Folks, we've been calling him Creigh "ME TOO" Deeds for awhile now because of his uncanny ability to follow up every major policy initiative announcement released by the McDonnell folks with a loud "ME TOO." I've challenged some of my Democratic friends to identify a single issue in this election on which Creigh Deeds has led and so far they've come up with nothing.
Well, now the Creigh "ME TOO" Deeds campaign is getting statewide recognition. Yesterday, our friends at Bearing Drift in Eastern Virginia nailed Deeds' "ME TOO" campaign. Then today, the Washington Times reports on its interview where Doug Wilder notes the "ME TOO" theme of the Deeds campaign.
There are lots of factors that determine how people vote but leadership is always at the top of the list. Agree or disagree with Bob McDonnell (I happen to agree usually), at least he's willing to act like a leader and identify problems and offer solutions. All Creigh Deeds does is yell ME TOO. That's not leadership and that's not what we need in Richmond.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Health Care
Yesterday my wife had her tonsils removed. Right before we went I saw a story on the news about the long term benefits to this process. As I was telling her surgeon he informed me of something I did not know. He told me that President Obama recently came out and said this procedure is just a way for doctors to make more money. The Dr. then informed me that a tonsillectomy takes about an hour or so and in that time if he were treating patients for recurring infections in the office that he would make more doing that and therefore he loses money by doing this surgery over time. Thankfully he took the time to inform The President of this through a letter to the White House.
Personally I had my tonsils out when I was 5 and it made a big difference in times I get sick per year vs before I had them out. Also as I have gotten older I realize I get sick a lot less than people in my family exposed to the same things that still have their tonsils. So I would say this is more than an increased fee, I have seen first hand the benefits. This unfortuneltly would be a procedure limited by Gov't Healthcare and would reduce the quality of life for a lot of Americans.
I assume this doctor had no idea that I was the GOP Chair and was just voicing his concern about the level of mis-information out there. I encourage all people to investigate the claims in the Health Plan and get in touch with as many Senators and Congressmen as you can.
Personally I had my tonsils out when I was 5 and it made a big difference in times I get sick per year vs before I had them out. Also as I have gotten older I realize I get sick a lot less than people in my family exposed to the same things that still have their tonsils. So I would say this is more than an increased fee, I have seen first hand the benefits. This unfortuneltly would be a procedure limited by Gov't Healthcare and would reduce the quality of life for a lot of Americans.
I assume this doctor had no idea that I was the GOP Chair and was just voicing his concern about the level of mis-information out there. I encourage all people to investigate the claims in the Health Plan and get in touch with as many Senators and Congressmen as you can.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Creigh "ME TOO" Deeds Strikes Again
I have no idea why Creigh Deeds is even paying his staff. His bandwagon jumping has happened again and his "ME TOO" campaign is rolling.
There's an issue that hasn't gotten much play in the Western half of state that involves a former prisoner named Arthur Whitfield. He was wrongly convicted of a crime and spent decades in prison. When his innocence was proven, he was immediately released from jail and then pardoned.
Virginia has a restitution system but since he was out before he was pardoned he was not technically eligible. Well, Bob McDonnell, Ken Stolle and Morgan Griffith have called for legislation during the upcoming session to rectify this terrible wrong.
Now, what do you think Creigh Deeds did? That's right, once he heard McDonnell was out in front of this issue he ran to the mountain top and yelled "ME TOO."
Read the Washington Post story linked above. I love how they had to do an "Update" that essentially says "Late this afternoon" Creigh Deeds yelled ME TOO.
h/t Bearing Drift
There's an issue that hasn't gotten much play in the Western half of state that involves a former prisoner named Arthur Whitfield. He was wrongly convicted of a crime and spent decades in prison. When his innocence was proven, he was immediately released from jail and then pardoned.
Virginia has a restitution system but since he was out before he was pardoned he was not technically eligible. Well, Bob McDonnell, Ken Stolle and Morgan Griffith have called for legislation during the upcoming session to rectify this terrible wrong.
Now, what do you think Creigh Deeds did? That's right, once he heard McDonnell was out in front of this issue he ran to the mountain top and yelled "ME TOO."
Read the Washington Post story linked above. I love how they had to do an "Update" that essentially says "Late this afternoon" Creigh Deeds yelled ME TOO.
h/t Bearing Drift
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Deeds Continues To Show His True Liberal Colors
Folks, can we go ahead and put to bed the myth that Creigh Deeds is some kind of moderate? First it was the Planned Parenthood endorsement. Then it was hundreds of thousands of dollars from national labor unions fighting to overturn our right to work laws. Then it was the promised visit from Barack Obama, whose poll numbers continue to crash and is now viewed as a partisan Democrat by 76% of voters.
Well, just to make sure there was no confusion, Deeds is today trumpeting the endorsement from the National Abortion Rights Action League. I experienced the lunacy and hatefulness of NARAL up close and personal when I witnessed its then director Kate Michelman go on an anti-God, anti-man, anti-America rant when she was speaking to our National Youth Governors' Conference. This group is out there.
Our country allowed itself to believe the "Obama isn't a partisan" myth and look where he's taking us. Don't let Creigh "Me Too" Deeds do the same to Virginia.
Well, just to make sure there was no confusion, Deeds is today trumpeting the endorsement from the National Abortion Rights Action League. I experienced the lunacy and hatefulness of NARAL up close and personal when I witnessed its then director Kate Michelman go on an anti-God, anti-man, anti-America rant when she was speaking to our National Youth Governors' Conference. This group is out there.
Our country allowed itself to believe the "Obama isn't a partisan" myth and look where he's taking us. Don't let Creigh "Me Too" Deeds do the same to Virginia.
What's The Real Story Carter?
As everyone probably knows by now, Carter Turner has thrown his name into the ring to replace Ginny Weisz as the Democratic nominee to challenge Morgan Griffith. According to sources, local Democrats approached several candidates about running (all of whom declined) prior to initially settling on Ms. Weisz in early June. One of those candidates was apparently Carter Turner.
This raises the obvious question - why didn't Carter jump in the race back in June and what is different now?
Thankfully, the media asked Carter that very question yesterday and I was a little taken aback by his response. Here's what the Roanoke Times had to say.
Here's the problem. The plans for the asphalt plant were withdrawn on April 16, 2009. That was almost 2 full months before the filing deadline. That may lead one to ask whether there was still something going on notwithstanding the withdrawal of the plans. It certainly doesn't appear so. The group's own website says it has not been updated since April 1, 2009 at 5:22 pm.
Let me be clear, I don't think anything nefarious is going on. It just seems a little strange. The plans had been withdrawn for almost 2 months, the group's own website shows no activity for over 2 months and there is no evidence of anything past the middle of April. Just makes you wonder; what's the real reason?
This raises the obvious question - why didn't Carter jump in the race back in June and what is different now?
Thankfully, the media asked Carter that very question yesterday and I was a little taken aback by his response. Here's what the Roanoke Times had to say.
When asked about why he did not declare for the seat from the start, Turner said he was still absorbed with the asphalt issue.
Here's the problem. The plans for the asphalt plant were withdrawn on April 16, 2009. That was almost 2 full months before the filing deadline. That may lead one to ask whether there was still something going on notwithstanding the withdrawal of the plans. It certainly doesn't appear so. The group's own website says it has not been updated since April 1, 2009 at 5:22 pm.
Let me be clear, I don't think anything nefarious is going on. It just seems a little strange. The plans had been withdrawn for almost 2 months, the group's own website shows no activity for over 2 months and there is no evidence of anything past the middle of April. Just makes you wonder; what's the real reason?
Monday, July 27, 2009
Is This What Carter Turner Means By Bipartisanship?
As we announced last week, Carter Turner is now the likely replacement for Ginny Weisz. I say "likely" because, while he's announced his candidacy, he won't officially be the candidate until after the Ds caucus tomorrow. I was able to go to his announcement today and I thought I'd post some quick thoughts.
First I must admit I was taken aback by the negativity in the announcement, both from Carter and from his supporters. Calling Morgan Griffith names will win him no votes. It's just undignified when someone like Cabell Brand stoops to name calling. Carter says, however, that the reason he is running is he wants to bring bipartisanship to the 8th HOD district. I think he said the words partisan or bipartisan 20 or 30 times in his speech. This claim rings completely hollow though when you look closer.
1) Does he really know anything about Morgan Griffith's record or does he just read the Roanoke Times editorial page? Of course they call him a partisan devil but his voting record simply doesn't support that charge. You don't have to believe me. Go to Richmond Sunlight and read about his record for yourself. Frankly, his record is incredibly bipartisan considering he's the Majority Leader.
2) I was struck by the partisan tone of an event hyping bipartisanship. I didn't see a single R or I in the crowd other than myself. Not a great way to kick off a "bipartisan" campaign by surrounding yourself with no one but partisan Ds. Very interesting contrast to Morgan's huge fundraiser this past weekend that was attended by over 200 people including a large number of Ds and Is.
