Brownback Brings the Smack

The debate's finished, but apparently the smack talk isn't. Apparently Sam Brownback couldn't get these in while the debate was still going on. I got this release from Brownback's campaign...


Rudy is Wrong"Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happines... life comes first.

"Dear Friend,Like you, I am proud that the Republican Party has long stood for protecting innocent human life in our party's platform.Unfortunately one of the current front-runners for the Republican presidential nomination, Rudy Giuliani, is a vocal and unapologetic supporter of the "right" to abortion.

He made this clear once again in the South Carolina debate last night."It's best for us to respect each other's differences and allow for choice," said Giuliani, in an interview with Fox News this past Sunday."If we don't find a way of uniting around broad proniples that will appeal to a large segment of this country, if we can't figure that out, we are going to lose this election," Giuliani said in a Houston speech last week.My friend, Rudy is wrong.

Like you and me, Senator Brownback is a true believer that there is no "choice" involved in life-or-death matters - we must always stand up for protecting innocent human life.Senator Brownback believes that the next Republican nominee for President must be pro-life in order to win - we must stand by our principles and bedrock foundation as a party.Giuliani's comments have been praised by Planned Parenthood Action Fund President Cecile Richards."It's encouraging to see that the frontrunner for the Republican nomination for president supports the right to make personal private health care decisions free from government intrusion," said Richards."

Giuliani is pro-choice and at the front of the pack - the days of the anti-choice strangle-hold on the Republican Party are numbered," Richards adds. It is a sad statement when the President of Planned Parenthood-the largest abortion provider in America-is praising the leading Republican candidate. This is NOT the direction our party needs to take.

What Rudy doesn't seem to understand is that among the hallowed rights of the Declaration of Independence-"life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness"- life comes first.The pro-life movement has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years. Public opinion is turning to our side, the Supreme Court recently upheld a national ban on an abortion procedure, and the Republican Party has grown increasingly pro-life, as have the candidates it nominates for public office. This is NOT the time to turn back in our efforts to make America a country that respects life.

As Republicans, we should not compromise or apologize for that.Please visit our campaign website to signup for Team Brownback. Together, we will keep our Republican Party proudly pro-life."

Sincerely, David Barron South Carolina Chairman Brownback for President

Name That Tune

The Clinton camp wants you to help name her campaign tune. Although, it sounds like it might be a fight for the right (random, Beastie Boys reference). Here's the release below...

IN YOUTUBE VIDEO, CLINTON ASKS SUPPORTERS TO VOTE FOR OFFICIAL CAMPAIGN THEME SONG

Hillary Will Announce Winner After Internet Voting on Website

Hillary Clinton is getting the 2008 voting started early, posting a YouTube video on her website this afternoon in which she urges supporters to cast their vote for her official campaign theme song.
Coming on the heels of her text messaging effort launched earlier this week, Clinton continues to engage with Americans and encourage them to get involved in her campaign.

“I hope people from across the country will go to my website and vote for the song they feel best represents our message of change and their hopes for a better America,” Clinton said. “And I promise to leave the singing to the professionals.”

Clinton’s video will be featured on YouTube’s “You Choose ’08 Spotlight” over the next week.

Hillary’s list of potential campaign songs includes:
City of Blinding Lights - U2
Suddenly I See - KT Tunstall
I'm a Believer - Smash Mouth
Get Ready - The Temptations
Ready to Run - Dixie Chicks
Rock This Country! - Shania Twain
Beautiful Day - U2
Right Here, Right Now - Jesus Jones
I'll Take You There - The Staple Singers
Write-in Candidates

Perhaps, it's tough to pick an original tune. Obama just used "City of Blinding Lights" for his opener in Indianola last week. And is there any candidate who doesn't use "Beautiful Day"?

Please Pass the Pie, Pork, Chips and Cookies

Sugar, ham, tons of cheese and cookies...not a bad week, huh? No wonder I felt like I was carrying around a small child during my runs this weekend. Ah, life on the road. How do these presidential candidates do it? I'm going to guess that's why I don't see these folks on the cover of my Men's Health every month (BTW, in case you missed it, each day last week, we let viewers vote for the candidate we should follow the next day during their stops in Iowa.)

Here's a lowdown on the candidate, city and food served...

Hillary Clinton--Red Oak--pie

John McCain--Ft. Dodge--ham sandwich, chips, cookie

Tommy Thompson--Anamosa, then West Des Moines--pizza buffet, then just pizza

Barack Obama--Indianola--not a dang thing

John Cox--his West Des Moines campaign headquarters--Jay's Potato Chips

I wonder what I'll think the next time I hear one of these people talk about tackling the obesity problem?


When we weren't eating, we were looking around at the faces in the crowds. It seemed like they looked a lot like the candidate speaking to them.

Hillary Clinton--Red Oak--a lot of women, probably more than half the crowd, a few non-whites

John McCain--Ft. Dodge--nearly all senior citizens, many of them veterans, nearly everyone, if not all, white

Tommy Thompson--Anamosa, then West Des Moines--folks over 50, few, if any, minorities

Barack Obama--Indianola--(this was at Simpson College) far younger than the others, far more diverse

John Cox--WDM campaign HQ--one middle-aged white woman

Just a few random observations...gotta go work out (again).

Richardson Goes for funny TV

Bill Richardson's hoping some laughs will get him some attention. He's started running a new series of ads across Iowa. Check them out...funny or not funny?

http://www.richardsonforpresident.com/page/content/jobinterview/

Barack on Clinton Avenue

7:22pm. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say this won't start on time. Barack Obama was scheduled to start his "Meet and Greet" here at Simpson College in Indianola at 7:15pm.

Wouldn't you know it...as soon as I start writing this, the event has now started. I'm guessing about 250 people are here, although two different times before the crowd got here, staffers took away chairs...probably several dozen in all. Not sure why the crowd isn't as high as the original setup would allow.

I guess this is now an official political event. Two women just held out their babies so he Obama kiss them. I don't recognize the song that's playing. Sounds like U2. Hold on...

Yep, it's U2. I had to go and ask the audio guy. He actually played it from a staffer's iPod. It's called "City of Blinding Lights", he tells me.

Sure wish we would have eaten dinner before we came.

I met a woman who runs a business out of Kansas City selling political buttons. There's a whole table of them out front. She said Obama and Clinton run neck-and-neck on-line. But Obama sells better at the actual event. Who's the best seller for Republicans? Fred Thompson, she told. He sells more than all other Republicans combined. Gee, I wonder if he'll run.

One last random bit of trivia...the street Obama had to use before he pulled into the gymnasium here....West Clinton Avenue. Hmmm....

Pizza, Easy Rider, but no Shake

Fueled by some pizza (o.k., more than some pizza, but whatever) we're back on the road. I've never blogged in the car (no, Mom, I'm not driving. She actually won't really talk to me while I'm on my cellphone in the car. She'd pass out if I told her I was blogging. Actually, I'm not so sure Mom understands his blogging stuff anyway. So maybe she wouldn't care).

As we stuck around to eat at the Pizza Ranch in Anamosa, we overheard a pretty interesting conversation. About 4 or 5 people were talking about Tommy Thompson's visit there earlier. No one in the bunch thought Thompson could win. One woman wants Obama to be Prez. But another man was dead sure Obama wouldn't win. He did say Hillary Clinton would pick him as her runningmate and that they would win the nomination. He was sure of it.

