During Boucher's term, jobs have disappeared at an alarming rate, our population has decreased and gotten older, and our young people are fleeing for greener pastures.Click here to read the whole LTE.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Roanoke Times Letter To The Editor - 4/26/10
Great letter to the editor in today's Roanoke Times regarding Rick Boucher, Morgan Griffith and the race in the 9th. Boucher is running on his 28 years in Congress. With that in mind, this sentence says it all:
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Putting Americans Back to Work
Guest post from Congressman Bob Goodlatte
More than 7 million jobs have been lost in the last three years and over 3 million of those jobs have been lost since the President signed the so-called stimulus plan into law last year. Unfortunately, these are numbers that the American people are all too familiar with and yet the Congress continues to pursue an agenda that will further threaten American job creators. While Americans are asking “Where are the jobs?”, the Majority in Congress continues to demonstrate that they do not understand the priorities of our constituents or appreciate how private sector jobs are created.
It is clear: the policies of higher taxes, runaway spending, government takeovers and record debt which have become commonplace in Washington these days are having a chilling effect on the nation’s small businesses, the economic engine of our economy. From the so-called stimulus bill to the government takeover of our health care system and the threat of higher taxes and massive deficit spending, these policies have failed to promote robust private sector job creation.
As a member of the House Republican Economic Recovery Solutions Group, I am committed to finding real solutions to address our nation’s unemployment crisis. The first thing we must do is rein in skyrocketing deficit spending that discourages investment and threatens to bankrupt our nation. This will strengthen the dollar, control inflation and hold down interest rates, which affect the affordability of loans for our small businesses. That’s why I have introduced bipartisan legislation that would amend the U.S. Constitution to force Congress to balance the federal budget. Second, Congress must focus on policies that allow individuals and businesses to keep more of their hard-earned tax dollars. It is common-sense that you should not raise costs and taxes on employers at a time when unemployment is at record levels. Finally, Congress must get out of the way and let American entrepreneurial genius lead the way to job creation and prosperity.
I want to take this opportunity to invite folks from across the Sixth Congressional District to my upcoming job fair which will be held on Friday, April 30th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Convocation Center located on the campus of James Madison University in Harrisonburg. This event is free and open to everyone. No advance registration is required for job seekers. Area businesses and corporations who are hiring and would like to participate in my job fair should contact one of my offices. We currently have over 35 businesses that will be on hand to meet with job seekers. They will be looking to hire full and part time workers. This event should be a great opportunity to match local businesses that are in need of qualified workers with those individuals who are looking for work.
To get more information about my upcoming job fair or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.
More than 7 million jobs have been lost in the last three years and over 3 million of those jobs have been lost since the President signed the so-called stimulus plan into law last year. Unfortunately, these are numbers that the American people are all too familiar with and yet the Congress continues to pursue an agenda that will further threaten American job creators. While Americans are asking “Where are the jobs?”, the Majority in Congress continues to demonstrate that they do not understand the priorities of our constituents or appreciate how private sector jobs are created.
It is clear: the policies of higher taxes, runaway spending, government takeovers and record debt which have become commonplace in Washington these days are having a chilling effect on the nation’s small businesses, the economic engine of our economy. From the so-called stimulus bill to the government takeover of our health care system and the threat of higher taxes and massive deficit spending, these policies have failed to promote robust private sector job creation.
As a member of the House Republican Economic Recovery Solutions Group, I am committed to finding real solutions to address our nation’s unemployment crisis. The first thing we must do is rein in skyrocketing deficit spending that discourages investment and threatens to bankrupt our nation. This will strengthen the dollar, control inflation and hold down interest rates, which affect the affordability of loans for our small businesses. That’s why I have introduced bipartisan legislation that would amend the U.S. Constitution to force Congress to balance the federal budget. Second, Congress must focus on policies that allow individuals and businesses to keep more of their hard-earned tax dollars. It is common-sense that you should not raise costs and taxes on employers at a time when unemployment is at record levels. Finally, Congress must get out of the way and let American entrepreneurial genius lead the way to job creation and prosperity.
I want to take this opportunity to invite folks from across the Sixth Congressional District to my upcoming job fair which will be held on Friday, April 30th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Convocation Center located on the campus of James Madison University in Harrisonburg. This event is free and open to everyone. No advance registration is required for job seekers. Area businesses and corporations who are hiring and would like to participate in my job fair should contact one of my offices. We currently have over 35 businesses that will be on hand to meet with job seekers. They will be looking to hire full and part time workers. This event should be a great opportunity to match local businesses that are in need of qualified workers with those individuals who are looking for work.
To get more information about my upcoming job fair or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Tea Parties, The Republican Party And The Future (Part 3)
In Part 1 of this post I discussed my relevant background and in Part 2 I gave some initial thoughts on the Tea Parties. Time to wrap it up here in Part 3.
Now that I've outlined my background and philosophy, which dovetails nicely with the Tea Parties, and talked about how inspired I am by the movement, the obvious question becomes - am I a Tea Partier? Simply put - No.
This isn't because there's something wrong the Tea Party. It isn't because of the narrative the media wants you to believe. Every organization, especially one that grows this organically, will have a few outliers and will go through some growing pains. Frankly, I'm surprised by how few we've seen from the Tea Parties.
The fact is, I'm not a Tea Partier because I believe this movement is too powerful and valuable to be co-opted by political parties. I believe this grassrooots movement (don't let anyone tell you it's not a grassroots movement) requires autonomy from party to be what it needs to be.
It has become clear to me over the last few years that the best way for me to influence political discussion and decisions is from within the Republican Party. On the flip side, the best way for the Tea Parties to do the same is to remain rabidly independent of the influences and restrictions placed on it by political parties.