3) Furthermore, if Carter wants to run a non-partisan campaign, why is he running as a partisan Democrat? Virginia law allows him to run as an Independent if he wants. So if he's so anti-partisanship, why not run as an Independent and challenge both parties to do better?
4) Maybe most damning to his claim of bipartisanship is his agreement to participate in a nominating process that is demanding all participants take a loyalty oath. Here's a quote directly from the Call for their nominating caucus.
Loyalty oaths? Really? Doesn't sound very non-partisan to me.
5) According to the SBE and the House Clerk's Office, Turner has not filed any of his paperwork to register his candidacy. As such, I found it very curious that he has spent money on a handbill, purchased a website, purchased a large sign and had "staff." One of his staff members needs to take a crash course on Virginia campaign finance law.
6) Finally, where was the support for Turner from the Democratic House of Delegates? No Onzlee Ware, no Gwen Mason, no Ward Armstrong, etc. Ginny Weisz learned all too well that some Ds will promise big things but give you zero support. Carter strikes me as a good guy. I hope that doesn't happen to him but the complete lack of support from the Dem caucus would make me very nervous if I were him.
Carter is a nice guy. But I hope his campaign will be more than attack labels and no substance. I was disappointed with the negativity of his announcement and the attack mode the handful of folks on hand displayed. The fact is, Morgan Griffith has represented the 8th HOD district well and Carter does himself no favors by jumping right into the mud. Hopefully we'll see a better Carter in the next few months.
First I must admit I was taken aback by the negativity in the announcement, both from Carter and from his supporters. Calling Morgan Griffith names will win him no votes. It's just undignified when someone like Cabell Brand stoops to name calling. Carter says, however, that the reason he is running is he wants to bring bipartisanship to the 8th HOD district. I think he said the words partisan or bipartisan 20 or 30 times in his speech. This claim rings completely hollow though when you look closer.
1) Does he really know anything about Morgan Griffith's record or does he just read the Roanoke Times editorial page? Of course they call him a partisan devil but his voting record simply doesn't support that charge. You don't have to believe me. Go to Richmond Sunlight and read about his record for yourself. Frankly, his record is incredibly bipartisan considering he's the Majority Leader.
2) I was struck by the partisan tone of an event hyping bipartisanship. I didn't see a single R or I in the crowd other than myself. Not a great way to kick off a "bipartisan" campaign by surrounding yourself with no one but partisan Ds. Very interesting contrast to Morgan's huge fundraiser this past weekend that was attended by over 200 people including a large number of Ds and Is.
3) Furthermore, if Carter wants to run a non-partisan campaign, why is he running as a partisan Democrat? Virginia law allows him to run as an Independent if he wants. So if he's so anti-partisanship, why not run as an Independent and challenge both parties to do better?
4) Maybe most damning to his claim of bipartisanship is his agreement to participate in a nominating process that is demanding all participants take a loyalty oath. Here's a quote directly from the Call for their nominating caucus.
Every participant must sign a Democratic loyalty oath affirming that he or she is a Democrat, believes in the principles of the Democratic Party, and does not intend to support any nominee who is not a Democrat in the 2009 general election in Virginia.
Loyalty oaths? Really? Doesn't sound very non-partisan to me.
5) According to the SBE and the House Clerk's Office, Turner has not filed any of his paperwork to register his candidacy. As such, I found it very curious that he has spent money on a handbill, purchased a website, purchased a large sign and had "staff." One of his staff members needs to take a crash course on Virginia campaign finance law.
6) Finally, where was the support for Turner from the Democratic House of Delegates? No Onzlee Ware, no Gwen Mason, no Ward Armstrong, etc. Ginny Weisz learned all too well that some Ds will promise big things but give you zero support. Carter strikes me as a good guy. I hope that doesn't happen to him but the complete lack of support from the Dem caucus would make me very nervous if I were him.
Carter is a nice guy. But I hope his campaign will be more than attack labels and no substance. I was disappointed with the negativity of his announcement and the attack mode the handful of folks on hand displayed. The fact is, Morgan Griffith has represented the 8th HOD district well and Carter does himself no favors by jumping right into the mud. Hopefully we'll see a better Carter in the next few months.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Ken Cuccinelli Coming To Salem
I've just spoken with the Cuccinelli campaign and confirmed that our next Attorney General will be at the Olde Salem Days Breakfast. Already confirmed are Goodlatte, Cuccinelli, Morgan Griffith and Ralph Smith. Stay tuned because we'll have some more BIG names to announce soon.
Based on the turnout we're expecting this year, tickets are on a first come first serve basis and there will likely not be tickets available the day of the breakfast. If you want tickets, mail $20/ticket to Salem Republican Committee, P.O. Box 151, Salem , VA 24153. Please include the names and contact information for all attendees.
WHAT: OLDE SALEM DAYS BREAKFAST
WHEN: SEPTEMBER 12, 2009 from 8:00-9:30 a.m.
WHERE: SALEM CIVIC CENTER
COST: $20 per person (under 5 free)
Based on the turnout we're expecting this year, tickets are on a first come first serve basis and there will likely not be tickets available the day of the breakfast. If you want tickets, mail $20/ticket to Salem Republican Committee, P.O. Box 151, Salem , VA 24153. Please include the names and contact information for all attendees.
WHAT: OLDE SALEM DAYS BREAKFAST
WHEN: SEPTEMBER 12, 2009 from 8:00-9:30 a.m.
WHERE: SALEM CIVIC CENTER
COST: $20 per person (under 5 free)
More On Carter Turner. Morgan Griffith's New Opponent? (Updated)
This blog was the first to tell you that that Ginny Weisz was dropping out of the race for the 8th HOD seat and we were the first to bring you the name of her rumored replacement, Carter Turner. First a little backstory. We had solid confirmation for some time that Ms. Weisz was bailing but waited until we had an absolute lock guarantee that she was dropping out. As for Carter Turner, multiple Democratic sources confirmed that he was "almost certainly going to run." These sources have confirmed that the plan was for him to announce his intentions on Monday and then for the Dems to hold their nominating caucus on Tuesday.
I have left Mr. Turner voicemails at home and work to see if he wanted to comment or provide any more information. In the meantime, since people are asking, here is some more information about Mr. Turner found in a quick Google search.
Turner is an Assistant Professor in the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department at Radford University. Turner got his undergraduate degree in History from Virginia Tech and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the Illiff School of Theology in Colorado.
A couple of church sermons he's given are online and I found his thoughts to be very interesting (and I mean that seriously, not sarcastically). You can read them here and here. As I've said before on this blog and elsewhere, someone else's religion should usually play no role in politics. In this case, however, Turner writes about the role of religion in politics with a focus on the religious left so I think his writings are interesting and instructive. Seems like a very thoughtful guy.
Turner lives in the Glenvar area of Roanoke County and was recently involved with Citizens for Positive Growth and its fight to block a new asphalt plant from locating in the Glenvar area. Click here and here to read some Roanoke Times stories on the topic.
We'll keep you all updated as we learn more and will post Mr. Turner's comments if he responds to my messages. Of course, we'll let you know right away if we hear that Mr. Turner is NOT running or if a new name pops up.
Update - Carter was kind enough to call me back and now I know why his name seemed so familiar. Carter and I crossed paths many many years ago on the Christiansburg High School tennis courts when he was doing some coaching and I was a young tennis prodigy (joking). Anyway, Carter declined to comment other than to say he'll be at the Democratic announcement on Monday.
I have left Mr. Turner voicemails at home and work to see if he wanted to comment or provide any more information. In the meantime, since people are asking, here is some more information about Mr. Turner found in a quick Google search.
Turner is an Assistant Professor in the Philosophy and Religious Studies Department at Radford University. Turner got his undergraduate degree in History from Virginia Tech and his M.A. and Ph.D. from the Illiff School of Theology in Colorado.
A couple of church sermons he's given are online and I found his thoughts to be very interesting (and I mean that seriously, not sarcastically). You can read them here and here. As I've said before on this blog and elsewhere, someone else's religion should usually play no role in politics. In this case, however, Turner writes about the role of religion in politics with a focus on the religious left so I think his writings are interesting and instructive. Seems like a very thoughtful guy.
Turner lives in the Glenvar area of Roanoke County and was recently involved with Citizens for Positive Growth and its fight to block a new asphalt plant from locating in the Glenvar area. Click here and here to read some Roanoke Times stories on the topic.
We'll keep you all updated as we learn more and will post Mr. Turner's comments if he responds to my messages. Of course, we'll let you know right away if we hear that Mr. Turner is NOT running or if a new name pops up.
Update - Carter was kind enough to call me back and now I know why his name seemed so familiar. Carter and I crossed paths many many years ago on the Christiansburg High School tennis courts when he was doing some coaching and I was a young tennis prodigy (joking). Anyway, Carter declined to comment other than to say he'll be at the Democratic announcement on Monday.
