Jeremy Jones Switches Races

Jeremy Jones, candidate for Georgia’s 9th congressional district, is announcing his drop from the 9th district race, and his entrance into the race for Georgia Senate District 53, currently held by Jeff Mullis.

After careful thought and consideration, Jones decided to switch to the 53rd district state race believing he can do more good at the state level than at the national level. Given the current bills being passed at the national level, it is past time to elect state senators who will uphold the constitutions of both Georgia and the United States. The hands of the citizens of Georgia have been pointed at Washington D.C. as elected officials trampled upon the Constitution, but it is time to hold the state senators and representatives fully accountable for their votes and actions as well. It is now more important than ever to elect a state senator who will support every effort to block the unconstitutional laws that are coming out of Washington D.C. and protect the freedoms the good citizens of Georgia.

Jones is committed to protecting your God-given rights enumerated in the U.S. Constitution as life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, or as the Georgia Constitution states, “to perpetuate the principles of free government, insure justice to all, preserve peace, promote the interest and happiness of the citizen and of the family, and transmit to posterity the enjoyment of liberty.” When elected, Jones will only vote for legislation that will provide for these things, and if he compromises on these issues, he freely invites you to vote him out of office.

On the switch, Jones said, “I equate the federal government to the school yard bully, and it time we stand up to him. Sure, we might lose sometimes, but if enough us stand up to it often enough, we will prevail.”

For more information on Jeremy Jones, or to become involved in his campaign, please visit jonesforus.com.
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Political Insider Don Balfour pulls out of race for Congress — and [GA] state Senate

Huge news. State Sen. Don Balfour (R-Snellville) just announced that, not only is he pulling out of the race for Congress, he’s done with the state Senate. Here’s the press release:

This afternoon, Senator Don Balfour, from the 9th District, announced that he will no longer run for John Linder’s 7th Congressional seat.

http://blogs.ajc.com/political-insider-jim-galloway/2010/03/18/don-balfour-pulls-out-of-race-for-congress-and-state-senate/

via Jeffrey Meeks via Jim Galloway (thanks Jeffrey)

Reminder Ringgold Lunch Bunch, Karen Handel Guest Speaker

Just a reminder that Karen Handel, Republican Candidate for Governor of Georgia will speak to the Lunch Bunch on Wednesday April 7, 2010.

Lawyers for Olens for GA Attorney General Coalition and Website Launches

Three former State Bar Chairs Spearhead Lawyer Coalition Efforts

(3/8/10) Last week Sam Olens was again named one of “Georgia's Super Lawyers.” Today, the campaign launches the Lawyers for Olens coalition with a dedicated website www.lawyersforolens.com whereby lawyers statewide can endorse the campaign by entering their name on the website.

Three former State Bar Chairs are spearheading Lawyers for Olens: Robert Ingram (State Bar Chair 2005-2006); Jimmy Franklin (State Bar Chair 2001-2002) and David Gambrell (State Bar Chair 1967-68)

"Sam Olens will be an effective and strong Attorney General for our state. He is an experienced, tough litigator and proven leader and administrator—he will serve us well as the state's top lawyer," said Jimmy Franklin, Franklin, Taulbee, Rushing, Snipes & Marsh, LLC, of Statesboro.

Committee Members for Lawyers for Olens include:

Brad Carver, Hall, Booth, Smith & Slover, PC
Robert S. Highsmith Jr., Holland & Knight
Ben Johnson, Alston & Bird, LLP
Steve Labovitz, McKenna, Long & Aldridge, LLP
Benton Mathis, Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP
Cecil McLendon, Jr., Riley, Rosner & McLendon, LLC
Oscar Persons, Burr & Forman LLP
William F. Riley, Riley, Rosner & McLendon, LLC
Carolyn Roddy, Rosner & McLendon, LLC
Ray Smith III, Joyce, Thrasher, Kaiser & Liss
John Sours, Wasson Sours & Harris
Frank Turner, Greer Stansfield & Turner, LLP
Mark VanderBroek, Troutman Sanders LLP
Joe, Whitley, Greenberg Traurig, LLP

“I am grateful for the support these fine lawyers and their efforts to spread the word to all attorneys statewide that they believe I will serve the state well as the next Attorney General.” said Olens.

