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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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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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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Graves Address Taxpayer March on Washington

State Rep. Tom Graves (R-Ranger), Republican candidate for Georgia’s 9th District, spoke to an estimated 1.5 million individuals and a nation-wide television audience at today’s Taxpayer March on Washington. Graves was one of a handful of elected officials to address the Tea Party on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol.

“We must take back America, the Republic. And we must push back this over reaching, over taxing, over burdensome, money hungry government that seeks to preserve itself at our liberty,” said Graves.

“We will demand from Washington…we will demand less spending, not deficit spending…we will demand a balanced-budget, not a pork-filled budget…we will demand personal responsibility, not the bureaucratic nanny…and yes, yes we will demand empower the patriots and not the politicians anymore,” said Graves.

“Here at this capitol on this high ground, we are bound together. Here together united and we will be steadfast and resolved in preserving America and her liberty. And, may today be forever known as the day that we stood together and said in one voice, ‘Don’t Tread on Me!’” added Graves.

Prior to the Tea Party, Graves led hundreds of Georgians in the March from Freedom Plaza in downtown Washington, D.C., down Pennsylvania Avenue to the U.S. Capitol building.

Graves joined other notable conservatives at the U.S. Capitol, including Georgia Congressman and Chairman of the conservative Republican Study Committee Tom Price, Chairman of the House Republican Conference Mike Pence, Tennessee Congressman Marsha Blackburn and South Carolina U.S. Senator Jim DeMint.

Graves was invited to speak because of his conservative leadership in the Georgia House of Representatives and for authoring the Jobs, Opportunity and Business Success Act, HB 481 and 482, last session. The JOBS Act received national attention and was focused on helping small businesses and creating, expanding and attracting jobs through a series of tax credits, cuts, and incentives for businesses to hire Georgians.

Organizers of the Taxpayer March on Washington and Tea Party Rally said the purpose of the March was to send a “clear message that governments at all levels have been spending way too much money. The federal government is especially guilty of this, as they pile up the debt, deficits and unfunded liabilities. They are taxing, borrowing or printing money with no end in sight. This madness has to stop, and that is why we are demanding that they stop the wasteful spending and stop burdening taxpayers with more debt. This protest is about defending our liberty, and about restoring our Constitution by reducing the size and scope of the federal government,” according the group’s website.

Graves was also a speaker at the Atlanta Tea Party at the Georgia State Capitol last April.
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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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Jones Impresses Members of Carpet and Rug Institute in Dalton

Jeremy Jones, a Republican candidate for Georgia’s 9th congressional seat, recently participated in The Carpet and Rug Institute’s Government Issues Committee political forum. Mr. Jones, in keeping with his theme of a smaller, less powerful, federal government, said he wishes to eliminate the need for the CRI, and all PAC’s, to contribute to political campaigns if elected. “Your money will be better spent on research and development, and consumer education, not paying money to politicians to try and keep the federal government out of your business; they have no reason to be in your business in the first place.”

Mr. Jones’ message was well received, with many members saying they are now supporters of Jones and his campaign for Congress. The Republican Education Network, also in attendance, said of Jones, “Jones clearly held his own demonstrating a depth of study and accuracy, with great enthusiasm.” After the forum, Jones said, “I am continually amazed at the level of dissatisfaction of professional politicians. I am humbled by the enormous support I have received at this, and every, event. We are about to see a major change in Washington.”

Mr. Jones has been invited to speak at local TEA Parties and Right to Life organizations. His message of eliminating federal government involvement and the power of citizens to effect change in the government has been well received. “Electing career politicians to office will not insure that the voice of citizens is heard, but electing ‘a citizen to represent citizens; will guarantee the voice of the 9th district in Georgia is adequately represented in Washington D.C.”

Jeremy Jones’ next major speaking event will be at the Union County BBQ on September 12th. Residents in Catoosa, Dade or Walker County interested in attending and need transportation, please contact the campaign. Tickets for the barbeque are $10 per person, and include lunch and chance for a door prize.