Obama To Campaign For Deeds...McDonnell Says Thank You
Great timing from the Obama/Deeds folks. Obama now has a negative approval rating, his health care plan has hit a brick wall in the face of massive public opposition, a huge majority of Americans view the stimulus plan as a failure and Obama has jumped two feet into the type of racial conflict he has always attempted to nuance his way around.
So what's a President to do when his grand plans are crumbling around him? Why, head on down to Virginia and campaign for ole Creigh Deeds. While the McDonnell campaign continues to offer real world solutions to the problems facing Virginia, Creigh Deeds continue his hard veer to the left.
Planned Parenthood on board? Check.
National labor unions fighting to overturn Virginia's right to work law on board? Check.
Massive tax increases desired by liberal special interest groups? Check.
President with crashing poll numbers on board? Check.
Once again, Republicans and Bob McDonnell thank Creigh "Me Too" Deeds for the stellar campaign he is running. Keep up the good work.
So what's a President to do when his grand plans are crumbling around him? Why, head on down to Virginia and campaign for ole Creigh Deeds. While the McDonnell campaign continues to offer real world solutions to the problems facing Virginia, Creigh Deeds continue his hard veer to the left.
Planned Parenthood on board? Check.
National labor unions fighting to overturn Virginia's right to work law on board? Check.
Massive tax increases desired by liberal special interest groups? Check.
President with crashing poll numbers on board? Check.
Once again, Republicans and Bob McDonnell thank Creigh "Me Too" Deeds for the stellar campaign he is running. Keep up the good work.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Saxman Steps Aside, One Democrat Exposes His Religious Bigotry
As we discussed earlier this week, Chris Saxman has decided not to run for re-election. The 4 Committee Chairs whose areas comprise the 20th have instituted an orderly and transparent selection process that I know will result in a good candidate being selected.
Here's where it gets interesting. When Saxman was running, no prominent Ds wanted to run since they couldn't win. However, one guy, Erik Curren, was brave enough to take one for the team. Now that Saxman is out, the prominent Ds want Curren to step aside and let them jump in.
Leading this push is Democratic Supervisor Tracy Pyles. What is Pyles' argument for why Curren should drop out? He's an unelectable Buddhist. That's right, the guy actually allowed himself to be quoted in the paper attacking Curren's religion.
Here's the deal. Curren describes himself as a Christian and a Buddhist. Pyles is also right that he is completely unelectable. However, the 2 have nothing to do with each other and I am stunned that a sitting elected official would defame his constituents by calling them all religious bigots and that he'd go after the religion of a fellow Democrat. Can you imagine the media uproar if Chris Saxman had called his opponent an unelectable Buddhist?
He has no chance of winning but I hope Curren stands his ground and stays in the race if for no other reason than to show that he won't be bullied by religious bigotry.
Here's where it gets interesting. When Saxman was running, no prominent Ds wanted to run since they couldn't win. However, one guy, Erik Curren, was brave enough to take one for the team. Now that Saxman is out, the prominent Ds want Curren to step aside and let them jump in.
Leading this push is Democratic Supervisor Tracy Pyles. What is Pyles' argument for why Curren should drop out? He's an unelectable Buddhist. That's right, the guy actually allowed himself to be quoted in the paper attacking Curren's religion.
Here's the deal. Curren describes himself as a Christian and a Buddhist. Pyles is also right that he is completely unelectable. However, the 2 have nothing to do with each other and I am stunned that a sitting elected official would defame his constituents by calling them all religious bigots and that he'd go after the religion of a fellow Democrat. Can you imagine the media uproar if Chris Saxman had called his opponent an unelectable Buddhist?
He has no chance of winning but I hope Curren stands his ground and stays in the race if for no other reason than to show that he won't be bullied by religious bigotry.
Local Law Enforcement Supports Bob McDonnell
The McDonnell campaign rolled out its "Law Enforcement for McDonnell" coalition and it is quite an impressive group. In total, there are 111 names including 40 who are not Republicans.
Locally the list includes: Salem Commonwealth's Attorney Tom Bowers, Retired Salem Sheriff Everette Obenshain, Roanoke City Sheriff Octavia Johnson, Roanoke County Commonwealth's Attorney Randy Leach, Botetourt Sheriff Ronnie Sprinkle and Botetourt Commonwealth's Attorney Joel Branscome.
Click here to read the press release and to see why these 111 law enforcement leaders are supporting Bob McDonnell.
Locally the list includes: Salem Commonwealth's Attorney Tom Bowers, Retired Salem Sheriff Everette Obenshain, Roanoke City Sheriff Octavia Johnson, Roanoke County Commonwealth's Attorney Randy Leach, Botetourt Sheriff Ronnie Sprinkle and Botetourt Commonwealth's Attorney Joel Branscome.
Click here to read the press release and to see why these 111 law enforcement leaders are supporting Bob McDonnell.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Ginny Weisz Is Officially Out
Looks like the rumors discussed below are true. Ginny Weisz is dropping out. No huge surprise. My understanding is that they've got a replacement lined up. Looking forward to his entry into the race.
Click below for more coverage.
Roanoke Times
Star City Harbinger
Click below for more coverage.
Roanoke Times
Star City Harbinger
Is Ginny Weisz Dropping Out?
The Ginny Weisz campaign is only a month old and it looks like it could be coming to an end. After her laughable press conference and anemic fundraising, this shouldn't come as a huge surprise.
Anyway, prominent Democrats in Salem are saying that Weisz is dropping out and that they think they have her replacement lined up. Personally, I hope it's not true because I'd hate to see her go. I guess we'll know soon enough.
Anyway, prominent Democrats in Salem are saying that Weisz is dropping out and that they think they have her replacement lined up. Personally, I hope it's not true because I'd hate to see her go. I guess we'll know soon enough.
The Creigh Deeds "ME TOO" Campaign Is In Full Swing
Folks, this is becoming hilarious. Creigh Deeds' entire campaign is nothing but yelling ME TOO when Bob McDonnell has an idea.
A few weeks ago Bob McDonnell announced a comprehensive jobs creation initiative with a focus on rural job growth. What does Creigh Deeds do a few weeks later? He announces a rural job creation initiative. Of course his lacked specifics, really didn't create any jobs and completely left out NOVA but his ME TOO was loud and clear.
Then, Bob McDonnell anounces a point by point plan to save Virginia's interstate rest areas through private/public partnerships, an "adopt a rest stop" initiative and a restructuring of the current funding formula. What does Creigh Deeds do? He runs out and yells ME TOO. Of course, he has no plan and offers no specifics but what would you expect?
Well it has now happened for the 3rd time in 2 days. As we all know, awhile back Bob McDonnell announced a plan for 10 statewide debates. Creigh Deeds' response was to ridicule the idea and suggest he'd do 3. Well, what does he do now? He has now released his own debate schedule with...wait for it...10 debates. How in the world did he come up with that number?
Creigh Deeds for Governor - Bob McDonnell proposes it - I agree with it...now where is that pony that pooped in my stocking?
Update - Now that I've had a chance to look at the Deeds proposal closer, I see how ridiculous it is. It's not 10 debates, it's really only 4. The rest are joint appearances and "forums." How in the world did this disaster of a campaign win the primary?
A few weeks ago Bob McDonnell announced a comprehensive jobs creation initiative with a focus on rural job growth. What does Creigh Deeds do a few weeks later? He announces a rural job creation initiative. Of course his lacked specifics, really didn't create any jobs and completely left out NOVA but his ME TOO was loud and clear.
Then, Bob McDonnell anounces a point by point plan to save Virginia's interstate rest areas through private/public partnerships, an "adopt a rest stop" initiative and a restructuring of the current funding formula. What does Creigh Deeds do? He runs out and yells ME TOO. Of course, he has no plan and offers no specifics but what would you expect?
Well it has now happened for the 3rd time in 2 days. As we all know, awhile back Bob McDonnell announced a plan for 10 statewide debates. Creigh Deeds' response was to ridicule the idea and suggest he'd do 3. Well, what does he do now? He has now released his own debate schedule with...wait for it...10 debates. How in the world did he come up with that number?
Creigh Deeds for Governor - Bob McDonnell proposes it - I agree with it...now where is that pony that pooped in my stocking?
Update - Now that I've had a chance to look at the Deeds proposal closer, I see how ridiculous it is. It's not 10 debates, it's really only 4. The rest are joint appearances and "forums." How in the world did this disaster of a campaign win the primary?
Mason takes Credit for Ampitheather decision ?????????
According to the Star City Harbinger Gwen Mason is holding a press conference on voting down the amphitheater after following Price and Rosen's lead on the decision. The article says it all.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Creigh Deeds Is Looking For The Pony That Pooped In His Stocking
Okay, that takes the cake for the strangest title so far on this blog. I'm sure there's some folksy saying buried deep in this answer but all I get is a pony pooped in Deeds' stocking and he's out there looking for the pooping pony. That is some economic policy Creigh.