BTW, before pizza we did follow around Thompson in the National Motorcycle Museum. Thompson's a big motorcycle buff. He likes to tell the story how he's in the Hall of Fame in Sturgis. In case you hadn't heard, he's a Harley rider.

We're passing through Iowa City now. It just doesn't seem right not to stop at the Steak 'N Shake. Those are big back home in St. Louis. I usually stop at the one here in Iowa City, but not today. Stupid pizza.

In the Land of Cheese

So I'm sitting outside the ladies' room with my laptop and my digital camera... Yes, officer, that's the truth.

The crowd's a little too big for this gathering here at the Pizza Ranch in downtown Anamosa. Tommy Thompson's staff has been scurrying around trying to get more chairs in the room set aside for his noontime town hall gathering.

Thompson started by giving props to our station. He told the group how his supporters flooded our on-line poll last night, overmatching the efforts of the Romney and Biden folks. We had something like 19,000 votes for this contest to see which candidate we would follow today. I never imagined this idea would get so much attention. No wonder I don't do predictions.

The food here smells awesome. For those of you who haven't tasted the spread at this chain...it's a mix of all kinds of types of pizza, fried chicken, salad, fruit, dessert, etc. Really healthy, I'm sure. I gave up my seat in the Thompson room, because it was so packed. Well, and because the older lady spoke really kindly of us being here today. So I can hardly even hear what Thompson is saying. Man, this pizza smells good.

Calling the Hulkster

They played Hulk Hogan's song. I'm pretty sure that's a first for me on this Prez campaign trail this cycle. In true Republican form, they played a lot of country here (no, I'm not complaining. I'm actually a big country fan). But they added a twist...I have no idea if the Hulkster's song actually has a name. And, no, John McCain didn't rip off his shirt (actually the song played before McCain arrived). But thanks to the always in-tune ear of my photographer and Carroll native, Dave Olson, I'm pretty sure it was Hogan's song.

We're here in Ft. Dodge at the Opera House. There are probably about 150 people here, mostly seniors, it appears, and quite a few veterans. McCain got here about 20 minutes late after a stop in Council Bluffs this morning. McCain's usually on-time. I actually don't recall him being late.

He told the crowd he likes these town hall settings. He starts with some jokes, then his thoughts on where Republicans went wrong and what should happen in Iraq. No surprises so far. He thinks Republicans got smacked around in November because they spent too much...like a drunken sailor, he says. Although, he said he received a letter from a drunken sailor, who says he's offended by the joke. I think he was kidding. He also, to no real surprise, continues to stand behind the surge in Iraq, which he says still needs time to work.

McCain called Medicare the "elephant in the room". He wants to work with Dems on securing Medicare. I don't think he offered anything specific about what he'd do to fix things. I think Ronald Reagan is the biggest elephant in this room though. McCain's used his name twice already during this speech.

Peach or Strawberry-Rhubarb?

The pies were store bought, but no one seemed to complain. "The Pie Lady" at the end of the table said Hillary Clinton's too big a draw for the local ladies here in Red Oak, so they used Hy-Vee to come up with the 25 apple, strawberry-rhubarb, cherry and peach pies they would need for the night.


They got ready for the "Conversation". That's the Clinton-campaign version of the town hall meetings other candidates are holding across the state. A woman told me the Montgomery County Historical Society's new building holds about 125 or so. But there were nearly three times that many people here. They even had to push away some people into an overflow room.


A nice older woman named Peggy handled bathroom duties. Men and women had to share the same room. So she made sure I didn't sneak in while a lady did her business inside. When all was clear, she did let two men at a time go in. I thought it was always women who went to the restrooms in pairs???






BTW, Clinton's opening song for the night..."Right here, right now." I remembered somebody Jones used to sing that. Turns out it was Jesus Jones. Also turns out, they still sing it. Who knew?

All Global Politics is Local

(Courtesy: theEcoEnquirer)

Global warming, climate change, environmental awareness...the name really doesn't matter to him. Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie told me he just wants to get people involved in thinking about their environment. Walk or ride your bike where you can, carpool, don't drink bottled water, turn up/down the thermostat, plant grass on your roof, do as little or as much as you want. He just wants Iowans to do something.

Global warming is probably not heating up business at Cownie Furs. But Cownie says his efforts at awareness have nothing to do with his business. He thinks each person can make a difference in this fight. And he plans on finding out just how much that's true.

Cownie believes this whole discussion has moved from just the far left folks to the mainstream. He proudly points out he's been able to unite the Sierra Club with some faith-based groups (btw, his work's been profiled with some big city mayors in a Newsweek article. He's also a prominent part of http://www.coolmayors.org/).

Cownie's also figured out that as the mayor right in the middle of Iowa, he might be able to attract a little national attention. So he's putting together a summit, of sorts, on warming/change/awareness/whatever you want to call it. He'll invite the Presidential candidates from both parties to come in for it sometime after the State Fair (that's in mid-August, for all you non-fried-everything-on-a-stick-eaters, who don't know). He's still working on a format, but don't look for one of those all-day long panels (It's not likely the Presidentials will go for it. They're busy, you know).

The Great 8 Debate

So did you watch? Eight dems tonight kicked off the debate season on MSNBC live from South Carolina. As I'm watching in our newsroom, my co-workers keep stopping by to see how it's going. Mike Gravel seems to have received the most "oohs" and "aahhs". You can probably predict their question, though..."who IS that guy?"

What's coming out of this?

Bill Richardson said he'd end the war on his first day in office.

Dennis Kucinich several times called out his fellow Congress members. Apologizing for their war vote isn't enough and this latest bill the dems approved to bring troops out of Iraq (which the Prez seems sure to veto) also isn't enough. They need to just cut off the money, he believes.

Barack Obama wants the confederate flag locked in a museum.

Hillary Clinton says she's made too many mistakes to count (she mentioned her first attempt at universal health care when her husband was Prez) and....Wal-Mart's a mixed blessing for the American people.

John Edwards initially said he couldn't identify his moral leader, then he cited his Lord, his wife and his father.

Joe Biden defended Hillary Clinton to her republican critics.

Mike Gravel said only thing worse than soldiers dying in vain is more soldiers dying in vain.

Chris Dodd paused before raising his hand to say he has had a gun in his home.

No candidate agreed to along with Kucinich to impeach VP Cheney.

I'm sure the campaigns found far more news.

What did you think of this? Who won? Who lost? Who cares?

(btw, I hope you'll check out a new addition to http://www.iowavotes2008.com/ Click on "Guest Plog" to hear some others' thoughts on how the candidates did)

Please Come

John McCain comes to Des Moines Friday to announce he wants to be President. Who knew? The campaign just sent out an email to supporters asking them to show up for the announcement during "these challenging times."

Here's what the email said:

This week Senator John McCain is coming to Iowa to officially kick off his campaign for President of the United States, and we would like to invite you to join us. In these challenging times we need the principled leadership that Senator McCain will provide, and we would like to invite you to bring your family and friends to help show the broad base of support of our campaign enjoys.

