comMITTed to Romney!

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Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s name is coming up more often in recent weeks as a possible McCain VP candidate. Reportedly, WIZBANG.COM had somebody “drop a dime” about a McCain advance man being spotted recently in Juneau.

~~John Cronin~~

http://wizbangblog.com/content/2008/05/29/
alaska-gov-sarah-palin-to-meet-with-mccain-vp-search-team.php

A tipster sent us word that John McCain’s VP advance man Arthur Culvahouse has been spotted in Juneau, Alaska. There’s only one reason he would be there - to meet with Alaska Governor Sarah Palin about the Vice President position.

This comes on the heels of McCain’s Memorial Day weekend barbecue attended by Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Florida Gov. Charlie Crist, Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, Kansas Sen. Sam Brownback, South Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham, former White House budget director Rob Portman, and Connecticut Sen. Joe Lieberman. Supposedly that was in informal affair, not a vetting session, but it appears that the VP selection game is very much afoot.

Governor Palin would (in my estimation) make an excellent VP candidate for McCain. Thomas Cheplick at The American Spectator makes the case that she’s probably the only VP candidate who can balance the ticket against Obama. She’s also a potential magnet for disaffected Hillary Clinton voters, many of whom are just looking for a reason not to vote for Obama

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In keeping with my earlier post titled: “Participatory Democracy”, I would like to give everybody a heads up on a former US Delta Force member who is running for John Kerry’s Senate seat in Massachusetts. I know very little about him, but what I do know is impressive. He sounds like the kind of man we would like to see in the Senate.

In my previous post, I said that it is our responsibility to do everything we can to promote the candidacies of conservative Republicans as we head into the general election. We have all seen Gov. Romney doing his part to raise funds for the Party and to help elect a Republican majority. I am writing this to encourage all of our readers and contributors to help play a part in rebuilding the Party as well.

I have included some quotes from Mr. Beatty’s website (referenced below) and he impresses me as the kind of candidate who has the military and national security bona fides to help move the country back from the leftward tilt we have experienced the last several years.

I’m going to get up to speed as quickly as I can on his positions on the issues and I’ll be sharing the information here as quickly as possible. In the meantime, click on over to his website and also check out the YouTube interviews as well as the YouTube endorsement by a man I highly respect, Col. Dave Hunt (Fox News Contributor) and himself a national security expert.

~~John Cronin~~

Senate Candidate Jeff Beatty calls John Kerry a Hypocrite

March 18, 2008

Kerry accuses others of using troops as political props, when he himself has used service men and women to fuel his own ambition in the past.

Boston, March 18—U.S. Senate candidate Jeff Beatty, a Republican, is calling on Democrat John Kerry to match his rhetoric with deeds regarding our troops and veterans. Beatty points to Kerry’s Monday appearance on the Don Imus radio program where the junior Senator criticized the use of our troops as “props” for photographs. Beatty says this yet again provides proof of the Senator’s hypocrisy.

“History is repeating itself,” said Beatty, a former Delta Force officer. “Kerry has a long record of denigrating our armed services and now exploits them for his own political gain.”
On Kerry’s accusations through Imus, Beatty contends that “Kerry continues to use our troops to boost his political fortunes; it is Kerry who has exploited and degraded two generations of veterans—including our troops currently serving on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan.”

VIETNAM GENERATION

Kerry served as spokesman before the “Winter Soldier Investigation,” testifying before the Senate foreign relations committee and recounting the testimonies of alleged atrocities committed by American soldiers:
“They told the stories at times they had personally raped, cut off ears, cut off heads, taped wires from portable telephones to human genitals and turned up the power, cut off limbs, blown up bodies, randomly shot at civilians, razed villages in fashion reminiscent of Genghis Khan.” [1]

There was no evidence to substantiate the allegations, yet no charges were ever filed to confirm or contradict his testimony[2]

Kerry exploited unfounded sensational allegations about American service members in order to gain national TV exposure in 1971 and help launch his political career. Today, the North Vietnamese honor Kerry’s role in their victory in their War Museum.

TODAY’S GENERATION

Beatty is adamant that “Kerry voted to send our troops to war in Iraq, because it served his 2004 Presidential ambition,” and that “now, despite urging the President to cut and run from Iraq, Kerry continues to use our troops and our veterans for his own political purposes. He is making the rounds of troops in the field and veteran centers at home posing for photos and using our veterans and troops as “props” in another example of his incredible hypocrisy.”
“In spite of Kerry’s efforts, the hard work of service men and women is prevailing. We are now winning in Iraq,” says Beatty. “Yet Kerry persists in pursuing tactics that weaken our efforts, not strengthen them. Is Kerry going to be honored with another plaque like he was from the North Vietnamese, but this time from Bin Laden and Al Qaeda?” Beatty asks. “It’s time to replace John Kerry with one of us.”

Jeff Beatty is a Candidate for the US Senate who can be found at www.jeffbeatty.com. Beatty is a small businessman (founder of www.totalsecurity.us) who previously served in The Delta Force where he received a Purple Heart while helping rescue hundreds of Americans. He also served as a Special Agent of the FBI, advising the national Hostage Rescue Team and as a CIA Counter-terrorism Officer running successful operations in Europe and the Middle East.

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Something has been bugging me ever since McCain has tried to take on the “leader” label and also tried to paint Governor Romney as a “manager.” People in this country need to wake up. Points to consider:

1. A senator is a bureaucrat. Period. Bureaucrats, as politicians, manage legislation to compromise. McCain is the master manager of compromise away from conservative principles as he partnered wih the most liberal of Democrats.
2. A leader inspires and motivates. If in fact McCain ever inspired or motivated anyone while in the Navy, it was decades ago. Certainly, nobody has ever suggested he has inspired or truly motivated anyone since being in Congress.
3. By contrast, Mitt Romney has been a true leader of dozens of companies and ventures. If I were to list the details of each of these, it would literally take pages. Though most people have not really studied the background of his leadership in four of them (Bain 1, Bain 2, 2002 Winter Olympics, and Massachusetts), suffice to say that these are only four examples of unquestioned leadership, among the dozens throughout his life.
4. As a leader, Mitt Romney is prominently known for inspiring others. Countless stories came out of his miraculous rescue of the Olympics and his leadership to a Games considered the most successful of its time. Taking it from about a $400 million deficit when he inherited the debacle to a little less than an unprecedented $100 million surplus when the Games were completely over! The 2002 Winter Olympics (recent history) is but one example of extraordinary inspirational leadership spanning years. Mitt Romney is known as an extraordinary leader, if nothing else!