From WSLS's interview with Deeds today:
WARREN: “EVER SINCE I’VE BEEN HERE. WE’VE HEARD POLITICIANS TALK ABOUT CREATING JOBS IN SWVA AND SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA, YET UNEMPLOYMENT IS STILL 20% IS SOME PARTS… DESPITE THE EFFORTS OF TIM KAINE AND MARK WARNER AND JIM WEBB AND OUR SENATORS. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO BE DIFFERENT? WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO THAT IS BETTER THAN WHAT THEY ARE DOING?”
DEEDS: “You know Jay; I am looking for the pony. I don’t believe that the horse manure I found in my stocking is all she wrote. I believe there is a pony out there somewhere...”
Read the entire somewhat bizarre interview here.
From WSLS's interview with Deeds today:
WARREN: “EVER SINCE I’VE BEEN HERE. WE’VE HEARD POLITICIANS TALK ABOUT CREATING JOBS IN SWVA AND SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA, YET UNEMPLOYMENT IS STILL 20% IS SOME PARTS… DESPITE THE EFFORTS OF TIM KAINE AND MARK WARNER AND JIM WEBB AND OUR SENATORS. HOW ARE YOU GOING TO BE DIFFERENT? WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO THAT IS BETTER THAN WHAT THEY ARE DOING?”
DEEDS: “You know Jay; I am looking for the pony. I don’t believe that the horse manure I found in my stocking is all she wrote. I believe there is a pony out there somewhere...”
Read the entire somewhat bizarre interview here.
Sheila Johnson, Co-Founder Of BET, Endorses Bob McDonnell
Click here to read the entire release. This is the type of non-partisan endorsement that speaks volumes about a candidate.
Join McDonnell Action - New Social Networking Site
I'm amazed by the professionalism of the McDonnell campaign. They have a solid infrastructure, they're driving the debate with innovative results based policy initiatives and they're staying ahead of the game by making great use of modern media. One example is the new McDonnell Action social networking site. I've joined and I encourage you to do the same to get plugged in, receive the latest information and learn how to volunteer.
Click here to go to the site and join.
Visit McDonnell Action
Click here to go to the site and join.
Visit McDonnell Action
Salem Republican Committee Meeting - August 4, 2009
What: Salem Republican Committee Meeting
Where: Salem Courthouse (click here for a map)
When: August 4, 2009 @ 6:00 p.m.
We will be holding our next regular meeting on August 4, 2009 @ 6:00 p.m. This will be our planning meeting for Olde Salem Days as well as our second to last pre-election meeting. Please make every effort to attend and bring your friends and family who are interested in joining our Committee.
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Where: Salem Courthouse (click here for a map)
When: August 4, 2009 @ 6:00 p.m.
We will be holding our next regular meeting on August 4, 2009 @ 6:00 p.m. This will be our planning meeting for Olde Salem Days as well as our second to last pre-election meeting. Please make every effort to attend and bring your friends and family who are interested in joining our Committee.
View Larger Map
News From Morgan Griffith's Campaign
Since Morgan's Griffith's opponent announced her candidacy, I've been asked one question over and over - is there any chance Morgan takes this race for granted? Folks, from what I'm seeing, the answer is an unequivocal NO!
Morgan's folks are taking nothing for granted and running this race like their opponent is a legitimate threat. Let me give you an example. Morgan currently has about 45 times the money on hand of his opponent. So what does Morgan do with this huge cash advantage? He hosts the best political fundraiser I've ever seen locally.
This weekend over 200 Republicans, Independents and Democrats gathered for a BBQ and Hoedown out in Catawba. The location was beautiful, the weather was perfect and everyone had a great time. Frankly, I was stunned by the number of Independents and Democrats who were willing to come out and publicly support Morgan in his re-election campaign.
Even better, to all my friends on the left who take solace in believing that at least this race will "keep Morgan locked up in Salem this year;" don't get your hopes up. You should see his schedule. Without missing a beat back home, Morgan is travelling the state, recruiting candidates, holding fundraisers and working hard to make sure we don't just keep, but rather expand, our majority in the House of Delegates.
Things are looking very positive for an R statewide sweep in VA and a big pickup in the House. Now is the time to redouble our efforts and keep the momentum going.
Morgan's folks are taking nothing for granted and running this race like their opponent is a legitimate threat. Let me give you an example. Morgan currently has about 45 times the money on hand of his opponent. So what does Morgan do with this huge cash advantage? He hosts the best political fundraiser I've ever seen locally.
This weekend over 200 Republicans, Independents and Democrats gathered for a BBQ and Hoedown out in Catawba. The location was beautiful, the weather was perfect and everyone had a great time. Frankly, I was stunned by the number of Independents and Democrats who were willing to come out and publicly support Morgan in his re-election campaign.
Even better, to all my friends on the left who take solace in believing that at least this race will "keep Morgan locked up in Salem this year;" don't get your hopes up. You should see his schedule. Without missing a beat back home, Morgan is travelling the state, recruiting candidates, holding fundraisers and working hard to make sure we don't just keep, but rather expand, our majority in the House of Delegates.
Things are looking very positive for an R statewide sweep in VA and a big pickup in the House. Now is the time to redouble our efforts and keep the momentum going.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Cleaveland Campaign in Full Swing
The Cleaveland for House of Delegates campaign is in full swing. They are quickly gaining valley wide support from households and businesses. In addition they have revamp their website to help the voters obtain the necessary info about Bill Cleaveland. Please visit them at:
http://www.billcleaveland.com/
http://www.billcleaveland.com/
Friday, July 17, 2009
Planned Parenthood Endorses Deeds...Republicans Say Thank You
Funny, you'll see this headline being trumpeted on both liberal and conservative sites. I pulled it off StarCityHarbinger. As far as I'm concerned, this endorsement, coming this early in the campaign is GREAT for McDonnell. Deeds, like Mark Warner (who votes D 93% of the time), has tried to perpetuate the "moderate Virginia Democrat" myth. The fact that Planned Parenthood supports him strongly enough to announce its endorsement of him in July says all you need to know about how moderate Deeds is.
So the abortion lobby is behind him. He voted for a massive gas tax increase when gas was $4.00/gallon. The unions fighting to overturn Virginia's right to work law support him. He won't comment on cap and trade. Hmmm. Deeds is starting to sound more and more like a typical national liberal Democrat. Please Mr. Deeds, keep courting these constituencies aggressively. It's clear you're no longer the Creigh Deeds of 2005 that almost became our 44th Attorney General.
There's a reason why all the momentum is on McDonnell's side. Let's keep it going.
So the abortion lobby is behind him. He voted for a massive gas tax increase when gas was $4.00/gallon. The unions fighting to overturn Virginia's right to work law support him. He won't comment on cap and trade. Hmmm. Deeds is starting to sound more and more like a typical national liberal Democrat. Please Mr. Deeds, keep courting these constituencies aggressively. It's clear you're no longer the Creigh Deeds of 2005 that almost became our 44th Attorney General.
There's a reason why all the momentum is on McDonnell's side. Let's keep it going.
Chris Saxman's Letter To His Constituents
As we discussed below, Chris Saxman is stepping away from the House of Delegates. Click on the link below to read why and to read about Chris' plans for the future.
Chris Saxman's Letter To His Constitutents.
Chris Saxman's Letter To His Constitutents.
Another Loss For The Virginia House Of Delegates
First, William Fralin chose not to seek re-election this year. Now, another of our fine 6th District Delegates is stepping down. This time, it's Chris Saxman who is stepping down to focus on other projects. Saxman was one of the best and brightest Delegates in Richmond. FWIW, I thought so highly of Chris that I, and many others, sent him emails two years ago encouraging him to run for US Senate. I hate to see folks like Chris and William leave but being a Delegate is a tough gig and sometimes you just have to "follow your heart." I look forward to seeing what the next step is for Chris.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Roanoke City Meeting Last Night
Last night the Roanoke City Republican Committee met and had a record turnout, which is significant given it was the summer meeting.
At this meeting I was particularly impressed with the speeches from our City Candidates Octavia Johnson and Douglas Walker.
Johnson did a nice job talking about her accomplishments in office and her plan for the next 4 years. As I am sure you noticed her campaign is hitting it hard, everywhere I go I see a purple and white Johnson for Sheriff sign. Visit her website at www.octaviajohnson.com
Walker did a great job telling the story of the current situation in the Commissioner of Revenue office of how the tax payer money is being wasted and there are no checks and balances. Then he went on to talk about his experiences running a business and how he will bring that knowledge to the office and invite back the city auditor. Visit his website at www.douglaswalker2009.com
Given the work these candidates have put the Committee's mind at ease as we allocated a significant amount of money to each campaign and to each of our House of Delegates candidates.
