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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Graves To Speak AT Georgia March On Washington Rendezvous Rally

State Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger), Republican candidate for Congress in Georgia’s 9th District, will attend tomorrow’s Georgia March on Washington Rendezvous Rally in Roswell. Georgians from across the state will gather before departing for Washington to attend Saturday’s Taxpayer March on Washington and Tea Party. Graves will be a featured speaker at the rendezvous rally, which begins at 10:00 am at the Georgia-Killer Creek Harley-Davidson.

Graves will also attend the Taxpayer March and Tea Party in Washington, D.C. where he will be a speaker on the West Front Lawn of the U.S. Capitol. Graves was invited by organizers of the March and Tea Party and is one of a handful of elected officials speaking. Georgia Congressman Tom Price, MD will also join Graves as a speaker. Graves announced he was invited to speak in a video to GA-9 Freedom Fighters yesterday. Click here to view the video.

WHO: State Rep. Tom Graves, Republican candidate for Congress in Georgia’s 9th District

WHAT: Georgia March on Washington Rendezvous Rally

WHEN: Thursday, September 10, 2009 ~ 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: Georgia- Killer Creek Harley-Davidson11480 Alpharetta HwyRoswell, GA 30076
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Graves Launches New Campaign Website

Site enhances largest presence on the web of any of the candidates

Republican State Representative Tom Graves (R-Ranger), candidate for the 9th Congressional District of Georgia, announced today that his new campaign website www.GravesForCongress.org is live on the internet and brings a fresh style of campaign website design online for the 2010 election cycle in Georgia.

“My new site allows 9th District voters to become more involved in our campaign by staying up-to-date on our activities and learn more about how I’ll represent them in Congress,” said Graves. “We’ll use this website to spread our message of protecting liberty and empowering people.”

At the site, voters are able to get campaign updates through Twitter and Tom’s Blog, view videos and pictures from the campaign trail and learn more about the four-term State Representative and his positions, as well as have access to important information regarding voting in the 2010 election.

Graves said the site will be updated frequently and voters should visit often to get current information regarding the campaign and his travels around Georgia’s 9th District.

The new website only enhances Graves’ online campaign, which is the largest among the candidates in the race. Now with the website, multiple Facebook pages and a massive email distribution list, Graves has the ability to instantly reach out to voters across the North Georgia district.

The site also incorporates a petition 9th District voters may sign calling on President Obama and Congressional leaders to make health care reforms “Patient Centered and Patient Driven”. Graves is traveling the district advocating for free market reforms that make health care choices more affordable, portable and accessible.

“These functions will be extremely helpful in getting our message out to the communities throughout the district," added Graves.

Click here for a direct link to the new site: www.GravesForCongress.org.
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Handel for Governor E-Update

Karen Handel Calls on Obama Justice Department to Reverse Position on Non-Citizen's Voting

Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel today sent a formal request to the Obama Justice Department to reverse course on its prohibition against the state confirming U.S. citizenship for people registering to vote.

The common sense program enacted by Karen's office in 2008 used data from the Department of Driver's Services and the Social Security Administration to make sure newly registered voters were actually U.S. citizens.

Last May the Justice Department banned Georgia from conducting citizenship checks - opening the doors to organizations like ACORN to register non-citizens and encourage them to cast ballots.

Following this move, Karen launched an online petition allowing Georgians to express their opposition to the Obama Administration's move. More than 25,000 Americans signed that petition.

Today's letter is the next step in a legal process to protect Georgia's right to conduct its own elections and to ensure that all Georgia voters are actually citizens of this country.

"Citizenship verification worked in 2008, plain and simple," Karen said. "Historic numbers of people of all ethnic backgrounds voted without difficulty and no qualified voter was kept from casting a ballot."

To show your support for Karen's fight against the Obama Administration and for citizenship verification of voters, please sign the petition today.

Pro-Amnesty MALDEF denounces voter check appeal to DOJ

Not only is Karen taking on the Obama Administration to ensure that only U.S. citizens are voting in our elections, she is also fighting other liberal groups such as the ACLU and MALDEF. It was no surprise this week when MALDEF attacked Karen for her efforts.

Karen announced the appeal on Wednesday, and according to yesterday's article by the Associated Press, "the Mexican Legal Defense and Education Fund is denouncing Georgia's appeal of the Justice Department's rejection of a voter check plan." The article also cites Elise Shore, regional counsel for MALDEF, calling Karen's voting reforms a "flawed, unreliable system that creates barriers to voting."

Karen is going to continue standing up against these groups to fight for sensible voting reforms. To read the entire article, follow this link.

Karen to Speak at Atlanta Health Care Town Hall Saturday

Obama's healthcare plan has been stalled by real Americans speaking out and if we want real, sensible reform we need to keep it up. Join Karen at the Atlanta Health Care Town Hall tomorrow.

To RSVP or volunteer for the event, follow this link.