For more information on Jeremy Jones, please visit his website at www.JonesForUs.com. To have him speak at an event, please call the campaign office at 706-937-7635 or e-mail lydia@jonesforus.com.
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Americans for Prosperity Applauds U.S. Congressional Candidate Tom Graves

-Signs No Climate Tax Pledge-

The Georgia chapter of the grassroots free-market organization Americans for Prosperity (AFP-GA) today applauded U.S. Congressional Candidate Tom Graves (9th District) for signing the group’s “No Climate Tax Pledge.” Graves joins over 240 lawmakers on the federal, state and local levels pledging to “oppose legislation relating to climate change that includes a net increase in federal revenue.”

“The one thing elected officials should all be able to agree on is that global warming shouldn’t be used as an excuse to hike taxes on citizens and businesses,” said AFP-GA State Director Virginia Galloway. “We encourage all of Georgia’s elected officials and candidates for elected office to sign the pledge.”

Georgia pledge signers include: U.S. Reps. Lynn Westmoreland, Tom Price, Paul Broun, and Phil Gingrey; gubernatorial candidate John Oxendine; State Senate President Pro Tempore Eric Johnson; and State Reps. Martin Scott and Tim Bearden.

Cap-and-trade took its first step toward enactment when the U.S. House narrowly passed the Waxman-Markey energy bill, which escaped the lower chamber by a scant seven votes despite significant bipartisan opposition. However, key Democratic senators have expressed opposition to attempting to pass cap-and-trade this year. President Obama has made no secret of his support for the bill, which would be the largest tax increase in American history. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office has scored the plan as an $846 billion increase in federal revenue, a burden that will be borne by taxpayers and consumers for decades to come.

“Using the guise of climate change to transfer dollars from hard-working citizens to bureaucratic big government is unacceptable,” said Galloway. “Regardless of their stance on global warming, this should be common ground for all of our elected officials at all levels of government.”

The pledge is available online at www.NoClimateTax.com. AFP does not endorse candidates. All elected officials and candidates are encouraged to sign the pledge and go on the record in opposition to using the climate change issue to increase taxes and grow the size of government.

Americans for Prosperity (AFP) is a nationwide organization of citizen leaders committed to advancing every individual’s right to economic freedom and opportunity. AFP believes reducing the size and scope of government is the best safeguard to ensuring individual productivity and prosperity for all Americans. AFP educates and engages citizens in support of restraining state and federal government growth, and returning government to its constitutional limits. AFP has more than 700,000 members, including members in all 50 states, and 25 state chapters. For more information, visit www.americansforprosperity.org
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Graves To Host 4th Annual Corn Roast AND FREEDOM RALLY

Georgia State Representative and Republican 9th Congressional District candidate Tom Graves (R-Ranger) will hold his campaign’s annual corn roast this Saturday, August 29th at Sandy Bottom Farm in Tate, Georgia. This will be the 4th corn roast Graves has hosted for friends, families and supporters and the event begins at 11:00 a.m. and ends at 2:00 p.m. Roast corn, bbq and all the sides will be served and speeches by Graves and other supporters will be given. The public and press are invited to attend.

WHO: Georgia State Representative and Republican 9th District congressional candidate Tom Graves
State Senator Chip Pearson
State Representative Stephen Allison
State Representative Jay Neal
State Representative Martin Scott

WHAT: 4th Annual Corn Roast and Freedom Rally

WHEN: Saturday, August 29, 2009 ~ 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Sandy Bottom Farm Tate, GA

Family $25 – Individual $10

Directions: (From Tate, GA) Go east on HWY 53; once you pass the Tate Historic House go approximately 2 miles and take a left on Sandy Bottom Farm Rd. East. There will be "Graves for Congress" signs marking the entrance.

annemarie@gravesforcongress.org

Contributions are not tax deductable as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Contributions are prohibited from corporations and foreign nationals. Federal law requires Graves for Congress to use its best efforts to collect and report the name, mailing address and occupation and employer of individuals whose contributions exceed $200 in an election cycle.