At this meeting I was particularly impressed with the speeches from our City Candidates Octavia Johnson and Douglas Walker.
Johnson did a nice job talking about her accomplishments in office and her plan for the next 4 years. As I am sure you noticed her campaign is hitting it hard, everywhere I go I see a purple and white Johnson for Sheriff sign. Visit her website at www.octaviajohnson.com
Walker did a great job telling the story of the current situation in the Commissioner of Revenue office of how the tax payer money is being wasted and there are no checks and balances. Then he went on to talk about his experiences running a business and how he will bring that knowledge to the office and invite back the city auditor. Visit his website at www.douglaswalker2009.com
Given the work these candidates have put the Committee's mind at ease as we allocated a significant amount of money to each campaign and to each of our House of Delegates candidates.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Can't wait.
Update - I deleted the trailer from this post because it begins playing as soon as you hit the blog and, as much as I like it, that'll become incredibly annoying.
Update - I deleted the trailer from this post because it begins playing as soon as you hit the blog and, as much as I like it, that'll become incredibly annoying.
McDonnell Campaign Winning The Fundraising Battle
Fundraising numbers, like polling numbers, are incredibly easy to spin. While I don't want to offer the same old tired partisan spin, I do want to offer my thoughts on the numbers (which I'm sure will devolve into partisan spin before I finish this post).
McDonnell raised $1.8 million. That's obviously less than Deeds' number. While you'd love to win every cycle, I don't think that's a big surprise. The big national money had to stay on the sidelines during the D primary, whereas a lot of the national R money hit McDonnell's filing last quarter.
So here's how I analyze the raw numbers. Both campaigns have now had their big initial influx of national money. Following that influx, McDonnell has about $5 million on hand and about twice what Deeds has. While Deeds obviously spent a lot on his primary, it's not like McDonnell has been hording money. McDonnell has been on the air for much of this reporting period so his cash on hand is even more impressive.
Most important about these numbers though is the fact that 75% of McDonnell's donors are from Virginia and a huge percentage of his money is from small dollar donors. These are the Virginians who will put up yard signs, work County fairs and man the precincts on election day.
Punchline? Both campaigns are going to be well funded. Both campaigns will get big time national money. The difference is that the McDonnell infrastructure is miles ahead of Deeds' and the support from Virginians (through their checkbooks) is clearly favoring McDonnell now. We just have to keep this momentum going all the way through November.
McDonnell raised $1.8 million. That's obviously less than Deeds' number. While you'd love to win every cycle, I don't think that's a big surprise. The big national money had to stay on the sidelines during the D primary, whereas a lot of the national R money hit McDonnell's filing last quarter.
So here's how I analyze the raw numbers. Both campaigns have now had their big initial influx of national money. Following that influx, McDonnell has about $5 million on hand and about twice what Deeds has. While Deeds obviously spent a lot on his primary, it's not like McDonnell has been hording money. McDonnell has been on the air for much of this reporting period so his cash on hand is even more impressive.
Most important about these numbers though is the fact that 75% of McDonnell's donors are from Virginia and a huge percentage of his money is from small dollar donors. These are the Virginians who will put up yard signs, work County fairs and man the precincts on election day.
Punchline? Both campaigns are going to be well funded. Both campaigns will get big time national money. The difference is that the McDonnell infrastructure is miles ahead of Deeds' and the support from Virginians (through their checkbooks) is clearly favoring McDonnell now. We just have to keep this momentum going all the way through November.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Was Jody Wagner Lying Or Hiding?
Jody Wagner was kind enough to grace the Roanoke Valley with her presence last Friday. Before she came, she alerted news organization in the Valley and got pretty good "pre-arrival" coverage. One of the highlighted events for this trip was her planned attendance at the Salem Fair.
Ms. Wagner told every media outlet she was hitting the Fair that evening. After spending some time in Roanoke that afternoon, she tweeted at 5:18 pm "Headed to Salem for the Fair."
Now, here's what you need to know about the Salem Fair. First, hundreds of thousands of people attend from all over the area (second biggest in the state). Second, Morgan Griffith and the Republicans absolutely own the Fair. Morgan sponsors the biggest show (the sea lions this year) and has a prominent booth. Over the course of the Fair, Morgan and our Republican volunteers spend hundreds of man hours working the Fair, giving out thousands of balloons and untold yard signs, literature, etc. The Democrats, on the other hand, have ZERO presence. After a few hours, the Fair becomes a sea of Morgan's balloons.
So that brings us back to last Friday. Since it was a big day at the Fair, we had dozens of people working every corner of the Fair. Since we knew Wagner was coming, we kept an eye out for her so we could welcome her to Morgan Griffith/Bill Bolling country.
The problem...she never showed up. After promoting her trip for days, telling every media outlet she'd be there and even tweeting that she was on her way - she didn't make an appearance. Instead, at 8:35 she tweeted that she was heading home.
Either she was lying about her planned attendance just to get media attention, she came to the Fair but was scared off by the Republican presence or she came and simply hid so no one could find her. I contacted the campaign, local media and local liberal bloggers and no one knows what happened to her that evening.
Either way, I think Jody owes an apology to both Democrats who came to the Fair to see her. Oh, and by the way, I don't think Ginny Weisz made a single appearance.
Ms. Wagner told every media outlet she was hitting the Fair that evening. After spending some time in Roanoke that afternoon, she tweeted at 5:18 pm "Headed to Salem for the Fair."
Now, here's what you need to know about the Salem Fair. First, hundreds of thousands of people attend from all over the area (second biggest in the state). Second, Morgan Griffith and the Republicans absolutely own the Fair. Morgan sponsors the biggest show (the sea lions this year) and has a prominent booth. Over the course of the Fair, Morgan and our Republican volunteers spend hundreds of man hours working the Fair, giving out thousands of balloons and untold yard signs, literature, etc. The Democrats, on the other hand, have ZERO presence. After a few hours, the Fair becomes a sea of Morgan's balloons.
So that brings us back to last Friday. Since it was a big day at the Fair, we had dozens of people working every corner of the Fair. Since we knew Wagner was coming, we kept an eye out for her so we could welcome her to Morgan Griffith/Bill Bolling country.
The problem...she never showed up. After promoting her trip for days, telling every media outlet she'd be there and even tweeting that she was on her way - she didn't make an appearance. Instead, at 8:35 she tweeted that she was heading home.
Either she was lying about her planned attendance just to get media attention, she came to the Fair but was scared off by the Republican presence or she came and simply hid so no one could find her. I contacted the campaign, local media and local liberal bloggers and no one knows what happened to her that evening.
Either way, I think Jody owes an apology to both Democrats who came to the Fair to see her. Oh, and by the way, I don't think Ginny Weisz made a single appearance.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Roanoke City Amphitheater
In today's Roanoke Times there is a story about funding for the Amphitheater. Council member Rosen has also posted his letter to council on his blog.
Rosen is not supportive of the Amphitheater at this time due to other fiscal needs in the city. You can read the article and blog which outlines the issue. Most folks I talk with know that right now an Amphitheater is not where we need to spend tax payer dollars. Personally I am not opposed to an Amphitheater I just don't see it as a critical need of all citizens and a good way to spend tax payer dollars. If private industry wanted to build and run this I would support that as it would have a better chance of succeeding, being profitable, and would bring in better acts.
Probably the most staggering thing about this article was Councilman Cutler's comment:
"Councilman Rupert Cutler agreed, saying the council must make the best decision it can now without worrying what future members might do. He added he's not concerned about a possible subsidy, noting that the city invests lots of money into schools and public safety without expecting them to pay for themselves."
So let me get this straight he is not concerned about a subsidy and thinks they should build this and not recoup money but lose money year over year. And he further thinks that it is as important to citizens needs as public safety and schools?
Update: See story on Star City Harbinger
Rosen is not supportive of the Amphitheater at this time due to other fiscal needs in the city. You can read the article and blog which outlines the issue. Most folks I talk with know that right now an Amphitheater is not where we need to spend tax payer dollars. Personally I am not opposed to an Amphitheater I just don't see it as a critical need of all citizens and a good way to spend tax payer dollars. If private industry wanted to build and run this I would support that as it would have a better chance of succeeding, being profitable, and would bring in better acts.
Probably the most staggering thing about this article was Councilman Cutler's comment:
"Councilman Rupert Cutler agreed, saying the council must make the best decision it can now without worrying what future members might do. He added he's not concerned about a possible subsidy, noting that the city invests lots of money into schools and public safety without expecting them to pay for themselves."
So let me get this straight he is not concerned about a subsidy and thinks they should build this and not recoup money but lose money year over year. And he further thinks that it is as important to citizens needs as public safety and schools?