And apparently, Jim Gilmore is announcing that he's running for Prez Thursday at noon at the Republican Party of Iowa headquarters in a live webcast. I would have thought the campaign would send something to us so we would know this. Getting coverage tends to be tough when we don't know about it.

Lamberti Thinks Mac, Obama Thinks Iowa

Jeff Lamberti's no longer going to sit the next one out. He's now in John McCain's camp. He's endorsed McCain for prez and will serve as McCain's Iowa co-chair.

BTW, the dem who beat Lamberti is planning on staying neutral, at least for a while. Des Moines area Congressman Leonard Boswell says he reserves the right to endorse, but doesn't plan on doing it anytime soon. Sounds like he'll wait around for the safe choice...after a nominee's already been chosen. For now, he'll take advantage of his out-of-town guests. Hillary Clinton headlined a fundraiser for him last weekend in Des Moines.

How important is Iowa? (like we don't all know by now...)

I got this today from Obama's peeps...

Obama Campaign Announces New Iowa Website

DES MOINES – U.S. Senator Barack Obama (D-IL) today announced that he has introduced an Iowa-specific campaign website to help Iowans stay informed and get involved in his campaign.

Obama’s Iowa website can be viewed at www.barackobama.com/iowa.

Candidate Overload?

There were far too many chairs and cookies inside the McAnich garage in Des Moines Saturday afternoon. Hillary Clinton headlined a fundraiser for Des Moines area Congressman Leonard Boswell. More than 200 people showed up. But the campaign was clearly hoping for more. There were nearly as many empty chairs early on as their were full ones (volunteers took away the empties during the event.)

Was it a fluke or is it a sign there are only so many interested Iowans to go around on a day when Edwards, Obama and Clinton all came to the area? Or was it that it was a Saturday afternoon...a sunny one, at that, with a high temperature that hit 80 degrees?

From Microsoft to D.C.?

I knew Bill Gates was cutting back his work at Microsoft. I hadn't heard he's apparently landed a new job helping with the war effort...

Here's a release from Barack Obama's campaign in response to "William" Gates' comments on the war debate...

Senator Barack Obama’s response to Secretary of Defense William Gates' Statement on Iraq

Chicago, IL- Senator Barack Obama today released the following statement in response to Secretary of Defense William Gates' statement on the Congressional debate on the Iraq War.

"After the President has repeatedly ignored the will of Congress and the American people, his own Secretary of Defense now recognizes that the only way to pressure the Iraqi government toward a political settlement is to make clear that American troops will not be in Iraq forever. President Bush has had a long history of ignoring the advice of his commanders on the ground, but let’s hope that he follows the advice of his Defense Secretary so that we can finally begin the process of ending the war in Iraq in a responsible way."

According to the Washington Post, Gates said today while traveling in the Middle East, "The debate in Congress . . . has been helpful in demonstrating to the Iraqis that American patience is limited. The strong feelings expressed in the Congress about the timetable probably has had a positive impact . . . in terms of communicating to the Iraqis that this is not an open-ended commitment."

State Dems Cashing in on Candidates

Looking for a van?

Wanna make some big money fast? Buy a disk. Put 80,000 email addresses on it. Sell it to any democrat who wants to become President.

The Iowa Democratic Party has now sold 8 copies of its Voter Activation Network (VAN). VAN identifies state democrats who have caucused in the last few elections. It helps campaigns figure out who to target for support and makes it pretty easy to actually get a hold of these people.

Who bought the list?

Joe Biden

Hillary Clinton

Chris Dodd

John Edwards

Barack Obama

Bill Richardson

Tom Vilsack

Mark Warner

This VAN doesn't come cheap. It's $100,000 (I'm told Warner had actually only paid half the bill when he dropped out). So the total take for the Iowa Democratic Party is $750,000 so far.

Howard Dean, John Edwards, Dick Gephardt, Bob Graham and John Kerry bought a copy last time around.

More Gov TV

If it worked for Romney...

On Monday, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson becomes the first "D" to "go up." Richardson's campaign has bought airtime in Iowa's biggest tv markets. The buy is a mix of 30 and 60 second ads featuring biographical information and his plan for Iraq, the biggest issue of the election, a campaign staffer told me. I'm told one of the ads has him sitting at a desk going through his accomplishments and credentials.

The ad buys will come after Richardson leaves town this weekend. Richardson is one of the three candidates to speak at the Polk County Democrats' Spring Dinner with Congressman Leonard Boswell in Des Moines Friday night(Hillary Clinton's headlining a fundraiser for Boswell on Saturday in Des Moines).

Mitt Romney was the first republican (and the first candidate overall, outside of a few spots from Duncan Hunter's PAC that ran the end of last year) to air tv ads in the state. His poll numbers have gone up since he started advertising. Hmmm....

Some leftovers from the Jimmy Carter visit in Iowa City...

During his speech Carter didn't exactly diss Iowa, the state that catapulted him from obscurity to a Caucus victory (o.k., technically, "uncommitted" received the most votes, but apparently he dropped out), but he did say he favors a four-part regional primary system to replace Iowa's first-in-the-nation current process. But Iowa wouldn't even be part of the region that goes first. The east coast goes, then the west coast. He didn't say whether Iowa would be part of the region that goes third or the one that goes fourth. But either way, it would be spring, not January, when the Iowa Caucuses would commence.

Carter did recall some fond memories of the Caucus. He said he felt lucky if he could get just five people to show up at one of his early events. And he said since he had no money for motels, he and his family had to rely on generous Iowa families to put them up for the night. Campaign staffers who wanted lodging had to find a couch someplace or pay for a motel room.

Carter said he did invite all the generous families who helped lodge his family during the campaign to the White House after he got elected for a thank you celebration. 765 families, in all, I believe he said.

Popcorn (No Peanuts) and the President

I guess we should have eaten something before we got here in Iowa City (although we did stop at that great Chinese buffet place in downtown Newton). My Carver-Hawkeye feast: $7.75. This popcorn better be good. Shouldn't they serve peanuts here tonight? Oh, well, maybe my extra cash will help them find a new president here.

I'm told they expect 9,000 people to hear former President Jimmy Carter here tonight. And people thought Obama's throng of 6,000 was a lot in Ames.

I haven't actually seen the former Prez yet. We expected to shoot some video of him signing autographed copies of his latest book earlier this afternoon. But we were not allowed in.

Mr. Carter ended up quitting about 30 minutes early. But some of the people who had been waiting for him said they could trade the books they brought with them for an autographed copy that he apparently signed ahead of time. They all seemed o.k. with it. Well, except the protester outside who disagreed with the Prez' use of the word "apartheid" in his book. She apparently was not interested in an autographed copy.

First on the Shootings

If you wondered who would send out paper first (or email, in this modern age) about the Virginia Tech shootings, wonder no more... It's prez candidate Bill Richardson, who's also putting together one of those politically famous "task forces" to make sure it won't happen there.

Governor Bill Richardson Issues Statement on VA Tech Shootings

SANTA FE – Governor Bill Richardson today issued the following statement in response to the tragedy at Virginia Tech:

“On behalf of all New Mexicans, Barbara and I extend our condolences to the families of the victims whose lives were cut short by this horrific tragedy,” Governor Bill Richardson said. “This is a sad day and our hearts go out to the Virginia Tech community as it grieves this loss.”