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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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Handel for Governor E-Update

Congress Out of Control, Spending on Luxury Jets an Outrage

Is it just me or has Congress lost its collective mind? While the rest of the country is suffering through the worst economy in a generation, they are buying themselves a fleet of new luxury private jets to fly themselves around in.

And these are the guys who chastised auto industry executives for flying to Washington on private jets? I think today's article in the Wall Street Journal summed it up nicely:

WASHINGTON -- Congress plans to spend $550 million to buy eight jets, a substantial upgrade to the fleet used by federal officials at a time when lawmakers have criticized the use of corporate jets by companies receiving taxpayer funds.The purchases will help accommodate growing travel demand by congressional officials. The planes augment a fleet of about two dozen passenger jets maintained by the Air Force for lawmakers, administration officials and military chiefs to fly on government trips in the U.S. and abroad.The congressional shopping list goes beyond what the Air Force had initially requested as part of its annual appropriations. The Pentagon sought to buy one Gulfstream V and one business-class equivalent of a Boeing 737 to replace aging planes. The Defense Department also asked to buy two additional 737s that were being leased.- The Wall Street Journal, August 7th, 2009

Obama, Healthcare, and the Real Issue

In Georgia, 95% of our companies have fewer than 50 employees. If our federal government lays a new and crushing burden of taxes and regulations on these business owners, our state's - and the nation's - economy could be ruined for many years to come.

This week, I traveled to Dublin, Statesboro, Savannah, Springfield and Atlanta. The people I met are truly concerned about the direction our country is going in. And, yes, they are mad. They are mad that Washington politicians aren't listening to their concerns.

This is a national issue but a state issue as well. States like Georgia are going to be left footing huge parts of the bill for any changes in Medicaid and we will bear the brunt of the economic damage and job losses that would sweep our state if any of the current health care plans become the law of the land.

I will be blogging on this very important issue in the near future, so stay tuned!

Congress Should Pass the FairTax Now

If Congress and the Obama Administration were serious about creating jobs, stimulus and helping the economy they would pass the Fair Tax which would help GA businesses and families immediately.

Read about my position on the FairTax in the issues section of my website.

Effingham County is Handel Territory

Effingham County Commissioner Reggie Loper and his wife Sheryl hosted a meet and greet in Springfield this week. With over 40 people in attendance, and many community leaders there, I am really encouraged about our support in the county.

I told the crowd in Effingham County on Wednesday that we need to overhaul the whole tax code. The local paper picked up on that:

"We have to look at economic development incentives and investments as investments in our future, not as a cost on our bottom line," she said. Handel also called for an overhaul of the state's tax system. Three of Georgia's competitors for growth - Florida, Texas and Tennessee - have no state income tax."We're losing out on the tax side," she said. "We have an antiquated tax system in the state. We need to revamp it completely and comprehensively in partnership with the counties, the cities and the school boards."- Effingham Herald, August 6th, 2009

For the rest of the original article, please follow this link
Thanks for your support!
Karen C. Handel
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Scott Reaches 500 Miles on His Walk of Georgia

State Representative Austin Scott, a 2010 gubernatorial candidate, announced today that he reached the end of the first half of his Walk of Georgia. Reaching the halfway point of his 1,000 mile walk, he stopped at Brantley County High School in Nahunta and spoke to a group of local business owners. Coincidentally, this was the same high school where Scott gave his very first speech after announcing his candidacy for Governor.

The Walk of Georgia began on June 27th in Chickamauga. To show that he is willing to go the extra mile as Georgia's Governor, Scott is walking 1,000 miles across the state, often through communities that no other statewide candidate has visited before. The walking and listening tour will take Scott through a total of 48 Georgia counties. "Candidates talk about listening to the voters of Georgia but never really give them a chance to be heard. I'm changing that with my Walk of Georgia," he explained.

Rep. Scott is enthusiastic about the input he has received on what the largest issues concerning Georgians are. "I've had the opportunity to meet many of Georgia's citizens and talk to them about their concerns," he went on to say. "The number one concern among most Georgians is the current state of the economy. People are worried about money, higher costs of living, food and other basic necessities. The steady increase in these things is eroding disposable income for the families who still have a job. Georgia's future depends on these families being able to create jobs and stability."

