The Romney Vision: Seeing Is Believing - The Romney Agenda Trumps Dem Liberal Debate Pandering

Tuesday, Jul 24, 2007

"[Democrats] think about big government, big taxes and Big Brother. That's the same course Europe has taken over the last couple of decades that has led to a level of growth far below our own." – Gov. Mitt Romney (Lisa Rossi, "Romney Blasts Obama, Others," The Des Moines Register, 7/21/07)

Romney's Vision Of A Stronger Defense Vs. Defeatist Democrats

Gov. Romney Stresses The Importance Of Winning In Iraq And Defeating Radical Islam Globally. "The congressional debate in Washington has largely, and myopically, focused on whether troops should be redeployed from Iraq to Afghanistan, as if these were isolated issues. Yet the jihad is much broader than any one nation, or even several nations. ... The jihadist threat is the defining challenge of our generation and is symptomatic of a range of new global realities." (Gov. Mitt Romney, "Rising To A New Generation Of Global Challenges," Foreign Affairs, July/August 2007)

But Sen. Hillary Clinton Claims The U.S. Has Already Lost In Afghanistan To Al Qaeda And Bin Laden. SEN. HILLARY CLINTON: "We've got to figure out what we're doing in Iraq, where our troops are stretched thin, and Afghanistan, where we're losing the fight to al Qaeda and bin Laden." (CNN/YouTube, Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Charleston, SC, 7/23/07)

While Sen. Barack Obama Would Jump At The Chance To Meet With Dictators In Iran, Syria, Venezuela, Cuba And North Korea. YOUTUBE QUESTION: "...would you be willing to meet separately, without precondition, during the first year of your administration, in Washington or anywhere else, with the leaders of Iran, Syria, Venezuela, Cuba and North Korea, in order to bridge the gap that divides our countries?" ... SENATOR BARACK OBAMA: "I would. And the reason is this, that the notion that somehow not talking to countries is punishment to them -- which has been the guiding diplomatic principle of this administration -- is ridiculous." (CNN/YouTube, Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Charleston, SC, 7/23/07)

Romney's Vision Of A Stronger Economy Vs. Tax-And-Spend Democrats

Gov. Romney Believes Lower Taxes Lead To A Stronger American Economy. GOV. MITT ROMNEY: "Raising taxes will slow down the economy, will make it more and more difficult to create jobs here. It's the wrong direction. The right direction is always to bring tax rates down. If you believe that the strength of America flows from government, then you want more taxes. But if you believe that the strength of America flows from the American people, you want to hold their taxes down for themselves and for the employers that employ them." (Fox News Channel's "Hannity & Colmes," 4/4/07)

But Sen. Joe Biden Would Raise Taxes, Rolling Back The Bush Tax Cuts. SEN. JOE BIDEN: "First of all, change the tax structure. We are giving people tax breaks who don't need it. The top 1 percent got an $85 billion a year tax break. It is not needed. My dad used to have an expression -- don't tell me what you value; show me your budget. And the budget we have here is we all dance around it. We need more revenue to be able to pay for the things the governor and everybody else talks about. And there's only one way to do it. You either raise taxes or take tax cuts away from people who don't need them. I'd take them away from people who don't need them." (CNN/YouTube, Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Charleston, SC, 7/23/07)

While Sen. John Edwards Would Create A Big Government-Run Health Insurance Program, Paid For By Taxpayers. SEN. JOHN EDWARDS: "No, because the only way to provide universal coverage is to mandate that everyone be covered. But I want to say, you know, I came out with a universal plan several months ago. A couple of months later, Senator Obama came out with a plan. He's made a very serious proposal, and I'm not casting aspersions on his plan. I think it's a very serious proposal. It just doesn't cover everybody. The only way to cover everybody is to mandate it." (CNN/YouTube, Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Charleston, SC, 7/23/07)

Romney's Vision Of Stronger Families Vs. Out-Of-The-Mainstream Democrats

Gov. Romney Believes A Stronger American Family Leads To A Stronger America. GOV. MITT ROMNEY: "How is the American family made stronger? With marriage before children. With a mother and a father in the life of every child. With healthcare that is affordable and portable. With schools that succeed. With taxes that are lower. And with leaders who strive to demonstrate enduring values and morality." (Gov. Mitt Romney, Presidential Announcement, Dearborn, MI, 2/13/07)

But Sen. Barack Obama Supports Sex Education For Kindergarteners, And Wrongly Claimed That Gov. Mitt Romney Does, Too. CNN's ANDERSON COOPER: "Senator Obama, Mitt Romney has accused you this week of saying that 5-year-old children should be getting sex education. Was he right?" SEN. BARACK OBAMA: "Ironically, this was actually a proposal that he himself said he supported when he was running for governor of Massachusetts. ... I've got a 9-year-old daughter and a 6-year-old daughter. And I want them to know if somebody is doing something wrong to them, encroaching on their privacy, that they should come talk to me or my wife. And we've had that conversation, but not every parent is going to have that conversation with their child, and I think it's important that every child does, to make sure that they're not subject to the sexual predators." (CNN/YouTube, Democrat Presidential Candidate Debate, Charleston, SC, 7/23/07)