The event will be at Atlanta's Centennial Park from 1:00 - 4:00 tomorrow and other speakers include Dick Armey and Herman Cain.
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Austin Scott: 7/25/09 Campaign Update

As I approach the 500 mile mark on the Walk of Georgia, I’ve noticed the number one concern among Georgians is with the current state of our economy; their second greatest concern is funding for public education. These two issues are closely related, as it’s clear that good schools lead to strong communities.

I recommend we revisit SPLOST expenditures and grant more flexibility with local sales tax funds. It’s more important to focus on people instead of buildings. This flexibility would give local systems the ability to do that. Personally, I don’t agree with the Governor’s decision or the timing of the notification to the local systems, but I prefer that we look forward and find long term solutions to public school funding rather than simply criticize the Governor for the decision that he made.

-Austin
SCOTT FOR GEORGIA
PO Box 988
Tifton GA 31793
www.scottforga.com
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Handel Announces More Endorsements

Senator John Douglas, PSC Commissioner Chuck Eaton, Four More County Commissioners Join Karen's Team

Karen Handel announced today that Senator John Douglas and Public Service Commission member Chuck Eaton joined four additional county commissioners from across Georgia in endorsing Handel's campaign.

"I am honored to have the support of these fine public servants and community leaders," Handel said. "Our momentum continues to grow as we expand our grassroots network across the state. These endorsements are humbling as well as exciting."

"Karen is the candidate who is best prepared to lead our state," Douglas said. "With her combination of business, executive and political experience, she will take on the tough issues and get them resolved."

"Karen is just the kind of leader we need as Governor," said Eaton. "Her 'Bring it on' attitude is just what we need to solve the tough issues of jobs, water and transportation."

The addition of four new county commissioner endorsements makes a total of 28 county commissioners who have joined Karen's campaign. The four commissioners who endorsed today are:

Tom Worthan, Douglas County Commission Chairman
Dan Reyen, Hart County Commissioner
Bill Scott, Lumpkin County Commissioner
Ashley Hendrix, Carroll County Commissioner

"Karen is the only candidate for Governor in either party that has served in office at the local level," Worthan said. "She has walked in our shoes and understands the issues we face on a daily basis. She will make a great Governor."

Karen Handel for Governor E-Update:

A Great Week!

We had a terrific week and really got around to meet a lot of people. I spoke to a good group of Home Depot employees on Monday and told them that -- when it comes to this campaign -- I can do it, but I need their help. I don't think I could get away with stealing their slogan for our bumper stickers but it seemed to go over well at this gathering.

I also spoke to the Gwinnett Chamber, attended the Snapping Shoals Electric Membership Corp. Annual Lunch, and addressed the Spalding County G.O.P. (where we had a serious run on bumper stickers -- a personal benchmark I use to gauge enthusiasm).

This weekend we'll head to Hiawassee with a contingent of energetic volunteers for the Georgia Mountain Fair Parade on Saturday.

The Washington Democrats Go Wild on Taxes

The Obama Administration and the Democratic Congress are frankly scaring the heck out of people more and more. The latest? A plan to take small businesses, family farmers and couples making $350,000 a year, call them millionaires, and tax them to pay for a socialized health care program. That’s a strange way to create wealth.

Call me crazy, but I think taxing small businesses and entrepreneurs is the last thing our government should be doing right now, and we need to fight back hard against this.

I am a strong supporter of the FairTax. Eliminating the federal personal and corporate income tax, capital gains, payroll, gift and estate taxes, and replacing them with a revenue-neutral personal consumption tax would create a much fairer tax structure for families and businesses. It will also encourage savings. We should also repeal of the 16th Amendment and take away the federal government’s authority to levy income taxes. This would return the powers to tax to the American people.

We need honest, real tax reform – a complete review of all state and local taxes and a new, simplified tax code that normal people can understand. That is what I am going to do as Governor.

Illegal Immigration

There has been lots of new talk in Washington about illegal immigration. Those Washington politicians are always good for a chuckle. The fact is that while they talk, they have failed to protect our borders – which is one of their few clear responsibilities after all. And now that they have let millions of illegals into the country, they want to give them the right to vote and provide them free health care at our expense.

I pushed a law that would make people prove their citizenship when they register to vote. It passed and the courts approved it.

Now the Obama Justice Department has told us that we can’t enforce this law. They want to bring ACORN down to Georgia to sign up illegals and turn them out to vote on Election Day.

Well I am fighting them as Secretary of State and you’d better believe I am going to keep fighting them with your help.

Everyone, thanks for your continued support as I push forward in our campaign for Governor.

Your friend,

Karen Handel

Republican Candidate Ray McBerry Announces the Launch of the “States' Rights Tour” Across Georgia

Note: We realize this is technically "old" news... we received it on June 29th. However, we overlooked it and so we're correcting our error by posting now:

Republican gubernatorial candidate Ray McBerry is pleased to announce the launch of the “States' Rights Tour” across Georgia beginning August 1, 2009 in Cherokee County. The tour will cover the entire state during the months of August through October.