I view the Republican Party and the Tea Party to be natural allies but they are not and cannot be one in the same. The Tea Party must remain independent so it can provide the external discipline that all politicians need. This may mean supporting Republicans, supporting third-party candidates, running their own candidates, or, as inconceivable as it may seem, supporting Democrats. They must retain the institutional independence to allow them to fulfill their mission.
The point of all of this is that I'm a big fan of the Tea Party movement but, unlike most Republicans, I do not want the Tea Party to simply become the vocal conservative wing of the Republican Party. And to you Tea Partiers reading this, you can believe that's exactly what the Republican Party wants. Fight this and do not let it happen. On the other hand, I do not agree with some Tea Parties who believe they should take over the Republican Party. This would hand you the Republican Party's historical baggage and would prevent you from being that which you're best at - a movement to hold ALL politicians accountable.
I believe the Republican Party remains the best political vehicle to fight for freedom, the Constitution, personal responsibility, etc. but our historic failures show us that we need an independent vehicle to insure accountability. It is for that reason that our shared mission can only be accomplished when we are both active, vibrant and independent.
At the risk of once again being overly dramatic - Tea Partiers and Republicans - embrace your shared goals but reject the natural pull to become one in the same. You need each other but you can only fulfill your goals by not being bound to each other. I believe that if we work together without becoming each other, the future of our politics, our Constitution and our country are strong.
***************************************************************************
To the handful of people who actually read this blog, sorry that my little thought turned into a 3 Part rant. Just something that's been on my mind.
Now that I've outlined my background and philosophy, which dovetails nicely with the Tea Parties, and talked about how inspired I am by the movement, the obvious question becomes - am I a Tea Partier? Simply put - No.
This isn't because there's something wrong the Tea Party. It isn't because of the narrative the media wants you to believe. Every organization, especially one that grows this organically, will have a few outliers and will go through some growing pains. Frankly, I'm surprised by how few we've seen from the Tea Parties.
The fact is, I'm not a Tea Partier because I believe this movement is too powerful and valuable to be co-opted by political parties. I believe this grassrooots movement (don't let anyone tell you it's not a grassroots movement) requires autonomy from party to be what it needs to be.
It has become clear to me over the last few years that the best way for me to influence political discussion and decisions is from within the Republican Party. On the flip side, the best way for the Tea Parties to do the same is to remain rabidly independent of the influences and restrictions placed on it by political parties.
I view the Republican Party and the Tea Party to be natural allies but they are not and cannot be one in the same. The Tea Party must remain independent so it can provide the external discipline that all politicians need. This may mean supporting Republicans, supporting third-party candidates, running their own candidates, or, as inconceivable as it may seem, supporting Democrats. They must retain the institutional independence to allow them to fulfill their mission.
The point of all of this is that I'm a big fan of the Tea Party movement but, unlike most Republicans, I do not want the Tea Party to simply become the vocal conservative wing of the Republican Party. And to you Tea Partiers reading this, you can believe that's exactly what the Republican Party wants. Fight this and do not let it happen. On the other hand, I do not agree with some Tea Parties who believe they should take over the Republican Party. This would hand you the Republican Party's historical baggage and would prevent you from being that which you're best at - a movement to hold ALL politicians accountable.
I believe the Republican Party remains the best political vehicle to fight for freedom, the Constitution, personal responsibility, etc. but our historic failures show us that we need an independent vehicle to insure accountability. It is for that reason that our shared mission can only be accomplished when we are both active, vibrant and independent.
At the risk of once again being overly dramatic - Tea Partiers and Republicans - embrace your shared goals but reject the natural pull to become one in the same. You need each other but you can only fulfill your goals by not being bound to each other. I believe that if we work together without becoming each other, the future of our politics, our Constitution and our country are strong.
***************************************************************************
To the handful of people who actually read this blog, sorry that my little thought turned into a 3 Part rant. Just something that's been on my mind.
Tea Parties, The Republican Party And The Future (Part 2)
In Part 1 below, I gave a little personal background information that I think is relevant to my discussion on the Tea Parties, the Republican Party and the future.
I was elected Salem Republican Chair in the Spring of 2008. I had decided to work from the inside to "reform" the Republican Party rather than from the outside to fight it. And there is no question, we needed reform. Just look at our choice of Presidential nominee in 2008. While I was proud to support McCain and work for his election once he was our nominee and Obama was the opposition, he was far from my first choice. Frankly, it was John McCain's brand of Republicanism that I was fighting against. That's why I was a Fred Thompson supporter in the primary. Anyway, I digress.
I first saw the Tea Party up close in the Spring of 2009 (around the time of its inception). I was in San Francisco working on a case and I went to lunch in Oakland on tax day. I was with a California lawyer and we came upon a huge crowd of people. She asked me what was going on and I explained to her that it was a Tea Party. Her response? "We don't have those type of people in California." I told her "you have them, they've just been quiet...and I don't think they're gonna be quiet anymore." She was clearly unhappy.
Over the next year, I was encouraged by the growth of the Tea Party. I saw them up close and personal and I knew that they were essentially fighting the same fight I was fighting. They were fighting for Constitutional principles, smaller government, less taxes, accountability, transparency, etc. etc. I attended the July 4th Tea Party in Roanoke and I saw passionate folks just trying to make a difference.
I didn't see racism, homophobia, hate or anger. I saw frustrated citizens participating in the purest form of political speech. It was rough but it was beautiful. I was excited, challenged and, frankly, a little uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable in a good way. There was clearly a paradigm shift underway. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, it felt like the moment when the Bible was being translated into a common language that the common man could directly access for the first time. These were citizens directly accessing their government and taking ownership of their futures. I don't care what side of the political aisle you come from, this is how it's supposed to work.