- In Fact, Sen. Obama Specifically Called For Sex-Ed In Kindergarten, Which Gov. Romney Did Not Support. "The Romney campaign is saying there is a difference here. Kevin Madden, Romney's national spokesman says, 'Obama specifically advocated sex-ed for small children in kindergarten.' Undaunted today, Romney said the following in South Carolina about Obama: 'Senator Obama is wrong if he thinks science-based sex education has any place in kindergarten.'" (David Brody, "Kindergarten Cop: Romney Versus Obama," CBN's The Brody File, www.cbn.com/CBNnews/198676.aspx, Posted 7/19/07) 

- The Legislation Sen. Obama Voted For In Illinois Went Even Further – Calling For STD Prevention To Be Taught In Kindergarten. Illinois Senate Bill 99, which Obama supported in the 93rd Assembly (2003-2004), reads, in part: "...whenever such courses of instruction are provided in any of grades K through 12, then such courses also shall include age appropriate instruction on the prevention of sexually transmitted infections, including the prevention, transmission and spread of HIV." (IL General Assembly Website, www.ilga.gov/legislation/, Accessed 7/24/07)

How Edwards And Thompson Are Just Alike

By RICHARD COHEN | Posted Monday, July 23, 2007 4:30 PM PT
 
Fred Thompson has stepped out of character. To much of America, he is Arthur Branch, the district attorney he portrays on the TV series "Law and Order." Branch is a straight shooter, a no-nonsense kind of guy who says what he means and means what he says. In contrast, the actor who plays him can be quite a different man. I don't think Arthur Branch would vote for Fred Thompson.

Branch's problem, as well as my own, is that Thompson does not always tell the truth. He clearly did not when it was revealed that, back when he was a lobbyist, he worked for a family planning outfit. Such honorable work is, of course, verboten to most Republicans, and so, for understandable but inexcusable reasons, Thompson — through a spokesman — lied.

There are nicer words, I know, but when you give the impression that what is true is false, that is a lie. Arthur Branch would understand.

"Fred Thompson did not lobby for this group, period," spokesman Mark Corallo said in an e-mail to the Los Angeles Times. A bit later, Thompson himself tried the old disparagement dodge: "I'd just say the flies get bigger in the summertime. I guess the flies are buzzing.'" Arthur Branch would see through this folksy piece of evasion and note not only that Thompson now denies nothing, but that flies buzz around BS.

It hardly matters to me that Thompson once lobbied for the National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association. But the issue is not abortion, but truthfulness, candor, honesty — call it what you will. The impression we're entitled to take away from this episode is that when faced with some unpleasant truth, Thompson fibs. It ain't nice. It certainly ain't presidential.

Lest you think I am some sort of partisan hack, I have similar misgivings about John Edwards and his $400 haircuts. Here, too, the issue is not what he paid his barber, but his apparent willingness to trim the truth. He can't (I can't stop myself) brush that away.

Not that Edwards hasn't tried. His spokeswoman, Colleen Murray, also attempted the old disparagement trick, comparing the haircut imbroglio to matters of cosmic importance. "Breaking news — John Edwards got some expensive haircuts and probably didn't pay enough attention to the bills," she said. "He didn't lie about weapons of mass destruction or spring Scooter Libby; he just got some expensive haircuts."

Yes, he did. And he got them over and over again, sometimes summoning hairstylist Joseph Torrenueva of Beverly Hills to appointments on the campaign trail. When that happened, Edwards not only had to pay for the haircut, but for Torrenueva's airfare and hotel. A session during the 2004 race cost $1,250. On at least one occasion, Edwards paid the $400 personally.

Contrast this detailed account of Edwards' relationship with Torrenueva with the candidate's initial explanation. Edwards said he had no idea that the haircuts were so expensive and that — in a reprise of Bill Clinton's reference to Monica Lewinsky as "that woman" — called Torrenueva "that guy." You do not talk about your hairstylist like that. "When he called me 'that guy,' that hit my ears. It hurt," Torrenueva told the Washington Post's John Solomon.

Both Edwards and Thompson have something in common: They are all image. Neither has accomplished very much in public life. They are both ex-senators whose names are attached to no famous pieces of legislation.

They have built no constituencies on the basis of their legislative records, and so they apparently feel they cannot afford to admit an inconsistency — pro-choice lobbying by a proclaimed pro-lifer, or Euro-trashy indulgence by the proclaimed avatar of the poor.