For John McCain to sit on some debate stage with that snarky, smug look on his face and so arrogantly tell the world, with a straight face and no embarrassment at all, that he is the leader and Governor Romney is a manager, is frankly repugnant. His assertions, this past 30 days in this regard, would be comedy if he were not so serious. He actually believes he is superior above all. Frankly, based on John McCain’s career, he is a mediocre manager, at best.

I live next to Camp Pendleton, the largest United States Marine Corps base in America. In my church and community responsibilities over the last 20 years, I have had the privilege of working side-by-side with many of the finest enlisted men and officers this nation has known. As a civilian, I have always been impressed by their personal and Corps discipline. I have studied John McCain’s career, as well as that of Mitt Romney’s, for years. If the two of them were in the United States Marine Corps the same amount of time (let’s say 40 years or so), Mitt Romney would certainly be a 4-star general today and John McCain would be lucky to be a major (below a colonel). That assuming he had not washed out of the Corps years earlier for his inability to bridle his temper.

Marines are known for being tough, certainly. But Marines are known more for their extraordinarily disciplined temperament. Frankly, in my humble opinion, John McCain’s temperament is completely the opposite of that of a United States Marine, regardless of John McCain’s assertions to the contrary. I know many enlisted Marines of the rank of sergeant and corporal whose temperaments are far superior to that of John McCain.

No, John McCain would have washed out of the Corps within a few years of entering the Marines, if he could even make it through boot camp without slugging a drill instructor.

There are many reasons senators are not elected Presidents.

~ Vic

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Many who read or write on this blog may feel disheartened by Romney’s “defeat” (actually a strong 2nd) in today’s Florida Primary. Certainly after much hard work by all of us it is only natural to sense some discouragement…somewhat like the wind being knocked out of your sails for a moment. We had expected a victory and we wouldn’t settle for less. As an avid lover of the sea I have noticed that the wind always returns and the sails fill again sending the ship to its intended destination.

Florida was one state out of fifty. Super Tuesday is coming. We cannot let the outcome of Florida betray our enthusiasm. Romney will win the Republican nomination for President of the United States.

Ann Romney brings immediate optimism with her statement, “This is just a send-off point; this is not an end.” I love the excitement she brings to the moment. What a great political partner to have in such a tight and contentious race!

One of the greatest Presidents in our history was an eternal optimist. After many political defeats (and one in particular), Lincoln told his friend Dr. Ray who continued to brood over Lincoln’s defeat, “You will soon feel better. Another blow up is coming; and we shall have fun again.” (Quoted from Team of Rivals)

Lincoln was not discouraged by his defeats…only his friends were. Like them, as we refocus our efforts towards Romney’s eventual nomination, we need to pull the bootstraps tight and start working the trenches just a bit harder. We are fighting for certain principles and for a better America. Each state individually is one stepping stone along the path to ultimate victory. The next contest is coming and it will be fun.

Just like Lincoln, Romney is winning the respect of others, earning their trust and even devotion as he moves along the campaign trail introducing himself to those who barely know him.

Read the following quotes about Lincoln’s strategy for the nomination. I think you will find them similar to Romney’s. These quotes are taken from A Team of Rivals.

As a dark horse, he knew it was important not to reveal his intentions too early, so as to minimize the possibility of opponents mobilizing against him.

It was important that any efforts on his behalf be squelched until the timing was right, and Lincoln, as would be evidenced throughout his presidency was a master of timing.

Not hindered by the hubris, delusions, and inconsistencies that plagued his three chief rivals, Lincoln gained steady ground through a combination of hard work, skill and luck. While his rivals felt compelled to reposition themselves toward the center of the party, Lincoln never changed his basic stance.

Though a successful bid for the nomination remained unlikely, a viable candidacy was no longer an impossible dream. Slowly and methodically, Lincoln set out to improve his long odds.

Most of his audiences had never laid eyes on him.

Once he began speaking he invariably forged an indelible impression, and left an impact on his listeners.

Though sensed by many to be an underdog candidate, Lincoln rose to the top and captured the nomination.

Romney is a master strategist. His focus for the nation is the right one. As we work “slowly and methodically” from state to state bringing the message of change, of fixing a broken Washington, and a re-commitment to time held American family values, I believe that America will listen, and the ‘long odds’ of success will be realized as we witness Romney place his hand on the Bible and swear and oath of duty as our next President.

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In the last few days, I have been reading most of the comments that many of you been leaving in this blog. First of, I wish to thank all of you who have done so; even those who presently disagree with the authors of this site or with Governor Romney himself. Those of us who strive to bring truth to the surface as we attempt to enlighten, are grateful.

Many of the comments are by new visitors. I have read comments by those who have served Fred Thompson well. Many are from Ron Paul supporters. Others, though they may not state their allegiance, may presently support Governor Huckabee, Mayor Giuliani, or Senator McCain. Many of you are contemplating support of Governor Romney. My concern is that many are stating they are afraid that if he is elected President, he will “revert to his liberal past” or words to that effect.

With complete respect, I offer some information. First, many comments mention that Gov. Romney is a privileged man with a privileged upbringing; the inference being that he is out of touch with the average man and woman. Those who struggle day to day to provide for their families. I will save what I would like to write here for another future post. Suffice to say that Governor Romney has spent thousands of hours in silent service (one-on-one) of children, women, and men with struggles many of us will never know (crying with them; praying with them; helping them).   That, as a lay leader in his church over many years.   If you want to get a glimpse of the real man, click here —-> MESSED UP HAIR
(keep in mind that Governor Romney has never mentioned this, nor has he ever mentioned personal service rendered to others; unlike Mike Huckabee who has done so many times).

It is simply false that GMR has ever been liberal in any way. Even the label “pro-choice”, to which GMR admitted, is misleading because his actions, his behavior, his decisions have always been on the side of life. Why am I writing this to you at 2:00 in the morning instead of sleeping? Because too many good, strong conservatives have bitten into the hook of the liberal MSM (hook, line, and sinker) to simply accept the flip/flop label altogether without doing any primary research. I must admit I did too in 2006 before I conducted my own primary research. Don’t make a fatal mistake. Conduct your own, personal, primary research on the man and you will find what I did. That he has always been a consistent conservative.