MacGinnitie Wins Reagan Day Dinner Straw Poll

Doug MacGinnitie, Republican candidate for Secretary of State, won the Union County Republican Party straw poll on Saturday at the Reagan Day Dinner held in Blairsville, Georgia. MacGinnitie defeated Brian Kemp, the appointed Secretary of State, receiving 62% of the 265 votes cast.

"I am honored and excited to have won the straw poll in Union County," stated MacGinnitie. "It is affirmation that our campaign is continuing to build momentum and strong grassroots support across the state."

The Reagan Day Dinner straw poll marked the first straw poll of 2010, and the first to label Kemp as an incumbent on the ballot. The significant win for MacGinnitie further illustrates that the grassroots party activists have made their decision and want MacGinnitie in the office of the Secretary of State.

"This win reaffirms the belief that Georgians are not looking for another career politician, but rather a successful businessman with private sector experience," stated MacGinnitie. "Our straw poll victories are a testament to our campaign's ability to organize a network of dedicated citizens who believe in our vision for fair and honest elections and job growth."

The effort that MacGinnitie's campaign has put into traveling the state has paid off. MacGinnitie has won eight of the last nine major straw polls conducted by local GOP organizations. Doug won the straw polls held in Cobb, DeKalb, Glynn, Henry, Muscogee, Union and Walker County sometimes by a 2-to-1 margin. The one poll where Doug fell short was in his opponent's old senate district where he still managed to earn 40% of the vote.

"At this point, grassroots party activists who go to these events have already met both candidates on several occasions and are familiar with each," said campaign manager Brandon Phillips. "Even with our opponent now having the advantage of incumbency, the grassroots of our party still continue to stand with Doug. If we learned anything from this win, it's that when voters are educated about the candidates they choose Doug hands down. Our advantage is that we'll have the resources necessary to make that happen come July."

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Mitt Romney to Speak at Emory Law Event March 30

Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney will present "No Apology: The Case for American Greatness" and discuss United States courts at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 30, in Emory University's Glenn Memorial Auditorium, 1652 N. Decatur Rd. The Emory Law Federalist Society and Emory College Republicans are sponsoring the lecture.

Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue will introduce Romney. A question-and-answer session will take place from 8 to 8:30 p.m., and a book signing will follow.

The event is free and open to the public. No ticket is required, but attendees are encouraged to register. Seating is first-come/first-served with reserved seating for law students. Admittance for students begins at 6:30 p.m. Free parking is available at Fishburne Parking Deck, 1672 N. Decatur Rd., and Lowergate South Parking Deck, 1705 Lowergate Drive.

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Harold Logsdon, Candidate for GA Insurance Commissioner: Insuring Georgia's Uninsured

One of the biggest challenges facing Georgia's next Insurance Commissioner is finding a way to insure the 1.7 million Georgians without health insurance, and finding ways to cut in the $6.6 billion negative impact these uninsured have on Georgia's economy.

With innovative ideas, and by working with insurance companies through free market and free enterprise, I believe we can find ways to insure about one-third of these people. If we can do that, insure about 500,000 of these 1.7 million, it would mean a $2 billion economic boost to Georgia's economy.

This may include coming up with incentives to encourage the young and healthy to purchase insurance now. Georgia has been a front-runner in Health Savings Accounts, which could also be one solution to help the uninsured become insured.

On thing is certain, the answer is through free market and free enterprise, not some public option plan being pushed on us by Washington.

It's also time for Georgia to sell insurance across state lines.

This idea is part of the solution to healthcare.

SB 407 provides for this and answers all of my concerns about selling across state lines.

It allows states to form consortiums, allowing for a larger market -- which in turn, allows for lower insurance rates.

Not only does it allow for agents outside the state to sell insurance to Georgia residents, but SB 407 also allows Georgia agents to sell into other states -- increasing their market area.

SB 407 also gives Georgia's Insurance Commissioner the authority to protect Georgia's citizens, to go to bat for them when they have insurance disputes.

Georgia needs SB 407.