FDR was a Hudson River patroon and Robert F. Kennedy had his mansion at Hickory Hill, but both had earned the trust of the poor by their evident sincerity and good works. Edwards ain't there yet. As for Thompson, he may be a good man, but for the moment he's more famous as an actor on television than as the champion of conservatives everywhere.

All presidents lie sooner or later. But Thompson and Edwards are not trimming for any noble purpose of state; they are just trying to protect a political persona that is somewhat concocted in the first place. Their rebuttals don't inspire trust or strength, and give us reason to worry.

It's a long campaign, and there's time for both men to prove that they are of sterling character. In the meantime, though, they both hit the counter with the hollow sound of a counterfeit coin.

Mitt Romney's Education Policy


Press Releases, Quotes, Speeches, and Videos from Mitt Romney about Education organized by year

 

 

Education

  1. Brian Lamb
    1. In you history, it includes Stanford for how long?
    2. You finished first in your class at Brigham Young University in Utah?
    3. Why did you go to Brigham Young ?
    4. How did you -- how were able to get an MBA and a law degree at the same time ?
    5. And clearly it would be why you did well and, as you know, you finished well enough to give the valedictory address -- the question I want to ask you though is why do you think you did well? Other than having a lot of brainpower, did you have an approach to education?

 

Governor Mitt Romney and Education

 

  • "The least of learning is done in the classrooms."
    • Thomas Merton

 

  • "I have never let my schooling interfere with my education."
    • Mark Twain

 

  • "My education was dismal. I went to a series of schools for mentally disturbed teachers."
    • Woody Allen

Major Speeches

 

 

 

Educational Advancement

 

One of Governor Romney's top priorities is reforming the education system so that young people can compete for good paying jobs in the global economy of the future. In 2004, Governor Romney established the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Program to reward the top 25 percent of Massachusetts high school students with a four-year, tuition-free scholarship to any Massachusetts public university or college. He also championed a package of education reforms, including merit pay, an emphasis on math and science instruction, important new intervention programs for failing schools and English immersion for foreign-speaking students.

 

Major Press Releases

 

 

2006 Governor Mitt Romney Education Press Releases

 

 

2005 Governor Mitt Romney Education Press Releases

 

 

2004 Governor Mitt Romney Education Pree Releases

 

  • 01-15-2004, Romney focuses on education in 2004 state of the state
  • 01-16-2004, Romney targets lowest performing districts
  • 01-20-2004, Romney opens door to college for top scoring students
  • 02-20-2004, Romney applauds students for early MCAS preparation
  • 02-25-2004, Romney endorses findings of Grogan task force on education
  • 05-05-2004, Romney vows charter school moratorium veto
  • 06-15-2004, Board of higher ED overwhelmingly okays Adams scholarship
  • 07-28-2004, Romney, as part of ED agenda, signs school building reforms
  • 10-05-2004, Healey recognizes 2004 commonwealth compass schools
  • 10-19-2004, Board of higher ED gives green light to Adams scholarship
  • 12-10-2004, 13,000 Massachusetts students win free college tuition

 

2003 Governor Mitt Romney Education Pree Releases

 

 

2006 Governor Mitt Romney Education Quotes

 

  • "At some point, I think America -- and, importantly, the minority communities -- are going to say, 'it's time to split with our friends, the unions and the Democratic Party, and put our kids first here.' Unequal educational opportunity is the civil rights issue of our time."

 

  • "The world is growing more competitive every day, and it's no secret that skills, education and knowledge will be crucial to success in the workforce of the 21st century," said Romney. "Unless our kids are fully prepared to meet the challenges that lie ahead, Massachusetts will fall behind in the competition for the best jobs."

 

  • "The men and women of the Massachusetts National Guard perform admirable service for our Commonwealth and for our nation," said Romney. "By making a public college education entirely free for Guard members, we recognize their tremendous dedication and sacrifice."

 

2005 Governor Mitt Romney Education Quotes

 

  • "We cannot continue to have an excellence gap with the rest of the world and intend to remain the economic superpower and military superpower of the planet. That's just not going to happen. We're in a position where unless we take action, we'll end up being the France of the 21st century: a lot of talk, but not a lot of strength behind it in terms of economic capability."

 

 

  • "It's going to take teachers, superintendents and parents talking to their legislators saying yes, we want more money of course ... but we also want changes in the way our schools are managed. We want our principals to have the ability to manage their schools."

 

 

  • "I am grateful to each of these individuals for volunteering their time and expertise to helping my Administration successfully integrate all of our early education services under one roof," Romney said. "Not only will this new agency ensure that taxpayer dollars are being spent more wisely and efficiently, it will also improve the care we provide to our youngest citizens and their families."

 

  • "This is a great day for education reform. Massachusetts is nationally recognized for its leadership on education reform, and we need to continue down the same path if we're going to help our kids maximize their potential."