As a result of the tragedy, Governor Richardson instructed New Mexico Higher Education Secretary Beverlee McClure to immediately begin working with institutions in state to ensure adequate safety measures are in place. These measures may include having a safety plan in place and a disaster response plan. The state will also be looking into the security personnel on each campus and the level of training those personnel have in an effort to determine how to better prepare campus police and security officials to respond to such incidents.

A Safety Task Force will be formed to make recommendations to the Governor for improving the safety of our students, faculty, and staff on our campuses in the state. The Governor is committed to creating a safe learning and working environment for all New Mexicans.

#30#

Va Tech Grad Culver Talks about Shootings

Just got this from the Gov's office...


STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR CULVER ON
VIRGINIA TECH SHOOTINGS

(Des Moines) Below is a statement from Governor Chet Culver on today’s shootings on the Virginia Tech campus, his alma mater. Governor Culver graduated in 1988 with a degree in political science.

STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR CHET CULVER :

“I am deeply saddened by today’s shootings on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg, Virginia. My prayers go out to the students, faculty and staff whose lives will forever be changed by today’s events. It is a sobering realization that this could be the deadliest campus shooting in history. It casts a mournful pall over the splendid campus as those who knew the victims, and those who did not, try to make sense of what has happened.

“On a personal note, I am distraught that the peace and joy I enjoyed during my time as student has been shattered for the thousands of students who live and study there. My heart goes out to every family member and friend of those individuals who died today. This nation is holding its collective breath, praying for those people whose futures are uncertain.

“We, as Iowans, feel a sense of empathy and compassion because a similar event 16 years ago, stole the innocence from the University of Iowa. A lone gunman claimed the lives of five people and himself in a senseless shooting. There will be a period of mourning, and the nation mourns with you. I pledge to Governor Tim Kaine, the state of Virginia and the Virginia Tech family, my prayers, support and any assistance I may provide during this difficult time.”

"W" Proves Obama Not Man for the Job?

Prez candidate Christopher Dodd took a subtle jab at one of his opponents (who also happens to have way more support in the polls right now). He hinted (o.k., more than "hinted") the past proves a newbie isn't the right guy for the country's future.

Dodd was talking before about 100 or so folks at the U.S. Center for Citizen Diplomacy in downtown Des Moines. He said restoring the country's international standing will take a lot more than promises of hope (Obama's catch phrase word during his campaign stops here).

Dodd said, "Sometimes we fail to understand that this also takes experience. We sometimes belittle experience when it comes to doing these things. I don't think after six years of George Bush on the job training....that we need new leadership in this country that doesn't bring experience to the table that knows how to do these things from the beginning."

Dodd may have introduced a phrase we may hear him use again..."We don't need a surge of troops in Iraq - we need a surge of diplomacy."

Here's the campaign release about his speech...

Saying that his Presidency would strengthen America and begin an era of "bold engagement," Senator and Presidential Candidate Chris Dodd announced his foreign policy vision in a major address tonight at the U.S. Center for Citizen Diplomacy in Des Moines.

"Indeed, positive, bold engagement that restores America's reputation as a secure, reliable and responsible leader would form the bedrock of a national security doctrine in a Dodd Presidency - a national security policy rooted in a reenergized military, strengthened international alliances and policies that enhance America's security for the long-term," Dodd said in the speech.
In sharp contrast to Senator John McCain's address this morning at VMI, which argued for more of the same failed Bush administration Iraqi policy of troop escalation, Senator Dodd called for a new course in Iraq.

The troop escalation is "not only failing to make Iraq more secure. By sapping our military of its strength and America of its leadership in the world, the Bush/McCain policy has made America less secure," said Dodd. "We don't need a surge of troops in Iraq - we need a surge of diplomacy."

Dodd called on his fellow Presidential candidates to join him in support of the Feingold-Reid bill that stands up to this President's failed policy, re-deploys combat troops within one year, and brings an end to this war.

Dodd also addressed the need for proven leadership to address the challenges that will face the next President of the United States. "Like never before, we need a President who is ready to lead from day one. There will not be a single day, a single moment for on-the-job training. Not one."
Some excerpts from the speech, "Beyond Iraq and Into An Era of Bold Engagement":

Contrasting Dodd's position with that of Senator John McCain:
"Just today, my Republican colleague who also seeks the presidency spoke about our involvement there. I understand that while he acknowledged setbacks in our efforts in Iraq, he reiterated his support for the President's troop surge strategy, arguing that it is succeeding and that we cannot afford to redeploy our troops out of Iraq.

"No one questions Senator McCain's patriotism. He is a war hero and a friend. But like the President, he is wrong.
"According to a news report, the day after Senator McCain toured a Baghdad marketplace—a visit guarded by 100 American soldiers, three Blackhawk helicopters, and two Apache gunships—21 Shia workers from that same market were ambushed, bound and shot to death north of the capital.

"Senator McCain's market visit makes clear the point many of us have made for some time. We don't need a surge of troops in Iraq - we need a surge of diplomacy. The Bush/McCain Doctrine is not succeeding - it is failing."

Calling for decisive action to end the war in Iraq:
"I am calling on all the candidates in this race to join me in clearly standing up to the President once and for all by stating their support for the Feingold-Reid legislation that sets a firm timetable to end this war by March 31st, 2008. After more than 3,200 lives lost, tens of thousands wounded and $400 billion spent, it is time to bring an end to a war that at every turn has failed to make America safer. The hour is late. It is time to begin putting our country on a more secure path."
Recognizing the need for experienced leadership:
"Let me be clear - hope alone will not wipe away the damage to America's moral authority these last 6 years. Hope alone will not bring our allies back to our side. Hope alone will not restore America's leadership. Like never before, we need a President who is ready to lead from day one. There will not be a single day, a single moment for on-the-job training. Not one."

Holding America's strategic allies accountable for their actions:
"The fact is, our real challenges in all of these areas lie not alone with our enemies - we know who they are. Our challenges also lie with those we call our friends or strategic allies - nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia who continue to suppress freedom and democracy and permit conditions that allow our enemies to thrive.

"What America needs is a President who will insist the House of Saud stop sending money to terrorists to take up residence elsewhere and start using their resources and efforts to bring stability and peace to the Middle East.
"What America needs is a President who will look into Vladimir Putin's eyes not to get a sense of his soul - but to tell him America wants to work together with Russia, not against her, but cannot in the face of his blatant disregard for a free press and suppression of political dissent."

Using energy technology to free America and the world from foreign oil dependence:
"Energy policy is a critical component of bold engagement in the 21st Century. A Dodd presidency would insist upon sharing with our allies the same renewable energy technology that will allow America to achieve energy independence - rendering the oil bribes offered by Iran's Ahmadinejad and Venezuela's Chavez irrelevant, opening new markets for American goods and services, and creating conditions for democratic principles to take hold.

"It is time we help countries end their alliances of necessity with dictators simply because they are desperate for oil and aid. An America that leads on energy opens new doors in its relationship with nations from Latin America to Africa to Asia."

King Can't Stand (with) the Prez

Tom Tancredo look-alike, Iowa Congressman Steve King, (King admits even he can't always tell the two apart on tv) isn't so high on the Prez' new idea to let illegal immigrants pay to stay in the U.S.