States' Rights has recently been a topic much in the news as traditional conservatives across America look for a constitutional solution to an out-of-control federal government; and Ray McBerry has been one of the leading speakers across America on the subject of States' Rights for more than a decade. The theme of Ray's campaign for governor, from the beginning, has been “Georgia First!”

The subject of States' Rights took on a more prominent place in Georgia news in May when the state joined twenty-two other states in passing State Sovereignty resolutions in the Georgia State Senate under the authorship of Sen. Chip Pearson.

Recent attacks by Democratic gubernatorial candidates, including Roy Barnes, against the States' Rights stand taken by several Republican candidates have led off with Ray's photo and references to Ray's comments about the constitutionality of States' Rights under the Tenth Amendment. Responding to these attacks, Ray commented, “I have been speaking out on the need for the states to, once again, exercise their sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment to rein in an out-of-control federal government in defense of the people's liberty. I am more than happy to be the 'point man' for States' Rights in this race for governor.”

The “States' Rights Tour” will be joined by State Insurance Commissioner candidate Gerry Purcell and a number of other statewide and local candidates and elected officials who have expressed their mutual support for the principle of States' Rights.

More information about the upcoming “States' Rights Tour” will be available shortly at http://www.georgiafirst.org/ or by contacting Jenny Hodges, campaign director for Ray McBerry for Governor, at 404.435.8852.
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Eric Johnson Raises Nearly $1 Million in Two Months

June 30th Disclosure Report Shows Over $910,000 Cash On Hand

Senator Eric Johnson, Republican candidate for Governor, today filed his June 30th campaign finance report with the State Ethics Commission disclosing cash contributions of $962,773.40 and a “cash on hand” balance of $913,483.20. The nearly $1 million in donations were raised in just over two months with over 91% of contributions, or $880,589.40, designated for the Republican Primary.

“Even in these challenging economic times, Georgians are investing confidently in our campaign and in our state’s future,” said Johnson. “Our first financial disclosure coupled with our broad and deep grassroots team is a clear indicator of the strength of our campaign.”

Upon entering the race for Governor on April 27th, Johnson assembled an impressive finance committee co-chaired by Steve Green of Savannah, Jamie Reynolds of Greensboro, and Virgil Williams of Stone Mountain. The campaign received 95% of its contributions from Georgia donors and nearly 60% of contributions are from individuals. The donations came from 665 contributors representing 61 different Georgia counties.

“In only two months, we were able to exceed all expectations and our own internal fundraising goals thanks to the generosity of so many Georgians and the hard work of our finance team,” continued Johnson. “But we know this is just the beginning. Our statewide team is not going to let up until we are the Republican nominee and lead our party’s ticket to victory in November 2010.”

Totals reported in the disclosure do not include any contributions received after the end of the disclosure period on June 30th. Additionally, there were no loans to the campaign. For a more detailed analysis of the report, please see the attached document.

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Doug MacGinnitie, SOS Candidate, Campaign Update

7/7/09 Today our campaign will release our first financial disclosure report, and I wanted to share the good news with you first. In the last few months, we have taken in over $260,000 from over 265 contributors from every corner of our state.

While this is a great sign of our momentum, we know that money will not win this race. The people of Georgia will elect the most qualified, strongest leader to serve as Secretary of State next year. Our financial resources will help introduce the voters to Doug.

And, even more importantly, our grassroots network will spread our message in communities across Georgia. Our campaign has already attracted attention thanks to our hundreds of volunteers, and we will continue to grow our network.

At this point in the campaign, we have exceeded all of our financial and political goals. But, we’re just getting started.

Look for more announcements from our campaign throughout the summer and fall as we continue to grow.

Thank you for all you’ve done so far this year, and all you will do in the future.

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Karen Handel, Candidate for Georgia Governor, July 7 Update

I wanted you to be the first to hear our campaign's latest good news. We haven't sent out a press release or filed our report yet, but we soon will, and it will show that we have raised over $430,000 in less than 3 months. Even better, our contributions came from more than 900 individuals from 77 Georgia counties!

This means that we are well on our way to having the resources we need to get our message out. It also means that we are building a grassroots team of dedicated Georgians who have invested personally in our campaign and will work hard toward our victory.

At this stage of a campaign, it's often said that people vote with their contributions. If that's the case, we're off to a great start.

Our fundraising total is all the more impressive because our support comes from regular Georgians. I haven't raised tens of thousands of dollars from other political campaigns, Political Action Committees or industry insiders. My supporters are regular folks who -- despite a tough economy -- believe strongly enough in our cause and my vision for our state that they are willing to put their hard-earned money where their beliefs are. I am humbled and grateful for this support and confidence.

We are also excited that we met our goal of raising more than $100,000 online. We have worked hard to have a cutting edge e-campaign that uses the latest in social networking technology to reach out to people who are not traditional donors to political candidates. This effort will continue to be a key approach, and those of you who joined our effort through the online push will continue to be a real asset to our efforts.