 

  • "This is a huge shot in the arm for our public colleges and universities. By targeting these resources to construct new facilities and upgrade existing ones, we can put our higher education system in a position to deliver the first class facilities that our students deserve."

 

  • "I applaud the students, teachers and staff of these excellent schools for the hard work and creativity they have demonstrated as we continue making progress toward higher achievement for all students in Massachusetts," Romney said.

 

  • "If we're serious about keeping our kids at the forefront of a highly challenging and competitive world economy, then we have to take the necessary steps to energize our education system," said Romney.

 

  • "We're making progress, there's no doubt about it, but we have more work to do. These test scores reflect the hard work and creativity of our students, teachers and schools, but they also reveal that some are still struggling. It is increasingly critical that we advance bold reforms to ensure greater accountability and performance in every classroom."

 

  • "teachers like Jasmine Lellock and Thabiti Brown are critical to the success of our education initiatives and are doing an outstanding job preparing our children for future success in the classroom and the world," Romney said. "Teaching professionals are the backbone of our educational system and the best should be recognized and rewarded."

 

  • "Our Presidential Award nominees set a great example, not only for educators in Massachusetts, but for the nation," Romney said. "Distinguished math and science teachers like these are the critical components of a public education system that will prepare us for the next century, and they deserve to be recognized for their hard work, creativity and dedication."

 

  • "Paying for college is one of the largest financial challenges facing Massachusetts families," said Romney. "For the second year in a row, I'm pleased to reward some of our most promising and hardworking students. When it comes to figuring out how much it will cost to send a son or daughter to college, the Adams scholarship will help ease some of that burden."

 

2004 Governor Mitt Romney and Education Quotes

 

  • "Massachusetts has some of the best schools and teachers in the nation," Romney said, speaking tonight from the historic House Chamber at the State House. " Education reform, adopted a decade ago, raised standards and closed funding gaps. But it was the first step, not the last."

 

  • "We're horribly backlogged in renovating and rebuilding old and dilapidated schools," Romney said. "I will propose a series of construction reforms and a refinancing program that will jumpstart over 100 new and remodeled school projects."

 

  • "Legacy of Learning puts people first, kids first. We'll be putting our money where our future is," Romney said.

 

  • "There are critical investments we can and should make in our children," Romney said. "But those investments will only be made possible if we continue down the road to reform. I hope you will join with me in working for change."

 

  • "Families all across the Commonwealth are struggling to pay to send their children to college," Romney said. "The new Adams scholarship will make the dream of obtaining a college education a reality for thousands of Bay State students and keep our most talented students right here in Massachusetts."

 

  • "We can praise the virtues of parental involvement all day, but until we actually get parents to follow through we are simply singing to an empty music hall. Voluntary programs will not get the job done. It is essential that mandatory training be put in place. This will not be a strain on parent who are already hard-pressed, as some have suggested. This is mandatory counseling they are already receiving. We are simply updating it with information they will need to make their child's education a success."

 

  • "I am committed to unlocking the potential of every child, no matter which school they attend," Romney said. "Our children cannot wait for slow, methodic changes. They need our help now and this report will serve as a blueprint for immediate reform."

 

  • "Let there be no doubt, I will veto any charter school moratorium that reaches my desk," said Romney, appearing at Roxbury Preparatory Charter School with parents of children affected by the proposed moratorium.

 

  • "Families all across the Commonwealth are struggling to afford to send their children to college," Romney said, during a rare appearance before a meeting of the Board of Higher Education. "The new Adams scholarship will make the dream of obtaining a college education a reality for thousands of Bay State students and keep our most talented students right here in Massachusetts."

 

  • "Massachusetts has often been at the forefront of educational reform. In the spirit of that reform, less than seven months ago, I stood in the House Chamber surrounded by members of the General Court and asked them in my State of the State address to work with me to 'take every step, to prepare every child, for an ever more competitive future,'" said Romney. He added, "The centerpiece of my Legacy of Learning initiative included an ambitious school building program. Today I am pleased to say that, working with the Legislature, we delivered on that promise."

 

Mitt Romney's education related press releases while governor of Massachusetts.

 

2003

 

  • "Seeing this groundswell of student support only boosts my belief that what we are trying to do in our higher education system is right," Romney said. "I am committed to our plan, which guarantees quality, affordability and accessibility to all of our campuses for all Massachusetts residents."

 

  • "education reform is working in Massachusetts," Romney said. "I am proud of the progress shown by our students," said Romney. "My Administration will continue to push for high standards that will restore the value of a high school diploma and better prepare our students for life after school."

 

  • "We need to get our underperforming school districts back on track. It is time for the interests of the entrenched educational bureaucracy to take a back seat to the interests of our children and teachers."

 

 


Mitt Romney's Wikipedia education Entry

In 2004, Governor Mitt Romney established the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Program to reward the top 25 percent of Massachusetts high school students with a four-year, tuition-free scholarship to Massachusetts' state university or colleges. He has also drafted other education reforms, including the recruitment of 1,000 skilled math and science instructors, bonuses of as much as $15,000 a year for top-performing teachers, and new intervention programs for failing schools.