*****************************************************************************
So I'm rambling again. Time to take a break. Looks like my post will ultimately be a three parter. I'll finish up with how I view the relationship between the Tea Parties and the Republican Party and where we go from here.
I was elected Salem Republican Chair in the Spring of 2008. I had decided to work from the inside to "reform" the Republican Party rather than from the outside to fight it. And there is no question, we needed reform. Just look at our choice of Presidential nominee in 2008. While I was proud to support McCain and work for his election once he was our nominee and Obama was the opposition, he was far from my first choice. Frankly, it was John McCain's brand of Republicanism that I was fighting against. That's why I was a Fred Thompson supporter in the primary. Anyway, I digress.
I first saw the Tea Party up close in the Spring of 2009 (around the time of its inception). I was in San Francisco working on a case and I went to lunch in Oakland on tax day. I was with a California lawyer and we came upon a huge crowd of people. She asked me what was going on and I explained to her that it was a Tea Party. Her response? "We don't have those type of people in California." I told her "you have them, they've just been quiet...and I don't think they're gonna be quiet anymore." She was clearly unhappy.
Over the next year, I was encouraged by the growth of the Tea Party. I saw them up close and personal and I knew that they were essentially fighting the same fight I was fighting. They were fighting for Constitutional principles, smaller government, less taxes, accountability, transparency, etc. etc. I attended the July 4th Tea Party in Roanoke and I saw passionate folks just trying to make a difference.
I didn't see racism, homophobia, hate or anger. I saw frustrated citizens participating in the purest form of political speech. It was rough but it was beautiful. I was excited, challenged and, frankly, a little uncomfortable. I was uncomfortable in a good way. There was clearly a paradigm shift underway. At the risk of sounding overly dramatic, it felt like the moment when the Bible was being translated into a common language that the common man could directly access for the first time. These were citizens directly accessing their government and taking ownership of their futures. I don't care what side of the political aisle you come from, this is how it's supposed to work.
*****************************************************************************
So I'm rambling again. Time to take a break. Looks like my post will ultimately be a three parter. I'll finish up with how I view the relationship between the Tea Parties and the Republican Party and where we go from here.
Tea Parties, The Republican Party And The Future (Part 1)
I get asked about the Tea Parties all the time. I get the question from my friends on the left and the right. Usually, those on the left are asking the question in a challenging way looking to put me on the defensive. Usually, those on the right are asking the question in a nervous way wanting to know how the Tea Party is going to effect the Republican Party. I get asked enough that I thought maybe this was a blogworthy topic.
Some personal background is necessary. I've considered myself a conservative and a Republican all my life. I separate those 2 terms because I do not believe they are directly interchangeable and I do not use the terms "conservative" simply to modify the term "Republican." The fact is, I am a conservative who, for all my life, has identified the Republican Party as the best vehicle to advance my conservative beliefs. Having said that, I don't like labels and terms like "conservative" can be especially problematic because people define them to fit their own set of beliefs. Nonetheless, I view myself as a conservative in every way that term is typically used so, out of laziness, I allow myself to be labelled.
Anyway, over the last several years, I saw my party move more and more away from my conservative beliefs. It was still the best vehicle for my beliefs but the brand was being muddied. This shift occurred largely in the Party's willingness to accept policies with questionable Constitutional underpinnings and to either push for or become complicit in the massive growth of our government at all levels. I won't dig too deep into social issues here other than to say that I remain proud of the Party's continued adherence to our Platform on these issues (although that adherence is clearly not universal).
This left me with some choices. I could give up on politics and focus on my family and career. I could stay engaged but do so from outside the Republican framework. I could get even deeper involved in the Party and try to push for change from within. I chose the latter.
About 3 years ago, I decided that the Republican Party remained the best vehicle to advance my beliefs but that it would only happen if I jumped in and put my money where my mouth was. It was largely for this reason that I agreed to serve as Chair of the Salem Republican Party. As Chair, in addition to working to grow our Party, I viewed my main job as advancing my principles, holding our leaders accountable and working to identify new leaders who truly understood our brand.
Due largely to the commitment of our Committee members, we were incredibly successful. The candidates and electeds we supported "got it" and I truly felt like (at least in our small world) our Republican leaders were restoring the brand. From Bob Goodlatte in DC to Ralph Smith and Morgan Griffith in Richmond I was represented by Republicans who made me proud to be Republicans.
*************************************************************************
As is typical, I'm rambling more than expected so I've decided to make this a 2 (maybe more) part post. This first part just gives the background. I'll pick up soon with the rise of the Tea Parties and my thoughts (which was my original intent here).
Some personal background is necessary. I've considered myself a conservative and a Republican all my life. I separate those 2 terms because I do not believe they are directly interchangeable and I do not use the terms "conservative" simply to modify the term "Republican." The fact is, I am a conservative who, for all my life, has identified the Republican Party as the best vehicle to advance my conservative beliefs. Having said that, I don't like labels and terms like "conservative" can be especially problematic because people define them to fit their own set of beliefs. Nonetheless, I view myself as a conservative in every way that term is typically used so, out of laziness, I allow myself to be labelled.
Anyway, over the last several years, I saw my party move more and more away from my conservative beliefs. It was still the best vehicle for my beliefs but the brand was being muddied. This shift occurred largely in the Party's willingness to accept policies with questionable Constitutional underpinnings and to either push for or become complicit in the massive growth of our government at all levels. I won't dig too deep into social issues here other than to say that I remain proud of the Party's continued adherence to our Platform on these issues (although that adherence is clearly not universal).
This left me with some choices. I could give up on politics and focus on my family and career. I could stay engaged but do so from outside the Republican framework. I could get even deeper involved in the Party and try to push for change from within. I chose the latter.