Proof? Look at this simple flyer to contrast GMR’s positions to that of Senator Kennedy as GMR ran against him in the 90s. Click here ——-> THE REAL ROMNEY (remember, this campaign flyer showing Governor Romney’s positions, is from 1994)

But don’t take my word for it or even the content of this flyer that has been around for years. Please conduct your own research. It takes time, but you will discover, as I did, that the truth about the man is altogether different than what the MSM and Governor Romney’s competitors want you to swallow without thinking.

One good place to start is the following site. Click here —–> Encyclopedia Mittanica maintained by our own Mike Laub.

Lastly, for those of you who are just now discovering Governor Romney and wish to get different perspectives from those who have conducted extensive research into the man, the statesman, the husband/father, the volunteer, click here ——> WHY ROMNEY? (be sure to scroll down; there are dozens of entries)

~ Vic

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Mitt Romney stands head and shoulders above McCain when it comes to the economy.

End of story. Well, okay, here’s some background.

McCain and the Bush Tax Cuts

John McCain is constantly being asked about why he voted against the Bush tax cuts (twice), an act Mitt called “failing Reagan 101.” His explanation is that the cuts needed to be accompanied by cuts in spending. He continues to justify his actions with this rationale, prompting George Will to encourage Governor Romney to make the following question central to his campaign: “When the Bush tax cuts expire in 2010, who do you want to be President: Mitt Romney or John McCain?” I personally am hoping to keep my taxes low, thanks, so I’m voting for Mitt. But it’s clear: tax cuts help the economy, and restraining spending in the short term will harm the economy. McCain gets an F for his first (and second) tries at Reagan 101.

Mitt vs. McCain on Today’s economic issues.

But there’s more to this story. The economy is teetering on the brink of potential disaster. We’ve all seen the signs: financial markets tumbling; oil prices surging; a mortgage market meltdown; banks writing down huge amounts of assets; American manufacturing jobs being lost to overseas competitors who aren’t playing fair; the trade deficit; the weak dollar. The list goes on and on, prompting the head of the Federal Reserve to nearly use the R word (recession) in front of Congress a few days ago, and prompting the Fed to slash rates early yesterday. But hope is not lost: we have a presidential candidate with experience in the economy, having made his investors hundreds of millions of dollars. And he has a few good ideas.

Mitt’s Economic Stimulus Package

To these troubling economic signs Mitt Romney has responded with a stimulus package of nearly a quarter of a trillion dollars. It includes rebates like President Bush’s plan, but also exempts seniors from paying social security taxes. And in a stroke of pure genius that’s truly Reagan-esque, highlighting why we need a man of Mitt’s expertise and intellect in the White House, Mitt’s plan also includes a proposal that would give the economy the kick in the shorts it needs: it would allow companies to expense capital purchases for two years.

More »

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This comment was left by reader Stephen last night:

Mitt definitely stands out in a crowd and with good reason. In part it is his acumen to understand that some regional problems can be solved by a combination of federal, state and local political entities have limited policies that allow businesses to flourish and as a result create a stronger economy, which in turn create jobs.

As we endure the spin coming into the next caucus, it is worthwhile to remember whom Mitt Romney has assembled for his team. Part of what makes Romney an attractive candidate is the caliber of people that sign on, in a variety of capacities, to assist Mitt’s campaign.

Romney offers what no other candidate does from his ability to go beyond repeating the mantra of the economic, social and defense conservatives, as other candidates do, to where he actually connects how all three areas of conservatism affect national and regional economies, defense and social issues.

Many difficulties have arisen in America through neglect, fiscal mismanagement, and ignorance of how the multifaceted areas interact by career politicians and bureaucrats. Yes, some in government do assist in providing excellent service but the majorities are entrenched in repetitive systems that equate success by completing studies, policies and research. Action is a word missing in most political lexicons. This is what occurs when career politicians advance up the political ladder without a foundation in creating, managing or leading organizations, corporations or large-scale volunteer groups.

Romney has 30 years of working from the bottom up consulting, managing and leading private sector corporations, leading the Olympics, and volunteering since a young age in overseeing volunteer organizations. He is uniquely qualified amongst any Presidential candidate in the 2008 political field in either the Republican or the Democratic parties. This fact alone is rare and what are even rarer are his accomplishments within the organizations he lead.

In a world of the results oriented private sector to the world stage when the 2000 Winter Olympics were becoming synonymous with corruption, Romney’s experience, acumen and fortitude lead a team to deliver an unqualified success; a success for the Olympic brand, the state of Utah and America. His determination to raise the bar and raise the Games above nay Sayers and those who sought to undermine the Olympic movement proved that his heart, intellect, dedication and courage were not only equal to the task but also unrelenting in making sure the games were memorable for the right reasons.

Romney’s ability and experience to connect tangential points within the health care system for example, and his experience in assembling a team that can dissemble such a complex problem of health care delivery to all residents of Massachusetts is illustrative of Romney’s gravitas. The following video links are long and worthwhile to listen to and watch. It is instructive of the level of detail that Romney and his team investigates the numerous factors of a problem and how they seek to arrive at the best solution of the day.

It reinforces what many of you who may read this letter already see in Governor Romney and may provide some insight to those of you who are taking a first look at what Mitt offers. With the advancing nations of India and China America is entering in uncharted territory with new challenges from highly competitive and ambitious nations. His talents and experience, I believe are tailored for this time.

For those of you looking for a sample of the depth and complexity of which the health care system in Massachusetts has gone through please watch both videos which each run over an hour. Mitt Romney discusses the health care system in Massachusetts along with Michael Porter. Some of you may have read a few of Porter’s books over the years.

http://forum.wgbh.org/wgbh/forum.php?lecture_id=1773

http://forum.wgbh.org/wgbh/forum.php?lecture_id=1788

One of the points of discussion deals with the value of health care is where creating and achieving health care value by providing health care not insurance. Insurance pays for the value. The problem this group addresses are some have the structure and issues of the Massachusetts health care plan and how the health care plan can create further value.

Health Value = Health Outcome per dollar spent.