 

Additionally, Romney began advocating for a nationwide focus on education through the recruitment of and better pay for math and science teachers, and allowing state governments to take control of underperforming schools after three instead of the six-year period that is now in place.

 

Speaking of the education provided to minority students, Romney said, "I really believe that the failure of our urban schools and, in some cases our suburban schools, to help minority students achieve the levels that are necessary for success in the workplace is the civil rights issue of our time."

 

In 1994 Romney, as a candidate for US Senate, pledged to vote to establish a means-tested school voucher program to allow students to attend the public or private school of their choice. He also supported abolishing the federal Department of education and favored keeping control of educational reform at the lowest level, closest to parents, teachers, and the community (Boston Globe review of 1994 campaign issues Mar 21, 2002)

 

In April of 2006, Romney outlined his 6-point plan for improving the country's education in an Op/Ed in the Washington Times.


 

Governor Mitt Romney and education Blogs

Blogs on education


education Essay that I like


Call for help

Please help me organize the best stuff first. I want it to be comprehensive. Lets links to all the blogs, and anything.


education Sub-Categories

  1. Abstinence education
  2. Charter Schools
  3. education Reform]
  4. Politics and Schools

Mitt Romney's Education:

 

  • Undergraduate at Stanford and Brigham Young University (Highest Honors and Valedictorian). J.D. and M.B.A. from Harvard University (Baker Scholar).

 

Romney graduated from the Cranbrook School in Bloomfield Hills (now Cranbrook Kingswood School). He met his future wife, Ann Davies (born in 1949), when she was at the Kingswood School.

 

After attending Stanford University for two quarters, Romney served for two and one-half years as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in France. Upon returning from his mission, he transferred universities and subsequently received his B.A. with Highest Honors and as valedictorian from Brigham Young University in 1971. In 1975, Romney was awarded an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School and was named a Baker scholar. In 1975 he also received his J.D. cum laude from Harvard Law School.


Exterior Links

Beliefs about Mitt Romney and Education.

  1. Mitt Romney would be the best candidate to reform education].
  2. Mitt Romney supports charter schools.
  3. Mitt Romney did better in school than any of the other candidates, Republican or Democrat.

 

 

Today's schools are falling further and further behind world standards. It is time to raise the bar on education by making teaching a true profession, measuring progress, providing a focus on math and science, and involving parents from the beginning of a child's school career.

 

 

  • "Massachusetts children cannot only lead the nation in test scores, they can be competitive with the best in the world. And the gap in achievement among races can virtually disappear."
    • Governor Mitt Romney

 

Today's schools are falling further and further behind world standards. It is time to raise the bar on education by making teaching a true profession, measuring progress, providing a focus on Math and Science, and involving Parents from the beginning of a child's school career.


Quotes from Mitt Romney on Education

  • "It's time to raise the bar on education by making teaching a true profession, measuring progress, providing a focus on math and science, and involving parents from the beginning of a child's school career."
    • Governor Mitt Romney

 

 

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Questions for Governor Mitt Romney

 

Education

  1. In you history, it includes Stanford for how long?
  2. You finished first in your class at Brigham Young University in Utah ?
  3. Why did you go to Brigham Young?
  4. How did you -- how were able to get an MBA and a law degree at the same time?
  5. And clearly it would be why you did well and, as you know, you finished well enough to give the valedictory address -- the question I want to ask you though is why do you think you did well? Other than having a lot of brainpower, did you have an approach to education?

 

 

School Choice

 

Gov. Romney On His Education Record

Governor Mitt Romney "Police" Quotes

Governor Mitt Romney "Police" press releases

  • "Major Robbins's 24 years of State Police experience combined with his focus on homeland security at Logan Airport make him the ideal choice to lead Massachusetts' chief law enforcement agency. Of all the candidates, no one had more experience on the homeland security front lines than Major Robbins," Romney added.
  • "At a time when homeland security is our number one public safety priority, Colonel Robbins has the extensive experience and vision to make the Massachusetts State Police a national model for both crime fighting and terror prevention."
  • "Whether it's 4 A.M. on Christmas Eve or 4 P.M. on a Saturday in August when they'd rather be taking their families to the beach, our State Police force is on duty every hour of every day, dedicated to keeping the public safe. These initiatives reflect the importance of their jobs and the value of their service to the Commonwealth."
  • "Mark Delaney's exemplary performance and leadership over 32 years of service in the State Police make him the ideal candidate to command the state's largest law enforcement agency."
  • "Mark Delaney is a respected leader both within and outside of the State Police. The priority he places on excellence and achievement will help the State Police maintain their status as one of the finest law enforcement organizations in the nation."