About 3 years ago, I decided that the Republican Party remained the best vehicle to advance my beliefs but that it would only happen if I jumped in and put my money where my mouth was. It was largely for this reason that I agreed to serve as Chair of the Salem Republican Party. As Chair, in addition to working to grow our Party, I viewed my main job as advancing my principles, holding our leaders accountable and working to identify new leaders who truly understood our brand.
Due largely to the commitment of our Committee members, we were incredibly successful. The candidates and electeds we supported "got it" and I truly felt like (at least in our small world) our Republican leaders were restoring the brand. From Bob Goodlatte in DC to Ralph Smith and Morgan Griffith in Richmond I was represented by Republicans who made me proud to be Republicans.
*************************************************************************
As is typical, I'm rambling more than expected so I've decided to make this a 2 (maybe more) part post. This first part just gives the background. I'll pick up soon with the rise of the Tea Parties and my thoughts (which was my original intent here).
Friday, April 16, 2010
Tweeting The Roanoke County Mass Meeting
Based on all the emails and messages I was guessing, it looks like a lot you were following my "live tweets" from the Roanoke County Mass Meeting. I may have some more editorial comments on that race and the Va-09 Congressional Race but, for now, here are my tweets from last night for those who want to catch up. If you want to follow my Twitter feed, click the button to the right.
On the way to Roanoke County Mass Meeting. #rke #rpv about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Turnout at #Rke Mass Meeting is amazing. Fire Marshall isn't letting any non-voters in. I'm here as "press." #rpv #gop #va06 va09 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Best picture I could get of the #Rke County #GOP Mass Meeting. http://tweetphoto.com/18575681 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
VA09 candidates are here. This is gonna be a wild night. #rpv #va09 #va06 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith hard at work campaigning at the #Rke County Mass Meeting. #va09 #rpv #vagop http://tweetphoto.com/18576747 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Bill Cleaveland with Ed Elswick. No one ever accused me of being a good photog. #rpv #vagop #va09 va06 #Rke http://tweetphoto.com/18578392 about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
I hate to complain but holding this mass meeting in this small a room was poor planning. 100+ people standing outside. #rpv #va06 #va09 #Rke about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Bailey definitely "owns the room." The question is who owns the hallway? I have no idea. Al or Mike? #rpv #vagop #va09 #va06. about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
7:35 and the #Rke County mass meeting is now underway. via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith revving up the crowd. #rpv #va09 @RetireRick http://tweetphoto.com/18582917 about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
I'm guessing on the outcome of the #Rke County Mass Meeting. I'm betting Al Bedrosian wins a close election. Gonna be a late night. about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Reading the list of qualified mass meeting voters. I'm hearing a lot of names of local Tea Parties. Bodes well for Al. #rke #teaparty #rpv about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Also, lots of people that I've never ever ever ever ever seen at a local #GOP event. #teaparty #rpv #rke #va06 #va09 #vagop about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Credentials Committee just certified 239 voters for the #Rke #GOP Mass Meeting. #rpv #vagop #tcot #va09 #va06 about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Hmmm. Maybe I was wrong. Chair race in #Rke County may NOT be going the way of Campbell and Bedford. Voting has begun. #rpv #va09 #va06 about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
For those of you out their waiting on results, I'd guess no sooner than 9:45-10:00 unless things speed up. #rke #rpv #vagop #va06 #va09. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
9:35 and the last votes are being cast. Counting will take awhile. #Rke #va09 #va06 #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Where'd everyone go? Apparently they came to vote but didn't care about the rest of the Mass Meeting's business. Hate that. #rke #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Wray is very proud of his work as Rules Committee chair. #rpv #rke #va09 #va06 http://tweetphoto.com/18594824 about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith just spoke. Very friendly crowd. #Light4Congress speaking now. Tough for him to go after Morgan. #rpv #va09 about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
David Moore says for the last 50-100 years, the biggest threat to our Country "has been domestic." Huh? #va09 #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
And the new Chairman is...the old Chairman...Mike Bailey. Congrats Mike. #rpv #vagop #rke. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Some people are WAY out over their skis in the #va09 race. It is very important in life to have honest people to help you self-evaluate. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Oh my gosh, these guys are getting worse and worse. I'm not gonna trash any by name but someone needs to stage an intervention #rpv #va09. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Looks like Al Bedrosian is leaving before they even announce the results. #rke #rpv #vagop #va06 #va09 about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
I'm sorry but 3+ hour mass meetings are ridiculous. Still not over. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Count in chair race was 152-52. Huge blowout by Mike Bailey. #rke #rpv #va09 #va06. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Bailey just took a call from his dad during his acceptance speech. Good moment but he better hurry up or I'm gonna fall asleep. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Very good and sincere acceptance speech. Wonder when we'll see Al again? about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
On the way to Roanoke County Mass Meeting. #rke #rpv about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Turnout at #Rke Mass Meeting is amazing. Fire Marshall isn't letting any non-voters in. I'm here as "press." #rpv #gop #va06 va09 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Best picture I could get of the #Rke County #GOP Mass Meeting. http://tweetphoto.com/18575681 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
VA09 candidates are here. This is gonna be a wild night. #rpv #va09 #va06 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith hard at work campaigning at the #Rke County Mass Meeting. #va09 #rpv #vagop http://tweetphoto.com/18576747 about 14 hours ago via UberTwitter
Bill Cleaveland with Ed Elswick. No one ever accused me of being a good photog. #rpv #vagop #va09 va06 #Rke http://tweetphoto.com/18578392 about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
I hate to complain but holding this mass meeting in this small a room was poor planning. 100+ people standing outside. #rpv #va06 #va09 #Rke about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Bailey definitely "owns the room." The question is who owns the hallway? I have no idea. Al or Mike? #rpv #vagop #va09 #va06. about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