Harold Logsdon
Peachtree City
Candidate for State Insurance Commissioner
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Belle Isle for Senate Update - Invitation to St. Patrick's Day Brunch

This Saturday David will be speaking at the North Fulton Republican St. Patrick's Day Brunch. Come out and let's have an engaging discussion on LOCAL CONTROL, LIMITED GOVERNMENT AND CONSERVATISM! What: North Fulton Republican St. Patrick's Day Brunch Where: Horseshoe Bend Country Club - 2100 Steeplechase Lane Roswell, GA 30076-3547 When: Doors open at 9:15 AM Program from 10:00 - 11:15 AM Cost: $10.00 online $12.00 at the door We look forward to seeing you there! If you can't make it but would like to contribute to the campaign use the button below.     Thanks! Belle Isle Campagin

www.belleisleforsenate.com The gift limit is $2,400 per person or company, but all contribution levels are welcome! Checks should be made payable to "Belle Isle For Senate" and mailed to:                                                  178 South Main Street  Suite 250  Alpharetta, GA 30009

Warner Robins Debate a huge success for Scott

Update from Austin Scott Campaign:

Warner Robins Debate a huge success for Scott

Tuesday night's debate in Warner Robins was a great success for the Austin Scott campaign. As the only major candidate not to abandon his elected position, Austin offered a unique perspective on the challenges facing Georgia. He distinguished himself by offering clear, concrete solutions to the problems facing Georgia citizens.

He expressed his strong fiscal conservatism, his unwavering commitment to quality public education, and that he is the GOP candidate most likely to win the general election in November.

"I haven't had the privilege of serving in a district that's 90% Republican like some of my opponents. I've gotten elected in the same district that (Democratic congressman) Jim Marshall wins," he said. "Think about who can carry the day for our party in November. It's all about that."

At one point, Austin had the whole crowd in laughter when he directed a question to the only candidate who declined to attend the debate. The event hosts had placed an empty chair on stage bearing the absent candidate's name.

The debate was hosted by the Warner Robins Patriot. Click here to read the Patriot's coverage of the debate.

Legislative Update

Georgians can count on Austin Scott, who has continued his commitment to those who elected him through his ongoing work in the legislature. Austin's work to balance Georgia's budget in this time of crisis will be an enormous benefit to the citizens of this state during his term as governor. He has introduced bills that will bring jobs to Georgia and hold our elected officials to higher ethical standards. He is also working to eliminate wasteful spending so we don't have to cut valuable programs like 4-H and the agricultural extension.

You can follow Austin's progress in the legislature by joining our Facebook page.


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Karen Handel E-Update 3/5/10

Thank you for all the hard work you are doing for Karen in her campaign for Governor. Your efforts are paying dividends!

In fact, in a new poll released yesterday by the independent organization Public Policy Polling shows that Karen has closed the gap against John Oxendine, and the race is quickly developing into a two person contest.

The poll was conducted February 26 - 28. In the head-to-head match-up the numbers are:
Oxendine 27%
Handel 19%
Deal 13%
Scott 3%
Johnson 3%
Chapman 2%
McBerry 2%
Undecided 32%

This shows that the momentum is clearly on Karen's side as this is just the latest of several polls that have shown growth and movement for her campaign.

Karen's message of reform, cutting spending and job creation is clearly resonating with the voters. While the numbers have stayed stagnant for the other candidates, Karen has shown tremendous growth over the past several months.

Help Karen continue to spread her message across Georgia with a donation today. Thank you for your support of Karen!

- The Karen Handel for Governor Team
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Jeremy Jones: Open Letter to 9th District Congressional Candidates

GFP commentary: Refreshing.

Sent via Facebook:
Fellow Candidates,

It has been wonderful to meet and get to know each of you. I truly believe we have learned a lot from each other and I consider all of you new friends. Please understand, this letter is from the heart. There is nothing to back it up except my word.

Last week we were all working our campaigns with the full intention of having a successful election in July. The actions of Congressman Deal appear to have thrown all of that out the window, or at least have sped it up a great deal. Each of us believes we are the best candidate to serve the people of the 9th district, or we would not be running.

However, I ask that each of you consider the ramifications of the upcoming special election. I have decided to run in the special election as I know some of you will as well, and the others are most likely considering it. However, I know one of the reasons you would run in the special election is to be sure you are not faced with running against an "incumbent" in July. I have publicly made this promise, if I win the special election, I will not run for the seat in the upcoming primary/general election.

I make this promise because I know how busy the campaign season will be in May, June, and July. I also know how busy the person holding the office will be. It will not be fair to the people of the 9th district to attempt to serve in what we all agree a most critical point in our government's history, and devote the needed time to run an effective campaign to adequately present yourself to the citizens of the 9th district.

It was my every intention to serve the people of the 9th district next year, and for the years to come. However, as I know most of us believe, this election is not about me, you, or any other candidate. It is about our country, Georgia, and the people of the 9th district.

I ask you consider what I have said, and I humbly ask for your support to ensure a Democrat does not win this special election. If I win the special election, you can devote the time required to run the campaign that will illustrate to the people who you really are, and also allow the people of the district to be well represented for the next 9 months in Washington. It truly is a situation where the real winners are the citizens of 9th district.

Thank you and God Bless,

Jeremy Jones

PS - Not all candidates were tagged in this note, for some refuse to accept my friend request. I have sent this letter to them where possible.
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Bert Loftman, MD for US Congress, statement re: Nathan Deal

Nathan Deal is leaving his Congressional office in order to run for the Governor and this will greatly effect the current Congressional race. There will be a special election probably sometime in April. I have a number of reactions:

I believe that it is wrong for politicians to leave their elected office in order to run for another office. I pledge that I will never do this.

The advantages for the career politicians is that they already have name recognition and have accumulated large amounts of special interest funds in their war chests with which to begin a media advertising blitz.

The advantage for non career politicians is that the political tide is against career politicians. Their large media blitz will likely backfire and turn off the voters. Also, there will not be other competing races so concerned voters will be better able to concentrate on the candidates and issues of the Congressional race.

My advantage is that the issues of the FairTax, Controlling the Fed, and Honoring the Constitution returns us to our American Heritage. These time proven solutions will solve most of Americas problems such as job-creation, improved education, health care reform, lower taxes, less government, and campaign finance reform.

A vote for me is a vote for a healthy America and healthy Americans.

LoftmanForCongress.com
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Comment from Oxendine Campaign on Deal's resignation

“It is regrettable that Nathan Deal has left Georgia without a voice in Washington during the vital healthcare debate,” said Tim Echols, spokesman for John Oxendine. “We are hopeful that this isn't an attempt to circumvent an investigation into the state-funded program that benefited his auto salvage business.”
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Graves Statement on Congressman Deal’s Resignation

State Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger), the leading Republican candidate for Congress in Georgia’s 9th District, released the following statement after today’s announcement that Congressman Deal would resign his seat March 8th:

“As I announced ten months ago, my intentions have been to be North Georgia’s conservative voice in Congress. Nothing has changed. If anything, we are only more resolved to send a proven conservative to fill the large voids left in Washington.

“There are still many important issues facing our country. We need patient-centered, patient-driven health care reforms, not ObamaCare. We need a real JOBS Bill, not another government-funded stimulus bill. North Georgia’s conservative voice deserves to be heard.

“My campaign has been working hard for the last ten months. We’ve raised the most money. We are the only campaign that has a grassroots organization in all 15 counties of the district. It is exciting to see the momentum and energy that this campaign generates daily.

“Obviously, we don’t know the date of the special election yet, and we await the Governor’s decision. Regardless, the Graves campaign and the GA-9 Freedom Fighters are ready, whether we have an election soon rather than later.

“All of North Georgia should join Julie and me in thanking Nathan and Sandra for their many years of service in Washington on behalf of North Georgia.”
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Jeremy Jones Annouces New Direction for Campaign

Today Nathan Deal announced he would resign his seat in the US House of Representatives effective March 6, 2010. Deal represents the 9th district of Georgia.

In light of the announcement, Jeremy Jones, currently seeking to replace Nathan Deal has announced a new direction in his campaign. Jones has announced he will run in the special election, date yet to be determined.

Jones also said when he takes office, he will NOT run for the new term to begin next year.

“The issues facing us today are to important for a Congressman to worry about running a campaign. Congressman Deal stepped down because he realizes the time commitment in both running a campaign, and serving in DC in these critical times. It only makes sense, in the best interest of the people of the 9th district they have representative dedicated to serving them full time, not someone worrying about an election.”

Under Georgia law, Governor Sonny Perdue will set a date for the special election. It could be no sooner than early April, but no date has been yet announced. Jones also stated, “If the election were held in early April, the new Congressman would be forced to learn by fire and get caught up on over half of the legislative session. To believe one can do that, serve the people of the 9th, AND seek to run a campaign that will be highly time consuming simply does not seem possible.”

Information about Jeremy Jones can be found at www.JonesForUs.com.