Saturday, December 08, 2007

McCain Airs Schilling Ad

John McCain's campaign has begun airing a television ad featuring Red Sox picture Curt Schilling. The thirty-second ad is titled "Backbone of Steel," and features Schilling discussing his support of McCain. Schilling says in the ad, "I've seen some tough competitors in my time. But none tougher than John McCain. He's a winner."

The ad will air on New England Sports Network (NESN), ESPN and other New Hampshire sports programming.

Script:

CURT SCHILLING: "We are living in a complex and dangerous world that requires a leader who embodies character, judgment and experience."

ANNCR: "Curt Schilling on John McCain."

CURT SCHILLING: "John McCain is that man.

"John has a backbone of steel.

"He's a man of principle who sticks to his guns.
"He's been tested like no other politician in America. As a prisoner of war, he turned down an offer for early release because he refused preferential treatment.

"I've seen some tough competitors in my time. But none tougher than John McCain. He's a winner.

"JOHN MCCAIN: "I'm John McCain and I approve this message."

Notes on The New Hampshire Democratic State Committee Meeting

Today at Saint Anselm College, the New Hampshire Democratic State Committee met to approve a budget and discuss a variety of issues.

Here are some bullet points:

-The Dems were able to raise $500 for a food kitchen and contribute a sizable amount of food for a local food bank.
-The party is not authorizing anyone to represent the party at the polls on primary day. Members complaint that, in the past, officials would help a particular candidate with their GOTV operations.
-There was much discussion over the pay level for the Executive Director along with concerns about staffers not being reimbursed for mileage.
-The Dems have hired a Deputy Finance Director, two Regional Field Directors, a Political Director and a Deputy Political Director.
-Chairman Buckley told us that the NH Dems hope to capitalize on independents voting in the Democratic presidential primary. “If they do what the polls are saying, it’d be a great indication to show we can get in November.”
-Chairman Buckley also told us that the party does not have a number one target. Rather “all our candidates our treated equally,” he said.

McCain: Iraq Surge Is Succeeding

Speaking at the Old Bedford Town Hall, Arizona Senator John McCain argued that the surge in Iraq is working.

“Our strategy is succeeding. I can look you in the eye and tell you that our strategy is succeeding,” McCain said.

McCain told a crowd of almost 300 citizens, “Al-Qaeda is on the run, but not defeated. If I were Al-Qaeda I’d be trying to plan some spectacular event so to set back American public opinion.”

“They know if force a timetable for withdrawal, they can eventually take over Iraq. If we had did what the Democrats wanted to do six months ago, Al-Qaeda would be saying they beat the United States of America.”

The Republican presidential candidate also took a shot at Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton.

“My colleague the State from New York, Senator Clinton, said ‘General Petraeus I would have to suspend disbelief to belief the surge is working.’ Well, my friends, any reasonable person today would have to suspend disbelief to think its not working. We are making progress,” McCain said.

A recent ABC News/Washington Post poll showed thirty-six percent of New Hampshire Republican voters think McCain has the best Iraqi policy.

Clinton's Rochester Office Opens

From The Clinton Campaign:

The New Hampshire for Hillary campaign today announced that its Rochester regional office will be open tomorrow, Sunday, December 9, 2007. Staff and volunteers will be back in the office working to elect Hillary as the next president of the United States.

“Our Rochester staff has shown exceptional determination and dedication over the past week and I couldn’t be more proud of them and this campaign,” said Nick Clemons, NH for Hillary state director. “Hillary Clinton has bold plans for our country and we can trust her to deliver the real change we need because she has been fighting for American families for 35 years. Our staff is more ready than ever to help elect the only candidate who can put this country back on track.”

Dodd's Eight Reasons To Vote For Him on The 8th

From The Dodd Campaign:

One month before the New Hampshire Presidential Primary, the Chris Dodd for President Campaign has released eight reasons why New Hampshire voters should vote for Chris Dodd on January 8th, 2008. Eight Reasons to Vote for Dodd in 08 on the 8th:

1) Ending the War in Iraq - Chris Dodd believes the time for giving President Bush blank checks is over and that we set a firm deadline tied to funding to begin safely redeploying U.S. combat troops out of Iraq, beginning immediately and completed within one year.

2) Restoring the Constitution - Chris Dodd will restore our Constitution on his first day during his first hour in the Oval Office.

3) Health Care - As President, Chris Dodd will offer high-quality universal health care to every American regardless of their job status, previous medical conditions or ability to pay.

4) Global Warming - From a Corporate Carbon Tax that makes polluters pay to his call for historic fuel efficiency standards that break America's dependence on Middle East oil by 2015, Chris Dodd is the only candidate in the field with a plan to make America the world leader on climate change and bring energy costs down for families and businesses.

5) Restoring America's World Standing - Chris Dodd understands America must lead to protect our security not only on Iraq, but also on the rise of state-less terrorist organizations around the world, a resurgent Taliban in Afghanistan, the HIV/AIDS crisis that is decimating whole continents and creating failed states, and the growing threat of global warming.

6) Education - Chris Dodd is offering the most ambitious and comprehensive education plan of any Presidential candidate, from preschool to college.