7:35 and the #Rke County mass meeting is now underway. via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith revving up the crowd. #rpv #va09 @RetireRick http://tweetphoto.com/18582917 about 13 hours ago via UberTwitter
I'm guessing on the outcome of the #Rke County Mass Meeting. I'm betting Al Bedrosian wins a close election. Gonna be a late night. about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Reading the list of qualified mass meeting voters. I'm hearing a lot of names of local Tea Parties. Bodes well for Al. #rke #teaparty #rpv about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Also, lots of people that I've never ever ever ever ever seen at a local #GOP event. #teaparty #rpv #rke #va06 #va09 #vagop about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Credentials Committee just certified 239 voters for the #Rke #GOP Mass Meeting. #rpv #vagop #tcot #va09 #va06 about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
Hmmm. Maybe I was wrong. Chair race in #Rke County may NOT be going the way of Campbell and Bedford. Voting has begun. #rpv #va09 #va06 about 12 hours ago via UberTwitter
For those of you out their waiting on results, I'd guess no sooner than 9:45-10:00 unless things speed up. #rke #rpv #vagop #va06 #va09. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
9:35 and the last votes are being cast. Counting will take awhile. #Rke #va09 #va06 #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Where'd everyone go? Apparently they came to vote but didn't care about the rest of the Mass Meeting's business. Hate that. #rke #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Wray is very proud of his work as Rules Committee chair. #rpv #rke #va09 #va06 http://tweetphoto.com/18594824 about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
@MorganGriffith just spoke. Very friendly crowd. #Light4Congress speaking now. Tough for him to go after Morgan. #rpv #va09 about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
David Moore says for the last 50-100 years, the biggest threat to our Country "has been domestic." Huh? #va09 #rpv about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
And the new Chairman is...the old Chairman...Mike Bailey. Congrats Mike. #rpv #vagop #rke. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Some people are WAY out over their skis in the #va09 race. It is very important in life to have honest people to help you self-evaluate. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Oh my gosh, these guys are getting worse and worse. I'm not gonna trash any by name but someone needs to stage an intervention #rpv #va09. about 11 hours ago via UberTwitter
Looks like Al Bedrosian is leaving before they even announce the results. #rke #rpv #vagop #va06 #va09 about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
I'm sorry but 3+ hour mass meetings are ridiculous. Still not over. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Count in chair race was 152-52. Huge blowout by Mike Bailey. #rke #rpv #va09 #va06. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Mike Bailey just took a call from his dad during his acceptance speech. Good moment but he better hurry up or I'm gonna fall asleep. about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Very good and sincere acceptance speech. Wonder when we'll see Al again? about 10 hours ago via UberTwitter
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
On Tea Party Values
After listening to the "objective" mainstreet media bash the Tea Party participants and attempt to marginalize their movement I felt compelled to offer some perspective on this truly grassroots uprising. In terms of quantifying the true popularity and force of the movement I would point out that according to the latest Gallup numbers (3Q 2009) 35% of Americans identify as Democrat while 27% identify as Replublican - yet 45% of Americans agree with the Tea Party's positions on issues. (ABC/Washington Post 2/11/2010). So why, if more Americans agree with the Tea Party's views than that of either major party, are they being castigated at every turn? The answer is probably evident to anyone reading this blog - The liberal elite and media are threatened by the rising populace they so obviously disdain. There are actually reports of liberal activists (aka community organizers) infiltrating tea party rallies with racist signs to further the myth that Americans who favor small government and fiscal responsibilty are racists. As absurd as this sounds the logic of the co-coordinator of the New York State Tea Party Judy Pepenella rings true when she recently quoted Gandhi - "First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win." This much is true: The Tea Party is here, the Dems should be in fear and MSNBC and the NYT should get used to it.
Another conundrum - How is it that a platform of limited government, equitable and unobtrusive taxes and fiscal responsibility can generate the ire normally reserved for criminals? (Sadly, after additional thought, liberals may have more empathy for convicted felons than for Tea Party advocates). These values are the cornerstones upon which this country was built. The Constitution was created in an effort to establish a limited government. Thomas Paine offered, "Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one," and "That government is best which governs least." Our 10th Amendment (which has been illegitimized by a bastardization of the Commerce Clause) specifically reserves those powers not specifically enumerated to the Federal Government to the states. Our core values come from the simple yet often ignored rule that the government should represent the will of the people and that the closer the institutions of power are relative to the governed most effectively produce those results. The needs and beliefs of Virginians are and should be different from those of Massachusettsians and our Federal Government was never meant to interfere in our respective daily affairs.
America's very fight for independance was rooted in the tyrannical abuse of taxation. Our Founding Fathers understood the importance of private enterprise and that capitalism provided the best means for all to achieve prosperity. Thomas Jefferson opined that, "A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government." The federal government is a poor allocator of economic resources -google government waste for a fun month of reading. Taxation cannot create wealth - only ineffefctively redistribute it (in itself un-American). As of this writing 47% of Americans pay ZERO in Federal Income Tax. The soak the rich rhetoric may appeal to the liberal base, but the undeniable truth is that you cannot help the job seeker by penalizing the job creator.
In regard to our national deficit Thomas Jefferson also said, "The principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale." Our debt is an embarassment and a disgrace our politicians would rather leave to our children than face today. The Tea Party is right to demand fiscal accountability. We should all demand it. America is the leader of the world because we are free - socially, spiritually and until as of late economically.
The Fundamdental beliefs of the Tea Party are our fundamental beliefs as Americans. Democrat, Republican or Independant - we should all welcome a renewal of our core values. At the time of our Great Revolution, Patriots numbered merely 1/3 of our citizenry and our Continental Army never grew over 25,000 soldiers in a country of over 3 million. With 1 in 4 Americans identifying as a Tea Party member and 45% supporting Tea Party views, it would appear our Tea Party Patriots are in good shape and in even better company.