While we're off to a great start, there is still a lot of work ahead of us. Over the next several months, you're going to see my campaign in every corner of the state. Thanks to the hard work of my Finance Committee, we've already scheduled over 30 events this summer and fall. Stay tuned for details on when our "Bring it On" campaign comes to your town and for other exciting announcements about endorsements and additions to my finance team.

I want to sincerely thank all of you who have supported me and our campaign in these first months -- whether through your financial support or your time. You've contributed more than money -- you have put your faith and trust in me. Most importantly, you have contributed your friendship, confidence and enthusiasm. Steve and I are grateful.

Thank you so much for your help, words of encouragement, and prayers. I hope to see you soon.

Karen C. Handel

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Contract with Peachtree City, Shelby Barker, PTC Council Candidate

The last couple of months have been an awesome start to our campaign. I have met many people around the community that have expressed concerns about the path our city government has taken over the past several years. These feelings of concern displayed by fellow citizens have led me to establish a written commitment of innovative ideas that will ensure Peachtree City remains the best community in the world. You will find that under my contract with Peachtree City, I take strong stances in favor of Peachtree City’s quality of life. If you find that you support the contract please visit my website to join the cause.

www.shelbybarker.com

First
I want to create a new legislative rule regarding re-zoning initiatives. This rule will require a four out of five majority in favor of re-zoning in order to pass the initiative. The new rule would limit voting blocks on council and make it harder for the council members to deviate from the Comprehensive Land Use Plan.

Second
I stand strongly against the selling off of city assets in order to balance the budget. These facilities are jewels of our community.

Third
I will promote government efficiency by consistently asking staff to provide areas in which our government can be more resourceful. I will guide them to continually look at instances where creating a private partnership may better benefit the general public i.e. landscaping crew. We must also continue to examine areas that are low priority that can be cut from the budget.

Fourth
I will call for a restructuring of fees across the board. We should encourage innovative fee ideas such as a yearly recreational pass that provides year round access to recreational facilities an increased usage fee structure for out of city residents.

Fifth
I stand firmly against further big box development, unnecessary annexations, or higher density rezoning.

Sixth
I will make cart path maintenance a top priority. The upkeep of our cart path system has been pushed to the back burner for too long. We must begin to actively improve our system today in order to save ourselves from more costly repairs tomorrow.

Seventh
I support the most open government possible. We should greatly reduce “consent agenda” items and executive session meetings. I will also call for the city to utilize more venues in distributing information to the public.

Eighth
I will work closely with our county commissioners, state representatives and members of Congress to ensure that Peachtree City’s opportunity for investment and quality growth is maximized.

Ninth
I am unapologetically against any proposal that move the city away from the village concept. Thus, I am opposed to proposals like Calullah Hills, which will ultimately abandon our village concept.

Tenth
I commit to supporting the needs and requirements of an efficient, effective, and well trained police and fire department.

www.ShelbyBarker.com

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Shelby Barker
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Update: Karen Handel, Candidate for GA Governor

Our campaign got off to a fantastic start last weekend. At the GOP State Convention in Savannah, we launched our "Bring It On" campaign, website and video in front of an enthusiastic crowd of committed Republicans. Our campaign video has already been viewed over 4,000 times online - follow this link to see it for yourself!

After the convention, it was on to Glynn County for several events. First, I stopped in to see my good friend Dottie Ann Smith who graciously hosted an event with some friends. Then, we headed to the Glynn County GOP dinner where Steve and I caught up with Ruby Robinson, Kevin Gough, Rep Jerry Keen, Ken Trobaugh, Mack and Leslie Mattingly and many others. I'm also glad I had a chance to visit with Republican trailblazers like Virginia Ramsey and Willou Smith, who literally helped pave the way for me and other Republican women.

Last Sunday, we held a very well attended reception with members of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. It was a great opportunity to share with these community and business leaders my thoughts on several key issues facing our state. I also attended the Georgia Chamber's opening event, and even in this crowd, the launch of our "Bring It On" campaign was the talk of the evening.

The momentum from the convention has carried over into this week with an incredible number of volunteers and supporters joining our team.

As I continue traveling the state and spreading the message, I hope you'll take a moment to visit our new website at www.KarenHandel.com. Here, you can see the video, read about my stances on our state's important issues, catch up on recent press, and even join our campaign team. Also, please forward this e-mail to friends and family so they might do the same.

Finally, I want to give my sincere thanks to our volunteer team who helped make the State Convention a success last weekend. Our goal was to generate excitement and enthusiasm for our campaign, and we couldn't have done it without you. I genuinely appreciate your hard work on my behalf.

Thanks again for all your help and support and for your continued friendship and prayers!
Karen Handel

Today's Links:

National Blog Calls Karen "Bold Reformer"
Erick Erickson of RedState.com wrote a piece this week laying out a roadmap for GOP success in 2010. He mentioned Karen as one of the outsider reformers who will lead the charge. See the article here.