7) Homeland Security - As President, Chris Dodd will ensure that: 1) our first responders have the tools they need to keep themselves and our communities safe; 2) we are able to keep and recruit first responders; and 3) our communities are prepared to respond to any emergency situation.

8) National Service - Chris Dodd was the first candidate to put forth a comprehensive plan for national service - The American Community Initiative.

Edwards Condemns NAFTA

From The Edwards Campaign:

Today, on the fourteenth anniversary of NAFTA, Senator John Edwards delivered remarks condemning NAFTA and other failed trade policies that put the interests of multinational corporations ahead of the needs of working families. At a town hall meeting in Derry , New Hampshire , Edwards said that growing up in North Carolina , he saw the effects of unfair trade and failed economic policies when the mill where he and his father worked shut down. And as president, Edwards said he will give America a trade policy that puts the interests of American workers and communities at its core.

“Fourteen years ago today, the treaty creating NAFTA was signed into law,” said Edwards. “NAFTA was sold to the American people with promises that it would grow the economy and create millions of new jobs. But today, we know those promises were empty. NAFTA has actually cost us more than 1 million American jobs. NAFTA has failed Mexico and Canada too. In all three countries, it has hurt workers and families while helping corporate insiders."

Friday, December 07, 2007

Norris Campaigns With Huckabee

The Old Man of The Mountain did not fall, it lost a staring contest to Chuck Norris.

Mike Huckabee is bringing cult icon Chuck Norris to New Hampshire. The duo will campaign in the North Country and in Londonderry.

Cue the Norris jokes/puns/one-liners!!

Saturday, December 15th

11:30am-1:00pm.
Town Hall Meeting with Governor Mike Huckabee and Special Guest Chuck Norris!
New Hampshire Community Technical College
2020 Riverside Drive
Berlin, NH
This event is free and open to the public

4:00pm-5:30pm
Town Hall Meeting with Governor Mike Huckabee and Special Guest Chuck Norris!
Littleton High School
159 Oak Hill Avenue
Littleton, NH
This event is free and open to the public

Sunday, December 16th

11:00am-1:00pm
Governor Mike Huckabee will be the special guest speaker along with Chuck Norris at "The Season of Giving," a special event dedicated to celebrating the REAL spirit of community giving. The community will celebrate local organizations who assist those who need help, not only during this wonderful season of good will, but throughout the year, such as: The Marine Corps & their "Toys for Tots" Drive, The SonShine Soup Kitchen, St. Jude Food Pantry, and Warm Homes.
Londonderry Middle School Cafeteria
313 Mammoth Road
Londonderry, NH

This event is free and open to the public, we encourage you to bring a toy to support the "Toys for Tots" or any other of these great organizations.

To RSVP for any of these events please call our office at (603)513-1664, or email us at http://us.f581.mail.yahoo.com/ym/Compose?To=NHRSVP@explorehuckabee.com

Huckabee Goes Up on WMUR

The GraniteProf reports that "Mike Huckabee will go up on WMUR-TV for the first time next week. From December 10-16, the Huckabee campaign has bought 53 spots, at a cost of $36,600."

NBC's Mike Memoli confirms that it will NOT be the Chuck Norris ad.

Bring Your Canned Goods

From The Obama Campaign:

Senator Barack Obama's New Hampshire campaign announce today that it will hold a canned goods drive at Sunday's rally in Manchester with the Obamas and special guest Oprah Winfrey. The campaign is encouraging supporters to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items for collection at the rally. This week, Obama issued a "Call to Serve" and detailed his commitment to making national service a cause of his presidency in a policy address.

Can You Spare A Room?

Marc Ambinder reports "New Hampshire hotels sold out from Concord to Manchester for five days preceding Jan. 8 primary."

Good luck staying at the "spend a night, stay a lifetime," motel in Manchvegas.

Edwards Wants Feds To Regulate Drug Ads

John Edwards wants the federal government to regulate television advertisements sponsored by drug companies.

At an AARP-Divided We Fail forum, Edwards said “We should also do something about drug company ads on television, which I think are completely out of control.”

“I don’t know about you, I don’t get to watch much television these days, but when I see one of these ads its always, buy this medicine and take it. The next day you and your spouse will be skipping through the fields,” Edwards added.

The former North Carolina Senator argued that television advertisements are a contributing factor in the rise of prescription drug prices.

“Every time you go to the pharmacy you’re paying for those ads,” he said.

During the forum, the Democratic presidential candidate purposed a healthcare plan that relies on regulating insurance companies, drug companies and providing universal healthcare coverage.

McCain Announces Business Leaders Coalition

From The McCain Campaign:

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced the New Hampshire Business Leaders for McCain Coalition. The coalition will advise John McCain on issues impacting the Granite State's business community. New Hampshire businessman Jim Burke will chair the coalition on behalf of John McCain's candidacy.