God Bless America
Another conundrum - How is it that a platform of limited government, equitable and unobtrusive taxes and fiscal responsibility can generate the ire normally reserved for criminals? (Sadly, after additional thought, liberals may have more empathy for convicted felons than for Tea Party advocates). These values are the cornerstones upon which this country was built. The Constitution was created in an effort to establish a limited government. Thomas Paine offered, "Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one," and "That government is best which governs least." Our 10th Amendment (which has been illegitimized by a bastardization of the Commerce Clause) specifically reserves those powers not specifically enumerated to the Federal Government to the states. Our core values come from the simple yet often ignored rule that the government should represent the will of the people and that the closer the institutions of power are relative to the governed most effectively produce those results. The needs and beliefs of Virginians are and should be different from those of Massachusettsians and our Federal Government was never meant to interfere in our respective daily affairs.
America's very fight for independance was rooted in the tyrannical abuse of taxation. Our Founding Fathers understood the importance of private enterprise and that capitalism provided the best means for all to achieve prosperity. Thomas Jefferson opined that, "A wise and frugal government, which shall leave men free to regulate their own pursuits of industry and improvement, and shall not take from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned - this is the sum of good government." The federal government is a poor allocator of economic resources -google government waste for a fun month of reading. Taxation cannot create wealth - only ineffefctively redistribute it (in itself un-American). As of this writing 47% of Americans pay ZERO in Federal Income Tax. The soak the rich rhetoric may appeal to the liberal base, but the undeniable truth is that you cannot help the job seeker by penalizing the job creator.
In regard to our national deficit Thomas Jefferson also said, "The principle of spending money to be paid by posterity, under the name of funding, is but swindling futurity on a large scale." Our debt is an embarassment and a disgrace our politicians would rather leave to our children than face today. The Tea Party is right to demand fiscal accountability. We should all demand it. America is the leader of the world because we are free - socially, spiritually and until as of late economically.
The Fundamdental beliefs of the Tea Party are our fundamental beliefs as Americans. Democrat, Republican or Independant - we should all welcome a renewal of our core values. At the time of our Great Revolution, Patriots numbered merely 1/3 of our citizenry and our Continental Army never grew over 25,000 soldiers in a country of over 3 million. With 1 in 4 Americans identifying as a Tea Party member and 45% supporting Tea Party views, it would appear our Tea Party Patriots are in good shape and in even better company.
God Bless America
Congratulations Kjersten Croke - New Salem Republican Committee Chair
Congratulations to Kjersten Croke who was elected the new Chair of the Salem Republican Committee. Kjersten was the only candidate who filed and was elected unanimously.
Let me be clear though, Kjersten did not win because she was the only candidate. Kjersten was the only candidate because the entire Committee is 100% behind her and knows she'll do an incredible job. It is with great pride that I turn the Committee over to her capable hands.
For those of you who don't know Kjersten, I encourage you to seek her out and get to know her. She will be a dynamic leader and face of our Party. She is a true conservative who is not afraid to stand up and fight for what she believes in. Kjersten and her entire family have worked tirelessly to advance our cause, support our candidates and grow our Party.
The thing that I'm most proud of is that she is a true grassroots leader. She isn't a politician or the mouthpiece for a party establishment. She is an on the ground worker who was willing to answer the call to lead. Our Party is at its strongest when it is led by people like Kjersten.
Today is a great day for the Salem Republican Committee.
Let me be clear though, Kjersten did not win because she was the only candidate. Kjersten was the only candidate because the entire Committee is 100% behind her and knows she'll do an incredible job. It is with great pride that I turn the Committee over to her capable hands.
For those of you who don't know Kjersten, I encourage you to seek her out and get to know her. She will be a dynamic leader and face of our Party. She is a true conservative who is not afraid to stand up and fight for what she believes in. Kjersten and her entire family have worked tirelessly to advance our cause, support our candidates and grow our Party.
The thing that I'm most proud of is that she is a true grassroots leader. She isn't a politician or the mouthpiece for a party establishment. She is an on the ground worker who was willing to answer the call to lead. Our Party is at its strongest when it is led by people like Kjersten.
Today is a great day for the Salem Republican Committee.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Just Some Random Thoughts On A Random Tuesday
Nothing really "blogworthy" swirling around in my brain today so I thought I'd post a few random thoughts I'm having this morning.
Chaired the Bedford Mass Meeting last night. Turnout was literally unbelievable (350+). Well done Bedford.
Speaking of Bedford, this is at least the second local Unit where Bill Bolling has endorsed a candidate who lost. Hmmm...
Having seen the candidates for VA05 up close, I can say there is a lot of passion among the group. However, beating Perriello will be much tougher than most Rs realize.
Roanoke Bar Association meeting today to endorse for the WDVA opening. Once again, State Senator John Edwards has put his name in. Hmmm...
The Dems I'm talking to are starting to get a little nervous about Morgan Griffith in the 9th. This is gonna be fun.
The Roanoke Valley is a great place to be this time of year.
My term as Salem Chair ends tonight and I am thrilled about the transition to Kjersten Croke as Chair. This is exactly how it is supposed to work.
Talked to Bob Goodlatte on the street yesterday. Everytime I talk to him I'm left thinking "Wow, that guy is really smart."
I'm glad Morning Joe is now on XM. I was getting a little burned out on Mike & Mike.
Okay, those are my random thoughts for the morning. Busy day. Get some work done. Attend the RBA Lunch/endorsement meeting. Then off to my last meeting as Salem Chair. Hopefully the babysitter has budgeted enough time for a no-kids trip to Mac & Bob's.