In spite of the onslaught of media against Mitt, it is refreshing to see someone of his quality take on the serious issues and create teams that continue to refine and find solutions for current and upcoming problems for America.

Michael Porter Bio and Info:

“Michael E. Porter, the Lawrence University Professor, will chair the Romney campaign’s Global Competitiveness Policy Advisory Group, according to a recent press release. The group will advise Romney on a variety of issues including international trade, education, and scientific research.”

“Now that the campaign is hot and heavy, we thought that putting together a group to really vet and come up with creative policy ideas would be a good thing,” said Porter, who received his MBA and Ph.D. from Harvard.”

“Porter and the former governor have known each other for 25 years. During Romney’s term as governor, Porter chaired his economic policy transition team, and has continued to advise him on economic policy after Romney declared his intentions to run for president.”

Describing Romney as an “unusual” candidate, Porter mentioned Romney’s nontraditional background in management consulting and private equity as one of the reasons why he has elected to take a more public role in the upcoming campaign.

Thanks Stephen!

~ Vic

Romney is “someone who is very much respected, particularly in the issue of competitiveness. He is the only actual candidate who has worked in the private sector, in the real economy, Porter said.

Harvard Crimson, 2007

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Taking the Silver in Iowa.

Like Mitt said, it’s not what we’d hoped but it’s still a great finish, and preparation for the ultimate gold. We need to keep things humming along. What can you do? Make sure you make your phone calls for Mitt (if you’re not already a volunteer, contact the campaign to find out how to become one). As I said yesterday, considering where the campaign’s been and where it’s going it’s no time to get concerned about one bump in the road. Here are some facts to keep in perspective:

Wyoming’s caucuses are tomorrow, and both Mitt and McCain have big appearances on the Sunday shows. As “Richard” posted on Politico, Mitt can actually move into first place in the delegate count depending on the showing in Wyoming, and could even retain that lead with as much as a solid 2d place showing in NH.

“Isn’t it interesting people are making fun of Wyoming. That’s like football fans saying they don’t care about field goals. They would just as soon pass them up. Well, Mitt isn’t going to pass anything up. Since not very many people are aware, it takes 1191 Delegates to WIN the republican nomination. So far Huck has 20, Romney 18, McCain and Thompson 3, Paul 2 and Giuliani 1. Wyoming has 14 delegates up for grabs, New Hampshire 14 and Michigan 30. So, because the media looks to promote certain states, it truly is the number of delegates available. By the way, Romney, Thompson and Paul are the only ones that have been to Wyoming so watch them snatch up the delegates….”

I’m not sure these numbers are right but they’re roughly consistent with what I’ve read elsewhere. Mitt being in first place for delegates after NH is more than we could have hoped for a few months ago, and that’s a very achievable goal. We all knew it would be a close race; now we need to pitch in to make it happen! A quick stat: 2 of the 5 brothers were at the Des Moines airport early this morning, and at least one was headed to Wyoming, so Wyoming is clearly going to be feeling the love.

Mitt’s Game of 3D Chess

I happened to find my way into a Q&A Kevin Madden was giving to reporters before Mitt’s appearance at the Sheraton last night. Here are a few shots:

Kevin may have the best tie I’ve seen so far in the campaign, even including Mitt. Try to get a good look.

Kevin told them that Mitt’s playing 3D chess versus his opponents’ checkers, pursuing a multi-front war while his opponents have largely focused on one state. And (using my words) this race is like the Tour de France: winning a particular stage isn’t the important thing, it’s standings at the end. In Lance’s seven tour wins, he won on average fewer than 3 stages per year (20 total stages in 7 wins).

Bring on NH!

McCain is Mitt’s main competition in NH as we all know. Mitt has a new ad, as does McCain. In his, McCain blatantly spins a couple half-quotes from Mitt to make false claims. In one of Mitt’s statements Mitt said foreign policy expertise is easy to find; you can go to the State Department to find someone versed in knowledge, but that expertise (like McCain’s) alone isn’t enough. But the ad twists the statement to say Mitt would rely on the State Department for leadership, which was the exact opposite of what was intended. We need to make sure we call him on this sort of false claim and twisted quotes. So much for John remaining above negative campaiging (as if he’d ever tried).

As a result, now would be a good time to reinforce Mitt’s leadership experience and executive successes (contrasted to McCain’s 20+ years leisurely creating laws after dispatching lackeys to do the research for him). We need to remind people of Mitt’s strengths and that he’s succeeded at nearly everything he’s touched. A few talking points:

1. He had the leadership to turn around the Olympics.

2. He had the leadership to turn around a collection of companies while at Bain, solving problems people before him couldn’t. Sound like a skill we could use in our President today?

3. He had the leadership and determination to keep all the campaign promises he made in Massachusetts, while working with a democratic legislature. By contrast a “maverick” has a hard time getting things done because they don’t tend to play well with others.

4. He had the leadership to organize and motivate volunteers to turn out more voters than expected in Iowa.

5. He showed grace and leadership last night in acknowledging Mike Huckabee’s success, but motivating and convincing the troops we’ll do better in New Hampshire.

6. He has shown the strength of character to think about solutions to problems before he implements them, but then to decisively execute on his plan.

7. He’s the only one that can represent the entire republican party, as the National Review pointed out in their endorsement. In looking at all the candidates, he has the best chance of winning it all, and if you listen carefully he is still the defacto front runner. All guns seem to be pointed at Mitt.

You heard it here first: if we can remind the people of NH what Mitt has accomplished, we will win in NH. People in NH know we need real leadership in Washington. A repackaging of the same old ideas and people just won’t cut it anymore. If there was anything clear in Iowa last night, change and effective leadership are what people are looking for. John McCain is a member of a Congress whose approval rating is abysmal. He has had his chance to be an agent of change as a Washington insider for the last 20+ years. If he hasn’t had shown the leadership yet to solve the problems we have in our society, how will he suddenly start showing leadership now as President? He’s had his chance. We need to tell Washington and Johnny Mac to lead, follow or get out of the way.