NEW HAMPSHIRE BUSINESS LEADERS FOR MCCAIN LEADERSHIP*
Chair
Jim Burke -- Founder, Burke Advertising, Bedford

Co-Chairs
Frank Bettencourt -- President, Van Otis Chocolates, Manchester
Stephen Duprey -- Owner, Foxfire Property Management Inc, Concord
Kevin Johnston -- President, Sunrise Foods, Brentwood
Jayne Millerick -- President, Marcucci Consulting, Bow
Kurt Swenson -- Chairman of the Board, Swenson Granite, Concord;
President and CEO, Rock of Ages Corporation

Edwards Announces Health Care Plan

From The Edwards Campaign:

As part of "Building a Better America Week," John Edwards announced today a bold policy to improve the quality of health care in America by taking on health insurance companies and preventing the abuses and gaps in health coverage that put millions of Americans at risk.

"My proposal for universal health care will cover every man, woman and child in America – but that's not enough," said Edwards. "Right now, even families that have health insurance are often unprotected from catastrophic events, as insurers reject legitimate claims, impose coverage caps, and look for technicalities to cancel policies.

"The truth is, the American health care system is broken because wealthy health insurance corporations and their lobbyists have rigged the system against the American people," continued Edwards. "I have spent my entire life fighting and beating those same special interest groups to protect the rights of regular Americans, and that's exactly what I'll do as president."

New Hampshire News Links for December 7th, 2007

New Hampshire News Links December 7th, 2007

www.nhnewslinks.com
Now part of The Hotline Political Network!
Visit our blog!

NEWS: Laws and regulations undergo changes at federal, state levels

PEOPLE/CANDIDATES: .H.'s House members and environmentalists like energy bill / Littleton weighs costs of campaign security

POLITICAL COLUMNS: Flotsam & Jetsam, Political Chowder

OP-ED: Editorial: Benefits outweigh costs in caring for mentally ill

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES: Editorial: Don't get sidetracked by the mandate debate / The Field, Biden, Clinton, Edwards, Obama, Richardson

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES: Push poll probe in NH continues / The Field, Giuliani, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, Romney - The Speech, Other Romney News, Thompson

FIRST PRIMARY: Getting out the college vote - when campuses are empty; Primary dates in N.H., Iowa will clash with breaks

GENERAL (NATIONAL) CAMPAIGN NEWS: Rothenberg: Nomination Fights Could Turn on Candidate Exits

NATIONAL POLLS: Poll Finds Hispanics Returning to Earlier Preference for Democrats

WAR: C.I.A. Destroyed 2 Tapes Showing Interrogations

OTHER NEWS AND VIEWS: Broad Energy Bill Passed by House; Car Mileage, Renewable Power Addressed

Thursday, December 06, 2007

Schilling Campaigns for McCain

Boston Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling campaigned with John McCain on Wednesday night.

At a Manchester town hall forum, Schilling said he decided to endorse the Arizona Senator because “elections seem to be going to a place where we vote for the one we hate the least.”

“I’m tired of hearing politicians speak in the broadest terms possible,” the Sox pitcher added.

One voter asked Schilling if he was going to run against Democratic Senator John Kerry in 2008.

“You know what I’m going to stuck with winning one more World Series” he told the crowd at Manchester’s Derryfield School.

Schilling also took a question from a man dressed in a snowman costume. The snowman asked Schilling what he was doing to eliminate global warming.

Schilling admitted “I would not be the expert to talk about this,” but added “the next time I see a politician talk about global warming and then hop into a Hummer I’m going to throw-up.”

In a press conference with reporters, Schilling was asked why he was not supporting Rudy Giuliani. The former New York City Mayor previously said he was rooting for the Boston Red Sox to win the 2007 World Series.

"That's a status quo of the flip flopping thing that happens across a lot of party lines," he said.

2,100 Women Endorse Obama

From The Obama Campaign:

More than 2,000 New Hampshire women today announced their support for Senator Barack Obama. Women from across the state cited Obama's career fighting for women and families—and his unique ability to bring people together for change.

"The broken political system in Washington is failing women and families," said Grace Mattern, Northwood resident and Executive Director of New Hampshire Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. "Barack Obama knows what regular people are going through—and he's the candidate I trust to actually bring people together and make real progress on issues like health care and education."

NEA-NH Endorses Hillary

From The Clinton Campaign:

At an event in Manchester this afternoon, the New Hampshire affiliate of the National Education Association (NEA-NH) officially announced its endorsement of Senator Hillary Clinton for President. With 16,000 members, NEA-NH is the largest union in the Granite State .

“I honored to have earned the support of this incredible organization,” said Senator Clinton. “Together we will work to strengthen America ’s public education system, ensure that every child has the opportunity live up to his or her potential, and provide our educators with the resources they need.”

Dan Eaton Endorses Biden

From The Biden Campaign:

The Biden for President campaign is delighted to announce another key addition to their New Hampshire team as House Floor Leader, Assistant Majority Leader and Chair of the Cheshire County Democrats State Representative Dan Eaton (D-Stoddard), joined the Biden team. Rep. Eaton will assume the role of New Hampshire for Biden Co-Chair and Chair of First-Responders for Biden.

"I have known Dan for years now, he is one of the most respected figures in the New Hampshire Democratic Party and is a dedicated public servant," said Sen. Joe Biden." I am honored that he is a part of our team and I'm looking forward to working with him to earn the support of voters in Cheshire County and across the State."