Friday, April 9, 2010
Media Coverage Of Morgan Griffith's Fundraising Totals
Great blog post by Jay Warren from WSLS covering Morgan's great couple of fundraising weeks. Click here to read it.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Great Fundraising Quarter For Morgan Griffith
As everyone probably knows by now, Morgan Griffith made the ethical decision to not fundraise while the General Assembly was in session. As such, he only had 2 weeks to fundraise during the quarter that ended March 31st.
With only 2 weeks to put an infrastructure in place and without holding any big fundraisers, the Griffith campaign announced today that they raised over $100,000. Putting that in context, the last sitting Delegate to run against Boucher (4 years ago) raised a total of $71,000 FOR THE ENTIRE CAMPAIGN.
I haven't seen any numbers yet from the other Republican candidates in the 9th but I wouldn't be surprised if Griffith's total beats their combined total.
Look, we can all decry the evils of money in politics. I'm right there with you. However, the rules are what they are and we have to play by them. As such, money is going to be incredibly important this year. To anyone who says otherwise, please explain to me how you beat a 28 year Congressman who already has $2 million in the bank. As I've said before, the other R candidates seem like good people but they have no experience and no name recognition. As sad as it is, without the money, they don't stand a chance.
Morgan has shown he can raise the money necessary to beat Boucher. Money alone doesn't make a good candidate but it's one of the many reasons Morgan is clearly the best candidate in this race.
With only 2 weeks to put an infrastructure in place and without holding any big fundraisers, the Griffith campaign announced today that they raised over $100,000. Putting that in context, the last sitting Delegate to run against Boucher (4 years ago) raised a total of $71,000 FOR THE ENTIRE CAMPAIGN.
I haven't seen any numbers yet from the other Republican candidates in the 9th but I wouldn't be surprised if Griffith's total beats their combined total.
Look, we can all decry the evils of money in politics. I'm right there with you. However, the rules are what they are and we have to play by them. As such, money is going to be incredibly important this year. To anyone who says otherwise, please explain to me how you beat a 28 year Congressman who already has $2 million in the bank. As I've said before, the other R candidates seem like good people but they have no experience and no name recognition. As sad as it is, without the money, they don't stand a chance.
Morgan has shown he can raise the money necessary to beat Boucher. Money alone doesn't make a good candidate but it's one of the many reasons Morgan is clearly the best candidate in this race.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Goodlatte Awarded Taxpayers' Friend Award From National Taxpayers' Union
Congressman Bob Goodlatte was awarded the Taxpayers’ Friend Award from the National Taxpayers Union (NTU), for his outstanding pro-taxpayer voting record last year. NTU, which has 362,000 members, is a nonpartisan citizen group.
“I am honored to receive the “Taxpayers’ Friend” award from the National Taxpayers Union, and to be part of the solution to fighting government waste,” stated Goodlatte. “Cutting wasteful government spending, voting for lower taxes, and fighting to reduce the bloated bureaucracy in Washington have been my top priorities since arriving in Congress.”
The award is given to Representatives and Senators who achieve an “A” grade in NTU’s annual Rating of Congress. The Rating, which is based on every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, assigns a “Taxpayer Score” to each Member of Congress that indicates his or her support for reducing or controlling federal spending, taxes, debt, and regulation. For 2009, a total of 333 House and 227 Senate votes were selected.
“Given today’s economic climate, fiscal discipline is more important now than ever,” NTU President Duane Parde said. “Fortunately, taxpayers have a staunch ally in Rep. Bob Goodlatte, to whom National Taxpayers Union is proud to present a ‘Taxpayers’ Friend Award.’”
Mr. Parde continued, “Congressman Goodlatte’s pro-taxpayer score of 90 percent was one of the best in the entire Congress. By voting time and again to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Bob has led by example in the fight to defend overburdened taxpayers across the country.”
In 2009, 55 lawmakers attained scores sufficient to win the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” (earning at least 90 percent in the House or Senate). Congressman Goodlatte was the only Member from Virginia to earn an “A” rating.
“I'm pleased that my voting record has been recognized by NTU as one of the most taxpayer-friendly records in the House of Representatives," Goodlatte stated. “Any time we can establish fairer and lower taxes on working families then we are assisting the national economy, creating jobs and increasing opportunities across the country.”
“If every Member of Congress were as principled as Rep. Goodlatte current and future generations of Americans could enjoy much lower taxes and a less wasteful government,” Parde concluded. “Hard-working families in the Sixth District of Virginia and across the nation owe Congressman Goodlatte a debt of gratitude for his effort on their behalf. Bob has truly earned the title ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’”
Individual scores, as well as an explanation of the votes, can be found on NTU’s website at http://www.ntu.org/on-capitol-hill/ntu-rates-congress/p10-02-18-ntu-rating-final-pages.pdf
“I am honored to receive the “Taxpayers’ Friend” award from the National Taxpayers Union, and to be part of the solution to fighting government waste,” stated Goodlatte. “Cutting wasteful government spending, voting for lower taxes, and fighting to reduce the bloated bureaucracy in Washington have been my top priorities since arriving in Congress.”
The award is given to Representatives and Senators who achieve an “A” grade in NTU’s annual Rating of Congress. The Rating, which is based on every roll call vote affecting fiscal policy, assigns a “Taxpayer Score” to each Member of Congress that indicates his or her support for reducing or controlling federal spending, taxes, debt, and regulation. For 2009, a total of 333 House and 227 Senate votes were selected.
“Given today’s economic climate, fiscal discipline is more important now than ever,” NTU President Duane Parde said. “Fortunately, taxpayers have a staunch ally in Rep. Bob Goodlatte, to whom National Taxpayers Union is proud to present a ‘Taxpayers’ Friend Award.’”