Update: See story on Star City Harbinger
Friday, July 10, 2009
Walk for the Ticket
This Saturday, and every Saturday, volunteers will meet at the GOP HQ on Franklin Rd and Ogden at 10am. The group will get food and drink and then go knock on doors for our candidates. Please come this Saturday and as many Saturday's as you can.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
McDonnell/Bolling Announce Job Initiatives (Press Release)
Bringing New Jobs and Opportunity to Virginia
Bob McDonnell and Bill Bolling will lead an administration dedicated to helping create new jobs for more Virginians. They understand that most Virginians have been impacted by this economic downturn, and that people are anxious about what the future holds. That's why they will make their top priority bringing new jobs and greater opportunity to every corner of the Commonwealth.
To lay a solid foundation for sustained economic success, the next four years cannot be about fast talk and idle promises. It has to be about strong leadership to obtain practical solutions and measurable results, and using Virginia's highest office to put in place the building blocks that will produce good jobs and incomes for all Virginians.
Bob and Bill are focused on growing Virginia's economy, creating new jobs, re-training our workforce for 21st century jobs, and allowing all Virginians to achieve their dreams. Virginians will benefit from McDonnell and Bolling's vision of a robust private sector, more incentives for businesses that locate or expand in Virginia, and a government that lives within its means, thereby allowing citizens to keep more of what they earn to invest and to spend as they see fit.
Bob McDonnell and Bill Bolling have bold ideas and specific proposals to help overcome the challenges Virginians are facing and get our economy moving again.
Chief Job Creation Officer Nearly every policy proposal of this campaign has a job creation and economic opportunity component. From increasing the number of college degrees awarded by 100,000 over the next 15 years to ensuring that our workforce in Virginia is one of the most highly skilled and knowledgeable and highest paid in the county, to making Virginia the energy capital of the East Coast to bring thousands of jobs to Virginia in the coal, nuclear, oil and natural gas, solar, wind, and biomass industries, a McDonnell/Bolling administration will be about helping the private sector create new jobs and more opportunities.
While several of the jobs-creating and workforce and economic development agencies are currently under the Secretary of Commerce (VDEP, Tobacco Commission, VEC, DBA, Tourism), many are organized under other secretariats, such as the Department of Minority Business Enterprise, Virginia Career Education Foundation, Office of Workforce Development, etc.
Additionally, our proposals on energy, higher education, K-12, etc. are based on creating new jobs and growing the economy, and will push even more jobs initiatives to disparate arms of state government.
We need strong leadership to coordinate all these efforts and make sure that every opportunity is fully explored to attract industry, help entrepreneurs, and create jobs.
· As Governor, Bob McDonnell will appoint Lieutenant Governor Bolling to serve as "Virginia's Chief Job Creation Officer" in the McDonnell/Bolling Administration
· As Virginia's Chief Job Creation Officer, the Lieutenant Governor would help coordinate all economic development and job creation initiatives across the various agencies of state government. The Chief Jobs Officer would be responsible to and acting at the direction of the Governor. Having the states second highest elected officer actively involved in recruiting new industries signals the importance of bringing new jobs to our state.
· The Chief Jobs Officer would serve in a coordinating and oversight role with the various Secretaries, Agency heads, and initiative and program leaders to make sure all entities are working together in a coordinated and focused manner to attract new business to the state, expand existing businesses, and to create jobs.
· The Chief Job Creation Officer, in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, will evaluate all of Virginia's job creation incentives and initiatives to determine the best program to increase the return on our investment. Virginia has many mechanisms to attract jobs to Virginia and help existing businesses expand. The Governor's Opportunity Fund (GOF), the Virginia Investment Partnership Grant, the Major Eligible Employer Grant, the Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant, as well as numerous tax credits and bond funding programs give the Commonwealth a significant tool chest to work from. In order to ensure that we are getting the best bang for the buck, we need to reevaluate our job creation incentives to determine which combination will provide the best return on our investment and successfully close the deal. We need to reach out to small, existing and large businesses and ask them what the best and most effective tools are in recruiting, retaining and expanding jobs in Virginia. As part of this analysis we must explore whether it makes sense to have so many different incentive grants and whether we should streamline the process and consolidate these various grant programs.
Rural Economic Development Many of our rural cities and counties in Virginia have been hardest hit by the economic downturn. The City of Covington's unemployment increased by 6.1 % in just the past year; Wythe County's unemployment rate rose to 11.6% from 3.6%; King William saw a 4.6% increase in their unemployment rate; Smyth County had an increase of 7.1%; and the City of Martinsville has the highest unemployment rate in the state at 20.2%.
While these are hard numbers to face, we know that these rural cities and counties will be a critical part of the economic engine to turn Virginia around. They are the life blood of our great Commonwealth and they are filled with hardworking individuals who we will not forget.
· The McDonnell/Bolling administration will designate one Deputy Secretary of Commerce to focus solely on rural economic development. This position will make recommendations directly to the Secretary of Commerce, the Chief Job Creation Officer, and the Governor on how to spur economic opportunities in rural cities and counties in the short and long term. This Deputy will spend extensive time in rural communities helping develop innovative and meaningful ways to retain and increase jobs in these areas.
· This individual will be from a rural area and have experience with job creation in those areas.
Expansion and retooling of the Governor's Opportunity FundThe Governor's Opportunity Fund (GOF) is designed as a "deal closing" fund to be employed at the Governor's discretion when necessary to secure a company location or expansion in Virginia. The GOF serves as a final resource for Virginia in the face of serious competition from other states or countries. A GOF grant is awarded to the Virginia locality, with the expectation that the grant will assist in attracting new industry, resulting in the creation of new jobs and capital investment.
Currently Virginia's GOF is budgeted at a level nearly 33% lower than the 2000-2002 levels, and another significant job creation initiative - the VEDP - is operating 25% lower than 2000-2002 levels. This is happening at a time when neighboring states and foreign countries are much more aggressive in marketing new incentives at attract jobs.
In FY2008, the GOF grants resulted in companies announcing new capital investments of $1.728 billion and the creation of 4,881 new jobs. The average projected salary for these announced new jobs is $49,292, which is 43% above the prevailing average wage of $34,521 among the localities which received GOF funds.
During these tough economic times it is puzzling that the fund has not been used to the maximum extent possible. For the first 13 years of the Fund, FY 1992-2005, all monies appropriated to the fund were fully invested in job creating businesses. However since 2006, Governor Kaine has left cash balances available for investment. Because the GOF takes in interest and the funds have not been fully spent, the current balance available for commitment is about $11,200,000, through the third quarter of this past fiscal year. That's $11.2 million that could be spent right now to bring jobs to Virginia and expand existing businesses to create more jobs.
This is not to say that money should be spent just because it is allocated, but during these tough economic times when many companies are closing shop in Virginia, it is hard to believe that all resources have not been used to keep Virginia companies open and recruit more jobs to locate in Virginia.
· As Governor, Bob McDonnell will use and manage the GOF in new ways:
o Double the amount of the fund to about $40 million every 2 years. It is clear that our surrounding states are investing significantly more in job creation incentives than Virginia and we must increase our investment to be more competitive. Florida's Quick Action Closing Fund is appropriated at $46 million, and a similar fund for Arkansas received $50 million. A 2005 report by Virginia's Economic Development Partnership states that many of Virginia's competitors have significant leads over Virginia in terms of primary incentive programs - North Carolina invested $171 million in combined programs; Pennsylvania invested $106 million; Georgia invested $96 million; and South Carolina invested $70 million. Virginia invested about $60 million.
o Expand the use of the GOF so that more businesses and the employees they hire will benefit. We will change the GOF rules to include not just job creation and capital investment as the criteria to qualify, but we will also allow companies that generate significant additional state and local tax revenue to qualify. We will also propose lower local matches for large projects, raising the governor's authority to $2 million per deal, and making it easier to qualify for projects in central cities and urban cores.
Job Creation Tax CreditThe Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit was created by Governor George Allen and has been successful in helping businesses expand and relocate to Virginia. The program is easily administered and was reauthorized by the 2009 General Assembly through 2020. The tax credit can be claimed by companies engaged in any business in the Commonwealth, except for retail trade business, that create at least 100 new full-time jobs in connection with the establishment or expansion of a major business facility. In the event that a major business facility is located in an economically distressed area or in an enterprise zone, the threshold is lowered to 50 jobs.
· Bob McDonnell recognizes that not all businesses can expand by 100 employees during these tough economic times. To expand the use of this successful program and incentivize job creation, Bob McDonnell will remove the 100 job threshold and give any company that creates at least 50 jobs the $1,000 tax credit.
· For facilities that locate in an enterprise zone or economically distressed area, we will lower the threshold from 50 to 25 jobs.
· Also, so that more job creating facilities will be eligible for this tax credit, we will consider economically distressed area as those having unemployment rates 150% greater than the state average, to put it on par with the GOF. Currently, an area shall qualify as severely economically distressed if it is a city or county with an unemployment rate for the preceding year of at least twice the average statewide unemployment rate for such year.
