Rob Wasinger, Candidate for Congress, Kansas

Are you tired of politics as usual in Washington?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I hope you'll help me fight back!

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

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

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

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

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

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

... That is outrageous!

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,
Rob Wasinger

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

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

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

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

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Doug MacGinnitie Launches Effort to Increase Voting Opportunities for Military Personnel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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McDonnell Expands Lead in Virginia Governor's Race

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Clarus Poll found:

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

The Ox vs. King Roy the Rat

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Marriage—under attack again‏

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

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

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

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

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

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

By John Oxendine

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Oxendine Statement on Disclosure of State Pensions

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



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

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



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



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



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



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



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



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

John Oxendine
Governor 2010

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Opinion: No More Tax Benefits for Illegals!‏

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

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

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

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

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

Deal for Governor

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

Tim Echols
Campaign Manager
John Oxendine 2010

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Oxendine Remarks on GA Supreme Voting Machine‏

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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John Oxendine

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Oxendine to Perdue - No Teacher Pay-cuts‏

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

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

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

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

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

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

John Oxendine

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Rob Wasinger, Candidate for Congress, Kansas

Dear Friend,

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

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

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

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

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

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

Forget about the millions of lives at stake.

This is scary.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is disgusting.. and almost hard to believe.

But think about it a little more.

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

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

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

That's why I am running for Congress.

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

That's why I am asking for your help.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We cannot let Washington take over the health care system.

Please help my candidacy today.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sincerely,

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

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

Handel for Governor E-Update

Our Thoughts With Flood Victims

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

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

Karen Pulls Away From the Pack in Recent Poll

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

According to pollster David Johnson who conducted the survey:

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

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

Karen continues to dominate straw polls

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

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

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

Union Co. straw poll, Sept. 12

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

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

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

Show Your Support for Karen at Upcoming Events

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

Young Professional Kick-Off Event a Huge Success

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mike Huckabee Wins Values Voter Summit Straw Poll

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

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

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

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

Candidate Name Total Votes Percentage

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

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

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

Jones Impresses Members of Gilmer County TEA Party

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

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

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

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

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

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

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