Last Thoughts About the Iowa Caucuses

My wife and I drove to a northern suburb of Des Moines last night and attended a caucus of about 130 people. The process, though less complicated than for the dems, was still fascinating. The republican leader (clearly an untrained volunteer from the local community) had an envelope of instructions on how to run the show, and was learning along with everyone else. I felt like I was watching pure democracy, with all its wrinkles. After getting organized, representatives of each campaign were given a chance to speak. When Rudy’s name came up someone shouted “Rudy who?,” generating guffaws. Statements were made on behalf of Huckabee, Fred and Mitt (this last made by yours truly). Votes were cast on yellow ballots made from quartered sheets of 8.5×11″ paper. Ballots were hand-collected and sorted into stacks for each candidate. Votes were then counted and re-counted, then telephoned into GOP headquarters. My wife noted a number of people changing their party affiliations at the door, confirming anecdotally what the national press has observed, that someone out there was driving new voters to turn out, we believe evangelicals.

The Post-Game Party

At the final party Doug Gross, Mitt and Ann re-enthused the crowd.

Here are some pictures:

Now off to bed so I can come back again tomorrow. It’s now after 3 a.m. central time, so I’ve been up about 23 hours straight. Keep it up everybody out there, we all know how much this country needs a man like Mitt Romney (for a reminder see Thomas Alan’s blog on this very site). One last bit of encouragement. Close your eyes and imagine Mitt raising his hand and taking the oath of office in January 2009. Now open those eyes and let’s get it done!

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I just want to say how proud I am of all of you and the great information that has been posted to this amazing site. Mitt’s success is due to so many people that believe in him and the change he can bring to Washington. You can tell that he is doing well when all the Left are taking so many shots at him and yet he still is at the top of his game. I have been waiting a long time for this day. Keep up the great work….

Brent

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I never properly introduced myself on this site. My name is Rebecca. I am married and have two small children. My current employment is as a wife and mother. I have always liked politics and I have always loved to write. When a friend offered me the chance to blog on this site, it seemed like a good way to get involved without taking too much time from my family.

I first heard the name of Mitt Romney sometime in 2003 or 2004. I was talking with my Dad. The conversation had drifted to abuses of power by government agencies who were not accountable to anyone. He expressed the desire for a strong president that would take power from the bureaucrats and return it to the people, where it belonged. He thought that Governor Romeny could be that man–if only he would run.

Now, I respect my father and I have a high regard for his opinion. That said, he would be the first to tell you that I very seldom rely soley on his advice to make important decisions. I waited to see who was running and then I did a little research. What I found convinced me that Mitt Romney is the best candidate to lead the United States at this time.

In the first place, he is running. Say what you will, it is very difficult–perhaps impossible–to elect a man to office who is not willing to campaign. George Washington is the only man who was ever able to do it.

In the second place, he is running as a Republican and a Conservative. I have no use for the modern Democratic party. I cannot see that they have accomplished anything useful in my lifetime and they are actively advocating the downfall of my country and my species.

Thirdly, Mitt Romney is a good man. There has been a lot of debate over the past couple of decades about the division of public office and private affairs. I do not think there is a division. In a time when we must trust our President with our safety, trust him to make important decisions about life or death, we need someone who is, well, trustworthy. Opponents may like to paint Romney’s squeaky clean personal life as “too perfect” but to me it simply means he has integrity. And I refuse to believe that integrity can go out of fashion.

And then there is Romney’s experience. Romney’s business career consisted of turning around organizations founded on good ideas but with fiscal problems. He was immensley successful at doing this and gained a tremendous amount of trust and respect from his peers. He then used his experience and skills, as well as political saavy and diplomacy, to turn around the 2002 Olympic Games and the budget for the State of Massachusetts. Who better to take the helm of a nation founded on the principle “that all men… are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” but also finds itself in ever increasing financial turmoil?

I was, of course, concerned over the charges of “flip-flopping” on social issues, as well as Romney’s tendency to be rather more liberal on fiscal issues than many true-blue (or should I say true-red?) conservatives would like. As to the former, Romney did switch his position. Once. He has since said he was wrong. His story attests to the fact that Romney is ultimately ruled by his own morality than by any philisophical argument. In response to the latter, I have found that he is overall more conservative than other candidates. I also have great faith in the separation of powers. The President does not have the power to pass laws, Congress must do that. Should the President introduce any bill that is not favored by the people of this nation, it can be efficiently stopped by an appeal to individual legislators from their districts. See the graveyard of amnesty bills killed by grassroots efforts during the current Bush administration.

Romney is also a Mormon. I had no problem with this since I also belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Romney does not speak for the LDS Church. Those seeking clarification of Church doctrines should turn to other sources. I recommend www.mormon.org for a comprehensive outline of the tenets of this faith.

I have been in the same room with Governor Romney twice. Both times were at the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in my home town of College Station, Texas. I never got close enough to shake his hand. Nor did he answer any of my questions. However, there is a feeling of quiet confidence, determination and willingness to work hard that surround this man. His wife was with him on both occassions as were several of his sons. It is impressive to me that his sons take such an active role in his campaign.

Mitt Romney is a man that I feel I can trust. The President of the United States is the leader of his or her party. They are responsible for the security of the nation. It is more important to be able to trust their judgement and morality than to agree with all of their so-called plans or positions. As it happens, in my case, Romney is the candidate whose positions I agree with most often and in whom I have the most confidence. I believe that as you search for information beyond the TV ads and radio spots that you will discover that he is someone to whom you may safely trust the future of our nation.

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By: Mary Jacoby

WALL STREET JOURNAL December 26, 2007

I am obviously playing catch-up with my print edition of the WSJ, but this story is very much relevant even though it’s a few days old.

The results are clear. In the battle of “significant” campaign speeches, Mitt Romney’s Dec.6 “Faith In America” address has crushed Rudy Giuliani’s Dec. 15 “closing argument” campaign speech in one key barometer of buzz: YouTube.

As of Monday, a clip of Mr. Romney’s much anticipated address, in which he defended his Mormonism and explained the need for expressions of faith in public life, garnered 46,437 views and some 1,500 comments on the popular video-sharing website.

Mr. Giuliani, speaking to about 200 supporters in Tampa, stressed his leadership qualities and unveiled his new slogan: “Tested. Ready. Now.” His campaign had billed it as the former prosecutor’s “closing argument” for the Republican presidential nomination. The jury appears unconvinced, however. As of Monday, a clip of the speech had been viewed only 1,106 times and it drew no comments.