· We will propose this expansion of the tax credit for 2 years or until the economy recovers.
Bob McDonnell and Bill Bolling will lead an administration dedicated to helping create new jobs for more Virginians. They understand that most Virginians have been impacted by this economic downturn, and that people are anxious about what the future holds. That's why they will make their top priority bringing new jobs and greater opportunity to every corner of the Commonwealth.
To lay a solid foundation for sustained economic success, the next four years cannot be about fast talk and idle promises. It has to be about strong leadership to obtain practical solutions and measurable results, and using Virginia's highest office to put in place the building blocks that will produce good jobs and incomes for all Virginians.
Bob and Bill are focused on growing Virginia's economy, creating new jobs, re-training our workforce for 21st century jobs, and allowing all Virginians to achieve their dreams. Virginians will benefit from McDonnell and Bolling's vision of a robust private sector, more incentives for businesses that locate or expand in Virginia, and a government that lives within its means, thereby allowing citizens to keep more of what they earn to invest and to spend as they see fit.
Bob McDonnell and Bill Bolling have bold ideas and specific proposals to help overcome the challenges Virginians are facing and get our economy moving again.
Chief Job Creation Officer Nearly every policy proposal of this campaign has a job creation and economic opportunity component. From increasing the number of college degrees awarded by 100,000 over the next 15 years to ensuring that our workforce in Virginia is one of the most highly skilled and knowledgeable and highest paid in the county, to making Virginia the energy capital of the East Coast to bring thousands of jobs to Virginia in the coal, nuclear, oil and natural gas, solar, wind, and biomass industries, a McDonnell/Bolling administration will be about helping the private sector create new jobs and more opportunities.
While several of the jobs-creating and workforce and economic development agencies are currently under the Secretary of Commerce (VDEP, Tobacco Commission, VEC, DBA, Tourism), many are organized under other secretariats, such as the Department of Minority Business Enterprise, Virginia Career Education Foundation, Office of Workforce Development, etc.
Additionally, our proposals on energy, higher education, K-12, etc. are based on creating new jobs and growing the economy, and will push even more jobs initiatives to disparate arms of state government.
We need strong leadership to coordinate all these efforts and make sure that every opportunity is fully explored to attract industry, help entrepreneurs, and create jobs.
· As Governor, Bob McDonnell will appoint Lieutenant Governor Bolling to serve as "Virginia's Chief Job Creation Officer" in the McDonnell/Bolling Administration
· As Virginia's Chief Job Creation Officer, the Lieutenant Governor would help coordinate all economic development and job creation initiatives across the various agencies of state government. The Chief Jobs Officer would be responsible to and acting at the direction of the Governor. Having the states second highest elected officer actively involved in recruiting new industries signals the importance of bringing new jobs to our state.
· The Chief Jobs Officer would serve in a coordinating and oversight role with the various Secretaries, Agency heads, and initiative and program leaders to make sure all entities are working together in a coordinated and focused manner to attract new business to the state, expand existing businesses, and to create jobs.
· The Chief Job Creation Officer, in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce and Trade, will evaluate all of Virginia's job creation incentives and initiatives to determine the best program to increase the return on our investment. Virginia has many mechanisms to attract jobs to Virginia and help existing businesses expand. The Governor's Opportunity Fund (GOF), the Virginia Investment Partnership Grant, the Major Eligible Employer Grant, the Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant, as well as numerous tax credits and bond funding programs give the Commonwealth a significant tool chest to work from. In order to ensure that we are getting the best bang for the buck, we need to reevaluate our job creation incentives to determine which combination will provide the best return on our investment and successfully close the deal. We need to reach out to small, existing and large businesses and ask them what the best and most effective tools are in recruiting, retaining and expanding jobs in Virginia. As part of this analysis we must explore whether it makes sense to have so many different incentive grants and whether we should streamline the process and consolidate these various grant programs.
Rural Economic Development Many of our rural cities and counties in Virginia have been hardest hit by the economic downturn. The City of Covington's unemployment increased by 6.1 % in just the past year; Wythe County's unemployment rate rose to 11.6% from 3.6%; King William saw a 4.6% increase in their unemployment rate; Smyth County had an increase of 7.1%; and the City of Martinsville has the highest unemployment rate in the state at 20.2%.
While these are hard numbers to face, we know that these rural cities and counties will be a critical part of the economic engine to turn Virginia around. They are the life blood of our great Commonwealth and they are filled with hardworking individuals who we will not forget.
· The McDonnell/Bolling administration will designate one Deputy Secretary of Commerce to focus solely on rural economic development. This position will make recommendations directly to the Secretary of Commerce, the Chief Job Creation Officer, and the Governor on how to spur economic opportunities in rural cities and counties in the short and long term. This Deputy will spend extensive time in rural communities helping develop innovative and meaningful ways to retain and increase jobs in these areas.
· This individual will be from a rural area and have experience with job creation in those areas.
Expansion and retooling of the Governor's Opportunity FundThe Governor's Opportunity Fund (GOF) is designed as a "deal closing" fund to be employed at the Governor's discretion when necessary to secure a company location or expansion in Virginia. The GOF serves as a final resource for Virginia in the face of serious competition from other states or countries. A GOF grant is awarded to the Virginia locality, with the expectation that the grant will assist in attracting new industry, resulting in the creation of new jobs and capital investment.
Currently Virginia's GOF is budgeted at a level nearly 33% lower than the 2000-2002 levels, and another significant job creation initiative - the VEDP - is operating 25% lower than 2000-2002 levels. This is happening at a time when neighboring states and foreign countries are much more aggressive in marketing new incentives at attract jobs.
In FY2008, the GOF grants resulted in companies announcing new capital investments of $1.728 billion and the creation of 4,881 new jobs. The average projected salary for these announced new jobs is $49,292, which is 43% above the prevailing average wage of $34,521 among the localities which received GOF funds.
During these tough economic times it is puzzling that the fund has not been used to the maximum extent possible. For the first 13 years of the Fund, FY 1992-2005, all monies appropriated to the fund were fully invested in job creating businesses. However since 2006, Governor Kaine has left cash balances available for investment. Because the GOF takes in interest and the funds have not been fully spent, the current balance available for commitment is about $11,200,000, through the third quarter of this past fiscal year. That's $11.2 million that could be spent right now to bring jobs to Virginia and expand existing businesses to create more jobs.
This is not to say that money should be spent just because it is allocated, but during these tough economic times when many companies are closing shop in Virginia, it is hard to believe that all resources have not been used to keep Virginia companies open and recruit more jobs to locate in Virginia.
· As Governor, Bob McDonnell will use and manage the GOF in new ways:
o Double the amount of the fund to about $40 million every 2 years. It is clear that our surrounding states are investing significantly more in job creation incentives than Virginia and we must increase our investment to be more competitive. Florida's Quick Action Closing Fund is appropriated at $46 million, and a similar fund for Arkansas received $50 million. A 2005 report by Virginia's Economic Development Partnership states that many of Virginia's competitors have significant leads over Virginia in terms of primary incentive programs - North Carolina invested $171 million in combined programs; Pennsylvania invested $106 million; Georgia invested $96 million; and South Carolina invested $70 million. Virginia invested about $60 million.
o Expand the use of the GOF so that more businesses and the employees they hire will benefit. We will change the GOF rules to include not just job creation and capital investment as the criteria to qualify, but we will also allow companies that generate significant additional state and local tax revenue to qualify. We will also propose lower local matches for large projects, raising the governor's authority to $2 million per deal, and making it easier to qualify for projects in central cities and urban cores.
Job Creation Tax CreditThe Major Business Facility Job Tax Credit was created by Governor George Allen and has been successful in helping businesses expand and relocate to Virginia. The program is easily administered and was reauthorized by the 2009 General Assembly through 2020. The tax credit can be claimed by companies engaged in any business in the Commonwealth, except for retail trade business, that create at least 100 new full-time jobs in connection with the establishment or expansion of a major business facility. In the event that a major business facility is located in an economically distressed area or in an enterprise zone, the threshold is lowered to 50 jobs.
· Bob McDonnell recognizes that not all businesses can expand by 100 employees during these tough economic times. To expand the use of this successful program and incentivize job creation, Bob McDonnell will remove the 100 job threshold and give any company that creates at least 50 jobs the $1,000 tax credit.
· For facilities that locate in an enterprise zone or economically distressed area, we will lower the threshold from 50 to 25 jobs.
· Also, so that more job creating facilities will be eligible for this tax credit, we will consider economically distressed area as those having unemployment rates 150% greater than the state average, to put it on par with the GOF. Currently, an area shall qualify as severely economically distressed if it is a city or county with an unemployment rate for the preceding year of at least twice the average statewide unemployment rate for such year.
· We will propose this expansion of the tax credit for 2 years or until the economy recovers.