Clinton Discusses Economy

From The Clinton Campaign:

Today in Gilford, NH, Hillary Clinton addressed the challenges facing middle class Americans, and the need to change the tax code to reward middle class families. She called for comprehensive middle class benefits and tax cuts to help families cope with growing economic challenges.

Clinton would extend the middle class tax cuts, including the child tax credit and marriage penalty relief, and give generous tax credits to help families afford healthcare. She would also offer up to $1,000 in matching tax cuts to help families save for retirement, expand the Earned Income Tax Credit, and dramatically increase higher education tax cuts. She would tie the minimum wage to Congressional salaries, and reform the Alternative Minimum Tax so that middle-class families never face a stealth-tax they were never meant to pay.

Gore Not Scheduled To Participate In Global Warming Conference

Al Gore is not currently scheduled to participate in a global warming conference in New Hampshire.

Gore spokeswoman Kalee Kreider told us "as of now, there is not a global warming event planned with Mr. Gore in NH in December."

There was a report that the former Vice-President would host a climate change conference with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Arizona Senator John McCain.

For more go here: The Primary Source

Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Polls, Polls, Polls Everywhere

Today three polls were released, Marist, ABC/Washington Post and Zogby. Instead of listing the results of every poll I'm going to put-up the Real Clear Politics average.

GOP:
Romney: 33.7%
Giuliani: 17.9%
McCain: 16.4%
Huckabee: 10.1%
Paul: 6.1%
Thompson: 3.3%

Dems:
Clinton: 33.6%
Obama: 24.0%
Edwards: 16.4%
Richardson: 9.1%

Edwards Releases Another TV Ad

Today John Edwards has began airing another television ad. The thirty-second ad "Rigged," will air with "Together." The two ads coincides with his campaign's "Building a Better America Week."

"The ad features John Edwards speaking directly to New Hampshire voters about how the system in Washington is corrupt and rigged against hardworking Americans on behalf of the moneyed corporate interest," according to a campaign press release.

"RIGGED": 30
This system is corrupt. And it's rigged. And it's rigged against you.

ANN: Finally, someone telling the truth.

And we can say as long as we get Democrats in, everything's gonna be ok. It's a lie. It is not the truth.

Do you really believe if we replace a crowd of corporate Republicans with a crowd of corporate Democrats that anything meaningful's gonna change?

This has to stop. It's that simple.

I'm John Edwards, and I approved this message.

NH NEA To Endorse Clinton, Huckabee

According to NBC/National Journal's Tricia Miller:

"The 16,000-member New Hampshire affiliate of the National Education Association has chosen to recommend to its members Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary and Mike Huckabee in the Republican primary, according to a source within the state NEA. This is the first time the state affiliate has picked a candidate in the GOP primary, and it follows Huckabee’s showing as the only Republican who spoke to the NEA convention in July."

WashPost Poll: Romney Leads By Almost 2 to 1

A ABC/Washington Post poll has Mitt Romney leading the Republican field.

The poll shows "Romney also scores high on the issues. On six out of eight issues, he holds significant leads. By a 25-percentage-point margin, Romney is viewed as tops on the economy, and he has large advantages over his closest rival on health care (24 points), taxes (20 points), social issues such as abortion and same-sex civil unions (18 points), the budget (20 points), and immigration issues (15 points).

Romney has his weaknesses, however, on other top issues. Giuliani and McCain (31 percent each) outpace Romney (17 percent) as the candidate most trusted on terrorism. McCain has an edge on Iraq, with 36 percent calling him best on this issue, compared with 20 percent each for Giuliani and Romney."

GOP:
Romney: 37%
McCain: 20%
Giuliani: 16%
Huckabee: 9%
Paul: 8%
Thompson: 4%

Rudy's "One Hour"

The Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee today announced the launch of a new television ad, entitled "One Hour." The ad is airing in New Hampshire and Boston.

Script for "One Hour":

MAYOR GIULIANI: "I remember back to the 1970s and the early 1980s. Iranian mullahs took American hostages and they held the American hostages for 444 days. And they released the American hostages in one hour, and that should tell us a lot about these Islamic terrorists that we're facing. The one hour in which they released them was the one hour in which Ronald Reagan was taking the Oath of Office as President of the United States. The best way you deal with dictators, the best way you deal with tyrants and terrorists, you stand up to them. You don't back down. I'm Rudy Giuliani and I approve this message."

New Hampshire News Links for December 5th, 2007

New Hampshire News Links December 5th, 2007

www.nhnewslinks.com
Now part of The Hotline Political Network!
Visit our blog!

NEWS: Hostage Crisis Shines Light on State Services

PEOPLE/CANDIDATES: Sununu

POLITICAL COLUMNS: Chowder in the Morning, Portside

NH POLLS: W. Post/ABC: Poll Shows Romney With Wide Lead in New Hampshire; Huckabee at 9% In Contrast to Advance in Iowa

OP-ED: Bass & Swett: Diplomacy is the better investment; Nation must rebuild its foreign alliances

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES: Clinton Rivals Hammer Her Iran Vote During Iowa Radio Debate / The Debate, The Field, Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, Kucinich, Obama, Richardson

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES: Bush still a factor, Rove warns / The Field, Gingich, Giuliani, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, Romney

FIRST PRIMARY: Cook:Early State Victories May Not Figure Into Who Wins Nomination Nods

GENERAL (NATIONAL) CAMPAIGN NEWS: Nonprofits Become A Force in Primaries; Use for Donations Is Under Scrutiny

NATIONAL POLLS: LA Times/ Bloomberg: Huckabee Catching Up to Giuliani as Top Republican, Poll Shows

OTHER NEWS AND VIEWS: Samuelson: Rx For Health Care: Pain

ARTICLES: Conway Daily Sun: Sen. Joe Kenney: Who will be there for New Hampshire small businesses?