The Prez says his idea isn't amnesty since he'd make undocumented workers pay for a temporary visa to stay and work here.

King told me the Prez' definition of "amnesty" is apparently different from the rest of Americans. King thinks the idea just rewards people for breaking the law. King wants illegal deported.

The Prez said deporting illegal immigrants isn't practical. King thinks it's not as hard as it sounds. He doesn't think law enforcement will be running around all over the place deporting people. He says once illegal immigrants find out the U.S. is coming after them, many of them will leave on their own.

BTW, I talked with King on his cell phone as he sat in his car in a Hy-Vee grocery store parking lot in Denison. He said he was paying his income taxes. He wasn't too high on the Internal Revenue Service either, he said.

Romney Has Dozen R's

R R R R R R R R R R R ROMNEY


Mitt Romney stopped by the Iowa Statehouse this a.m. to meet with the Republican Caucus, looking to win over a few more supporters. Today, he announced he's already nabbed an even dozen to his team (not to mention former Senator Majority Leader Stewart Iverson)

Here's the release...

Governor Mitt Romney Announces Iowa Legislative Leadership Team

Wednesday, Apr 04, 2007

DES MOINES, IA – At an Iowa Statehouse news conference on April 4, 2007, Governor Mitt Romney announced that 12 Republican state legislators have endorsed his candidacy for President of the United States.

The legislators will offer their insight and advice to Governor Romney on issues facing Iowa and the nation. Further legislative endorsements will be announced as Governor Romney expands his base of support at the Statehouse. "I am proud to have the support of these dedicated lawmakers whose hard work and conservative values help to make Iowa such a great place to live and raise a family," said Governor Romney. "I look forward to working with them as I travel across Iowa to share my optimistic vision for America's future."

Governor Romney's Iowa Legislative Leadership Team: - Sen. Jim Hahn, Muscatine - Sen. David Johnson, Ocheyeden - Sen. Dave Mulder, Orange City - Sen. Brad Zaun, Urbandale - Rep. Dave Deyoe, Nevada - Rep. Linda Miller, Bettendorf - Rep. Christopher Rants, Sioux City - Rep. Doug Struyk, Council Bluffs - Rep. Dave Tjepkes, Gowrie - Rep. Jodi Tymeson, Winterset - Rep. Ralph Watts, Adel - Rep. Tami Wiencek, Waterloo

Rudy G Skipping Ames?

Tuesday night, Rudy Giuliani wouldn't commit to taking part in the Iowa GOP's Presidential Straw Poll in Ames this summer (a huge fundraiser for the state party. Campaigns rent the space. And "voters" pay to take part in the poll).

This is only fueling the whispers that he'll run a scaled-down campaign in the state (mostly fueled by other campaigns). Jim Nussle, his top Iowa guy and former candidate for Iowa Gov last time around, didn't do anything to convince people otherwise Wednesday a.m. on our morning news. Nussle called the Straw Poll like "American Idol" and a "circus". (BTW, we'll get the whole exchange put on www.iowavotes2008.com later today.)

Giuliani did tell the crowd last night that he planned on running in the Iowa Caucuses and predicted victory. We'll see how the other campaigns jump on Rudy G's comments (and Nussle's).

I'm sitting here at Tommy Thompson's official announcement in Clive (is it a re-announcement by now?). I can see a sign across the room, which makes it pretty obvious Thompson plans on doing the Straw Poll.

Thompson told me he plans on the largest Harley rally Iowa's ever seen. He'll have hot air balloon rides, too. (Not sure how the balloons work into this whole thing)

Just some random observations from the Giuliani event last night... It started nearly 30 minutes late. It seemed like the crowd of 400 or so stuck around. But the enthusiasm hardly compares to some of the others (like an Obama rally). There were a couple futile, short-lived attempts at "Roo-dy, Roo-dy". Very short-lived.

Helen's Not Mad About Rudy

So apparently Helen Hunt's not a big fan of Rudy Giuliani...

Got the following release today... A group claims to have a petition from 100 Iowans who really, really don't want Rudy G to be prez. They say they won't even support him if he's the party's nominee. I only count 39 on the list, actually 37 since a Dr. and Mrs. Richard Bose are on the list twice (perhaps they really, really, really don't like Rudy G).

Why aren't there 100 names on this list I wondered? The group's spokesman says only these people agreed to have their names published; the rest requested anonymity. So I guess we would just have to take the group's word for it that there are really 100 people out of the state's 3 million citizens who are joining together.

BTW, Helen Hunt may have filmed "Twister" here in the state. But I don't believe she's the same person from Cedar Rapids who's signed this petition. I'll keep working on that....

Here's the release...

100 Iowa Conservatives Vow Not to Support Giuliani Even if he Receives GOP Nomination
Iowa Conservatives Unite in Opposition of Giuliani in Preparation for First Visit to State

For Immediate Release: 4-3-2007

Des Moines – Today, The Conservative Declaration of Independence received a flood of additional signatures from Iowa conservative Republicans who vow not to support Giuliani for President of the United States even if we wins the Republican nomination.

The Conservative Declaration of Independence was introduced on Friday March 16, 2007 in Macomb County, Michigan, to promote conservative values and highlight the need for the Republican Party to nominate a 2008 Presidential candidate who supports and upholds basic conservative principles. Support for the declaration comes from Conservatives in Iowa, New Hampshire, Michigan, and several other states across the country.

Tom McMillin, one of the authors and original co-signers of the declaration, sent out an e-mail yesterday notifying Republican voters of Rudy Giuliani’s upcoming trip to Iowa and asking for their support in defending conservative values.

The same day Jim Nussle, Giuliani’s Iowa consultant was quoted as saying "We have to decide, based on this first visit, what kind of response he gets. Up until now, the response has all been remote. It’s been a remote response based on what he’s been doing nationally."

"Make no mistake, the response from Iowa conservatives has been very anti-Giuliani in the leadup to his first trip to Iowa," said Tom McMillin, the former Field Director of the Michigan Christian Coalition. "As conservatives in Iowa learn that Giuliani supports government funded abortion, partial birth abortion, homosexual marriage, and gun registration they quickly agree that we need this Declaration of Independence."

Over 100 conservative Iowa Republicans have signed the Conservative Declaration of Independence in the leadup to the Giuliani trip to Iowa. Interested individuals can sign the declaration of by e-mailing theconservativedeclaration@hotmail.com. The declaration with supporting documentation can be found at www.theconservativedeclaration.wordpress.com.
###

The Conservative Declaration of Independence
- March 15, 2007 -

When, in the course of political process, it might become necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, it becomes necessary to declare the causes which would impel the separation.

We, the undersigned of this digital document, hereby agree that we are Conservatives first and Republicans second, and that we would not support the candidacy of Rudolph William Louis "Rudy" Giuliani if the Republican Party chooses to nominate him for President of the United States.

We hereby agree that Mr. Giuliani is an American hero for his performance in the aftermath of 9-11, however his liberal record as Mayor, appointment of liberal judges, and the conduct of his personal life make it impossible for us to support his candidacy under any circumstances.
We hereby urge conservatives across the country to join us in signing this Conservative Declaration of Independence by emailing theconservativedeclaration@hotmail.com .