Their second greatest concern is funding for public education. "I believe that it is better to spend money in education at the beginning rather than before it's too late. I know from my time in the House that Georgia's largest budget item is education, and for good reason: it's clear that good schools lead to stronger communities. Georgia needs jobs and well educated workers to help our workforce continue to grow in the 21st century, to remain competitive and to help our state's economy," Scott said. "We must be competitive in the methods we use to educate our children."

Scott walks an average of 15 miles each morning and will continue to do so until his walk ends at the steps of the State Capitol in Atlanta. When he has completed this Walk, he will have a perspective and knowledge that no other candidate in this race will have: "This campaign is about Georgians, and that's why it's important for me to take my campaign on the road. I am bringing my campaign's message of servant leadership and conservative reform to every corner of this state. I want to listen to the people's ideas on how they think the problems we all face can be solved. Everyone wants to see a Governor who is a statesman that represents the people's interests, someone who understands their needs firsthand and is willing to listen. Over the next 500 miles I hope to continue to separate myself as the candidate best suited to meet these needs."

Georgians are invited to participate by walking alongside Scott, or by following his progress online at www.WalkingWithAustin.com, where visitors can read his daily blog and view videos from his walk. Utilizing the web to get the word out about his Walk as well as social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and Flickr, Scott has been able to reach Georgians all throughout the state.

Austin Scott is a Republican from Tifton serving House District 153 and is Chairman of the House Governmental Affairs Committee. He also serves on the Rules, Ways and Means, and Appropriations Committees. He is married to Vivien Scott and has one son, Wells. For more information about Austin Scott, visit us online at www.ScottForGA.com
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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."

Graves Raises $116,540 in 35 Days For Congressional Campaign

Republican State Representative Tom Graves (R-Ranger), candidate for the 9th Congressional District of Georgia, revealed that his campaign for Congress raised $116,540 from 183 contributors in just 35 days. Graves made the disclosure today when filing his campaign’s first fundraising report with the Federal Election Commission, which also showed he had $115,897 remaining cash-on-hand.

Graves received contributions from 14 counties in the 9th Congressional District.

“Julie and I are humbled by the tremendous support we’ve received from Georgians across the district. We are excited about the enthusiasm our campaign has received over the past weeks and we look forward to continuing our message across the district as we focus on taking a little North Georgia common sense to Washington during these challenging days.” said Graves.

Key Facts About Graves’ Disclosure
Dates $ Raised
May 27 - June 30, 2009
Total Raised
$116,540
Total # of Contributors
183
% from Georgia
98.4%
Cash-on-hand
$115,897

Graves also announced his campaign’s initial Finance Committee, which includes Jim Walters of Gainesville, Paul Maney of Oakwood, Gary Copeland of Jasper, Phil Neff of Dalton, Ardis and Charles McCain of Big Canoe, Craig Brock of Chatsworth, and Tony Farrell and Randall Fox of Calhoun. The campaign’s Finance Committee is enhanced by the generous support of other business and community leaders such as Bill Hammock of C.W. Matthews Contracting Company, Dahlonega’s Mike Cottrell of Cottrell, Inc., Joe Hatfield of Fieldcrest Farms, WSB radio talk show host Herman Cain, Rob Robinson and Joe Reed of Gainesville and Wes Hixon of Wildwood.

The Graves campaign is organized with grassroots leaders in all 15 counties of the 9th District.

“Now more than ever, North Georgians need a leader in Washington who’s not afraid to buck the status quo. I’ve been tested and you can always count on me to fight for sound economic policies, less government and more personal freedom. This campaign will be about the right values, the right solutions and what is right for Georgia,” added Graves.

The FEC requires candidates for federal office to periodically file campaign finance reports. While the reports due today cover the period April 1 through June 30, 2009, Graves’ report only included activity after May 27 when he received his first contribution.

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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