To me, it is very ironic, that Mike Huckabee’s shameless playing of the religion card, which had the effect of re-introducing an issue that many felt had been taken out of American presidential politics by John F. Kennedy’s speech in Houston, Texas back in 1960, has produced one of the best moments of the campaign thus far and has generated the “buzz” that all politicians hope for, but few attain. It is also ironic that the Romney campaign was at first reluctant to give the speech, understandably and justifiably so. Gov. Romney has run his campaign on the theme of the “three legged stool” of a strong economy, a strong military and strong families. He did not intend to run a campaign based on religion or he would have incorporated it into the original theme.

However, former Gov. Huckabee had a different idea and chose to emphasize religion as a major plank in his platform. I wonder if Mr. Huckabee is having any second thoughts about opening the door on an issue that has now turned into a major gift in disguise.

~~John Cronin~~

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Mitt Romney is demonstrating how he would manage effectively as President of the United States.

With the race for the nomination heating up Mitt is demonstrating his skills in managing a very complicated process. I have made the argument for a long time that he is the only candidate that is fighting battles on all fronts. He is so well organized in the effectiveness of his campaign that he is the only Republican candidate that is competitive on every front of the early states. His campaign is making Rudy, Huckabee, McCain all nervous and they are so desperate that they all are attacking him personally instead of issues. Yet some out there are taking notice, as evidenced by the following article posted today on realclearpolitics.com. Under “Romney controls his own destiny”. Following is a link to the article…have a nice read

POLITICAL CONNECTIONS — Romney Is Betting Big To Win Big — By Ronald Brownstein, NationalJournal.com© National Journal Group Inc.Friday, Dec. 28, 2007

The great burden of former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney’s presidential campaign is that he is the sole Republican competing in all of the key early contests that begin with next Thursday’s Iowa caucus. That could also prove Romney’s great opportunity.

How true it is…

Brent

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Add Rush Limbaugh to the list of “non-endorsements” Mitt is getting (see prior post on “non-endorsements from Sean Hannity and Richard Land)

This is somewhat long, but you must read the whole thing! (Note toward the end when he starts caveating about how he doesn’t endorse in the primary…with “non-endorsements” like these, who needs endorsements?!)

BEGIN TRANSCRIPT

RUSH: I want to start with Mitt Romney today, Mitt Romney’s speech. Frankly, I thought what we saw today, folks, was a Republican candidate for president giving an inspiring speech. It was an inspiring speech about American values, including religion. Mitt Romney did this because he has been relentlessly attacked as something less than a true American. I watched this. I had seen some excerpts from the speech published before he made it. I thought he was inspiring, folks. I think he set exactly the right tone and I am stunned by some of the criticism I am seeing of this speech, particularly on some conservative websites. “He didn’t include atheists; he didn’t include agnostics; he didn’t say and reach out to Hindus.” I don’t understand it. Of all things to take from this speech that Romney gave today, that he didn’t reach out to atheists and didn’t reach out to agnostics, is beyond me. I thought he showed today his ability to confront, to articulate, to persuade, and to lead.

He also demonstrated he is more than willing to take a huge risk. Everybody, from his advisors on down, said: “Don’t do this speech until after you’ve won a primary someplace, or until you’ve won the nomination. Don’t do this speech now. Too much can go wrong with it.” Bob Novak had a column today, said, “I don’t know what’s going to happen here; what can he say?” Well, he said a lot of things. It’s amazing how the Drive-By Media is going gaga over empty suits like Barack Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton. Neither of those candidates can hold a candle to any of ours: Romney, Rudy, Fred Thompson, Huckabee, none of them can. They’re empty suits compared to our side, and for our side to sit here and start talking, “He didn’t address atheists”? Let’s start with the audio sound bites, and let’s go to the precedent for this. This is September 12th, 1960, in Houston at the Rice Hotel, presidential candidate JFK addressing the Greater Houston Ministerial Association about being a Catholic. We put together here just a little montage.

JOHN F. KENNEDY: But because I am a Catholic and no Catholic has ever been elected president, the real issues in this campaign have been obscured. I am the Democratic Party’s candidate for president, who happens also to be a Catholic. I do not speak for my church on public matters, and the church does not speak for me.

RUSH: Now let’s go to the Drive-Bys and their analysis prior to the speech being given, a montage today from CNN, ABC and PMSNBC.

HARRIS: Mitt Romney speaks out on religion, but don’t expect him to explain his Mormon beliefs.

BRZEZINSKI: Romney isn’t expected to focus on specific teachings.

BERMAN: If people are looking for him to explain the specific doctrines of his faith, the Mormon religion, they will be disappointed.

BASH: Do not expect him to talk about how he prays. He does not intend to sort of uncloak the mysteries of Mormonism.

RUSH: You can tell what this is all about. These people are hoping like hell that they can destroy him because of his Mormonism and scare people and set it up in advance that he’s not going to be honest, that he’s not going to be forthcoming and he’s got something to hide. It didn’t come off that way at all. We’ve got some sound bite excerpts, and let’s just get started. Here is the first.

ROMNEY: Let me assure you that no authorities of my church or of any other church, for that matter, will ever exert influence on presidential decisions. Their authority is theirs within the province of church affairs, and it ends where the affairs of the nation begin. When I place my hand on the Bible and take the oath of office, that oath becomes my highest promise to God. If I’m fortunate to become your president, I will serve no one religion, no one group, no one cause, and no one interest. A president must serve only the common cause of the people of the United States.

RUSH: There was big applause. We cut the applause in the interests of time here, but there was a lot of it, and there were many applause lines, and a couple of them went on for an extended period of time. Here’s another excerpt.

ROMNEY: I believe in my Mormon faith, and I endeavor to live by it. My faith is the faith of my fathers. I will be true to them and to my beliefs. Some believe that such a confession of my faith will sink my candidacy. If they’re right, so be it. But I think they underestimate the American people. There is one fundamental question about which I’m often asked: “What do I believe about Jesus Christ?” I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the savior of mankind.

RUSH: You can see he’s not reaching out to the atheists here, is he? Not reaching out to the agnostics, not reaching out to the Hindus. I’m still stunned that I read that kind of criticism on some conservative websites today. Here’s another excerpt.