In Agreement,

New Hampshire
Paul Nagy
Draft Buchanan ’92
Northeast Director, Buchanan ‘92
Northeast Director, Christian Coalition, 1994-99
Michigan
Mark Forton
Chairman, Michigan Conservative Union
State Chairman, Buchanan for President, 1996 & 2000
County Republican Chairman,
Macomb County Republican Party, 1994-1996
Tom McMillin
State Field Director, Christian Coalition of Michigan, 1994-1998
Issues Committee Chairman, Michigan Republican Party, 2005-2007
Board Member, American Family Association of Michigan, present

Iowa

Timothy Everts
Wellsburg, IA
Helen Hunter
Cedar Rapids, IA
Bryan and Aspen Allen
Granville, IA
Thomas Carmody
West Des Moines, Iowa
Judy A. Barrett
Dallas Center, IA
Nancy Wagner
Morning Sun, IA
Lori Smith
Iowa
John Hyde
Albia, Iowa
Nicole D. Baker
Clinton, IA
Elmer and Carolyn Veldhuizen
Iowa
Mr. and Mrs. Tim Westrum
Iowa
Jon Michael Bour
Iowa
Phil Roe
Eldora, Iowa
Julie Roe
Eldora, IA
Dr. Richard P. Bose
Iowa
Marilyn Bose
Iowa
Jaclyn Fleming
Iowa
Ray & Donna Seehusen
Pocahontas, IA
Don Herr
Cedar Rapids, IA
Lorie J. Wittmaack
Linn Grove, IA
William C. Schuster
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Rick Freeze
Des Moines, IA
James E. Hankes
Keokuk, IA
Dick and Dorothy Schlitter
Onawa, IA
Roger Sutton
Eldora, IA
Jim Littrel
Rhodes, IA
Doriano Rossi
Des Moines, IA
David Harwell
Des Moines, IA
Dr. Richard P Bose
Estherville, IA
Marilyn A Bose
Esterville, IA
Lee Bader
Jesup, IA
Todd Speck
Clive, IA
Alvin and Kay Greenwood
Dubuque, IA

Iowa's Mayors Sign Up Against America's Mayor

John McCain's not winning the money race so far (number three among the Repubs by my count). But it appears he's leading the pack when it comes to signing up Iowa's mayors (for whatever that's worth). Here's the release...

ARLINGTON, VA – U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today unveiled their Iowa Mayors for McCain leadership team, which includes twenty-three mayors from throughout the Hawkeye State.

"John McCain is a strong leader who is best prepared to win the War on Terror and protect America’s interests in the world," Dyersville Mayor Jim Heavens said. "I am honored to join with my fellow mayors in endorsing a proven, pragmatic, pro-life conservative like John McCain."

The Mayors for McCain leadership team is comprised of mayors from both rural and urban communities and draws upon each of Iowa’s five congressional districts. The mayors will use their experience to help spread John McCain’s reform message in their communities and provide strategic guidance to the campaign on local issues.

Senator John McCain expressed his appreciation for the support of these Iowa mayors. "These individuals are influential leaders and committed public servants who have earned the respect of their constituents," said Senator McCain. "They will be invaluable advocates for our campaign as we continue to spread my common sense conservative message across Iowa."

###
Iowa Mayors Supporting JOHN McCain
George Andersen – Nora Springs
Rick Anderson – Asbury
Mike Blake – Clarence
William Christensen – Toledo
Ron Colling – Manning
Nelson Crabb – Clear Lake
Darrell Dobernecker - Pella
Darrell Downs – Marcus
Jeff Fiscus – Alden
Thomas Ginger – Sanborn
Sandra Hatfield – West Branch
Marvin Hearn – Dumont
Jim Heavens – Dyersville
Dennis Kunkle – Guthrie Center
Lon Larsen – Reinbeck
Ron Minten – Alton
Virgil Murray – Bellevue
John Nieland – Marion
Nels Nord – Huxley
Reynold Peterson – Spencer
Ruth Randleman – Carlisle
Steve Samuels – Humboldt
Lary Wyckoff – Bedford

Where's the Breck Girl When You Need Her?

A producer came into our newsroom asking for hair spray. I assumed there was some type of joke on the way...you know, about tv anchors or reporters. Nope, turned out a guest needed some. Tom Tancredo. We gave him a few squirts. Is that a campaign contribution?

BTW, Tancredo's making his official announcement Monday morning in Des Moines on Jan Mickelson's show on WHO radio.

Tommy Thompson officially joins the ranks of candidates Sunday a.m. He'll announce again in Des Moines Wednesday a.m. So there's the pre-announcement, the announcement and the re-announcement. No wonder these campaigns have to start so early.

Speaking of this campaigning, Hillary Clinton's coming back next week. She'll head to Mt. Pleasant. Any guesses who will stand by her side in that town? Perhaps, the man she's helping to get out of debt...Oh, wait, that's not happening anymore.

Who Wants to Pay Da Bills?

Tom Vilsack runs for President. Tom Vilsack drops out. Tom Vilsack's in debt. Tom Vilsack endorses Hillary Clinton (let's forget about the whole Iraq difference for now). Hillary Clinton's peeps say she'll help Vilsack pay off debt. Tom Vilsack says no, she won't. Now, what?

I sat down with Iowa's former Gov today. He told me Mrs. C is not going to help with his red bank account ($430,000 or so in debt). Monday night, Clinton's camp said she would help Vilsack find some money. The campaign emphasized the endorsement didn't come with a price; no payback here.

But Vilsack maintains he's taken out a personal loan to pay off his bills, and he will pay it back in whatever time it takes (he wanted to make sure he paid his staff a final two weeks' pay and benefits after he closed down his campaign).

So from where will all this money come? Vilsack says he has friends in Iowa who are strongly supporting Clinton, but who also think he did a good job as Gov. They will help him pay his bills. Clinton's campaign says pretty much the same thing today as Monday: the Clintons and Vilsacks are friends and have been friends for decades. The Senator's willing to do what she can to help her friend, Tom Vilsack. So is she helping him with this or not?

(Courtesy: Orlando Journal-Sentinel)

On a lighter front (or tanner front/back)...if you were wondering where Vilsack got that clearly not-from-Iowa-right-now tan, he says he spent some time at the Spring Training site of his beloved Pittsburgh Pirates in Bradenton, Florida. Vilsack's friends with the Bucs' owner.

Vilsack says the last time he went to a Pirates' spring game, the team had a winning year (it was something like 15 years ago). He's predicting another one this time. The Underdog flies again.

Clinton Calling for Cash, Not Just For Her

Your phone rings and Hillary Clinton's on the other end. She wants money. But not just for her. She's agreed to help Tom Vilsack pay off the big bucks he owes after his failed attempt to become President (I hear it's about $430,000 and he's determined to pay staffers for all their dedication). Clinton's peeps say this is NOT (emphasis added to reflect what I heard on the phone from the campaign) a payback. She's not paying off his debt in exchange for his endorsement.

Other democratic campaigns are also (gladly) pointing to South Carolina right now. Darrell Jackson, a state senator there, and apparently a pretty influential lawmaker...at least, that's what I read, also endorsed Clinton. He's now getting $10,000 a month to consult the campaign. The Clinton campaign also denies any type of deal for his endorsement.