Mr. Parde continued, “Congressman Goodlatte’s pro-taxpayer score of 90 percent was one of the best in the entire Congress. By voting time and again to reduce federal spending, taxes, and debt, Bob has led by example in the fight to defend overburdened taxpayers across the country.”
In 2009, 55 lawmakers attained scores sufficient to win the “Taxpayers’ Friend Award” (earning at least 90 percent in the House or Senate). Congressman Goodlatte was the only Member from Virginia to earn an “A” rating.
“I'm pleased that my voting record has been recognized by NTU as one of the most taxpayer-friendly records in the House of Representatives," Goodlatte stated. “Any time we can establish fairer and lower taxes on working families then we are assisting the national economy, creating jobs and increasing opportunities across the country.”
“If every Member of Congress were as principled as Rep. Goodlatte current and future generations of Americans could enjoy much lower taxes and a less wasteful government,” Parde concluded. “Hard-working families in the Sixth District of Virginia and across the nation owe Congressman Goodlatte a debt of gratitude for his effort on their behalf. Bob has truly earned the title ‘Taxpayers’ Friend.’”
Individual scores, as well as an explanation of the votes, can be found on NTU’s website at http://www.ntu.org/on-capitol-hill/ntu-rates-congress/p10-02-18-ntu-rating-final-pages.pdf
Media Coverage Of Lunch With Morgan Griffith
Great lunch with George Allen and Morgan Griffith yesterday. Roanoke Times says 60 in attendance. My quick count was more like 100. Either way, it was a great time. Click the links below to see the media coverage.
Friday, April 2, 2010
Bob Goodlatte - Accessing Energy and Creating Jobs for Virginians
Guest post from Congressman Bob Goodlatte
For many years the Commonwealth of Virginia has seriously been considering the potential positive impact that oil and gas exploration off Virginia’s coast would have on our state. Just two years ago, it seemed that Virginia would be able to take this first step toward energy independence, when Congress removed the hurdles that had previously blocked access to the energy resources located on the Outer Continental Shelf, also known as the OCS. However, since that point, Virginia has been confronted with a series of regulatory road blocks despite the strong support for a VA lease sale to begin OCS development by the Virginia Congressional Delegation, the Governor, the Virginia General Assembly, and the citizens of Virginia.
For this reason, I recently introduced legislation, with the support of a bipartisan group of Members of Congress from Virginia, that requires the Department of Interior, at the request of Virginia’s governor, to proceed with the Virginia lease sale no later than one year after passage of this legislation. My legislation, the ‘Virginia Access to Energy Act’ will remove any regulatory hurdles that may impede development and create a path for Virginia to become ‘the Energy Capital of the East Coast.’
In addition to setting Virginia on the path to energy independence, passage of my legislation and development of VA’s OCS will significantly boost the economy of the Commonwealth of Virginia. In fact, some estimates have shown that development of Virginia’s OCS will create over 2,500 full-time equivalent positions on an annual basis, induce capital investment of $7.8 billion, yield nearly $645 million in direct and indirect payroll, and result in over $270 million in state and local taxes.
While exploration activities alone will infuse the Virginia economy with a significant amount of new capital, this legislation will also authorize any qualified revenues generated by the lease sales to be shared between the federal government and the Commonwealth of Virginia for such things as federal deficit reduction, and various state projects including education, transportation, tax reductions, coastal and environmental restoration, energy infrastructure and projects, alternative energy development, and energy efficiency and conservation.
Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy. My legislation, the Virginia Access to Energy Act, is an important component to any long-term strategy to reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. Most importantly the legislation ensures that Virginia has every tool available to access its energy supplies, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs for Virginians and infusing the Commonwealth with new capital growth.
To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.
For many years the Commonwealth of Virginia has seriously been considering the potential positive impact that oil and gas exploration off Virginia’s coast would have on our state. Just two years ago, it seemed that Virginia would be able to take this first step toward energy independence, when Congress removed the hurdles that had previously blocked access to the energy resources located on the Outer Continental Shelf, also known as the OCS. However, since that point, Virginia has been confronted with a series of regulatory road blocks despite the strong support for a VA lease sale to begin OCS development by the Virginia Congressional Delegation, the Governor, the Virginia General Assembly, and the citizens of Virginia.
For this reason, I recently introduced legislation, with the support of a bipartisan group of Members of Congress from Virginia, that requires the Department of Interior, at the request of Virginia’s governor, to proceed with the Virginia lease sale no later than one year after passage of this legislation. My legislation, the ‘Virginia Access to Energy Act’ will remove any regulatory hurdles that may impede development and create a path for Virginia to become ‘the Energy Capital of the East Coast.’
In addition to setting Virginia on the path to energy independence, passage of my legislation and development of VA’s OCS will significantly boost the economy of the Commonwealth of Virginia. In fact, some estimates have shown that development of Virginia’s OCS will create over 2,500 full-time equivalent positions on an annual basis, induce capital investment of $7.8 billion, yield nearly $645 million in direct and indirect payroll, and result in over $270 million in state and local taxes.
While exploration activities alone will infuse the Virginia economy with a significant amount of new capital, this legislation will also authorize any qualified revenues generated by the lease sales to be shared between the federal government and the Commonwealth of Virginia for such things as federal deficit reduction, and various state projects including education, transportation, tax reductions, coastal and environmental restoration, energy infrastructure and projects, alternative energy development, and energy efficiency and conservation.
Virginians understand that a major component in lessening energy costs is to produce more energy. My legislation, the Virginia Access to Energy Act, is an important component to any long-term strategy to reduce our dangerous dependence on foreign oil. Most importantly the legislation ensures that Virginia has every tool available to access its energy supplies, while at the same time creating thousands of jobs for Virginians and infusing the Commonwealth with new capital growth.
To contact me about this or any other matter, please visit my website at www.goodlatte.house.gov.
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