ROMNEY: It’s important to recognize that while differences in theology exist between the churches in America, we share a common creed of moral convictions. And where the affairs of our nation are concerned, it’s usually a sound rule to focus on the latter, on the great moral principles that urge us all on a common course. In recent years, the notion of the separation of church and state has been taken by some well beyond its original meaning. They seek to remove from the public domain any acknowledgment of God. Religion is seen as merely a private affair with no place in public life. It’s as if they’re intent on establishing a new religion in America, the religion of secularism. They are wrong. The Founders proscribed the establishment of a state religion, but they did not countenance the elimination of religion from the public square. We are a nation under God, and in God we do, indeed, trust.

RUSH: I tell you, this stuff was, to me, it was inspiring listening to this. You’re listening here to a Republican candidate for president give an inspiring speech about American values in which he’s including religion because he’s been relentlessly attacked. Frankly, this is the kind of thing missing from the campaign. Where are we as a country? Where are we going? What kind of people are we? What binds us together? It isn’t health care. It’s not Social Security. It’s not all those little policy-wonk things. It’s who we are as a people and our acknowledgement, our Founders’ acknowledgement that we are all created by God, and it’s that creation from which we have our liberty and our freedom and the pursuit of happiness. It doesn’t come from any other human being. Those values are not imposed upon us. It can only be taken away by men, but they are granted to us by virtue of our creation. This is a perfect place for this kind of values speech to be made in a presidential campaign. One more sound bite.

ROMNEY: You can be certain of this. Any believer in religious freedom, any person who has knelt in prayer to the Almighty has a friend and ally in me, and so it is for hundreds of millions of our countrymen. We do not insist on a single strain of religion. Rather, we welcome our nation’s symphony of faith. Recall the early days of the first Continental Congress in Philadelphia during the fall of 1774, with Boston occupied by British troops, there were rumors of imminent hostilities and fears of an impending war. In this time of peril, someone suggested that they pray. But there were objections. They were too divided in religious sentiments, what with Episcopalians and Quakers, and Baptists and Congregationalists and Presbyterians and Catholics, then Sam Adams rose and said he would hear a prayer from anyone of piety and good character, as long as they were a patriot. And so together they prayed, and together they fought, and together by the grace of God they founded this great nation.

RUSH: And the applause there went on and on and on. Romney also made it a point to say, in regards to prayer, that he will need the prayers of all Americans as president of the United States. There was nothing exclusionary; there was nothing threatening. I’m telling you, as far as I’m concerned, I think he was inspiring. I think he set exactly the right tone in this speech. But back to the people criticizing him and what he said. They really ought to look at themselves in the mirror, because what they really seem to be saying when they say he didn’t reach out to the agnostics and the atheists and the Hindus, what I think they really seem to be saying is, if you don’t share my religion, not my beliefs, but my religion, then you’re not qualified to be president. What they’re saying is, you can never say enough, you can never say the right thing because you’re not of my religion, and therefore you’re not qualified to be president. Atheism is a religion, whether they want to believe it or not. Agnosticism is too. If you want to say that he didn’t reach out to them or the Hindus then he’s not qualified because he didn’t acknowledge them, what kind of analysis is that?

This is poison, this kind of analysis, coming from conservatives on reputable websites. When I saw it, I was distressed by it. I expect it from liberals; I expect that kind of reaction. He didn’t address the atheists and the agnostics? He didn’t really explain his religion? He really didn’t explain why he should be nominated and so forth? All of this that people are saying reveals partisan thinking, the thinking of those who support another candidate, not seriously thinking about the nature of the process here and what Romney was trying to do with the speech. They’re looking at this strictly within the confines of a political speech, and I think it went beyond those bounds. The critics — I guess it’s quite natural — they put their own agenda into this speech. He didn’t talk about taxes, they’re saying, he didn’t talk about electability. This wasn’t a speech about taxes. This wasn’t a speech about electability. It wasn’t a speech about policy. It was a speech about American values, what binds us together as a people and as a nation and what will continue to bind us together in the future as a nation.

I have to tell you, I don’t endorse candidates in primaries, and this is not an endorsement. I’ve said this repeatedly. But Romney, throughout all of this — you try running around having your religion attacked and threatened and lied about every day, folks, and not get bitter, and Mitt Romney has not been bitter. He has not gotten angry. He easily could have. He’s kept a positive outlook and approach, despite being demeaned and doubted in ways that no other candidate has had to deal with.
BREAK TRANSCRIPT

RUSH: Don’t doubt me. Now, just a couple final thoughts here on the Romney speech and the atmosphere surrounding it. As I mentioned, I don’t endorse candidates in primaries, but Romney certainly should have our attention in a good way. Whether he’s the nominee or not, he hasn’t been bitter; he hasn’t reacted in an angry way — and I’ll tell you, he has every reason to have done so. He’s been demeaned. He has been doubted in ways that no other candidate has had to deal with, and those who continue — even after this speech — to try to pick him apart with attacks on his character, which are really just disguised as supposedly thoughtful inquiries, should be ashamed of themselves. But I’ll tell you, I don’t think one candidate should be singled out this way, frankly, and this is another thing about this that is very, very irritating to me. If religion is important in this election — and I guess it is, because the Drive-Bys and the Democrats have made it important, and they make religion important in every election. I’ll tell you, you evangelicals? Don’t have short memories here. You are just as hated by the Drive-Bys as Mitt Romney is. You are just as despised by the Democratic Party as Mitt Romney is, and you know it. You have been the focus of full-frontal assaults on your religion for as many years as I can remember being in public life like this.

All the way back to the eighties, during the Reagan years, you know how you were portrayed. You’re stupid. You’re hayseed hicks. You have CNN with questions in a debate and some guy in a basement like the Unabomber holding up the Bible and asking, “Do you believe every word in this book?” Like, “You idiot! You can’t possibly.” You know how you’ve been insulted. You have gun racks in the back of your pickup truck. You get to church on Saturday night, and have a barbecue in the parking lot in order to be the first in the pew you want on Sunday. You go to NASCAR races. You’re missing a couple of front teeth. You chew tobacco, and you are stupid. That’s what they think of evangelicals and the so-called Christian right, and they’re dumping on Mitt Romney the same way. You have to understand why. They fear the morality of religion. They fear the moral guideposts. They fear that people of faith, whatever the faith is, believe in things larger than themselves. Liberals, some Democrats think the end-all is with them and with humanity, and that there is nothing larger (other than right now the environment), and anybody who knows there is something larger than themselves in this life, anybody who knows that there are questions human beings are capable of asking, but we will never be capable of answering while on this Earth, scares liberals to death, and they can’t control people like that, and they fear what they consider to be the judgmentalism of people like that. And they fear the standards, both moral and ethical, that people of faith — I don’t care what faith we’re talking about — conduct their lives with as best they can.