Elizabeth Edwards Health Announcement

Thursday morning at 11 Central time, we should know more about the health of Elizabeth Edwards. The campaign says both Mrs. and Senator John Edwards will hold a news conference in North Carolina to discuss her health.

I talked with the Des Moines office around 10:30 pm Wednesday. (They were still working, by the way) Press Secretary Mark McCullough directed me to the national office, which isn't saying much more about what's happening.

I had expected to talk with Senator Edwards Tuesday night during a house party in Indianola. But just two hours before the wine and cheese party was scheduled to start, the Senator called the host to say he had to cancel. Edwards said his wife got some unexpected news from the doctor following her checkup earlier in the day and he had to fly back home right away.

Edwards' campaign seemed to have a different spin on what was transpiring. A release said Mrs. Edwards just had a routine followup appointment scheduled for Wednesday and that the Senator wanted to be with her, since he usually accompanies her to the doctor. That take seemed a lot less urgent than what I was told from the site of the house party.

Let's hope all the worry is unneeded. Let's hope Mrs. Edwards breast cancer isn't back. Let's hope we don't have to watch the Senator halt his campaign while his wife gets treatment. Let's hope everything is really o.k. Let's hope.

Edwards Skips Iowa Event; Another Cancer Scare?

John Edwards is skipping an Indianola house party event tonight to fly back to his wife, who's battling breast cancer. I talked to Ray Walton, the man hosting the wine and cheese event. He said Edwards called him about 4pm, about two hours before the party was scheduled to start. Walton said Senator Edwards told him Elizabeth got some unexpected test results back from the doctor and he had to fly back home immediately.

The campaign called supporters who had planned on going to the party to say the Senator hoped to reschedule the event soon.

Here's the campaign's take on it:

JOHN EDWARDS FOR PRESIDENT STATEMENT ON CANCELLATION OF INDIANOLA EVENT

Chapel Hill, North Carolina - The John Edwards for President campaign released the following statement about the cancellation of Senator Edwards' house party tonight in Indianola, Iowa.

"Mrs. Edwards is having a follow-up medical appointment tomorrow to a routine test she had on Monday. She's had similar follow-ups in the past and they've all resulted in a clean bill of health, but Senator Edwards has gone with her to these appointments and he wanted to be with her tomorrow too."

You're Hired, Part III

Ah, the relaxation of retirement. First, Tom Vilsack retired as Governor, and then he retired as a Presidential candidate. Tomorrow, we find out about another way he'll stay busy. Vilsack's already taken a part time teaching position with Drake University and a consultant's position with MidAmerican Energy. Now, this...(it just arrived courtesy of the Iowa Senate Democrats)

Former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack Appointed to the Institute For Tomorrow’s Workforce Board

11:00 a.m., Tuesday, March 20, 2007

What: Iowa Senate President John (Jack) Kibbie will announce the appointment of Thomas J. Vilsack, former Governor of Iowa, to the Institute For Tomorrow’s Workforce (ITW) Board of Directors.

The Institute for Tomorrow’s Workforce (ITW), a state-level non-profit foundation, was created by the Iowa legislature in 2005 to develop recommendations for quality educational opportunities for all Iowa’s learners pre-K through post-secondary to meet the workforce needs of Iowa in the global economy and to assure their success in the 21st Century.

The three areas under consideration this legislative session are: statewide standards and clear, 21st-century learning expectations for all students; standards and benchmarks for a quality educational delivery system; and implementing the 2001 Career Ladder for teachers with professional levels of compensation.

Mac at the Mic

I counted about a dozen times I heard John McCain use Ronald Reagan's name during his town hall meeting in Ames. Coincidence or concerted effort to win over the nostalgic conservatives?

In fact, he even said Reagan's the reason he got into politics. And he used one of Reagan's famous Iowa lines...that (while Reagan was Prez) he hadn't seen that much pork since he was giving out the Blue Ribbons at the Iowa State Fair. The line brought a few laughs.

I also got some time to sit down with the Sen. and his wife for a bit. We're putting that story together to run Monday night at 10pm. They talked about why he's trying to be a player in Iowa this time, what the Mrs. sees around the house that'll make her hubby a good Prez, and how they escape the campaign. (They also gave me a honeymoon destination suggestion. Thanks, btw)

As you know, McCain likes to drop a few funnies on the trail. Here's one, along with a little slip of the tongue...

The funny came after a series of annoyingly loud "pops" by the microphone McCain was using at the town hall..

Here's a cell phone pic I snapped off while riding on The Straight Talk Express from The Iowa Statehouse to the town hall meeting in Ames.

Two V.I.P.'s made the trip, one current, one former. That's Minnesota Gov Tim Pawlenty in the back and former metro U.S. Rep. Greg Ganske.

McCoy Indicted: Dems to the Defense?

Those long-whispered rumors about trouble for Des Moines Senator Matt McCoy got a lot louder with a criminal indictment. The U.S. Attorney's office charged him with one count of extortion.

The attorney charged that McCoy used his power as a public official to threaten a former business partner and extort money out of him (the feds say they provided the money). The two men were setting up a private company that puts motion detectors in a home so you can check on elderly relatives over the internet.

McCoy told me he doesn't recall any threat (which the feds say are recorded during a secret taping with McCoy's former biz partner) McCoy does say it was a "heated argument" but that he doesn't recall exactly what was said. The feds say McCoy wanted money or he'd make sure his former partner wouldn't get the state contract to buy the equipment for Medicaid patients.

How are the dems coming to McCoy's defense? Here's what top dem Mike Gronstal had to say in a news release this afternoon:

A Statement from Senate Democratic Leader Mike Gronstal Regarding the indictment of State Senator Matt McCoy

"Iowans want, expect, and deserve to have their legislators function in a way that meets a high ethical standard. Senate Democrats are committed to ensuring that all our members meet those high ethical standards.

"Naturally, we are concerned about the criminal indictment against Senator McCoy. If true, these are serious charges.

"Obviously, like any other U.S. citizen, Senator McCoy is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
"In consultation with Senator McCoy, we will continue to monitor this matter to assure there are no real or perceived conflicts of interest as it relates to his ongoing legislative duties."

I was searching for a McCoy pic and found this. Who knew Lloyd Braun's real name is also Matt McCoy?

Holy Smokes, What's Up, Chuck?

So just how close will that vote be tomorrow at the Statehouse to up the cig tax? Governor Chet Culver with his Catholic, former smoker, Lt Gov Patty Judge, by his side, told us that the Catholics are behind the effort. That's an argument I haven't heard so far in this debate. But Tom Chapman, the Exec Director of The Iowa Catholic Conference, said this is a pro-life issue. A higher cig tax will stop people from smoking, so it will save lives and it will help insure the uninsured and Catholics, he says, believe in covering the uninsured.

Jamie Van Fossen, the anti-taxer and Catholic Republican Rep. from Davenport, called the approach, "interesting". He doesn't remember learning the parable in Church of the importance of raising taxes.

How about that announcement-that-he'll-make-his-announcement-later from Chuck Hagel today? Sunday night, I was thinking of pitching to my boss to send me to Omaha to cover Hagel's 10 a.m. address. I assumed Hagel would announce he was running. Instead, he's going to think it over with his family and decide later. Sure glad I never called my boss last night...