Olde Salem Days Republican Breakfast
Olde Salem Days and the Annual Republican Breakfast are right around the corner. The festivities are scheduled for September 12, 2009.
As always, we'll be having our big Republican breakfast that morning and then we'll hit the street for Olde Salem Days itself. Those of you who made it last year know the entire day was a huge success with over 175 people at the breakfast and dozens and dozens of volunteers at our booth. Should be a great event again this year as we're expecting all of the statewide and local politicians to participate.
Tickets to the breakfast will be available shortly but you're welcome to email me now to reserve your spot (it will definitely sell out this year). Also, we're looking for volunteers so email me if you're willing to help.
WHAT: OLDE SALEM DAYS BREAKFAST
WHEN: SEPTEMBER 12, 2009 from 8:00-9:30 a.m.
WHERE: SALEM CIVIC CENTER
COST: $20 per person (under 5 free)
Please email or call (815-8028) for more information or to buy tickets.
As always, we'll be having our big Republican breakfast that morning and then we'll hit the street for Olde Salem Days itself. Those of you who made it last year know the entire day was a huge success with over 175 people at the breakfast and dozens and dozens of volunteers at our booth. Should be a great event again this year as we're expecting all of the statewide and local politicians to participate.
Tickets to the breakfast will be available shortly but you're welcome to email me now to reserve your spot (it will definitely sell out this year). Also, we're looking for volunteers so email me if you're willing to help.
WHAT: OLDE SALEM DAYS BREAKFAST
WHEN: SEPTEMBER 12, 2009 from 8:00-9:30 a.m.
WHERE: SALEM CIVIC CENTER
COST: $20 per person (under 5 free)
Please email or call (815-8028) for more information or to buy tickets.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Is The PPP Poll A "Virginia Democratic Poll?"
As I mentioned below, the newest 2009 VA polls are very encouraging for Virginia Republicans. It's early but I'd rather be ahead than behind.
As a poll junkie, I'm always as interested in the methodology and background of polls as I am in the results. This particular poll was conducted by Public Policy Polling. PPP is a North Carolina outfit that typically polls for Democrats.
While it's polls are often paid for by Democrats, it is calling this poll a public poll that is not paid for by anyone. Hmmmm?
If this is a "public poll," why does the poll itself refer to it as a "Virginia Democratic Poll?" Click here to view the poll yourself. Look at the heading on Page 2 - "Virginia Democratic Poll."
Maybe this was a slip up. Maybe they've been polling the Democratic Primary so long they just carried over their heading. Regardless, it seems a little strange. Anyone know the answer? Couple points we could quibble with in the cross-tabs but nothing egregious. Hopefully we'll get an answer from PPP.
Update - Today PPP released a VA poll regarding the popularity of Obama, Kaine, Warner and Webb (FWIW, Obama's numbers are falling FAST). It too is labelled "Virginia Democratic Poll" (which makes more sense in this case). Could it be that they just used the same format for both?
As a poll junkie, I'm always as interested in the methodology and background of polls as I am in the results. This particular poll was conducted by Public Policy Polling. PPP is a North Carolina outfit that typically polls for Democrats.
While it's polls are often paid for by Democrats, it is calling this poll a public poll that is not paid for by anyone. Hmmmm?
If this is a "public poll," why does the poll itself refer to it as a "Virginia Democratic Poll?" Click here to view the poll yourself. Look at the heading on Page 2 - "Virginia Democratic Poll."
Maybe this was a slip up. Maybe they've been polling the Democratic Primary so long they just carried over their heading. Regardless, it seems a little strange. Anyone know the answer? Couple points we could quibble with in the cross-tabs but nothing egregious. Hopefully we'll get an answer from PPP.
Update - Today PPP released a VA poll regarding the popularity of Obama, Kaine, Warner and Webb (FWIW, Obama's numbers are falling FAST). It too is labelled "Virginia Democratic Poll" (which makes more sense in this case). Could it be that they just used the same format for both?
So Much For The "Deeds Bounce"
Not unexpectedly, the "Deeds Bounce" following the primary is now completely gone and Bob McDonnell is back with a statistically significant lead. Here are the numbers in each race.
McDonnell leads 49-43
Bolling leads 46-40
Cuccinelli leads 45-38
Few random thoughts. First, I'm a poll junkie so, while I know July polls mean little, I can't help but comment. Having said that, take everything with a huge grain of salt since it's so early.
McDonnell's lead and the fact that he's so close to 50% is very encouraging. Both these guys have solid name recognition and the relative lack of undecideds in this race says this poll may have a little (just a little) more merit.
I'm fascinated by Cuccinelli in this race. I've always said Cuccinelli has the hardest support of any of our 3 among his base and he should have no trouble getting a hard 45%. The big question with him is whether or not he can crack 50%. This poll is encouraging but doesn't answer the question. It's encouraging because Cooch's 45% probably isn't going anywhere and there are plenty of undecideds left to pick up. It's inconclusive because he's running slightly behind the other 2 so he has a little work left to do with R voters. All in all though, very positive sign.
Just a couple thoughts. We'll have to keep watching the polls over the next couple months to get a feel for where this thing is heading. Having said that, I'd much rather be the R ticket right now than the D ticket.
McDonnell leads 49-43
Bolling leads 46-40
Cuccinelli leads 45-38
Few random thoughts. First, I'm a poll junkie so, while I know July polls mean little, I can't help but comment. Having said that, take everything with a huge grain of salt since it's so early.
McDonnell's lead and the fact that he's so close to 50% is very encouraging. Both these guys have solid name recognition and the relative lack of undecideds in this race says this poll may have a little (just a little) more merit.
I'm fascinated by Cuccinelli in this race. I've always said Cuccinelli has the hardest support of any of our 3 among his base and he should have no trouble getting a hard 45%. The big question with him is whether or not he can crack 50%. This poll is encouraging but doesn't answer the question. It's encouraging because Cooch's 45% probably isn't going anywhere and there are plenty of undecideds left to pick up. It's inconclusive because he's running slightly behind the other 2 so he has a little work left to do with R voters. All in all though, very positive sign.
Just a couple thoughts. We'll have to keep watching the polls over the next couple months to get a feel for where this thing is heading. Having said that, I'd much rather be the R ticket right now than the D ticket.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Huge Gaffe By Deeds Campaign
So Bob McDonnell took the bold step of outlining a plan for 10 debates this year as we head towards the November Gubernatorial election. They were careful to space them well, touch every geographic region, play nice with the necessary media folks and pundits and offered a reasonable well thought out plan.
Deeds' strangely snarky response contained nothing but a shot at McDonnell, a NO to the proposal and a vague reference to the debate schedule in 2005.
Here's why this is a huge gaffe for Deeds.
1) McDonnell is driving the agenda and Deeds' weak response reinforces who is the pro in the race.
2) McDonnell is running like he's the underdog. Deeds is already giving the appearance that he's trying to run out the clock following his primary victory. Unless you're Mark Warner leading Jim Gilmore by 30 points, that's never a good strategy Mr. Deeds.
3) Deeds now looks like the guy that's afraid to be exposed. Following up on a Governor who refuses to even disclose his location, lack of transparency from Deeds will become a big issue for him.
4) Deeds just ticked off some important media players. He's essentially agreeing to 3 Debates, which, by simple math, excludes some major media players. He's just spit in the eye of major media players in Roanoke, Richmond, NOVA and HR as well as Sabato, smaller media outlets and more.
Let me be clear, I don't know if 10 debates is the right number. I also don't think that Deeds has to accept whatever McDonnell throws out. What I do think is that the Deeds response was about the worst he could do. It looked reactive, not well thought out and just plain small.
Bob, please keep running like you're the underdog. Creigh, please keep running scared.
Deeds' strangely snarky response contained nothing but a shot at McDonnell, a NO to the proposal and a vague reference to the debate schedule in 2005.
Here's why this is a huge gaffe for Deeds.
1) McDonnell is driving the agenda and Deeds' weak response reinforces who is the pro in the race.
2) McDonnell is running like he's the underdog. Deeds is already giving the appearance that he's trying to run out the clock following his primary victory. Unless you're Mark Warner leading Jim Gilmore by 30 points, that's never a good strategy Mr. Deeds.
3) Deeds now looks like the guy that's afraid to be exposed. Following up on a Governor who refuses to even disclose his location, lack of transparency from Deeds will become a big issue for him.
4) Deeds just ticked off some important media players. He's essentially agreeing to 3 Debates, which, by simple math, excludes some major media players. He's just spit in the eye of major media players in Roanoke, Richmond, NOVA and HR as well as Sabato, smaller media outlets and more.
Let me be clear, I don't know if 10 debates is the right number. I also don't think that Deeds has to accept whatever McDonnell throws out. What I do think is that the Deeds response was about the worst he could do. It looked reactive, not well thought out and just plain small.
Bob, please keep running like you're the underdog. Creigh, please keep running scared.
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