So it’s not just Romney that they are targeting. It’s people of faith who are public about it everywhere, and they’re doing their best to discredit anybody with faith of any kind. Do you note that the Democrats are never, ever, asked about this? If religion is important in this election, in that we want to know how someone’s faith may impact their governing, then I think all the candidates need to give a speech of this kind. All the candidates need to be asked questions like this. All the candidates need to spell out where they are coming from — Rudy, McCain, Thompson, Huckabee — not just the Republicans, either. Democrats as well. The Democrats mix the pulpit with politics all the time. They go into church and raise money for campaigns, in violation of laws, and nobody calls them on it because of where those churches are. They mix it all the time, and nobody ever calls them on it, and nobody ever tells them, “Aren’t you being a little hypocritical here? You’re out there constantly ripping evangelical Christians and the Christian right, and there you are in a church making speeches,” and in Mrs. Clinton’s case, using a Southern black dialect to talk to the flock that’s inside the church? Where do the Democrats draw the lines on religion and governing? What do they believe? How do their religions influence their views? You know, Harry Reid is a Mormon. I wonder how Harry Reid feels about his brother Mormon being attacked like this, and having to defend himself, and how come Harry Reid doesn’t have to defend his Mormonism in context of how he governs?

“Well, Rush, he’s not running for president.”

I don’t care. He’s in public life. He’s got a pretty powerful job. He’s the Senate majority leader. How come he doesn’t have to explain his belief in Mormonism? How come Orrin Hatch doesn’t have to? Understand what this is, folks: This is an effort to destroy the character and integrity of a good man, a decent man, on the basis of religion. It’s not the America I grew up in.

BREAK TRANSCRIPT

RUSH: By the way, one more thing about Romney, I don’t want you to forget this. This was articulate, it was clear, and it was somewhat courageous. Everybody was telling him not to do this. He showed leadership doing this today. He exemplified characteristics of somebody who is not afraid to lead. I hope you get a chance at some point to watch the whole speech or to at least read it, maybe watch it. It will be, I’m sure, replayed on a number of cable outlets.
END TRANSCRIPT

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Right about the time I was expecting to hear repeated the “teflon” label given Reagan, this news hits. I was driving home today and heard Hewitt break this news and callers saying RG will get over this little speed bump. I hurried home to post the story, parked the car, kissed my wife, ran to the computer, and SCOOPED! Ann Marie got it done! So at the ABC story, I decided to read the comments (150 now) and had to skip a bunch — there sure are a lot of vulgar people in this world! I copied over some of the more interesting of the comments below. First though, it appears (is alleged), that Giuliani,

1) Misappropriated NYC funds and resources for his personal use.
2) Provided significant city resources for his then publicly unknown mistress while at the same time providing the same services for the wife to whom he was married.
3) Used obscure city financial accounts to bury or divert the NYC Police expenses ostensibly to hide them.
4) Billed the city for hotel stays that had no official government purpose.

So what does all this mean? You decide. Does this revelation really matter to the race? Have we gotten to the point in America that with a nod and wink we can easily dismiss major moral and ethical indiscretions? To get you started, check out these comments from the ABC blog. What are your comments? Please leave one below:

It appears as if Mayor Rudy Giuliani finally found the perfect match for him, for now. He changes women like he changes his mind, constantly. Posted by: sue from texas

Anyone really surprised? He’s a natural for the presidency w/ the current state of affairs. I’m sickened that he calls himself a republican, much less an American. As higher forms of life go, I’d rate him at just under STD’s, and just above the amoeba. Posted by: VeteranD

In this corner weighing in as most adulterous the current champions Bradgelina…in the other corner the challengers Rudyjudy….. and the winner is RUDYJUDY!!!!….Posted by: GM

Unfortunately, after Slick Willie’s time in the White House, there is no behavior that would be bad enough to scandalize a President (or Presidential Candidate) short of murder. Everything that would have been a scandal in the past is simply dismissed as normal behavior from a politician…Posted by: Nathan

Simple Question for Giuliani: “Did Judi Nathan receive city-paid security or transportation in 2000, when you were still married to Donna Hanover?” Posted by: D

Bye bye Rudy!! We hardly knew ya!!!! Posted by: Mrzip

Clinton’s scandals seems positively silly compared to the flagrant abuse of power and contempt for the taxpayer on display here. Posted by: mk

How much did Bill Clinton’s mistress Monica cost the taxpayers? Bill Clinton set the moral standards for us. Who cares about Rudy’s escapades? Posted by: Caryl M

Wow, Romney comes under heat for his religion, yet Giuliani is leading a polygamist life with two “wives” under security, simultaneously. Posted by: bill henry

What happened to “America’s Mayor”? Isn’t he a man who prides himself on being on top of everything and in the know? If he can’t explain the accounting of his personal expenses on the city’s tab, how does he think that he’s equipped to be president? Posted by: Brooklynite

“America was stupid enought to elect Slick Willie - TWICE so what’s the fuss about? At least Rudy wasn’t caught in the White House or Mayors Office.”

No, he was not caught in the mayor’s office. That’s the whole point. He was taking his adultery on the road, at taxpayer expense. Posted by: Alvin

This is one CONSERVATIVE who’s totally disgusted by Rudy. I have been very disappointed in my party for supporting this man. He’s dishonest, obviously, and isn’t a conservative. Unethical behavior is bad no matter which side of the aisle you’re on! Posted by: Oink

When the Democratic New York State Controller was caught improperly having his wife chauffeured around at state expense he was forced from office. Do we have a double standard here? Posted by: evan500

If this was about Clinton, this would be the top story for, oh, about a year. Posted by: Clay

There IS a God. Posted by: LeeO

But…..but……Pat Robertson backed him. Let’s hear what Pat Robertson has to say now. [cue crickets] Posted by: