Surprise Candidate Rising Like a Meteor in the Governor's Race

Having won several polls in the Governor's race across the state in the past month, Ray McBerry's campaign continues to pick up steam across the state.

In the past month, McBerry won first place in the governor's race straw poll conducted in Tifton the week following two candidate forums in south Georgia, one in Tifton and another in Valdosta. Even Austin Scott, a native of Tifton, came in second to McBerry among the seven Republicans.

Meanwhile, Ray McBerry scored overwhelming victories in the online polls for the Governor's race that were conducted by both the Augusta area Young Republicans in east Georgia and the Paulding County GOP in west Georgia.

In north Georgia's Walker County, the McBerry Campaign came in second place in the Republican party's straw poll, being bested only by Nathan Deal, in whose "back yard" the straw poll was conducted.

For several months now, there have been record turnouts each time that Ray McBerry has spoken at different county GOP meetings across the state, leading to an increase in the number of speaking invitations from other county chairmen.

Additionally, Ray has been invited to be the "kickoff" speaker for nearly a dozen " tea party patriot" groups springing up around the state -- groups who are looking for candidates who are not part of the current Democrat and Republican establishment. The most recent of these events was this past Thursday evening in Dalton in which approximately 200 people turned out to hear Ray speak on the subject of "States' Rights."

The record turnout at both Republican-sponsored events and these "town hall" type meetings every time that Ray McBerry is invited to speak have certainly gotten the attention of many within the Republican Party. Being called "the best public speaker in Georgia today" by a number of statewide candidates, Ray's message of "States' Rights" is resounding incredibly well in all areas of the state and among all groups, including "blue dog" Democrats, Libertarians, and Independents, as well as traditional conservative Republicans.

The McBerry Campaign team continues to grow with each new week and is the largest volunteer organization in the governor's race among both Republican and Democrat contenders. With the rapid growth of the campaign, the success in numerous recent polls, and the increasing demand for his speaking across the state, Ray McBerry appears to be rising like a meteor in the Republican race for Governor.

For more information or to contact Ray McBerry's campaign about interviews and speaking engagements, please visit the campaign website at www.GeorgiaFirst.org
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Handel "All In" For Governor's Race

The following statement from Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel was released today, December 22nd, 2009:

I have spoken to Governor Perdue and informed him that I will resign as Secretary of State by the end of the year.

This was an extraordinarily difficult decision - professionally and personally. However, I know that it is the right one - for the Office of the Secretary of State, the team there, and the citizens of Georgia who have entrusted me with this important position, as well as for my campaign for Governor.

Over the past month, Georgia's economic climate has continued to deteriorate, and we've all experienced disbelief and anger over the actions of some in the State Legislature. As I've considered this new landscape, it became clear to me that, while certainly manageable, serving as Secretary of State while also running for Governor was no longer the best approach for the office or my campaign.

I also took into consideration that I did not want any perceived conflicts of interest concerning my overseeing the primary or general elections, investigating complaints that arise, and certifying the results of the elections while a candidate for Governor and serving as Secretary of State.

Georgia's next Governor must be a real leader with solid, conservative principles, a vision for our state, and the executive/business management experience needed to actually run our state and achieve meaningful progress on the issues we face.

Our next Governor must also have a commitment to ethics reform that is beyond question and a track record of ethical leadership. These are the reasons I decided to run for Governor, and they are the reasons that I am going to win.

So, as we enter the new year, the people of Georgia need to know that I am all in for the Governor's race. This decision allows me to focus 100% on becoming the Republican nominee and winning the election in November.

This decision allows the Governor to appoint an interim Secretary of State to focus completely on the important issues in the agency, including the ongoing situation with the US Department of Justice involving Georgia's voter verification process and overseeing the 2010 elections.

The next Secretary of State will have the benefit of a team of very talented individuals who will continue to serve the office - and the State - with the same level of commitment and dedication that I have appreciated for three years. I am confident that the transition will be smooth, and the people of Georgia will be well served by this team and whomever the Governor appointments to lead them.

Finally, I want to thank the people of Georgia for their trust and confidence in me to serve as their Secretary of State. My thanks, as well, to the tremendous team within the Secretary of State's office for their commitment and hard work.

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Fight With Frisbee - 12/20 Money Bomb (Frisbee For Congress 2010)

Facebook Message: Counting Down - Why A Money Bomb Now

Greetings,

First, I want to thank those who have signed up to be a part of my Campaign Facebook Group. Your support doing so is greatly appreciated. Additionally, I want to thank those that have confirmed as attending or maybe attending the Money Bomb event page.

I know there has been a flurry of money bombs out there. Seems like Rand Paul, Adam Kokesh, or Peter Schiff is having one all the time and seemingly people are constantly sending money by the flurry to them. I also recognize that this is the holidays, and people in this area specifically are hurting financially. I can feel your pain, I too am personally dealing with such hardships due to this ongoing economic slowdown.

However, from speaking with people around Georgia's 13th Congressional District, they tell me constantly the long overdue need to get Congressman David Scott removed from office, and that it must be done in 2010.

When I tell them of my plan to offer a stimulus package in Congress that does not include additional spending, but instead, tax cuts on individuals and small business, tax credits for small businesses and entrepreneurs, and tax roll backs for investors - then explain the reasons why and how these things will spur the growth of small businesses that then will lead to the hiring of Americans across this country, people see that this is the true economic recovery we need. Private sector jobs is the key - and they recognize I have a plan that will work.

When they hear of my plan to merge private sector and public sector into a cooperative program that helps to educate and retrain unemployed and welfare recipients to become business owners and managers, to assist them in launching their own business, and then have those new business owners hire other unemployed and welfare recipients, and that through this process, we help instill pride, respect, and esteem back into the individual - they realize that here is real change that is needed for our country, change that will raise up urban populations to self reliance and fiscal independence, and that I am the man to bring this to Congress.

When I explain my plan to reform education to get the Federal Government out of the schools and get more control back in the hands of parents, too help get more resources to the states to help build up urban schools, expand teacher availability and retention, as well as, reward student involvement and hard work - they see a vision that can revolutionize our education system and give opportunity for all children and give hope to those who feel hopeless in their communities.

However, I am having trouble reaching out and getting my message heard by everyone in the District - and I must reach everyone.

I am not rich, I am not even modestly comfortable. I'm a regular guy just like you, working hard to make a living, and provide for my family. I don't have the vast resources that my opponent does. He has raised a huge sum already - most of which has come from OUTSIDE of Georgia. Special interests and lobbying groups have a marked interest in making sure David Scott stays in office.

I know you are struggling - I know this is a bad time of year. I'm asking you to help me despite that. Let me demonstrate what a small donation of $5, $10, and $25 can do. There are 880 or so members on my campaign Facebook.

If each person was to donate only $5, that would bring in $4400.

With that I could purchase for the campaign:

The complete voter registry for the 13th Congressional District

1,000 Bumper Stickers
500 Lawn Yard Signs
1000 EZ Wires
50 Highway Signs
1,500 Literature Bags
1,000 Lapel Stickers
60 Campaign T-shirts
3' x 8' Banner
1000 Business Cards


If each person was to donate only $10, that would bring in $8800.

With that I could purchase for the campaign:

The complete voter registry for the 13th Congressional District

2,500 Bumper Stickers
2,500 18" x 24" Yard Signs
2,500 U Wires
100 Highway signs
10,000 Literature Bags
10,000 Lapel Stickers
144 Campaign T-shirts
144 Embroidered Hats
4 3' x 8' Banners
2000 Business Cards
2000 Campaign push cards

4 Portable 3' x 6' Event Tables
8 Portable Chairs


If each person was to donate only $25, that would bring in $22,000.

With that I could purchase for the campaign:

The complete voter registry for the 13th Congressional District

5,000 Bumper Stickers
5,000 18" x 24" Yard Signs
5,000 U Wires
200 Highway signs
20,000 Literature Bags
20,000 Lapel Stickers
288 Campaign T-shirts
288 Embroidered Hats
8 3' x 8' Banners
3000 Business Cards
5000 Campaign push cards

6 Portable 3' x 6' Event Tables
12 Portable Chairs

Rent Paid for a Campaign office for 12 months
Basic Office Furnishing & equipment (Used)

I plan on running a very financially lean campaign - but I need to get some basics taken care of to get my message out, and I can only do that with your help. In addition, I need your help as volunteers to help reach out door to door starting January 8th, when we begin the Signature Petititons.

So please - help me in my campaign to oust David Scott, and become the representative this district and this country needs in Washington.

Please donate to my campaign on December 20th, 2009, the date for the Fight With Frisbee 12/20 Money Bomb.

http://www.facebook.com/l/27abc;www.frisbee2010.com/donations.php

Thank you one and all.

Michael Frisbee
Independent Constitutional Conservative
Congressional Candidate
Georgia's 13th Congressional District

Gerry Purcell, GA Candidate for Insurance Commissioner

We began this campaign with a simple idea: We can do better in Georgia. We can start by choosing new leadership.

We can say "No" to business as usual in our state government. We can say "No" to Washington, D.C. controlling our healthcare. We can say "No" to out of control spending.

We can say "Yes" to common sense health care. We can say "Yes" to electing statesmen over career politicians, we can say "Yes" to electing industry experts and true leaders.

When I declared my candidacy for Insurance Commissioner, my goal was to reach out statewide to meet voters and listen to their concerns about the course of our state and nation. Voters across Georgia are tired of politics as usual, and want new leadership. I decided to run not because the insurance industry asked me to, because I felt like it was my turn, or because I needed to keep a government salary. We stand at a crossroads in Georgia, and in our nation. We can take the road of special interests, outrageous spending, and government control, or we can take a new road.

Our campaign has always been about ideas. It is clear that our ideas are taking hold all around Georgia.

We chose to invest our time at grassroots events, county party meetings, and community gatherings. Some of our opponents chose to stuff their coffers with special interest money. Our investment paid off with numerous straw poll victories. Straw polls are an excellent barometer to determine who has support among the grassroots supporters. We are humbled and honored by the success of our investment, as seen in our victories in straw polls across Georgia. Some of these victories include:

Cobb: 40% (5 candidates) DeKalb: 51% (7 candidates) Cobb Women GOP: 38% (8 candidates)
Henry: 73% (6 candidates) UGA CR's: 66% (4 candidates) Glynn: 41% (7 candidates)
Walker: 79% (6 candidates) Oglethorpe:36% (7 candidates) Union: 54% (8 candidates)

These wins show support in every corner of Georgia. They are a testament to our dedication and organization that is reaching out across Georgia. Members of my team constantly hear grassroots organizers say "Gerry is all over the state" and "You guys are everywhere!"

That will remain our mission: listening to voters across Georgia, and bringing new leadership to state government. To do so, I need your vote, and your financial support. Your financial support will spread our message of stopping national healthcare and making state government more accountable to the citizens of Georgia.

Please donate $25, $50, $100, $250, or $500 today.

I look forward to seeing you again on the campaign trail, and thank you for your continued support.

Thank you,
Gerry Purcell

Join Gerry's Public Page on Facebook: Gerry Purcell
Follow Gerry on Twitter: PurcellforGA
Learn more about Gerry and his vision for Georgia at www.GerryPurcell.com
Click here to email the Campaign
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Reception for Melvin Everson, Candidate Labor Commisioner

Please join our host committee:
Rep. Billy Horne
Rep. Jerry Keen
Rep. David Knight
Rep. Matt Ramsey
Rep. John Yates
Mayor Casey Houston
Coun. Debi Rogers
Shahid Malik

For a reception honoring Melvin Everson
Candidate for Labor Commissioner
Thursday, December 17, 20095:30 to 7:30
Downtown Grill -
1158 Old Senoia Road,
Tyrone GA 30290
(next to the Legacy Theatre in Tyrone)

RSVP to Michelle Carver by Wednesday, December 16 at michelle.carver@comcast.net (404) 579-7127

Donate online at http://www.melvineverson.com/donate.html

Or you can make checks out to Georgians for Everson and mail a check to
Georgians for Everson
P.O. Box 1006
Snellville, GA 30078

A Health Care bill without verification is "a toothless tiger," Deal says

As the U.S. Senate takes up the debate on Health Care, Congressman Nathan Deal is urging the U.S. Senate to include verification of citizenship in their version of the bill.

"We have seen indications that the Senate wants to include language requiring U.S. citizenship," said Deal. "But without a requirement of verification, this is a toothless tiger."

A Republican candidate for governor, Deal was the author of a 2005 law which required verification of citizenship to receive Medicaid benefits. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that requiring enrollees to document their U.S. citizenship would reduce Medicaid spending by $220 million over five years and by $735 million over ten years.

Deal's action in 2005 has allowed millions of deserving U.S. citizens to keep their Medicaid benefits at a time when states are facing budget shortfalls because states have been given the tools to prevent millions of illegal aliens from using up limited public assistance resources.

"This is an important anti-fraud provision that has effectively and efficiently prevented millions of illegal aliens from fraudulently accessing taxpayer-funded benefits," Deal said

He proposed a verification amendment in the first House health care bill this year and it was voted down on a party line vote. A second attempt was not allowed by House leaders, including liberal Democrat Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

"If we fail to include verification in the final legislation, we can thank Speaker Pelosi for giving illegal aliens taxpayer-funded health care," Deal said. "This is taking place at a time when Georgia and other states across the nation are forced to make dramatic cuts to their budgets. It is more important than ever to make sure that our limited public assistance dollars are focused exclusively on those who legally qualified to receive them."

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Women for Karen Handel Luncheon Jan 5

Join Georgia's Secretary of State and Republican Candidate for Governor, Karen Handel for the Kick-off Luncheon for Women for Karen on Tuesday, January 5, 2010 with special guest Adm. Marty Evans, USN (Ret.).

A lifelong conservative Republican, Karen Handel brings a unique blend of executive, political and business experience to public service in Georgia. Currently serving as Georgia’s first Republican Secretary of State, she is exceptionally qualified to lead our state as Governor.

Tickets for the luncheon are $30

Women for Karen Handel
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Time: 11:30am - 2:30pm
Location: Westin Atlanta Perimeter North
Street: Seven Concourse Parkway
City/Town: Atlanta, GA

About Admiral Marty Evans, USN (Ret.)

Marsha J. Evans’ distinguished career has combined both military service and leadership of the nation’s premier non-profit organizations. During her nearly 30-year career with the Navy, Evans distinguished herself as one of only a handful of women to reach the rank of rear admiral, and gained a reputation for forging new ground for women in the military. Admiral Evans held a variety of command positions overseeing multi-million dollar budgets and thousands of employees.

She was the Chief of Staff at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis and the first woman to command a U.S. naval station (Treasure Island in the San Francisco Bay Area). In 1992, she chaired the task force that developed a strategy to address the gender-based issues that gave rise to the Tailhook situation. Among the actions that resulted was the opening of assignments to women onboard Navy combatant ships. She held the top positions at the Navy Recruiting Command, where she managed 6,000 employees in1,200 locations and recruited more than 70,000 officers and sailors annually, and then at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California. She retired in 1998 as rear admiral.

In January 1998, Evans assumed leadership of Girl Scouts of the USA, the largest organization representing girls in the world, with troops in every zip code of America. Evans revolutionized the 90-year old organization and modernized its vision and programs for its nearly three million young members. Under her leadership, Girl Scouts created cutting-edge programs in science, technology, sports, money management and community service.

Evans updated Girl Scouts’ image, enhanced its recruiting practices, and increased its number of adult volunteers to nearly one million, the highest number in the organization’s history. Throughout Evans’ tenure, Girl Scouts enjoyed a continuous increase in young membership and reached an unprecedented level of diversity as African-American, Asian and a record number of Hispanic girls discovered the organization.

From August 2002 through December 2005, Evans was the 13th President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross, the largest and one of the nation’s most distinguished humanitarian aid organizations. With an annual operating budget of more than $4 billion, the Red Cross assists millions of Americans each year by providing urgent aid to victims of disasters, teaching safety preparedness and lifesaving skills, collecting, processing and distributing nearly half the nation’s blood supply, and assisting Armed Forces members and their families. The American Red Cross also provides help and hope to victims of disasters and disease in more than 30 countries.

In 2005 alone, under Evans’ leadership, Red Cross volunteers and staff assisted the victims of more than 70,000 natural- and human-caused disasters, from single family fires to large-scale events including the evacuation of a major American city; collected almost 6.5 million units of blood; trained more than 12 million people in lifesaving skills such as first aid and CPR; helped thousands of U.S. service members separated from their families by military duty stay connected; responded to extraordinary humanitarian emergencies including Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma and the devastating December 2004 tsunamis in South Asia; and made major progress in eradicating measles in Africa.

Over 1.3 million families received direct emergency Red Cross assistance in the wake of the hurricanes and the flood of New Orleans. For her leadership of the Red Cross response, Non-Profit Times named her “Executive of the Year” for 2005.

During her nearly three-and-a-half years at the Red Cross helm, Evans led the charge to create programs and establish business practices that were inclusive of all populations. She championed the development and implementation of the Red Cross Diversity Business Model and incorporated diversity into the Red Cross five year strategic plan as an organizational priority. To this end, with the input of more than 6,000 Red Crossers, community leaders and other partners and stakeholders, she developed the 2003 Strategic Plan to focus resources on the programs and services communities needed most.

Additionally, Evans led the Red Cross in implementing a bold, new initiative, Together We Prepare. With five simple steps – make a plan, build a disaster kit, get trained, give blood, volunteer – people in communities prepared themselves, their families, schools, businesses and neighborhoods for the unexpected. She also forged a new, cooperative relationship with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, enabling the Red Cross to move forward with its blood processing modernization strategy and plans.

Today Evans speaks to business and community audiences on leadership and diversity issues. Along with her position on the Board of Directors with the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA), she’s director of the Office Depot, U.S. Naval Academy Foundation, Weight Watchers International, the North Highland Company and Huntsman Corporation.

Evans has been honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She was a 1979-80 White House Fellow. The White House Fellows Association awarded her the 2002 John W. Gardner Legacy of Leadership Award. In 2005, the Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt Institute honored her with the Four Freedoms Award.

“Marty,” as she is known to friends and colleagues, is from Springfield, Illinois, home of the LPGA State Farm Classic. She graduated from Occidental College in Los Angeles with an AB in Diplomacy and World Affairs. She later earned a Master’s degree in Law and Diplomacy from Tuft’s University’s Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. Her degree was supplemented by professional studies at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, and the National War College in Washington, DC.

Evans, an avid golfer, lives with her husband, Jerry Evans, in Jacksonville Beach, Fla.

Op-Ed: Dems ooze hate‏

"I guess the Georgia Democratic Party has changed their name to the DemoHate party of Georgia," said Tim Echols, campaign manager for John Oxendine. "Having failed miserably at winning elections based upon policy and ideas, Roy Barnes and party chair Jane Kidd and the liberals at the Georgia Democrat Party have launched their third hit piece on John Oxendine.

Echols said that last week, using the time honored Clinton tactic of politics of personal destruction, the Democrats have asked on their website whose the most corrupt politician in Georgia.

"Our first observation is they made a glaring oversight by failing to include Roy Barnes," said Echols. "Secondly, this valuephobic Democratic party has clearly telegraphed that they intend to ooze only hate, maybe because they know they can’t win the election in 2010 if the election policy and issues."

Echols said being called corrupt by the Democrats of Georgia is a little like being called ugly by a frog.

Source: Oxendine Governor 2010

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Join Karen Handel for a Football Tailgate

Join Georgia's Secretary of State and Republican Candidate for Governor Karen Handel and the "Bring It On" Campaign for Governor for a pre-game tailgate before the Georgia/Georgia Tech game on Saturday, November 28. We will be on the 5th Street Bridge with the Green Tent so come on by and visit with Georgia's next Governor, Secretary of State Karen Handel. Things get underway at 4:00 PM and go till kickoff. You don't have to go to the game to come out for the tailgate!

Karen says, "Come out and join me at this pre-game tailgate! Whether you're a Dawgs Fan or a Jackets Fan, it will sure to be a great time! Hope to see you there! If you have questions, please contact Clint Murphy at clint@karenhandel.com ".

Event: Join Karen Handel for a Football Tailgate
"Karen Handel for Governor! Bring It On! "
What: Sporting Event
Start Time: Saturday, November 28 at 4:00pm
End Time: Saturday, November 28 at 8:00pm
Where: 5th Street Bridge
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Judson Hill: Remembering Veterans Day‏

Please remember our heroes and their families today. It is through their courage and sacrifices that our security and our freedoms are guaranteed. There is a poem I am sure you have likely seen before, but I want to share it with you again, because it summarizes well what we owe our veterans. May God continue to bless our Veterans!

* It is the veteran, not the preacher, who has given you freedom of religion.
* It is the veteran, not the reporter, who has given you freedom of the press.
* It is the veteran, not the poet, who has given you freedom of speech.
* It is the veteran, not the protester, who has given you freedom to assemble.
* It is the veteran, not the lawyer, who has given you the right to a fair trial.
* It is the veteran, not the politician, who has given you the right to vote.
* It is the veteran, who salutes the Flag, who serves under the Flag, whose coffin is draped by the Flag.

Please thank our soldiers and their families for their service. Whether they serve in the Persian Gulf, elsewhere around the world or here at home we applaud you and pray for you. We also pause today to remember those troops stationed at Ft. Hood who were killed or injured. If you wish to do more, for $25 you can sponsor a United States Organization care package for one of our soldiers serving overseas. To learn more, please visit: www.usocares.com.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve!

Best regards,

Sen. Judson Hill

www.judsonhill.com
Paid for by Friends of Judson Hill

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Karen Handel on Veterans Day

On this Veterans Day, we salute everyone who has served in defense of our great nation and preserved the liberties that we enjoy today.

We also offer a special prayer for the tens of thousands who are stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere around the world. And please keep in your thoughts and prayers those who were killed in the Fort Hood tragedy a few days ago.

We should be ever mindful of the sacrifices that our men and women of the military -- and their families -- make for us each and every day. We give thanks to those who have strengthened our liberties, all too often at great personal costs to them and their families.

Please join Steve and I in lifting up a prayer for all our veterans and their families on this day. Pray also that we, as a country, remain worthy of their sacrifices.

Thank you,
Karen C. Handel

(Handel is a candidate for Georgia Governor)
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Jones Speaks to Catoosa County Patriots

Jeremy Jones, who is seeking the Republican nomination for the US House to represent the 9th District of Georgia, spoke on Tuesday, November 3rd to the Catoosa County Patriots at their scheduled meeting. Jones was invited to share his ideas and opinions on current events affecting Georgian’s. Before his speech Teresa Tatum, co-founder of the Catoosa Chapter, shared a video explaining the difference between a Democracy and a Republic.

Mr. Jones was grateful for the opportunity to speak to the newly founded group and was honored to be the first congressional candidate to speak to the group. “This group, and groups similar, will be in power soon. I am seeking the Republican nomination because I believe in Republican values. Our problem is many elected Republicans act more like Democrats than they do Republicans.” Jones emphasized he was in this race before the Republican incumbent, Nathan Deal, decided not seek re-election and run for Governor. “I choose to run, not for a job promotion, and not because the door was open. I entered the race because professional politicians have had their turn. It is time to allow a citizen to represent the citizens. It is my goal to De-power DC.”

In sharp contrast to the professional politicians running, Mr. Jones allowed his entire allotment of time to be used for questions from the group. “It is time people seeking office stop talking and start listening.”

After the event, many people stayed to ask Mr. Jones more questions, and thank him for running. Several people signed up as volunteers for his campaign. “It should be a wake-up call to the other professional politicians, the people at these events have, for the most part, never been a part of a campaign, but are now ready to support a newcomer such as myself. The status quo is finished, we will win, and we will depower DC!”

For information on the campaign please visit:
www.JonesForUs.com
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Georgia GOP Needs Volunteers November 2

The Georgia GOP is asking for volunteers Monday night November 2 from 5:00-8:00
p.m. to make calls for two Georgia state legislative races.

While they are not in Cobb County, we have the chance to help make a difference
in districts where low turnout could make a GOP win possible. The calls will be
to solid Republican households to help increase turnout.

For more info or to confirm you can help e-mail Toby Carr at tcarr@gagop.org [mailto:tcarr@gagop.org].

Phone Bank Office:
Fulton County Republican Party Headquarters
ParkSide Shopping Center
5920 Roswell Road
Suite B-115
Sandy Springs, GA 30328

Source: Cobb County Republican Party

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Graves to Speak at Atlanta Tea Party: One Year to Judgment Day

State Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger), Republican candidate for Congress in Georgia’s 9th District, will speak at Monday’s “Atlanta Tea Party: One Year to Judgment Day” at the Georgia State Capitol in Atlanta. Graves will join his good friend radio talk show host Herman Cain, Martha Zoller of WDUN in Gainesville, award winning country music artist John Berry and many others. The rally begins at 6:00 pm and is hosted by Larry Wachs of The Regular Guys at Rock 100.5. The tea party is hosted by Georgia Tea Party Patriots, the Atlanta Tea Party, FreedomWorks, Americans for Prosperity, and Smart Girl Politics. The public and press are invited to attend.

Graves was a speaker at the April 15th Tea Party in Atlanta and the National Tea Party and Taxpayer March on Washington.

Graves Endorses Doug Hoffman in NY-23

State Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger), Republican candidate for the 9th Congressional District of Georgia, released the following statement endorsing Doug Hoffman in the special election for New York’s 23rd Congressional District:

“Now more than ever, conservative leaders are needed in Washington that will put principles before politics; leaders who will stand up for the Constitution and our conservative values. Doug Hoffman is a businessman, not a career politician, and his business experience and commitment to free-market solutions is what is needed in the U.S. House. When I am elected, I look forward to working with conservatives in the House and Senate who will work effectively to advance a conservative agenda in order to get this country back on track. In a day when we are experiencing excessive spending, a disregard for the taxpayer and an erosion of freedoms on a daily basis, there is no greater time to elect strong leaders to stand up for America and her freedom. Doug Hoffman is a candidate that I will be proud to stand with in Washington and the people of New York’s 23rd Congressional District should be proud to elect Doug Hoffman to the U.S. Congress.”

Graves joins Georgia U.S. Reps. John Linder (GA-7) and Paul Broun (GA-10) and other notable conservatives in endorsing Hoffman.

***

Graves, who is in his fourth term representing House District 12, was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2002. He has chaired numerous subcommittees, served in several leadership positions and been recognized statewide as a conservative leader. He received a 2009 “National Legislator of the Year” from the American Legislative Exchange Council, a 2009 “Guardian of Small Business” Award from the National Federation of Independent Business, the 2009 “Legislator of the Year” Award from the Georgia Retail Association, the 2009 “Legislator of the Year” from the 9th Congressional District of Georgia and was nationally recognized as the “Legislative Entrepreneur of the Year Award” by the Freedom Works Foundation for his tireless effort to stem the tide of expansive government and reduce the tax burden on Georgians. Georgia Trend’s named Graves to its “40 under 40, Georgia’s Best and the Brightest” and he received the endorsement from the Club for Growth PAC, a free-market, free enterprise group of conservatives.

Graves grew up in White, Georgia and graduated from the University of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelors of Business Administration in Finance. Graves is a small businessman, past member of the Gordon County Board of Elections and an active member of the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce. He is married to Julie, a native of Marietta, and the couple has three children, JoAnn, John, and Janey. They attend the Belmont Baptist Church in Calhoun.
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Rep. Scott Breaks National Walking Record

Georgia gubernatorial candidate Rep. Austin Scott announced that he now holds the record for the longest walk by an American politician, taking the record previously held by former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Lawton Chiles since 1970.

"I'm surprised that the 'Walkin’ Lawton' record stood as long as it did," said Scott. "I guess there just aren't that many politicians who want to walk throughout their states the way I did."

The Chiles walk was recorded as 1,003 miles and Scott's walk is officially recorded as 1,068. To put a walk of this length into perspective, it can be measured in several ways:
From Atlanta:

· More than 250 miles West of Dallas, Texas
· More than 100 miles North of Toronto, Canada
· 90 miles past Omaha, Nebraska
· To Grenada, Mississippi, and back, twice.
From New York City:
· Within 10 miles of Little Rock, Arkansas
· More than 70 miles West of Iowa City, Iowa
· Within 40 miles of Orlando, Florida

"The quest to understand people doesn't come from inside the Capitol or from a room full of lobbyists,” said Scott. “It comes from continuous dialogue with the people to be served. It comes from interacting with and knowing the people and places that comprise a place, a state and a nation. It is difficult to get where you are going without knowing where you are from, and I pledge that as Governor, I will never forget the people I met or the places I saw on my walk."

Austin Scott is a Republican from Tifton who has served House District 153 for 14 years. He is Chairman of the House Governmental Affairs Committee. To learn more about Austin Scott for Georgia visit www.ScottForGA.com or follow him on his Facebook and Twitter web pages.
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Erin Grizzle, Miss United States 2009, Endorses Graves’ Campaign for Congress

Ellijay native and former Apple Queen newest GA-9 Freedom Fighter

Current Miss United States Erin Grizzle became the newest GA-9 Freedom Fighter supporting State Rep. Tom Graves’ bid for Congress. Grizzle, who was the grand marshal of this year’s Apple Festival Parade, endorsed Graves at the beginning of this year’s parade.

“Tom Graves is a strong conservative and exactly the kind of leader we need in Washington,” said Grizzle. “I encourage Ellijay and Gilmer County to join me and elect Tom to the U.S. Congress.”

“It’s an honor to have Erin join our campaign and lend her support to this effort,” said Graves. “All of us in the Graves Brigade enjoyed the Apple Festival Parade and having Erin become the latest GA-9 Freedom Fighter is a big honor for our campaign.”

Graves was joined by State Sen. Chip Pearson and nearly twenty GA-9 Freedom Fighters who worked the parade route during this year’s Apple Festival Parade.

Grizzle, who is originally from Ellijay, won the Miss United States title in Las Vegas this past July. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia in 2004 with degrees in both public relations and political science. Following graduation, Grizzle worked in the political arena, first as an assistant campaign manager and then as legislative aide to State Sen. Chip Pearson. She has also worked in the Georgia Governor’s Office. In 2008, she completed her M.B.A. at the Georgia Institute of Technology. Following graduation, Grizzle began her career as a business consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, a Fortune 500 company, where she is currently employed.

She is the daughter of Jackie and Susan Grizzle of Ellijay, and resides in Atlanta.

Grizzle’s endorsement is a reflection of her personal political viewpoint, and do not reflect the political views or stance of the United States Pageant.

***

Graves, who is in his fourth term representing House District 12, was first elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 2002. He has chaired numerous subcommittees, served in several leadership positions and been recognized statewide as a conservative leader. He received the 2009 “Guardian of Small Business” Award from the National Federation of Independent Business, 2009 “Legislator of the Year” Award from the Georgia Retail Association, the “2009 Legislator of the Year” from the 9th Congressional District of Georgia and was nationally recognized as the “Legislative Entrepreneur of the Year Award” by the Freedom Works Foundation for his tireless effort to stem the tide of expansive government and reduce the tax burden on Georgians.

Graves grew up in White, Georgia and graduated from the University of Georgia, where he earned a Bachelors of Business Administration in Finance. Graves is a small businessman, past member of the Gordon County Board of Elections and an active member of the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce. He is married to Julie, a native of Marietta, and the couple has three children, JoAnn, J.T., and Janey. They attend the Belmont Baptist Church in Calhoun.
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Our Country Deserves Better: Support Doug Hoffman, NY

You've heard the news by now - there's a hotly contested congressional race taking place in Upstate New York.

It's not your typical election, in fact it's a Special Election to fill a vacant seat that had been held by a Republican. Here's where the problem comes in: there are 3 candidates but only 1 of them is a conservative.

On the ballot are a liberal Democrat, a liberal Republican and a Conservative candidate, Doug Hoffman. We here at the Our Country Deserves Better Committee are supporting the Conservative candidate, Doug Hoffman, just as other conservative leaders like Fred Thompson and Gov. Sarah Palin have.

How liberal is that liberal Republican, Dede Scozzafava? This should answer the question for you: the founder of the far-Left Daily Kos website, Markos Moulitsas, has endorsed her over the Democrat. As the New York Times reported with glee:

Roughly two weeks ago, Ms. Scozzafava received a prominent endorsement, though not necessarily a very helpful one for a Republican. In a post on his Daily Kos Web site, the liberal activist Markos Moulitsas called Ms. Scozzafava “actually the most liberal candidate in the race."

The Special Election takes place November 3rd - which means time is running out in this campaign. We are asking all supporters of the Our Country Deserves Better Committee to make a contribution to help us support Conservative Doug Hoffman in this race. Let's send a message to the Republican Establishment: STOP SUPPORTING RINO's (Republican's In Name Only) and get back to the conservative principles that make this country great.

You can make a contribution of $25, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000 -- all the way up to $5,000. To contribute online - JUST CLICK HERE.

Or, you can mail in a contribution to our PAC Finance Headquarters:

Our Country Deserves Better Committee
ATTN: Betty Presley, Treasurer
30151 Tomas Street
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688

Again, the maximum allowed contribution is $5,000 per individual. Most of you will be able to afford less than that. Whatever you contribute, whether it's $25 or $50 or $100, or a more generous contribution of $250, $500 or $1,000 - it will go a long way with limited time left in this race.

If we're going to take back our country, folks, we're going to have to put our money where our mouths are, and win seats for good, solid, conservative candidates. In this case, we have a strong choice. No need for "lesser-of-the-evils" here. So please, show your support by making a contribution to our campaign to support Doug Hoffman for U.S. Congress.
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Rob Wasinger, Candidate for Congress, Kansas

Are you tired of politics as usual in Washington?

Are you tired of the Republican Party establishment anointing liberal candidates, instead of letting local primary voters choose who they want their candidate to be?

I know I am! That's why I'm running for Congress and that's what I'm up against in this very competitive race.

One of my self-funding, liberal Republican opponents has been circulating an invitation all around Washington for a private, backroom meeting at the National Republican Congressional Committee in a hope to raise money from powerful lobbyists and party insiders.

The invitation includes an interesting sentence: "Sen. Barnett proposes and passes common sense legislation so no matter which side of the aisle you are on the legislation is passed."

What "common sense" legislation is my liberal opponent talking about?.

.. my opponent pushed and passed a statewide smoking ban in the Kansas State Senate
... my opponent supported a liberal health care plan proposed by then-Gov. Kathleen Sebelius and supported her to become Obama's secretary of HHS
... my opponent pushed government funding of a risky procedure to reduce obesity by wrapping "a band around the upper portion of the stomach, restricting the ability to overeat"
... my opponent supported a government-run beer keg registration program funded by a massive tax increase on alcohol

Without a doubt, my opponent is nothing but a big government liberal who believes that government -- not families and local communities -- is the solution to all societal problems.

I hope you'll help me fight back!

As chief-of-staff to Senator Sam Brownback, I learned quickly that we need less government and the last thing the American people desire is a nanny state.

Please help me today in my fight to defeat this liberal, big government Republican.

My candidacy is dependent on a broad base of donors from across the country who believe that the Republican Party must return to its conservative roots and embrace candidates who stand for Republican principles, not run away from them.

Please help me send a message to the Republican establishment with a donation of $500, $250, $75, $50, $25, $10, $5 or whatever you can afford today.

My wealthy, liberal opponent has already donated himself $100,000 to buy this race, and now he's turning to the Washington elite for more money.

Races shouldn't be all about money. In explaining why the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) is backing liberal Republican, ACORN supported Dede Scozzafava in the special NY-23 race, a spokesperson said today that "the money was happy with her."

... That is outrageous!

I know I can win this race with the help of grassroots supporters like you. My race has been ranked as one of the top 10 most competitive in the nation, and I am going to need a big team to win it!

I have the grassroots support here on the ground in Kansas. Already, I've been endorsed by over 80 community leaders. I'm on my second tour of all 69 counties of the district, which is bigger than the state of Illinois!

Please help my campaign today. I am honored to be endorsed by conservative leaders such as Fred Thompson, and I want your endorsement as well!

Anything you can afford to donate helps and I am very grateful.Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,
Rob Wasinger

Candidate for Congress1st District of Kansas, Open Seat
http://www.robwasinger.com

P.S. My liberal, big government opponent has already donated $100,000 to his own campaign to try and defeat me, and now he's headed to Washington to raise more money from the Republican establishment. Please help me fight back with a contribution of whatever you can afford today! I am extremely grateful for your support!

P.P.S: Below is a picture of me, my wife Meg, and our nine children. When elected to Congress, I will fight for the future of our children and grandchildren and will bring conservative values to Washington. We need more public servants, not career politicians. Please help my campaign today!

(Note: we didn't include the photo, but wow, hats off to anyone who can keep up with nine kids! Nice looking family. Go visit Rob's website to see the photo and learn more - gfp)

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Doug MacGinnitie Launches Effort to Increase Voting Opportunities for Military Personnel

Republican candidate for Georgia Secretary of State Doug MacGinnitie today launched an effort to increase opportunities for active duty service members and Reservists serving on active duty to participate in Georgia elections.

Research done by the Heritage Foundation in 2008 shows that 75-80% of military voters from across the United States were disenfranchised by their inability to request and return an absentee ballot within time limits as required by law. To make matters worse, for those who did cast an absentee ballot; local officials often reject military absentee ballots at far higher rates than other absentee ballots.

"Our men and women in uniform are putting their lives on the line to defend our freedoms," said MacGinnitie. "We should do everything possible to ensure they have the opportunity to participate in the most basic of American rights, the right to vote."

In Georgia all absentee ballots must be returned by 7pm on election day. In runoffs, it is virtually impossible for active duty personnel forward deployed in hazardous duty environments; serving on ships or aboard submarines to request and return a ballot in four weeks.

To address this problem, MacGinnitie has created his Military Voting Advisory Committee, composed of veterans and reservists from across the state. Experts from the legal and technology communities will also serve on the committee to assist in their respective fields. The mission is to develop policy ideas to solve this critical flaw in our voting laws.

"Our current Secretary of State has done an outstanding job focusing on stopping voter fraud, and has implemented reforms to help military voters. As Secretary of State, I will ensure Georgia leads the nation in giving active military voters the opportunity to cast a ballot," said MacGinnitie.

The members of MacGinnitie's Military Voting Advisory Committee include:

Brad Carver, Esq., Hall Booth Smith & Slover, P.C.
Brigadier General Walter C. Corish, Jr., GAANG, Ret.
Major General (Ret.) Bruce W. MacLane, USAF
Lieutenant Colonel Oz Hill, USA, Ret.
Jim Lester III, retired CIO AFLAC, former chairman Georgia Technology Authority
Brigadier General Denis Shortal, USMC, (RET)
Craig Thornton, President, Cnetics Technologies

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McDonnell Expands Lead in Virginia Governor's Race

/PRNewswire/ -- Two weeks before Virginia's voters cast their ballots, Republican gubernatorial candidate Bob McDonnell has an 8-point lead over Democratic opponent Creigh Deeds, according to a statewide poll conducted October 18-19 by Clarus Research Group.

In the latest poll, McDonnell leads Democrat Creigh Deeds 49 to 41 percent with 10 percent undecided.

An earlier Clarus Poll, taken September 10-14, showed McDonnell leading Deeds by 5 points, posting a 42-37 percent margin with 20 percent undecided.

"So far in the general election, Deeds has failed to gain sustained momentum," said Ron Faucheux, president of Clarus. "Over the past five weeks, McDonnell has expanded his lead as he's weathered attacks on his record as a social conservative."

"Since our last poll in mid-September, McDonnell has gained 7 points and Deeds has gained 4 points," said Faucheux. "While anything can happen between now and Election Day, the fundamentals favor McDonnell."

"Compared to five weeks ago, Deeds has increased his support in Northern Virginia and in the Southeast/Central part of the state. But larger gains by McDonnell more than offset those by Deeds. McDonnell's major gains came from independents statewide and voters in the Southwest/Western region," added Faucheux.

The poll found that the major motivation for Deeds' voters is their support for the Democratic Party while the primary motivation for McDonnell's supporters is because they like him personally.

Clarus Research Group is nonpartisan polling and research firm based in Washington, D.C. The poll was taken by Clarus for its own use and was not paid for or sponsored, by any client, candidate or political party committee.

The survey, which was conducted by live telephone interviewers October 18-19, 2009, had a sample of 605 Virginia voters and a margin or error of +/- 4 percent. Trial heat results were based on likely voters who said they were definitely or possibly going to vote in the November 3, 2009 elections. Voters who said they were definitely not going to vote were excluded from the sample for the trial heats.

The Clarus Poll found:

-- Despite heavy Democratic attacks on McDonnell's views on the role of
women in society, McDonnell now edges Deeds among women by one point,
45-44 percent. McDonnell posts a sizable 14-point lead among men
-- Since the mid-September poll, Deeds has gained 4 points among women
while McDonnell has gone up 5 points. Among men, Deeds gained 3 points
over the past five weeks while McDonnell jumped 8 percent.
-- McDonnell now has a strong 14-point advantage among Independent
voters, topping Deeds 50-36 percent. In the mid-September Clarus
Poll, McDonnell led Deeds among this critical swing vote group by half
his current margin, 7 points.
-- McDonnell leads Deeds in every major demographic group in the
Commonwealth except Northern Virginians, voters under 30 and African
Americans.
-- Deeds holds a massive 72-point lead among African Americans, winning
this vote 79-7 percent. He beats McDonnell 50-43 percent in Northern
Virginia and 48-41 percent among voters 18-29.
-- McDonnell leads white voters by a solid 26 points, 58-32 percent. He
also carries the Southeastern/Central part of the state 45-42 percent
and the Southwest/Western region by a thumping 28 points, 57-29
percent.
-- Among voters 65 and older, McDonnell beats Deeds by a wide 54-37
percent margin.
-- McDonnell's expanded statewide lead is largely attributable to his
increased support in the Southwest/Western part of the state, where he
nearly doubled his mid-September 15-point lead to a 28-point advantage
now.
-- Regionally, Deeds has improved his position in Northern Virginia since
the mid-September poll, going from 45 percent to 50 percent while
McDonnell has moved from 40 percent to 43 percent in the region. Deeds
has improved his support in the Southeastern/Central part of the
state, going from 36 percent to 42 percent while McDonnell has
increased his strength from 41 percent to 46 percent.
-- McDonnell leads Republicans 89-4 percent. Deeds wins Democrats 86-6
percent.
-- Thirty-seven percent of McDonnell's voters said the major reason
they're supporting him is because they like him. That was followed by
26 percent saying they're for McDonnell because they want to support
the Republicans, 10 percent who want to oppose the Democrats and 10
percent who dislike Deeds.
-- Thirty-eight percent of Deeds' voters said the major reason they're
for him is to support the Democrats. That was followed by those who
like Deeds (25 percent), those who don't like McDonnell (18 percent),
and those who want to oppose the Republicans (5 percent).
-- Fifty-one percent of voters who remain undecided in the gubernatorial
race said they don't know enough about the candidates to make a
decision and 24 percent said they have doubts about both candidates.
-- The poll also found that Republicans have the edge in the other two
statewide races. Republican Bill Bolling leads Democrat Jody Wagner
for lieutenant governor, 42-35 percent with 23 percent undecided.
Republican Ken Cuccinelli leads Democrat Steve Shannon 41-33 percent
for Attorney General with 26 percent undecided.

The Ox vs. King Roy the Rat

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Marriage—under attack again‏

The family is under attack, and in Washington DC this weekend, so is the President. The GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual, Transgender) community is hosting an Equality March on Washington to let the President know that between solving the healthcare crisis in America, writing his Nobel Peace Prize acceptance speech, and taking over car companies, he needs to come through on some of the promises he made to the gay lobby during the election.

In last year’s election, California, Florida and Arizona flexed their bi-partisan muscles and said “no thank you” to radically altering the oldest institution in human history—marriage. These states join Georgia and 25 other states whose constitutions ban gay marriage. The stunning electoral defeat last year looks to me like a mandate for traditional marriage to anyone with eyes—but the media and gay rights activists are not spinning it that way. The gay marriage issue has lost in every single state, and in a year of record Democratic turnout, it lost again—even in California.

Why is that? Because one of the most important issues to conservative voters is the institution of marriage. But not just white voters. Many minority voters are very traditional in this area and they tell me they resent the gay lobby “hijacking” the civil rights movement for something
besides skin color or gender. Those on the other side of this argument, made up of mostly Democrats, the gay community and special interests, have utilized any and every thing to secure civil marriage for themselves—including municipal governments, state legislatures,
executive orders, courts, and did I mention, courts. The GLBT lobby and activist groups have employed every tactic to distort ballot initiatives and spin the issue as something other than what it is. Now, they want to apply pressure to President Obama and have him deliver for them.

How will they do that? The gay rights movement that defines itself mostly on private behaviors will be marching in the streets in Washington, DC this weekend and making demands on public policy. They want to redefine marriage. They insist on teaching children in the public schools that same-sex marriage is morally equivalent to traditional marriage. I am asking Georgians of all races to come together on the issue of traditional marriage and do all we can to protect this sacred institution.

The bottom line of all of this is that the devaluing of marriage has enormous consequences. One only needs to look at the research and statistics from the Netherlands to see how the devaluation of marriage has caused more and more people not to marry. The institution of marriage, one of the oldest on the planet, is the bedrock of civilization. And for that reason, all of us need to come together to protect marriage.

All that said, those who are engaged in homosexual behavior are people—who need love and forgiveness, and who need to understand the love of God. It is hard to engage in cultural battle and still have people feel that you love and accept them. Ugly rhetoric, inappropriate jokes, and ridicule should be off limits. And most importantly, we need to do a better job in our own marriages so we don’t lose the moral authority to talk about this issue. We obviously have a lot of work to do.

By John Oxendine

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Oxendine Statement on Disclosure of State Pensions

Insider Advantage writer Dick Pettys reports that according to ERS, it no longer is possible for the taxpayers of Georgia to find out a full disclosure on state pensions. This means that taxpayers cannot discover which pensioner is getting what from state government.



Mr. Pettys reminds us that state employees, while on active duty, have their salaries easily accessible for all to see. But when a taxpayer-funded employee retires, their pension information is protected from their bosses, the taxpayers of Georgia.

Mr. Pettys reports state law was changed during the 1997 session of the Legislature, when Democrats still were in control of both chambers.



O.C.G.A. 47-1-14(b) “…the following records maintained by a retirement system are exempted from being open to inspection by the general public:…(4) any business, financial, or personal information in the possession of such retirement system concerning a party other than such retirement system."



I want to congratulate WGCL (TV 46) reporter Wendy Saltzman and the station’s owner, Meredith Corp, for their initial work on this matter. I also congratulate Dick Pettys for his work on this issue too.



Let me be perfectly clear on this issue. If it is in fact true that ERS is refusing to release this information based on any interpretation of any state law, that will change in January, 2011. Should I become Governor, I will direct my legal counsel in the first days of an Oxendine Administration to meet with the heads of every Georgia retirement system and the Attorney General.



If I receive confirmation that these reports are true, I will direct my Administration Floor Leaders to immediately introduce legislation to reverse this outrageous policy and practice.



Every state employee needs to understand that all of us, including me, are employees of the taxpayers of Georgia. They are our bosses and they have every right to know about our compensation. Period.



I call on Governor Perdue, Lt. Governor Cagle, and Speaker Richardson to act prior to 2011 and move legislation early in the 2010 Session to address these allegations and provide facts to the taxpayers that they remain in charge of their state employees.

John Oxendine
Governor 2010

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Opinion: No More Tax Benefits for Illegals!‏

Every day, in cities throughout the United States, illegal immigrants take advantage of expensive health care services paid for with taxpayer dollars. What have Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Obama done to prohibit this massive abuse of our financial resources?

Not a single thing. In fact, Pelosi and Obama are threatening to open up the entire health care system to every Illegal Immigrant.

It's time we fight back and make our voices heard. Nathan Deal has been leading the fight in Congress to stop illegal immigrants from getting taxpayer-funded health care benefits. In fact, he wrote the law requiring every state to verify identity and citizenship prior to enrolling anyone in Medicaid. No one has been more aggressive about ensuring precious health care funds go only to those here legally.

Just last month, Nathan offered an amendment to the Democrat government-run health care scheme that would prevent illegal immigrants from getting taxpayer-funded Medicaid benefits by simply requiring verification that an individual is a U.S. Citizen, or in this country legally. But the Democrats defeated Nathan's amendment on a mostly party-line vote.

It's time to demand citizenship verification for taxpayer-funded services. We can't wait any longer. With your help, and with one, loud voice, we can force Nancy Pelosi and liberal Democrats to close this loophole once and for all.

Deal for Governor

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Opinion: Mary Norwood's Plan to Pave Over Positive Solutions for Transportation‏

Most people have probably heard that Mary Norwood has taken issue with John Oxendine and his effort to start a discussion on solutions to Georgia's transportation crisis. After John Oxendine offered via video a series of positive transportation proposals and ideas, Mary Norwood went ballistic. She could not resist attacking John Oxendine with a series of negative "robo" calls - all in an effort to get her elected as Mayor of Atlanta apparently.

Norwood has a problem being positive and being honest though. After Norwood’s public criticism, John Oxendine reached out and invited Mary Norwood to discuss in a respectful and positive manner the important issue of transportation. This was not a debate or some “trick” in order to embarrass Norwood, but a genuine effort to jumpstart a conversation between two public officials. But instead of sitting down for a constructive conversation, Mary Norwood would rather use John Oxendine to prop up her campaign in an effort to score political points. This is unfortunate.

The real truth is John Oxendine wants to save Atlanta neighborhoods. It is John Oxendine who understands that traffic and congestion impacts the quality of life in Atlanta's in-town communities. The truth is that John Oxendine wants to involve all stakeholders to find 21st century solutions for this crisis.

Mary Norwood could actually do great harm to Atlanta’s intown neighborhoods by refusing to address the crisis. This transportation crisis begs for solutions—not cheap political tricks or slogans. And if Mary Norwood somehow gets elected Mayor and decides she still wants to pit Atlanta against the rest of the metro area, we'll fight her, and then we'll beat her. Atlanta and its traffic problems can't be allowed to choke the very life of our state.

Until she is elected, she should quit trying to use the Governor's race to get some cheap publicity.

Sincerely,

Tim Echols
Campaign Manager
John Oxendine 2010

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Oxendine Remarks on GA Supreme Voting Machine‏

With all due respect and appreciation for the Supreme Court of Georgia, I am deeply disappointed in the decision today to reject the challenge to touch-screen electronic voting machines.

Like many Georgians, I am concerned about the integrity of the voting process. Outside of one's faith, an argument can be made that the right to vote is the most sacred secular right a free person enjoys.

Certainly Justice George Carley is correct when he observes that no balloting system is perfect. No reasonable person would argue that premise. However, Justice Carley in citing the 2000 presidential election as an example validates the point that a verifiable backup system is needed.

With deep respect, many Georgians will suggest, and I agree, that the 2000 presidential election demonstrates the exact need for a backup paper system to establish the integrity of the voting process. Consider this: without a verifiable backup system for each individual vote, how can the American people have confidence in the electoral process?

I assure Georgia that if I have the honor to serve as Governor, our state will have a system for voting which provides a verifiable backup system to address any legitimate questions that might arise after an imperfect voting process.

I do not mean to suggest that our high court was wrong on a strictly legal basis. Rather, my point is that the state has an obligation to provide an absolute, verifiable, and trusted system for counting votes, especially when there is a problem or crisis. Many reasonable Georgians have appeared at countless meetings with state officials to express their concern. Instead of listening to the people, working with the people, and trying to find a verifiable paper-based backup system, certain state officials decided to go to court.

I promise Georgia that an Oxendine Administration will not go to court. Instead, we will work together as a state and find a common sense solution to this important issue.

-
John Oxendine

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Oxendine to Perdue - No Teacher Pay-cuts‏

“I want the 2,000 Georgia teachers who hold certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards to know that I am totally opposed to the proposed cuts from this Administration,” said John Oxendine, candidate for Governor. “I acknowledge and understand that in order to avoid raising taxes Georgia must address serious and substantial budget cuts, but teacher pay is off limits.”

Oxendine said he respects the work being done by Governor Perdue and like many Georgians he realizes there are no easy answers. “I do not wish to criticize the Governor and continue to offer my support in these trying times,” said Oxendine.

Oxendine said that while cuts are necessary, there are certain aspects of the budget, like teacher pay, that not only should be exempt from any cuts, but should receive annual cost of living increases.

“I call on Governor Perdue and the General Assembly to immediately reverse this policy and restore this vital funding to the very best of Georgia teachers,” said Oxendine. “The message this cut sends to those education students in our colleges and universities is demoralizing.”

Oxendine said that it is important that Georgians understand that in an Oxendine Administration there will be three areas off-limits from budget cuts: Teachers, Veterans and Law Enforcement/First responders. This last category includes the Georgia State Patrol and Georgia
National Guard.

“Georgia needs to reexamine our taxpayer funded financial commitment to social welfare programs in the budget and perhaps decide we can no longer sustain in these trying financial times,” said Oxendine.

John Oxendine

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Rob Wasinger, Candidate for Congress, Kansas

Dear Friend,

The health care "debate" is getting out of control.

I put "debate" in quotations since the liberals in Washington don't want to debate... they demand a health care bill that will result over time in a complete government-run health "care" system.

I now put "care" in quotations because there is no way the government can provide "care" for people.

As a former chief-of-staff in the United States Senate I can tell you one thing about Washington: most politicians in Washington don't care about people, they care about influence, money, and ultimately, their own re-election.

And on health care, Obama advisers have made it clear they won't settle for a defeated bill. They are going to twist as many arms as they can in Washington until they get enough votes to pass.

Obama believes any bill passed is better than no bill at all simply to make it look like he's accomplished something.

Forget about the millions of lives at stake.

This is scary.

Make no doubt about it: The Obama and Pelosi plan will lead to rationing of health care.

I know it might sound crazy. But read closely at these statements.

-- Obama has said, "Maybe you're better off not having the surgery, but taking the pain-killer."

-- Obama has said Americans are taking too many tests, too many exams, and too many services of all types.

-- Obama's economic advisor, Peter Orszag, has called for doctors to practice medicine more "efficiently."

-- Top White House health care advisor Ezekiel Emanuel has said young adults should be given priority over senior citizens because younger people have more years of life ahead of them.

This is disgusting.. and almost hard to believe.

But think about it a little more.

Obama said that efforts to save Terri Schiavo's life, a disabled woman who was being dehydrated to death by court order, were a mistake. Obama has supported infanticide.

The pattern is clear: Obama has no respect for human life and ObamaCare will lead to rationing.

So what do we do about it? We fight back!

That's why I am running for Congress.

As the father of nine children, I have a lot at stake for the future of America. And I know you do too.

That's why I am asking for your help.

As the former chief-of-staff to Senator Brownback, I have experience solving complex health care issues.

And I can tell you this: I have always put people and their health above political games.

When Terri Schiavo was being dehydrated by court order, I didn't look at poll numbers to rally the effort to save her life. That's why her brother, Bobby Schindler, has endorsed my candidacy.

I will always put lives above politics unlike the current liberal regime in Congress.

And I will fight for real health care reform. Cut the red tape. Establish real liability reform.

And let me tell you this and be very clear: I will not let anyone stop me.

We've had a real problem with politicians getting to Washington and becoming part of the Washington culture of special interests and lobbyists.

As the son of dairy truck driver and a public school cook, I have never forgotten my roots. I worked in Washington for over a decade and I've seen it all. I am ready to go back to Washington and clean things up. I have no time for lobbyists or special interests.

What I do have time for is fighting against the Obama/Pelosi agenda and fighting for real health care reform.

We cannot let Washington take over the health care system.

Please help my candidacy today.

My race has been named one of the Top 10 most competitive in the country and I really need your help to win it.

One of my liberal opponents has already donated himself $100,000.

I didn't make friends with lobbyists in Washington. I am not personally wealthy.
That's why I'm counting on you.

Will you join my team? I really need your help!

Let's work together to take back Congress in 2010. I am ready to lead the charge. I have the experience and values necessary to take on Washington and be a public servant for the people.

It's what I've been called all my life to do. I am a fourth generation Kansan from a family that has always answered the call to serve. My father served three tours of duty in Vietnam. His father served in World War II. My family has always answered the call to serve and I am proud to continue the tradition.

Will you help me? I need it more than ever.

I can't tell you how grateful I am that you took the time to read my request and I hope you will join my cause.

We can do this together. I look forward to working with you!

Sincerely,

Rob Wasinger
Candidate for Congress
1st Congressional District of Kansas
http://www.robwasinger.com

P.S. I am fed up with liberal agenda of Obama and Pelosi. As the father of nine children, I am stepping up to the plate to take this country back and to get Washington out of our everyday lives and communities. I believe individual communities and local doctors know best how to care for each other, not federal bureaucrats in Washington! Please join my team today, I really need your support!

Handel for Governor E-Update

Our Thoughts With Flood Victims

Karen, Steve and the entire campaign team want to extend their thoughts and prayers to the victims of this weeks terrible flooding. The loss of life – especially of children – is painful beyond words. Our hearts also go out to all of those who suffered property damage and financial loss. Tragedies like this put into perspective how vulnerable we all are and how precious life is.

Please take a moment and make a donation to The Red Cross. This great organization is working across Georgia today to assist those in need. To make a donation, follow this link.

Karen Pulls Away From the Pack in Recent Poll

A poll released today by Strategic Vision shows that Karen has pulled away from the pack and has made it essentially a two-person race for Governor.

According to pollster David Johnson who conducted the survey:

“Secretary Handel increased her support to move into a solid second place... In making her gains she continues to solidify her support among female voters. In many ways, she has demonstrated a strong comeback from several months ago when Congressman Deal first entered the race. Her current numbers are the highest we have registered for her in any of our polls. Her challenge is to expand her base support of support from beyond Fulton County and female voters.”

“Congressman Deal remains in the top tier but has taken a beating over the past month falling into third place,” said Johnson. “Part of this decline of support can be attributed to the negative news stories and also concerns about his age. However this decline can be overcome and is happening early enough in the campaign that he can regain his footing, barring other negative attacks.”

Karen continues to dominate straw polls

Insider Advantage reported this week on Karen’s strong showing in straw polls across the state. Karen won in DeKalb County which is where John Oxendine is from. She won in Oglethorpe and Muscogee Counties. She also did very well in Union County, finishing second, which is in Congressman Deal’s district.

These results show that Karen has a broad base of support all across the state. Her campaign organization and grassroots support is growing as more and more Republicans join he “Bring it On” campaign.

Here are the results:
Oglethorpe Co. Straw Poll Last Weekend
Karen Handel: 80
Nathan Deal: 60
John Oxendine: 44
Eric Johnson: 27
Austin Scott: 9
Jeff Chapman: 6
Ray McBerry: 5

Union Co. straw poll, Sept. 12

Nathan Deal: 24
Karen Handel: 13
John Oxendine: 13
Eric Johnson: 4
Ray McBerry: 3
Austin Scott: 3

Muscogee County Straw Poll September 8
Karen Handel: 57
Nathan Deal: 42
Eric Johnson: 41
John Oxendine: 37
Austin Scott: 25
Ray McBerry: 1
Jeff Chapman: 0C
hose not to vote: 6

DeKalb GOP Straw Poll August 29
Karen Handel: 101
John Oxendine: 63
Eric Johnson: 38
Nathan Deal: 27
Ray McBerry: 20
Austin Scott: 7

Show Your Support for Karen at Upcoming Events

Over the next 90 days Karen's campaign has dozens of events scheduled all across the state. We need your help and if you're interested in showing your support for Karen the next time she's in your community -- or if you would like to host an event of your own -- please let us know.
Contact Ally (ally@karenhandel.com) or Amanda (amanda@karenhandel.com) for more information.

Young Professional Kick-Off Event a Huge Success

Last week we kicked-off the Young Professionals for Karen with an event in Atlanta. It was a huge success with almost 200 young professionals attending and showing their support for Karen.

We want to send a special thanks to the host committee for putting together such a strong event, and to all those who attended and joined Karen’s “Bring it On” campaign.

The hosts for the event were: Charlene Marino, Sarah Hawkins, Brian Stimson, Andrew Allman, Daniel Allman, Charlie Ozburn, Hunter Hill, Vincent Russo, Bo Keatley, Clay Cheshire, David Gordon, Andre Egros, Ginger DuBose, Rob Fortson, Steve Rickman, Danielle Simms, Jennifer Tommasello, Amy Salloum, Steve Butler, Jason Lunsford, Tray Guepet, Mike Kerfeld, Chris Wagner, Baoky Vu, Emily Culbertson, Craig Cancienne, Glenn Harvin, Amy Shultz, Lesley Newell and Chad Wingate.
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.Lazio to Enter N.Y. Governor's Race

Rick Lazio, a former Republican congressman from Long Island, N.Y., will announce on Tuesday that he's running for governor, a spokesman said...

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125349754922226835.html

Note: Lazio ran against Hillary Clinton and garnered national attention and support from Republicans... If Rudy Giuliani jumps into the race as rumored, it'll really be interesting! Current Democrat Governor Patterson is under fire, even from the White House. If we didn't write about it in Republican Candidates, check out State and National Politics.

Mike Huckabee Wins Values Voter Summit Straw Poll

Mike Huckabee has convincingly won Family Research Council's second-ever Values Voter Summit Straw Poll. Mitt Romney, Tim Pawlenty, Sarah Palin, and Mike Pence finished roughly tied for second place.

Only registered participants of the Summit who were present at the event were allowed to vote.

Family Research Council President Tony Perkins released the following statement in reaction to the second ever Values Voter Summit Straw Poll:

"We were surprised that the event's turnout was more than double our expectations, clearly showing intensity among social conservatives. This was the first time potential conservative candidates could present their vision for change. We have over 1,800 registrants and over 175,000 unique online viewers."
The following are the straw poll results:

Candidate Name Total Votes Percentage

1. Mike Huckabee170 28.48%
2. Mitt Romney 74 12.40%
3. Tim Pawlenty 73 12.23%
4. Sarah Palin 72 12.06%
5. Mike Pence 71 11.89%
6. Newt Gingrich 40 6.70%
7. Bobby Jindal 28 4.69%
8. Rick Santorum 15 2.51%
9. Ron Paul 13 2.18%
10. Undecided 31 5.19%
11. Other 10 1.68%

* The full results can be accessed at www.frcaction.org

Members of FRC Action are only allowed to vote once. For more information on The Values Voter Summit, log onto www.valuesvotersummit.org

Jones Impresses Members of Gilmer County TEA Party

Jeremy Jones, candidate for US House for Georgia’s 9th district, participated in the Gilmer County TEA party candidate forum. The forum was held on Tuesday the 15th, on the heels of the trip the group took to Washington DC to be a part of the 9/12 March on DC.

Jones energized the near capacity crowd at the ETC pavilion with his opening remarks. Rather than saying the similar, expected, Conservative phrases in line with all of the other candidates, Jones took the time to challenge the members to keep up the good work. “Don’t stop after the primary, don’t stop after the election. No matter who wins, keep the pressure on us.”

Because of the large number of candidates, the number of questions from the audience was limited. Questions that were asked touched on various topics such as illegal immigration, term limits, and the proposed audit of the Federal Reserve System.

To the question of the audit of the Federal Reserve, Jones set himself apart from the rest of the candidates when he replied, “…be careful for what you ask.” Jones insisted he was for the audit, but cautioned, “I know how bad the results of the audit will be. I will not want an audit until we have a plan in place to address the major financial meltdown that will occur when we confirm what we all assume. “

When asked to expand on his answer later, Jones said, “I agree an audit must take place, but if we do not have “plan B” in place, we will witness the dive of the Dollar to levels so low, our country could become bankrupt overnight. Everything from savings bonds to 401K’s will be worthless, unless a plan is in place first. If you knew you were going to the beach when a hurricane was approaching, you would not go unprepared. All I am saying, we cannot do the audit until we are prepared for the aftermath.”

After the meeting several attendees said Jones seemed to have the greatest knowledge of the topics and he was, “…well informed and well prepared.” Of such statements, Jones said, “It was the TEA movement that confirmed the drive to run for me. The beliefs and frustration among this group, and thousands similar across the country are exactly how I feel. I am simply saying what is from my heart.”

The event comes after a Union County picnic where Jones placed third in a straw poll, out of a field of almost 10 candidates. “The recent poll shows we have a lot of work left to do, but considering how little money we have spent, and how well we are received at all events, including the TEA party events, it is clear, this seat is not going to be bought. The people are tired of politicians shuffling jobs.”