Contribute Today!
Karen needs your support to reach the many voters across Georgia. Join her team and help spread her message of reform by making a donation today.
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Austin Scott Calls on GOP to Fight for Conservative Values, Youth Vote

Rep. Austin Scott, R-Tifton, took his campaign for governor to the Georgia Republican Convention in Savannah over the weekend.. He called on party members to help him “rebuild” not “rebrand” the GOP by explaining to younger voters why conservative principles provide the most opportunity for prosperity in Georgia.

“As a man who was elected at the age of 26, I understand the power, the energy, and the victory that this generation can deliver for our party. This generation demands servant leaders prepared and willing to lead from day one. I am prepared to do just that.

“We as a party, and especially those of us who are elected, must take responsibility for what happened this past November.

“As your governor I will never sacrifice our principles for liberal policies from Washington, handed down by people who in their own words have said they have never been proud of this country,” Scott said.

Dozens of Scott’s supporters and volunteers traveled from around Georgia for the event.
“We will rebuild this party with a dynamic, energetic, and exciting movement that incorporates the next generation of voters and maintains our core beliefs that life is precious, God is good, and we are one nation under God.

“We are overwhelmed with the support we have received from around Georgia this weekend. College students, families, and dozens of ordinary Georgians made the journey with me and my wife, Vivien. We are grateful for their help, and we are ready to fight for Georgia’s future in the days ahead,” Scott said.

Austin Scott’s remarks at 2009 Georgia Republican Convention:

“Thank you for allowing me the privilege to wear the Republican brand for 14 years.

“We’re gathered here in Savannah. It is a beautiful city and a great place to hold this convention.

“But we are not here just to enjoy this great city. We’re here as Republicans to reclaim our role as the leaders of this country. I believe that our Republican principles are stronger than ever, and I believe that our party is also.

“Our conservative values were right yesterday, they are right today, and they will be right tomorrow. We are Republican because we understand that the future of our country depends on Individual freedom, freedom which depends on personal responsibility, freedom which must be protected from all enemies.

“Now, our party suffered a predictable loss 6 months ago—a defeat that was the result of us abandoning our conservative principles.

“It was one defeat and as Republicans we can ill afford to ‘rebrand’ in an effort to appease those who do not appreciate their very freedoms that we seek to protect.

“We as a party and especially those of us who are elected must take responsibility for what happened this past November. We didn’t do what we said we were going to do—unbalanced budgets and an escalating debt are unacceptable to the American people.

“As governor of Georgia, we will rebuild this party. Rebranding is not open for discussion, nor will I as governor of this great state of Georgia, as some have suggested we do, abandon our brothers in this country in what may very well be the greatest challenge to our freedom since World War II.

“During this campaign, I will deliver a message of limited government, which seeks only to provide services that cannot be provided by the free market.

“As your governor, I will never sacrifice our principles for liberal policies from Washington, handed down by people who in their own words have said they have never been proud of this country.

“In the House, I was proud to lead the charge to kill the Obama Resolution that proclaimed him as a man of unimpeachable character.

“We are still one nation under God and no Resolution saying the president has unimpeachable character is going to pass as long as I have anything to say about it.

“In this race our party must be the party that offers the next generation of voters a governor that they believe in.

“As a man who was elected at the age of 26, I understand the power, the energy, and the victory that this generation can deliver for our party.

“This generation demands servant leaders prepared and willing to lead from day one. I am prepared to do just that. The stakes for the next generation and the ones that follow are just too high to elect a governor that is not prepared to govern.

“As a servant leader, I have never done business with the state or any political subdivision of the state. I have never participated in a government retirement plan.

“I promise to be a good steward of your tax dollars, and as your governor, I will not appoint anyone to the board of regents who contributes more than $1000 to my campaign. The board of regents controls 6 billion in public funds and those seats are not for sale.

“We will expand the Transparency in Government Act so you can better see how your tax dollars are being spent.

“And while my campaign welcomes contributions, I would suggest that those who seek a personal rate of return invest elsewhere.

“We as Republicans cannot survive the plague of unethical, illegal campaign contributions.
“And those of you seated in this room have the responsibility to support a candidate who represents our core beliefs as Republicans and whose actions as a candidate do not bring into question the integrity of our brand.

“As Georgia’s governor, I will continue my unwavering support for a trauma network that serves all of Georgia

“Some have falsely suggested that this network is the capitalization of private businesses similar to what we have seen in Washington.

“This network already exists but will survive only with a sustainable funding source.

“As chairman of the Governmental Affairs Committee, I had the responsibility of delivering the Voter ID Laws of this state and the recent law to publish the names of the few in our legislature who have not complied with the tax laws. While other political opportunists grandstanded but failed to deliver on these issues, I fulfilled my responsibility and today they are the law.

“I was one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit against Roy Barnes and Tom Murphy, who butchered our legislative and congressional districts.

“The success of that lawsuit was key to Republicans becoming the majority in the House of Representatives and the Senate of this state.

“As you can see, in my time at the capitol I have never abandoned my responsibilities to my party or the people I represent. I believe in action, and I am a man of my word.

“Let me conclude by saying one more time that I have no interest in rebranding our party.

“We will rebuild this party with a dynamic, energetic, and exciting movement that incorporates the next generation of voters and maintains our core beliefs that life is precious, God is good, and we are one nation under God. Thank you, God Bless you.
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US Rep Phil Gingrey (R-GA 11th) Addresses 2009 GOP Convention

Congressman Phil Gingrey spoke 5/16/09 to attendees at the 2009 State Republican Convention in Savannah, Georgia.

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Richard Woods GOP Convention Speech

Richard Woods, candidate for State School Superintendent, spoke to Georgia Republicans at the 2009 Convention held in Savannah. The following is his speech as printed prior to the talk:

I thank you for the opportunity to stand before you today and speak on the subject of education. Over the past 21 years, I have had the privilege of working for this great state and the community of Irwin County as a classroom teacher and administrator. As our next state school superintendent, I will bring years of practicality, real life experience, and educational success to this post. But more importantly, I come before you today because I asked myself the question, "Am I happy with the direction Education has taken in Georgia?" I ask you as well, "Are you happy with the direction education has taken in Georgia?"

· Are you happy that almost 30% of our students drop out of school?
· Are you happy that nearly 40% of our rural students fail to obtain a high school diploma?
· Are you happy that there continues to be very noticeable performance gaps between population groups in grades 1-8 on our state test?
· Are you happy that many students begin their college experience by sitting in remedial education classes?
· Are you happy that Georgia consistently ranks in the bottom 5 on the SAT?
· Are you happy that the legislation known as "No Child Left Behind" continues to leave more and more children behind in school?

The answer for me is a resounding NO! In order to correct an educational system that continues to live on the verge of life-support, I am proposing a practical dose of educational CPR in order to put the heartbeat back into education.

C is old fashion common sense. Our actions, decisions, and goals must reflect practicality. Noted educational leaders, Max Thompson and Heidi Hays Jacobs, have stated that our new curriculum is still too broad and lacks needed depth.

We must do more to build a solid foundation in the critical areas of reading, writing, and math during the primary years. Research has shown that a child must be on grade level in reading by 3rd grade and in math by 5th grade or face joining our unacceptable dropout population.

I do support a curriculum that is rigorous and challenging. However, it must be practical, obtainable, and appropriate for all learners. Our children are not carbon copy machined parts who fit nicely into one box. Not everyone is designed nor has the desire to pursue the same post secondary experience. Our curriculum and educational system should not promote the concept that to do anything less is a failure. The doors of opportunity will open to any child who has true mastery of the basics. I must emphasize true mastery.

P represents partnership. The D.O.E. and our local systems must reduce the bureaucratic, redundant, and unnecessary paperwork that is being piled upon our teachers. We must allow them to do what they do best, close their doors and teacher. They should be allowed to work smarter, not harder.

Financial flexibility from the national and state governments needs to arrive in the form of block grants. This would allow school systems the financial freedom needed to address educational issues. We should not lose jobs or fail to purchase textbooks because funding is locked into uncompromising programs. Our LOCAL SYSTEMs, not Washington D.C. nor Atlanta, are far better qualified to judge what is needed to solve the challenges they face.

R is relationship building. The most important part of any relationship is the willingness to listen. We must hear the concerns and comments of those in the field. As you next superintendent, I pledge to you that I will be an individual who will listen to and represent ALL of Georgia.

Finally, you have a choice. You can choose to continue to boast in the progress of mediocrity or you can join me. Join me in putting common sense back into our decision making. Join me in creating productive partnerships. Join me in building relationships with all of Georgia. By doing so, we will work together to move out of the shadow of others and become the leader of education for our nation!

Visit www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com for more political news!

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Karen Handel's Weekly Update (Candidate for GA Gov.)

Handel Citizenship Bill Signed Into Law

At a ceremony with the Governor yesterday, Karen thanked Governor Perdue for signing a law she championed to require that Georgians provide proof of United States citizenship when registering to vote.“I am proud of this legislation and believe it is common sense to ensure that voters in our elections are actually citizens of the United States,” Karen said.The legislation requires those registering to vote after January 1, 2010 to submit proof of U.S. citizenship with their application.Georgia will be only the second state in the nation to require applicants to provide proof of citizenship when they register to vote.

Handel Project VoteSafe Program Signed Into Law

Karen announced last week the enactment of Project VoteSafe, a program to ensure that people (usually women) who are being protected in family violence centers do not have their addresses exposed to abusive partners simply because they want to exercise their right to vote. Governor Sonny Perdue signed the legislation into law Friday.Project VoteSafe, initiated by Karen's office and sponsored by Rep. Katie Dempsey (R-Rome), applies to citizens who have received a protective order issued by a court and to residents of family violence shelters. These individuals would be eligible to confidentially register to vote without their voter registration information becoming available as public information.

“Georgians should not have to endanger themselves because they wish to exercise their right to vote,” Karen said. “Keeping our citizens safe and protecting their rights are among the most basic responsibilities of government and I am pleased that both of these goals are accomplished by this legislation.”

Handel’s Voter Fraud Efforts Yielding Results

When first elected, Karen pledged to root out and eliminate voter fraud and punish those responsible for it. As part of honoring that pledge, an investigation by the Secretary of State’s office and other agencies led to the resignation of former Chattooga County Judge Carlton Vines on Friday. Vines was indicted September 5, 2008 on felony charges of illegal possession of absentee ballots, conspiracy to commit election fraud, and false swearing.

“Voter fraud is an assault on our Democracy and undermines the public’s trust in their government,” Karen said. “Carlton Vines’ resignation is a victory for Georgia’s election laws and Chattooga County voters.”

Handel: Continuation of Voting Rights Act “Political and Ridiculous”
Imposition on All Georgians

A challenge currently before the U.S. Supreme Court should lead to a decision on whether or not all changes to the election laws in several Southern states will continue to require the blessing of federal bureaucrats. The law – an antiquated vestige of the reconstruction era is, as Georgia Secretary of State Karen Handel puts it, “pure politics in its worst form and a ridiculous solution in search of a problem that left the South decades ago.”

Her statement on the topic follows:

The continuation of the Voting Rights Act has nothing to do with ensuring fairness in elections. It is pure politics in its worst form and a ridiculous solution in search of a problem that left the South decades ago. If the goal of this antiquated act were to truly ensure fair elections, it would immediately be imposed upon the state of Minnesota where missing ballots were found in a car trunk last year. It is unconscionable that Georgia should be treated as a poorer and less capable cousin to Minnesota. It is, in a word, unfair.

While the creators of the VRA were noble in their intentions, the continuation of its control exists for the sole reason of Washington bureaucrats control over the people of Georgia and other states – especially those that tend to vote for Republican candidates. This is not about fairness or competency. Georgia has proven that time and again with its election fairness. Rather it is to gain a political advantage through what Democrats call the “administrative firewall” of elections.

The disparity between Georgia and Ohio illustrates this perfectly.

Because Ohio is not covered by the VRA, its Secretary of State was able to unilaterally move to same-day registration to vote when such a move promised to be politically advantageous for Democrats. Georgia would have had to await pre-clearance, as we currently are doing on our recently-passed law to require proof of citizenship to vote. We are being discriminated against by the federal government and for no just reason. We have prevailed in virtually every challenge to our election laws under the voting rights act. VRA’s continuation has served primarily as an embarrassment and secondarily as a way to delay the implementation of common-sense measures that have put Georgia on the cutting edge of election fairness, security and voting technology. We are the envy of the nation with our electronic voting machines, early voting and no-excuse absentee balloting.

We have the best, cleanest, fairest election system in the country. Record numbers of voters of all racial background cast ballots in the 2008 presidential primaries and in the general election. The percentage of our voting eligible population that is registered to vote stands at a record high, and racial minorities hold elected office at every level of government, in both the Democratic and Republican Parties. If fairness and common-sense prevail, the U.S. Supreme Court will strike down Section 5 of the VRA and remove partisan, big government control from elections in the state of Georgia.
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Georgia: Karen Handel Campaign Update

Handel Declared Frontrunner

After less than a month of campaigning against candidates who have been running for as long as a year, Karen Handel's campaign has vaulted to the top spot in the minds of at least one Georgia newspaper. The Newnan Times-Herald printed an editorial yesterday that handicapped the race and named Karen "the front-runner."

According to the paper:

As the GOP field stands today, we see Handel as the front-runner. She has won a statewide race and has the blessings of Gov. Sonny Perdue. Oxendine has won four statewide races for insurance commissioner. Johnson, a popular leader in the state Senate, has never run a statewide race. Austin is not known statewide. No chance he will win.

With still more than a year to go before the Republican Primary, we would rate Handel the leader, Oxendine second and Johnson third.

For the entire article, please click here.

Upcoming Events

Coweta County Public Safety Appreciation Lunch
Friday, May 1, 2009
11:30 am – 1:00 pm
Coweta County Fairgrounds Building
275 Pine Road
Newnan, GA 30263

Cobb GOP Breakfast
Saturday, May 2, 2009
8:00 Am
Williams Bros. Bar-B-Q
1425 Roswell Road
Marietta, GA 3006

19th Annual Magnolia Ball
Saturday, May 2, 2009
6:30 pm
Roy Richards Estate
1 Southwire Drive
Carrollton, Georgia

National Day of Prayer Dinner
Monday, May 4, 2009
6:30 – 8:30 pm
Governor’s Mansion

Rhubarb Jones Celebrity Golf Tournament
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
8:30 am
Golf Club of Alpharetta

GEOA Banquet & Award Presentation
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
6:30 pm
Savannah Marriott
100 General McIntosh Boulevard
Savannah, GA 31401

16th Annual Fayette County Prayer Breakfast
Thursday, May 7, 2009
8:00 – 9:15 am
Grace Evangelical Church
164 Flat Creek Trail Fayetteville, GA

24th Annual Governor’s Awards in the Humanities Luncheon
Thursday, May 7, 2009
10:30am, luncheon immediately following at noon.
Freight Depot

District Attorney Law Enforcement Appreciation Banquet
Thursday, May 7, 2009
6:00 pm-8:30 or 9:00 pm
Fayetteville First Baptist Church
205 E. Stonewall Avenue
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Georgia: Eric Johnson Announces Finance Committee

Key fundraisers from across Georgia join the campaign

Senator Eric Johnson, Republican candidate for Governor, today announced key additions to his finance committee including Virgil Williams of Stone Mountain who will serve as a Finance Committee Co-Chair. Williams joins Chairman Jamie Reynolds of Greensboro and Co-Chair Steve Greene of Savannah to form the Finance Committee’s leadership team.

“Our campaign will clearly have the resources necessary to get our message out during a highly competitive primary,” said Johnson. “A strong Finance Committee is an indicator of a candidate's strength and can help separate a campaign from the rest of the pack. I cannot imagine a better start to building our team.

Joining Reynolds, Green, and Williams as initial members of the Finance Committee are:

Robert Baker Robert Krueger Joe Sam Robinson, M.D.
Clay Boardman Bill Kuhlke Ben Slade
Pope Bullock Bill Langdale Mark Smith
John D Carswell Willard Lasseter Dr. George Snelling
Steve Croy Don Leebern, Jr. Ben Tarbutton, III
Sonny Deriso Don Leebern, III Charles Tarbutton
Richard and Judy Eckburg Hugh Lentile Jules Toraya, M.D.
Molly Dye Franklin Senator Mack Mattingly Tom Wiley, Jr.
Ted Graham Amos McMullen Dick Williams
Benjy Griffin Henry Monsees J.T. Williams, Jr.
Paul Holmes Brent Reid

Additionally, Johnson welcomed Rebecca Grant Cummiskey as his gubernatorial campaign’s Finance Director. Grant was a fundraiser for Governor Sonny Perdue’s 2006 re-election campaign and currently serves as a finance consultant for Lt. Governor Casey Cagle’s campaign.
For more information please visit www.JohnsonForGeorgians.com.
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Scott Takes Lead in Savings Georgians Lives

Georgia’s trauma care system is below the national average of care; Georgians are an appalling 20 times more likely to die from physical trauma then the rest of the country. If Georgia could increase the state’s trauma care services to that of the national average, an estimated 600 lives could be saved each year.

Candidate for Governor Austin Scott has sponsored legislation (House Bill 148) that would provide approximately $70 million annually to Georgia’s underserved trauma care network. The money would come from an annual $10 car tag fee.

“We cannot afford to linger around and play politics on a bill that immediately begins saving Georgians lives,” says Scott. “As a father and husband I’m not willing to stand by and see my family and families across Georgia being subjected to unnecessary risk.”

Typically, trauma cases occur due to car accidents, but trauma care is necessary for many types of sudden physical injury. Doctors agree that deaths drastically decrease if a patient is taken to a trauma center within an hour of the accident. “At approximately 3 cents per day, per vehicle, I believe it is a worthy investment for Georgians. This bill is about saving lives,” says Scott.

“The sooner a trauma patient can receive specialized care, the greater their chance of survival and recovery,” says Scott. “Throughout North and South Georgia, there are many areas far removed from the expert care of a trauma center,” says Scott. “More than a million Georgians live 50 miles or more from a trauma center, placing them well outside the ‘golden hour.’”

Currently, there is a network of fifteen trauma hospitals serving Georgia only four of which are Level Once centers. Advocates urge that Georgia’s trauma system needs $80 million a year to support these hospitals and expand services to underserved areas, yet this year’s budget has dropped to $23 million.

“This not just problem in rural areas,” Scott says. “This is a state wide issue.” Scott cites the problems facing Grady Memorial Hospital, metro Atlanta’s only Level One trauma hospital for serious injuries. “Grady loses $40 million a year on trauma care, yet they only received $13 million last year in trauma funds.” It’s nearly impossible to persuade additional hospitals to join a program that they cannot financially sustain. “Trauma care is costly; a low volume of patients at an extremely high cost,” he says.

As the son of an orthopedic surgeon, Austin understands the relationships between the patient, the physicians, the pharmacists, and other professionals in the health care system. In 2006, Representative Scott was selected to serve on the State Trauma Commission, which he helped create to improve access to trauma care throughout the state. He is a two-time recipient of the American Cancer Society’s Outstanding Legislative Leadership Award (2003, 2004), and the Georgia Association of Emergency Medical Services Star of Life Legislative Award (2007, 2008).
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