Tuesday, December 04, 2007

Updated Edwards Schedule

On Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8 th, Senator John Edwards will return to New Hampshire for two days of Graniteroots campaigning.

Friday, December 7th

11:45am
AARP Forum with John Edwards
The Derryfield
625 Mammoth Rd., Manchester

NOTE – This is an AARP forum and not open to the general public.

1:30pm
Bedford House Party with John Edwards
Home of Anthony Peluso
11 Normand Circle, Bedford

3:30pm
Peterborough Town Hall with John Edwards
ConVal High School
184 Hancock Rd., Peterborough.

6:00pm
Claremont Town Hall with John Edwards
Stevens High School
175 Broad St., Claremont

Saturday, December 8th

11:00am
Concord Town Hall with John Edwards
Grappone Center
70 Constitution Ave., Concord.

1:00pm
Derry Town Hall with John Edwards
West Running Brook Middle School
1 West Running Brook Lane, Derry

AP/Pew Poll: Romney Leading Rudy, McCain

A newly released AP/Pew poll shows Mitt Romney leading Rudy Giuliani and John McCain by double-digits.

The Page: Romney, former governor of next-door Massachusetts and a big ad spender in New Hampshire, is ahead among most categories of Republicans. He and Huckabee are about even among white evangelicals, but these voters make up less than one-fifth of New Hampshire Republicans, a much smaller share than in Iowa or South Carolina. Romney gets more than 10 times the support Huckabee does from non-evangelicals in the state.

"The telephone poll, done by The Associated Press and the Pew Research Center, was conducted Nov. 7-25 and involved interviews with 446 likely Republican voters in New Hampshire. It had a margin of sampling error of plus or minus 5.5 percentage points."

GOP:
Mitt Romney: 37%
Rudy Giuliani: 19%
John McCain: 15%
Ron Paul: 9%
Mike Huckabee: 7%

Double O Fills Up Verizon

From The Obama Campaign:

Senator Barack Obama's New Hampshire campaign announced this morning that Sunday's rally with Senator Obama and Oprah Winfrey is now at capacity—just one day after the event specifics were announced. All tickets for the rally have now been reserved; however, those interested in attending may still call or visit our website to be placed on the waiting list.

To be placed on the waiting list, please call Obama for America at (603) 668-2008 or visit http://nh.barackobama.com/oprah_waitlist

Obama Opens Plymouth Office

Senator Barack Obama's New Hampshire campaign announced today the opening of its Plymouth office. The new office brings the campaign's total number of offices to 16, joining regional field offices in Berlin, Claremont, Concord, Conway, Derry, Dover, Keene, Laconia, Lebanon, Littleton, Nashua, Peterborough, Portsmouth, and Rochester, as well as our statewide headquarters in Manchester.

Obama for America Plymouth Office
5 Chase Street
Plymouth, NH 03264
(603) 536-4208

New Hampshire News Links for December 4th, 2007

New Hampshire News Links December 4th, 2007

www.nhnewslinks.com
Now part of The Hotline Political Network!

NEWS: State lenders, lawyers and regulators unite

PEOPLE/CANDIDATES: GOP In Trouble In NH, Odell-Burton, Dodds, Cohen, Eisenberg

NH POLLS: Pew: Democratic Primary Preview: Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina

OP-ED: Editorial: Head games: Playing politics with mental health

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES: Top Democrats intensify attacks; Obama's past surfaces in kindergarten memo/ The Field, Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, Kerry, Obama

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES: RNC Chair Predicts Long Nomination Fight / The Field, Giuliani, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, Romney, Tancredo

FIRST PRIMARY: Why Independents Hold the Key

GENERAL (NATIONAL) CAMPAIGN NEWS: Economy Moves To Fore as Issue For 2008 Voters

NATIONAL POLLS: Clinton, Romney top choices among likely Iowa caucus goers in new ISU poll

WAR: Iran halted nuclear arms work in 2003, U.S. says

OTHER NEWS AND VIEWS: New Allegations Test Craig's New Boldness; Once-Retiring Idaho Senator Keeps Fighting

Monday, December 03, 2007

Clinton Campaign Accuses Obama of Dirty Tricks

In an e-mail to supporters, Clinton campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle accuses Barack Obama's campaign of "dirty campaign tactics."

Doyle writes:

"I wanted to let you know immediately about reports our campaign has received about possible dirty campaign tactics in Iowa and New Hampshire -- and ask for your help.

In Iowa, we have heard reports that Hillary supporters are getting calls that tell them incorrect caucus locations. Supporters have also told us about push polls -- when they tell the pollster they support Hillary, they are given negative talking points about her and asked which attacks are the most effective.

