote and how it will affect the upcoming election.

Also, learn about their personal experiences and how they got involved with the campaigns.

Ask your questions and get the answers- YOUTH to YOUTH!

For more information please contact Steven Dodrill at fitzconnectdodrill@gmail.com

Friday, September 28, 2007

Ask Mitt Anything Coming to New Hampshire

According to Romney for President State Director Jim Merrill, Governor Romney is returning to New Hampshire next week – Thursday October 4th – to host a few Ask Mitt Anything town hall meetings, and they would like to invite you and your friends, families and neighbors, to come out, meet and speak with him.




Ask Mitt Anything in MANCHESTER

St. Anselm College

NH Institute of Politics Auditorium

100 Saint Anselm Drive

Manchester, NH

Guests plan to arrive at 9:45am




Ask Mitt Anything in MERRIMACK

Wheeler Memorial Chapel

590 Daniel Webster Highway

Merrimack, NH

Guests plan to arrive at 3:15pm


RSVPs are appreciated but are not required, by calling 836.0141.

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Edwards Name on Sprint car in Knoxville Mid-States 305 Sprint Race

On the Trail - '08 has learned Senator John Edwards, will be the primary name on a sprint car. The car will be covered in decals advertising Edwards' campaign. The #8 car - an open wheeled red and black Chevrolet winged sprint car will participate in the inaugural Knoxville Mid-States 305 Championship Sprint race, the race will take place at the Knoxville Raceway today in Iowa.


"We're thrilled to take part in the great Iowa tradition of the Knoxville Raceway - the 'Sprint Car Capital of the World,'" said Jennifer O'Malley Dillon, Iowa State Director of the John Edwards for President Campaign. "This is a perfect opportunity to spread the word about Senator Edwards' commitment to rural communities like the one he grew up in - and to have a little fun at the same time."

The car is owned by Lee Clark, a member of UAW Local 74 and supporter of Edwards.

The inaugural Knoxville Mid-States 305 Championship Sprint will bring one of the fastest growing short track classes in the country to Knoxville Raceway from Thursday, September 27th, through Saturday, September 29th. Thursday's hot laps begin at 6:45 PM. Thursday and Friday's preliminary races will narrow the field of almost 50 drivers down to about 20 finalists for Saturday evening's Championship Finals. The race will be broadcast nationally on the Speed Channel.

On July 19th, Edwards held a community meeting at the National Sprint Car Hall of Fame in Knoxville.

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Bayh Endorses Clinton

Evan Bayh endorses democrat Hillary Clinton for President, read about it here.

Elizabeth Kucinich Outlines Goals of a Kucinich Administration.

The Kucinich Campaign for President calls the war in Iraq an abomination on the record on the history of the United States. Elizabeth Kucinich, the wife of presidential candidate Dennis Kucinich spoke to Students at Franklin Pierce University in Rindge New Hampshire this week.

“Obviously the war in Iraq, an abomination on record on the history of this country, we have to get out of Iraq, and get out as soon as we can,” said Mrs. Kucinich. "This doesn’t have to be when dennis is elected, this can be before that…but really if it is still going on this is something we would be committed too.”

Dennis Kucinich of Ohio has been a strong opposition to the war in Iraq, his wife spoke on his behalf, outlining three of her husbands goals; Universal healthcare, immediate withdrawal from Iraq and as part of Kucinich's stance on Trade they would withdraw the Unite States from the World Trade Organization.

Dennis and Elizabeth returned to the Granite State this week to take part in Wednesday nights Democratic Debates at Dartmouth College, in Hanover.

A personal interview with Elizabeth Kucinich will be available on the Pierce Arrow Website.

www.piercearrownews.com

Edwards to Visit with 8th Grade Class

John Edwards will visit Francis C. Richmond Middle School in Hanover on Thursday September 27th in the morning, to address an 8th grade class and take questions from the students. The visit follows the release last week of Edwards’ comprehensive K-12 education policy designed to restore the promise of America’s schools.

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

James "Primary Source" Pindell on NECN

James Pindell, the Primary Source for voters appeared this morning on NECN. Talking largely about Obama's new television ad and about the latest political happenings in New Hampshire.

Check it out here

http://www.boston.com/partners/worldnow/necn.html?catID=80780&clipid=1780328&autoStart=true&mute=false&continuous=true

Gore and Pelosi to appear on The Situation Room on CNN

CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer interviews Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) today. The interview will appear during the 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. hours (ET) of The Situation Room. They will discuss 2008 politics and the legislative stand-off between Congress and the White House over funding for children’s health insurance and the war in Iraq.

Also appearing on today’s program will be former Vice President Al Gore.
The Situation Room airs each weekday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. (ET). Eric Sherling is the executive producer.

Sunday, September 23, 2007

Barack Obama in Subway Commercial?

Just prior to the New England Patriots game today, I saw a subway commercial. It appeared to my eyes to be Barack Obama. I am working on trying to confirm this. It looked as if it was Barack and Michelle, maybe it was because I only had a quick glance, but we will see what I find.

Hunter Statement on Columbia University Invited Speaker

Congressman Duncan Hunterissued astatement this morning from Mackinac Island directed to Columbia University.

"To host the leader of Iran when he supports terrorists that are movingdeadly roadside bombs across the Iraqi border to be used againstAmericantroops is a slap in the face for the entire 165,000 men and women inIraqand to those that have served before them," said Hunter. "If President Lee Bollinger follows through with this hosting of theleaderof Iran, I will move in Congress to cut off every single type ofFederalFunding to Columbia University. If the left-wing leaders of academiawillnot support our troops, they, in the very least, should not support ouradversaries."

"This event, following the slanderous action of MoveOn.org, depictingGeneral Petraeus as "General Betray Us," in the New York Timesrepresentsthe emergence of the extreme left-wing in American politics." Concluding, "I think it is time for the Democrat party to denouncethisfringe element in their party," said Hunter.