"The defense of our homeland continues to be a focus of law enforcement everywhere, and state troopers are on the front lines of this battle. I have been proud to support the Massachusetts State Police as it adapts and adds strength to counter evolving threats that could jeopardize the peace and safety of our lives."

Also see:

  1. Crime
  2. Law

Romney Flexes Muscles In Dems Direction

Mitt Romney, in a sign that he is comfortable as the early-state frontrunner, aims to up his national profile by aggressively bracketing the Democratic presidential candidates over the next few weeks, aides said this weekend.

The campaign hopes the regular reproaches will be seen as signs of confidence and strength and will help to reduce the friction that prevents Romney from being seen as the leader of the Republican pack. His national poll ratings regularly lag those of his better-known rivals.

Aside from the benefit to his own candidacy, Romney's aides are worried that Republicans generally aren't doing enough to soften up the Democrats most likely to be their party's nominee.

On the trail, Romney will spend a little more time analyzing "The Romney vision versus the Democrat vision," according to one aide. He will compare his proposals -- metaphorically, a three-legged stool of strong families, strong national defense and a strong economies, to what he'll call a comparatively shaky and liberal grounding of the Democrats' proposals, the aide said.

Romney regularly compares Hillary Clinton's economic philosophy to Karl Marx's. This weekend, he said America wasn't read to take a "left turn" and "follow Hillary Clinton, John Edwards and Barack Obama." He continued: "Their solutions are Big Brother, big taxes, and big government, and that is not the right answer for America."

In recent days, Romney has begun to elaborate. He called Clinton's "course" one where "government manages your life." The Republican course, he said, is "let the individual and personal responsibility lead and guide."

In a more personal poke, Romney said Clinton "wouldn't be elected president of France today, never mind the United States." [French bashing is still cool, apparently, even though the voters there just elected a (sort of) conservative and Romney has spent more time in the country than all of the Democrats combined.]

On health care, Romney will try to damn Barack Obama with faint praise, saying this weekend that "at least Barack Obama had the "courage to admit that his plan means higher taxes." He also jumped on Obama's remarks last week at a Planned Parenthood conference that it was OK to teach age-appropriate sex ed to kindergarteners, a characterization that Obama said masks the more nuanced reality of his record.

Though the media counter-attacked, pointing out that the Massachusetts sex-ed curriculum under Romney included plenty of non-conservative teachings, Romney's campaign professed to be pleased by how conservative activists responded to the controversy. They dismissed the attempts to bring attention to Romney's ideological evolution as unsound. But this weekend in New Hampshire, Romney again made the contrast, suggesting that the campaign believed the comparison was sound.

Though Romney has called for a new course in the country's approach to terrorism, he has lambasted Edwards for saying the "War on Terror" phrase is "just a bumper sticker."

Rudy Giuliani and John McCain have both picked spots to attack Democrats and have, as of late, stepped up their rhetoric.

Mitt's Fred Hits

Mitt's Fred HitsRomney takes the lead in softening up Fred Thompson.


Mitt Romney.

Mitt Romney has been increasing his assault on the Democratic front-runners recently. During a recent campaign swing, he returned to a theme found in his earliest speeches: "The Democratic candidates want to run the largest enterprise in the world—the government of the United States—and yet have never run a corner store.'' To make sure reporters get the point, Romney's campaign has sent e-mails highlighting this attack and links to local wire stories featuring it.

Republican voters usually like to hear their candidates beat up the opposition, so the broad attack helps Romney in his effort to look like the party front-runner. But according to Romney insiders, the former Massachusetts governor is not just aiming at Clinton, Obama, and Edwards. His other, perhaps more salient target, is fellow Republican Fred Thompson. Like the Democratic front-runners, Fred Thompson has also never run anything, though he has pretended to run all kinds of things in his many films. Romney is laying the groundwork against Thompson now and plans to make the charge explicitly when the actor gets into the race.

...

The Romney campaign was also thinking about Thompson when it produced its latest television ad about the depravity of modern culture...

I like how John Dickerson can read Mitt's mind...

...The ad is primarily an assault on the extended metaphor ,...

Very predictable of Mr. Dickerson... Al republican commercials are stupid, and all democratic comercials are genious... 
 
..but its purpose is to appeal to social conservative voters who think the country is on the wrong track...

So this begs the question... Is the country on the wrong track? Do we have too much violence in our culture? We don't get a debate from the left, all we get is cynisism, and self rightousness...

...(This is also why Romney has picked a fake fight with Barack Obama over sex education.)...