In both Iowa and New Hampshire, we have heard that Obama staffers are berating Hillary supporters on the phone with negative attacks against her.

And here is a report from New Hampshire:

When my father informed them that he was supporting Hillary they proceeded to talk to him about her failure to reform health care when she was First Lady. He said it sounded like they were reading something that was already prepared.

These reports are invaluable to our campaign! It is vitally important that we know about any unethical tactics our opponents may use. And as one of our best supporters in New Hampshire, you are in the best position to keep us informed. If you or any of your family, friends, or neighbors receive negative push poll calls or any misleading information about the election, please contact our New Hampshire headquarters immediately to let them know. Here is contact information:

New Hampshire for Hillary
Email: newhampshire@hillaryclinton.com
Phone: 603-782-4640

Thank you for helping us make sure this election is a fair one, and for everything you do for Hillary.

Clinton Visits New Hampshire on Dec. 6th

Hillary Clinton will be in New Hampshire this Thursday, December 6th.

Thursday, December 6

11:30 a.m. EST
Clinton Attends Organizing for Change Event
Gunstock Ski Resort
The Lodge
Route 11A
Gilford, NH

3:30 p.m. EST
Hillary Attends NEA Endorsement Event Manchester's
Technical Community College Health and Science Building Cafeteria
1066 Front Street
Manchester, NH

Odell, Burton Not Planning To Endorse

Republican State Senator Robert Odell and Republican Executive Councilor Ray Burton are not planning to endorse any presidential candidate.

Both Odell and Burton told me that they have "no plans to endorse a candidate at this time."

Check out the entire story at: Two prominent NH Republicans will not endorse a presidential candidate

Paul Cancels Events

Ron Paul's scheduled events for tomorrow (Tuesday) evening and Wednesday have been cancelled.

Edwards Returns This Weekend

On Friday, December 7th and Saturday, December 8th, Senator John Edwards will return to New Hampshire for two days of Graniteroots campaigning.

Additional details to be announced shortly.

Friday, December 7th

11:45am
AARP Forum with John Edwards
The Derryfield
2108 River Rd., Manchester

1:30pm
Bedford House Party with John Edwards
Home of Anthony Peluso
11 Normand Circle, Bedford

3:30pm
Peterborough Town Hall with John Edwards
Location TBD
Peterborough

6:00pm
Claremont Town Hall with John Edwards
Stevens High School
175 Broad St., Claremont

Saturday, December 8th

11:00am
Concord Town Hall with John Edwards
Location TBD
Concord

1:00pm
Derry Town Hall with John Edwards
Location TBD
Derry

Michelle Obama Returns To New Hampshire

Michelle Obama will return to New Hampshire tomorrow, Tuesday, December 4 for a two-day visit. Mrs. Obama will host roundtable discussions with working women on balancing work and family in Portsmouth tomorrow afternoon and in Concord on Wednesday morning. Later in the morning she'll host a meet and greet at Keene State College.

Tuesday, December 4

Portsmouth
ROUNDTABLE WITH WORKING WOMEN
This event is by invitation only.

Wednesday, December 5

Concord
ROUNDTABLE WITH WORKING WOMEN
This event is by invitation only.

Keene
MEET AND GREET
11:30 AM
The Lantern Room
Keene State College
229 Main St
Keene, NH 03435

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the Keene office at (603) 355-2008.

Cullen: Dems PAC Are "Slush Funds"

New Hampshire Republican Party Chairman Fergus Cullen: "Democrats across the state and up and down the ballot recently accepted a series of highly questionable campaign contributions that may prove to be a violation of federal election law. The Democrat party says it's the party of ethics. Paul Hodes, Carol Shea-Porter and Governor John Lynch campaigned on a promise to create a more ethical and open system. However, by accepting these PAC funds, these Democrats are implicitly condoning the process through which the funds were dispersed. This comes just months after some of these same organizations were forced to return questionable donations received from indicated Democratic fundraiser Norman Hsu."

"Unfortunately, this points to a pattern of unethical behavior. Democrats are part of the problem and electing Republicans in November is part of the solution," concluded Cullen

Clinton Health Group Wants Obama To Support Universal Coverage

From The Clinton Campaign:

Ten Granite State health care professionals today released the text of an open letter addressed to Senator Barack Obama. The letter calls attention to the fact that Senator Obama’s plan would leave 15 million Americans uninsured and urges him to support universal health care.

Dear Senator Obama,

As health care professionals who routinely care for those who cannot afford health insurance, we are writing to urge you to support universal health care in your campaign. Universal coverage is recognized as the essential element needed to initiate meaningful change in our crippled health care system. We understand from first hand experience the dangers of going without basic care. Every day many of our patients wake up hoping that they can get through the day without needing medical treatment that they can’t afford.

Hillary Clinton has introduced a health care plan that will cover every American. Her plan provides people with the choice of keeping their own insurance or selecting another quality plan. We know that you have introduced a health care plan, but it doesn’t cover all of us. In fact, your plan would leave 15 million Americans without insurance. Moreover, we were saddened to read that your campaign thinks that proposing universal health care is excessively ambitious.