Hail to the Chiefly Coiffeured

His hair could be "too perfect", voters worry about the Mormon thing and he needs to differentiate himself from the Prez with "intelligence". Those all come from an internal PowerPoint presentation connected to the Mitt Romney campaign, according to today's story in The Boston Globe. The Globe already published a story on the Romney polygamist family tree.

Check out his hair, what he thinks of "non-believers" and find out just how smart he is...Tuesday night at 10 on tv. We air a 1-on-1 interview with Romney. Good planning, eh?

P-U-S-H

A nice neighbor named Tiffany snapped this. The snow storm got us stuck in the Merle Hay Neighborhood in Des Moines. But neighbors helped push us out. I'm in the back with the rest.
But...that's not quite the side of me I like to show on camera.

Debate, Part 23

This comes from our cable cousin. Here's the release from ISU...

MSNBC to telecast presidential debate at Iowa State

AMES, Iowa/SECAUCUS, N.J. – MSNBC will telecast a Republican presidential candidates debate live from Iowa State University Nov. 6, 2007, university and network officials announced today. The debate also will be streamed live on MSNBC.com.

"We’re pleased to partner with Iowa State University to provide this important forum for the candidates prior to the first-in-the-nation Iowa presidential nominating caucuses," said Dan Abrams, general manager of MSNBC.

The evening debate will be held at Stephens Auditorium, a 2,700-seat performing arts theater that has hosted a number of nationally broadcast political and news programs. Details of the debate, including start time and the moderator, have not been finalized.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for our students and the people of Iowa to be involved in the presidential race, and we’re glad the nation will be watching on MSNBC," said Gregory Geoffroy, president of Iowa State.

In September 2006, Geoffroy announced that Iowa State would hold Democratic and Republican debates prior to the Iowa caucuses. Iowa State continues to plan a debate for Democratic candidates, but other announced debates may affect those plans.

Lights, Camera, Smokes

What a whirlwind trip to L.A. Everyone here's giving me crap about the glorious trip to the West Coast. Sure, the weather was good. O.K., it was really good. But unfortunately, there wasn't much time to check out the city (it was my first trip there). I never even got to see the Hollywood sign.

Tom Vilsack told me several times he wasn't nervous about being on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno, even though about six million people watch that show each night (There were far fewer likely watching when Vilsack actually appeared since they buried him deep into the show) If he wasn't nervous, he was a little "different", it seemed to me. He's not usually the most outgoing guy, but, at the least, he was very focused on his appearance.

What did you think of it? His six minutes of fame were full of self-deprecation. He mentioned how the margin of error in the polls are higher than his numbers. Leno and Jim Carrey got some digs in on him, too. Leno got on him about his small traveling staff with him (I think Leno said it was two guys and a Hertz rental car). I'm curious what the masses thought of it. Did they think Vilsack came off humble or did they think he came off as a guy who accepts that he has no chance to win?

Speaking of governors...I asked Chet Culver what happened after he "outed" his wife as a smoker last week. Apparently, he's not been confined to the Terrace Hill doghouse. But when I asked whether his wife would quit, all he could say was, "we'll see."

Here's...Vilsack

Man, is it nice here in L.A. The sun, the palm trees, the fact that it's not below zero! My officemates were none too kind to me when they found out I was headed out here.

Last night, we got to walk around the set of the Tonight Show with Jay Leno. Damn, it's cool! We had weather delays in Chicago flying here, so we got here later than we wanted. But it's been worth the wait.

Vilsack will get here late this afternoon (They tape the show at 4:30 L.A. time). He's flying in from northern California for the show. After his big energy speech in San Fran earlier this week, he's been doing fundraising across the state. He'll obviously have to do a ton of that just to even raise a fraction of the big dems in his party like Clinton, Obama and Edwards.

Vilsack's staff says it's been prepping him for Leno tonight. Staffmembers pulled old Leno jokes to get Vilsack ready. Here are a few of them...

"IOWA GOVERNOR TOM VILSACK ANNOUNCED HE'S RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT
IN 2008. WHAT KIND OF NAME IS THAT? VILSACK? DOESN'T THAT SOUND
LIKE SOME KIND OF MEDICAL PROBLEM OLD GUYS GET? 'I'M WILFORD BRIMLEY.
HAVE YOU GOT AN ENLARGED VILSACK? SEE YOUR DOCTOR.'

EARLIER TODAY IN IOWA, IOWA GOVERNOR TOM VILSACK OFFICIALLY ANNOUNCED HE IS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT. HE SAID HIS #1 PRIORITY FORAMERICA-TO GET
PEOPLE TO STOP GIGGLING AT THE NAME 'VILSACK.'

FORMER GOVERNOR MIKE HUCKABEE, OF ARKANSAS, IS ALSO RUNNING
FOR PRESIDENT. SEE, WITH HUCKABEE IN THE RACE, THIS WILL GIVE TOM VILSACK
A CHANCE TO MOVE UP THE LIST OF UNKNOWN CANDIDATES."

You'll remember Vilsack brought out the Aflac duck for his appearance on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart. I'm told he'll be prop-less tonight. But Jim Carrey's on the show. That should beat a duck any day.

Obamarama

Hillarymania vs. Obamamania. Crowdwise, give the edge to Obama in Round 1. I'm told the 5-6,000 people in Ames surpassed nearly everyone's expectations (the crowd doubled Hillary's turnout for her big announcement rally in Des Moines).

Obama didn't, however, cover much new ground. I seem to remember many of his lines from his appearance at the Harkin Steak Fry last fall. Ironically, Obama chastised the media before his speech at Hilton Coliseum for reporting only about his skills as a public speaker (and he mentioned doing stories about how he looks in a swimsuit), instead of focusing on the substance of his speeches.

For you music lovers, Obama entered Hilton to the sounds of "Give the People What They Want " (The O'Jays). And following his speech's last word, the crowd enjoyed "Your Love Keeps Lifting Me" (Jackie Wilson).

Here's Tommy...Tom Vilsack makes his debut on The Tonight Show this Thursday. Jim Carrey's also a guest. Wonder if they'll sit on the couch next to each other?

Caucus to Roll Out the Red Cape?

Don't get your panties in a wad, but the Gov's not a big fan of bringing Britney Spears' to town. Local organizers (including Blank Park Zoo head honcho Terry Rich) are trying to put together a Kennedy Center Honors-type show filmed in the metro to kick off next year's caucuses.

Rich floated Britney's name a few months ago as a possibility to headline the event that would be taped about a month before the Caucuses and then aired nationwide the night before the Caucuses begin. National press wasn't all that kind to the idea of bringing in the pantiless pop star.

Gov Culver told me he does like the idea of a national show. He thinks it adds to the excitement of the event, could hopefully get more people involved and could show off Iowa to a national audience at a time when other states are really working to steal the state's first-in-the-nation honor of starting the prez picking process.

But the Gov says he'd like organizers to focus their efforts on Iowa talent. He mentioned Superman (Brandon Routh, the man who's now playing him in the movies, is a Norwalk native) as a possibility. What about Tom Arnold? He's a friend of the Gov. Terry Rich says he hopes to know more about who's in, if there's an event at all, by June or July.