Watch this video and tell me it is a "fake fight". Barak's guy tries to say that this is a fake fight, but he gets slaped down... And I like how John Dickerson says that it is a "fake fight" but makes no argument to advance this belief. No. We don't get any debate, or evaluation of beliefs from the left... just attitude, sarcasm, and his conclusions. He was
 
The ad's secondary function is to show Republicans that only Romney can talk about values. Thompson can compete with Romney in opposing abortion and gay marriage, but as a former actor, he'
The ad's secondary function is to show Republicans that only Romney can talk about values. Thompson can compete with Romney in opposing abortion and gay marriage, but as a former actor, he's compromised on the subject of cleaning up sex and violence in movies and television. "Why didn't he speak out loudly about Hollywood when he was of Hollywood?" Romney may ask in a future debate.

To draw contrasts between their guy and Thompson, Romney allies are working behind the scenes, and even Thompson's wife is fair game. June Bond, a Republican from Spartanburg, introduced Ann Romney at a recent rally as her husband's starter wife and trophy wife "all in one." This called up a loaded phrase for Thompson's much younger second wife from a New York Times piece.

Romney, who has been crossing the country getting little sleep, shaking an endless string of hands and eating spongy food at fund-raisers is reportedly a little miffed that Thompson thinks he can coast into the nomination. In his public remarks though, Romney is sticking to oblique rather than direct attacks. In a recent interview with the Washington Examiner , he made a not-too-subtle allusion to Thompson's reputation for laziness. "Will he do the work it takes to become the president?" asked Romney. "To beat Hillary Clinton ... you're going to have to work like crazy." Of course, Romney hopes Thompson never has a chance to face the Democratic front-runner. And so before the actor even gets into the race, Romney is trying to create more work than he can handle.

Watch this video from John Dickerson and tell me if you thin John has an objective opinion... Please don't get your news from slate... it is like getting your news from KOS.
 


Sheriff Mike Bouchard Endorses Governor Mitt Romney For President

Sheriff Mike Bouchard Endorses Governor Mitt Romney For President

Monday, Jul 23, 2007

Boston, MA - Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced that Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard has endorsed his campaign for President of the United States. Sheriff Bouchard will serve as a Co-Chair of the Romney for President campaign in Michigan.

In announcing the support of Sheriff Bouchard, Governor Romney said, "For over twenty years, Sheriff Bouchard has faithfully served and protected the people of Michigan. Using his experience as an elected official, a sheriff, and a parent, he has worked tirelessly to protect Michigan residents by leading the charge to protect our children and keep criminals off the streets. I am proud to earn Sheriff Bouchard's support, and I look forward to working with him during the upcoming campaign."

Sheriff Bouchard will join a Romney for President Michigan team that includes Co-Chairs U.S. Representatives Dave Camp, Pete Hoekstra and Joe Knollenberg, Michigan House Republican Leader Craig DeRoche, as well as Honorary Chairman, former Lt. Governor Dick Posthumus.

With today's announcement, Sheriff Mike Bouchard said, "As a former Governor and a devoted father, Mitt Romney understands the importance of protecting children and our families from predators and criminals. Governor Romney is not afraid to confront challenges facing our country. He recently proposed federal legislation, 'One-Strike, You're Ours,' to crack down on internet predators who seek to harm our most precious asset, our children. I am joining Governor Romney's campaign team because our nation needs a leader like Mitt Romney, a candidate who is willing to stand up and fight to defend families across this nation."

Background On Sheriff Mike Bouchard:

Sheriff Bouchard Has Been A Leader In Michigan For Over 20 Years. In 1999, Bouchard became Sheriff of one of the largest counties in the nation. He oversees 1,200 employees and manages an annual budget in excess of $119 million. Sheriff Bouchard brings the combined experience of 20 years of law enforcement and 20 years as an elected official to the position. Appointed in early 1999 to fill a sudden vacancy, he was returned to office in 2000 with the largest number of votes for any contested candidate in Oakland County. Most recently in 2004, he was re-elected to a four-year term ending in 2009. Among his many honors, Sheriff Bouchard has received the 1996 Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police award for Legislator of the Year, the 1999 Oakland County Leadership Award, and the 2000 Oakland County Domestic Violence Prevention Award. In 2006, he received the Justice for Children Centurion Award as well as the Oakland County Child Abuse and Neglect Council's Circle of Light Award.

MR v HRC

NASHUA, N.H. (AP) - Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney took aim at Democratic rivals on Sunday, calling them all unprepared to lead the country and comparing Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's economic plan to that of Socialist Karl Marx.

"It would be helpful to have a person leading the country who understands how the economy works and has actually managed something," the former Massachusetts governor told reporters after a GOP fundraiser. "In the case of the three Democratic front-runners, not one of them has managed even a corner store, let alone a state or a city."

Romney, who leads Republicans in New Hampshire, has focused his criticism in recent weeks on Clinton, Sen. Barack Obama and former Sen. John Edwards rather than rival Republicans. It's a strategy he hopes will help him maintain his lead over Sen. John McCain and former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani.

"I wanted to focus on the Democrats," he said. "By and large, the best way to further my interest is to let people know what I would do and to distinguish that from what the Democrats would do."