As the only Democratic presidential candidate to not propose universal health care, we hope that you will rethink your health care plan. If we do not act quickly to ensure health coverage for every man, woman, and child in our great nation, insurance will grow even more unattainable for so many people just like our patients. We believe that universal health care is an achievable goal – and we want all of the Democratic presidential candidates to show they are willing to work tirelessly until all of the 150,000 uninsured New Hampshire residents have health care.

Hillary has pledged to use her strength and experience fighting special interests to make this dream a reality – will you?

AP/Pew Poll: Clinton Dominates In New Hampshire

A new AP/Pew New Hampshire poll has Hillary Clinton leading Barack Obama by 19 points.

The poll finds that Iraq and health care are the top issues for Democratic voters.

Also, "New Hampshire voters who have not attended college favor Clinton over Obama by a 52% to 16% margin, while the vote is divided almost evenly (27% to 22%, respectively) among those with college degrees."

"The survey by the Pew Research Center for the People & the Press, in collaboration with
the Associated Press, was conducted Nov. 7-25 among 594 likely voters in New Hampshire’s Jan. 8 Democratic primary."

Since the poll was conducted over a month means it’s actually an earlier poll than the ones released at the end of last week and it took them a week to release the results.

Here are the full results:

Clinton: 38%
Obama: 19%
Edwards: 15%
Richardson: 10%
Kucinich: 4%
Biden: 2%
Dodd: 1%

Schilling, McCain, Sherman At Derryfield

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced that Curt Schilling will campaign with John McCain on Wednesday, December 5, 2007. Former WMUR sportscaster and current WGIR radio host, Charlie Sherman, will moderate a "Politics & Sports Town Hall" with Curt Schilling and John McCain at the Derryfield School in Manchester at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The event is free and open to the public.

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

5:30pm
John McCain and Curt Schilling
Politics & Sports Town Hall Meeting
The Derryfield School
Auditorium
2108 River Road
Manchester, New Hampshire 03104

"Together"

Check-out "Together," John Edwards new New Hampshire campaign ad

GOP State Rep Alleges MoveOn.Org Influencing New Hampshire Elections

Last week, Bedford Republican State Representative Mark Clark called Rush Limbaugh's show and alleged that the group MoveOn.org is influencing New Hampshire elections.

Clark said "MoveOn.org was here in huge numbers in the last primary, and in the general election."

The two claimed that the Democrats are bringing people from out of state to vote in New Hampshire elections in an attempt to swing the vote and cited recent changes to the voting law.

After Clark's appearance, a former New Hampshire selectman called and said " I'd like to bring out a fact that the guys that called originally about the voting in New Hampshire, is way out of line. In order for you to vote in New Hampshire, whether it's a primary or an election, you have to register. You can register on the same day that you vote. However, you cannot register unless you have proof of residency and proof of where you live." We have been unable to identify this caller.

Clark told us that he does not have any direct evidence but does have "anecdotal" evidence. He said "they're suppose to check IDs but they often don't. They checked mine but I saw people who they didn't check."

"The problem is with Bill Gardner who won't prosecute these people," he added.

Clark called in to the show in response to an Associated Press article which described the relatively easy voter registration process. In the article "David Scanlan, New Hampshire's deputy secretary of state, acknowledged the law is ambiguous about prohibiting people from voting in more than one state. But he insisted there are no widespread problems."

Here is a link to the show transcript:
Can Anyone Really Vote in New Hampshire?

Operation Live Free or Die Helping Organize Paul Volunteers

A national group called "Operation Live Free or Die," is helping recruit volunteers to visit New Hampshire and volunteer for Texas Congressman Ron Paul.

On their website the group's mission states "The aim of this effort is to gather over one thousand of Ron Paul's most enthusiastic, dedicated supporters from around the country and have them converge on New Hampshire in the days and weeks leading up to the State's primary. Volunteers will coordinate with meetup groups and the official campaign in New Hampshire to canvass, distribute information, organize rallies and generally give Ron Paul's campaign the largest active support base in the State."

Members of the group have been seen standing outside rival Republican campaign events and members often take video of the events.

Kate Rick, Paul's New Hampshire spokeswoman, told us "Operation Live Free or Die is not affiliated with the campaign; members may be canvassing with other volunteers, but we wouldn't be aware of any distinction."

She added "Our reaction to self-organizing volunteer groups is excitement. Obviously, the message of liberty and the Constitution is resonating--in New Hampshire and across the country."

So far the group has recruited 405 volunteers.

New Yorkers Give Rudy A Helping Hand

On November 25th, Rudy Giuliani's campaign bussed in four bus loads of supporters from New York City to attend an event in Hampton.

Pat Brian, who took a video of the buses, told us he was talking with a group of Rudy supporters and "It was during this discussion that we learned all about how they had been bussed up from New York city, how the campaign had called them up and gotten them to come ride the buses up to New Hampshire to make this appearance." Brian is a part of the group Operation Live Free or Die.

In response to the video, a Giuliani spokesman sent us a New York Post article which describes a group of supporters who come every Saturday to volunteer for Rudy's campaign.

Bringing in out of state volunteers is not breaking news. In fact, last night in Boston Barack Obama urged supporters to travel north and volunteer for his New Hampshire campaign.

A rival Republican campaign said "we're proud we can fill events with New Hampshire voters. As opposeed to shipping them in from other states."

Here is a video showing Rudy's buses:

Edwards To Air Lobbyist Ad

From The AP:

Presidential hopeful John Edwards on Monday planned to air a television ad in New Hampshire that blames lobbyists for keeping 47 millions Americans without health insurance.

The ad dovetails with his criticism of his chief rivals' health care plans in recent weeks. The former North Carolina senator says there is no way to ensure health care for all citizens without fundamentally changing how Washington works.

Oprah, Obama To Hold Verizon Event

Barack Obama and Oprah will be at the Verizon Wireless Arena on December 9th.

Here are the details:

6:00pm
The Verizon Wireless Arena
555 Elm Street
Manchester, NH 03101

The event is free and open to the public. Tickets are required. However, capacity is limited, and seating is available on a first come, first serve basis. For tickets and for more information, please visit nh.barackobama.com or call Obama for America’s Manchester office at (603) 668-2008.

***For security reasons, do not bring bags. No signs or banners permitted.***

New Hampshire News Links for December 3rd, 2007

New Hampshire News Links December 3rd, 2007

www.nhnewslinks.com
Now part of The Hotline Political Network!
Visit our blog!

NEWS: Safety chief: Troopers, highway patrol have fewer issues

PEOPLE/CANDIDATES: Shea-Porter, NH House, Eisenberg, Meetings and Forums

POLITICAL COLUMNS: Dornin, Fahey, Capital Beat, Landrigan

NH POLLS: ARG, Rasmussen NH Polls

OP-ED: Editorial: Country needs its leaders to act as allies

DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES: Obama's Gains Show Volatility Of Iowa Contest / The Field, Biden, Clinton, Dodd, Edwards, Obama, Richardson

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATES: Rove says he doesn't yet have a favorite in '08 race; In Dallas stop, ex-Bush aide maintains Iraq war was not a mistake / The Field, Giuliani, Huckabee, McCain, Paul, Romney, Tancredo, Thompson

FIRST PRIMARY: Dems OK NH date, penalize Michigan

GENERAL (NATIONAL) CAMPAIGN NEWS: Political pros stunned by hostage crisis

NATIONAL POLLS: Des Moines Register: Obama and Huckabee now ahead

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Former Senate President Endorses Giuliani

From The Giuliani Campaign:

The Rudy Giuliani Presidential Committee today announced that Arthur Klemm Jr., who served as President of the New Hampshire State Senate, has endorsed Mayor Giuliani for President. Klemm represented Windham and surrounding towns for 14 years in the New Hampshire Senate and House.

“America needs the type of leadership that only Rudy Giuliani can give us,” said Klemm. “We all saw how he restored hope and optimism to the people of New York during challenging times for the City. Rudy is someone who confronts difficult problems and finds effective solutions. He is a strong leader who will use New Hampshire-style conservative principles to move our country forward.”

Bill Clinton Returns To New Hampshire

The New Hampshire for Hillary campaign today announced that President Bill Clinton will campaign in the Granite State on Tuesday, December 4th. The President will attend “Organizing for Change” events in Keene, Claremont and Lebanon .

Additional details of the trip will follow. For information on the New Hampshire for Hillary campaign please visit www.hillaryclinton.com/nh .

Tuesday, December 4th

10:00 AM
Keene State University
J.P. Young Student Center – Mable Brown Room
229 Main Street
Keene, NH

12:00 PM
Stevens High School
175 Broad Street
Claremont, NH

3:00 PM
Lebanon High School
195 Hanover Street
Lebanon, NH

Clinton Camp Opens Offices, Staff Returns To Work

From The Clinton Campaign:

The New Hampshire for Hillary campaign today announced 15 campaign offices statewide are open and staff returned to the work of electing Hillary Clinton the next President of the United States. The Rochester office will remain closed until further notice from the local authorities.

"It's back to business as usual and electing Hillary Clinton the next President of the United States ," said Nick Clemons , State Director. "I couldn’t be prouder of our outstanding team and the tremendous dedication they showed during the last several days. The New Hampshire for Hillary campaign is grateful for the efforts of local law enforcement and for the outpouring of support we have received from people across the country.

UL Endorses McCain

Today, The Union Leader officially endorsed Senator John McCain.

Publisher Joe McQuaid wrote, "Competence, courage, and conviction are enormously important for our next President to possess. No one has a better understanding of U.S. interests and dangers right now than does McCain.

For the full column go here: John McCain is the man to lead America

Here is a statement from the McCain campaign:

U.S. Senator John McCain today issued the following statement on the announcement of the New Hampshire Union Leader's endorsement:

"I am honored to receive the endorsement of the New Hampshire Union Leader, the only statewide newspaper in the Granite State. It is yet another indication that I have the momentum to win the first-in-the-nation primary. New Hampshire voters deserve straight talk, and it is a privilege to answer their questions in living rooms and town hall meetings across the state.

"I alone have the experience, knowledge and judgment to lead as commander in chief from day one, and my candidacy will rally the Reagan coalition to win a great victory next November."