His prime target was Clinton.

"Hillary Clinton just gave a speech the other day about her view on the economy. She said we have been an on-your-own society. She said it's time to get rid of that and replace that with shared responsibility and we're-in-it-together society," Romney told the crowd. "That's out with Adam Smith and in with Karl Marx."

He also repeated his criticism of Sen. John Edwards.

"To have someone like Senator Edwards stand up and say there's not a war on terror, that it's a Bush bumper sticker" is unacceptable, he said. "There is a war being waged by the terrorists. If I or any other Republican president is running this country, there will be a war waged on the terrorists."

He attacked Obama's health care plan.

"Barack Obama said we're going to have to have the government take over health care. He at least had the integrity to say he wants to raise your taxes," Romney said. "The right answer is not a government takeover, it's not socialized medicine. It's not Hillarycare."

...

Earlier Sunday, Romney was in Washington courting Hispanic voters by extolling the virtues of faith, family values and immigration.

"If you say, name people who are hardworking, seek education, love God, love their families and value freedom - it's Hispanic-Americans, just like other Americans," Romney told a crowd at the Republican National Hispanic Assembly's annual convention.

"I want to make sure we continue an open door in immigration that welcomes people who come here with those kinds of values," he said.

During an Iowa visit last week, Romney struck a hard line on illegal immigration. He criticized Giuliani for making New York "a sanctuary city for illegal aliens" by failing to enforce the immigration laws on the books. Romney also noted that as governor, he had deputized state police to enforce immigration laws and denied driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.

Republican presidential hopeful former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, right, delivers his remarks at the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, Sunday, July 22, 2007, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Copyright 2007 Associated Press. All right reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Republican presidential hopeful former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, delivers his remarks at the Republican National Hispanic Assembly, Sunday, July 22, 2007, in Washington. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)

Copyright 2007 Associated Press. All right reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Colorado

On Wednesday evening, Governor Mitt Romney delivered remarks at the El Paso County Lincoln Day Dinner in Colorado Springs, CO.

 

 

Exterior Links

  1. http://coloradansforromney.blogspot.com/

Massachusetts Law Enforcement Officials Support Governor Mitt Romney

Saturday, Jul 21, 2007

Boston, MA - This week, Governor Romney announced that he would propose a "One Strike, You're Ours" law for those convicted of preying on children using the Internet. Today, Massachusetts Republican District Attorneys and Sheriffs released the following statement supporting Governor Romney and his proposal for stiff mandatory jail time to be followed by lifetime tracking by Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) for first-time offenders:

"As Governor of Massachusetts, Mitt Romney was a strong defender of children. He led the effort to put photos of the state's most dangerous sex offenders on the Internet and made it easier to extend civil commitments for sex offenders. As a candidate for president, Governor Romney is once-again demonstrating strong leadership in protecting our children. His 'One Strike, You're Ours' law is an important initiative to strengthen law enforcement and protect America's sons and daughters. We are proud to stand alongside Governor Romney in his campaign for our nation's highest office."

Signing Today's Statement Are:

- District Attorney Tim Cruz, Plymouth County
- District Attorney Michael O'Keefe, Cape and Islands
- District Attorney Elizabeth Scheibel, Northwestern Counties
- Sheriff Frank Cousins, Essex County
- Sheriff James Cummings, Barnstable County
- Sheriff Tom Hodgson, Bristol County


Background On Governor Romney's "One-Strike, You're Ours" Law:

Governor Romney Will Propose A "One-Strike, You're Ours" Law For Those Convicted Of Preying On Children Using The Internet. As President, Governor Romney will propose new, tougher federal penalties for first-time offenders who use the Internet to sexually assault children, including stiff mandatory jail time to be followed by lifetime tracking by Global Positioning Satellite (GPS). This will represent a "One-Strike, You're Ours" law for child predators.

- The Growing Threat Of Crimes Committed Against Children Via The Internet Is A Disturbing Trend. In February 2006, the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched Project Safe Childhood, an initiative designed to protect children as they navigate the Internet. The Bush administration correctly recognized that as technology advances and the Internet becomes more accessible, there is a real danger that computer-facilitated crimes committed against children will continue to rise.

- By Enacting Tougher Laws, The Federal Government Will Be Following The Lead Of States Across The Country. Governor Romney's "One-Strike, You're Ours" Law will impose on the federal level the same tough sentences that states like Florida and California have put in place with "Jessica's Law." In Massachusetts, Governor Romney successfully fought to put the photos of the state's most dangerous sex offenders on the Internet, and he signed legislation to make it easier to extend the civil commitments of sex offenders. In 2006, President Bush signed the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, which significantly strengthened the nationwide sex offender registration system and created new federal crimes and enhanced penalties for other pre-existing crimes. Yet, most federal laws are not tough enough when sentencing a first-time offender for sex crimes against a child.