Monday, December 14, 2009

RNC LAUNCHES RADIO AD “MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN”

RNC LAUNCHES RADIO AD “MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN”
WASHINGTON – Today, the Republican National Committee (RNC) released a new radio ad, “Make Washington Listen,” which will air nationally as Senate Democrats try to impose their health care experiment on America.

“MAKE WASHINGTON LISTEN” SCRIPT

Time: 00:60

VOICE: “A message from Republican National Chairman Michael Steele.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “The Democrats are accusing us Republicans of trying to delay and stonewall their government takeover of health care.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “You know what? They’re finally right.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to stop this disastrous health care takeover.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Republicans are trying to keep the liberals from creating yet another entitlement program, spending yet another trillion dollars.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “America’s already seen the results of this year’s ‘binge spending’ by the Democrats: our economy’s in deep trouble and our jobs are evaporating.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Now Democrats want a health care bill that will raise taxes… cut Medicare…and increase premiums.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Democrats know America doesn’t want this health care takeover….but they’re arrogantly trying to jam it down our throats.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “This is our last chance to stop them. Contact your Senators. Make Washington listen to you.”

CHAIRMAN STEELE: “Log on to GOP.com …make Washington listen….before it is too late.”

VOICE: “The Republican National Committee is responsible for the content of this advertising. Paid for by the Republican National Committee. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. www.gop.com”

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Republicans Pick Up Mayoral Seat In Lakeland

~Florida Republicans praise Assembly of Black Republicans and African American Republican Leadership Council for hard work in the Lakeland election ~

Tallahassee–Representative Jennifer Carroll (R-Fleming Island), Chairman of the African American Republican Leadership Council (AARLC), and Republican Party of Florida Chairman Jim Greer today congratulated Gow Field on his election to serve as mayor of Lakeland and Phillip Walker, a member of the AARLC, on his election to the Lakeland City Commission.

“I am proud to congratulate Mayor-elect Field and Commissioner-elect Walker on their outstanding victories,” said Representative Carroll. “Across the country, the results of November’s election demonstrated that Independent and Democrat voters are dissatisfied with the Democrat-style of leadership and willing to look to the Republican side of the aisle for leaders who better reflect their values. As a result of yesterday’s run-off election, we now have additional African American Republican leaders in Lakeland who will work hard to reflect Republican values in their public service.”

“I commend the Florida Assembly of Black Republicans and the African American Republican Leadership Council for their valiant grassroots effort in these races,” continued Representative Carroll.

“The Assembly of Black Republicans and the African American Republican Leadership Council put out a tremendous effort during this election, and we look forward to partnering with these outstanding organizations as we work to build a diverse party that includes Republicans from across the state without consideration of ethnic and cultural barriers,” said RPOF Chairman Jim Greer.

# # #

Republican Caucus Designates Mike Haridopolos for Republican-Senate President Designate

Statement from RPOF Chairman Jim Greer:

“On behalf of the Republican Party of Florida, I am pleased to congratulate Senator Mike Haridopolos on his designation as Florida Senate President for the 2010- 2012 term. Senator Haridopolos is a dedicated public servant who is committed to ensuring that Florida to holds true to the longstanding Republican principles of lower taxes, less government and more freedom. Today is a great day for Republicans across the State of Florida as we continue the legacy of Republican leadership in the Florida Senate.”

Please see the press release below from the Senate Majority Office:

Tallahassee - The Republican Caucus of the Florida Senate today unanimously nominated Senator Mike Haridopolos (R-Merritt Island) as the Republican Senate President-Designee for the 2010-2012 term.

During a ceremonial caucus meeting held in the Senate Chambers and presided over by Senate President Jeff Atwater (R-North Palm Beach), Senator Mike Haridopolos was nominated by his fellow Republicans and heralded for his long standing and unwavering commitment to the founding principles of the Republican Party.

“Mike Haridopolos is a Reagan Republican who has never let any issue, adversary or current event change his core principles of lower taxes, less government, and more personal freedom,” said President Atwater. “Sitting here today, with his wife and children by his side, I know Mike will hold true to his words of loyalty and dedication to the Florida Senate, and I am honored to be a part of designating our chamber's next leader.”

“I am not one to shy away from difficult choices. Those who know me know who I am
and what I stand for,” said President-Designate Mike Haridopolos. “I plan to lead and take a
stand on tough issues. This is an opportunity I'm looking forward to.”

“Through years of hard work and determination, Senator Haridopolos has earned this distinction,” said Senate Majority Leader Alex Diaz de la Portilla (R-Miami). “I congratulate him today, as he celebrates with his family, this incredible accomplishment. I know that the Upper Chamber will continue to be in capable hands with Senator Haridopolos at the helm.”

“The history of our party has shown that great leaders are chosen at the time they are needed most, and I know that when our party looks back on President Haridopolos’ legacy of responsible government and dignified leadership, his chapter will echo our party’s founding principles,” said Senator JD Alexander (R-Winter Haven) who nominated Senator Haridopolos on behalf of the Senate Republican Caucus. “I am proud to nominate Senator Haridopolos and thank him for making the sacrifice of public servitude to better our state and our children’s future.”

“ With the energy of youth and the skill of a master, Senator Haridopolos is exactly the person to lead us through our unknown and uncertain times,” said Senator Don Gaetz (R-Destin) who seconded the nomination of Senator Haridopolos. “With a historian’s understanding of the choices that can drive a people down to defeat or lift them to success, President Haridopolos will see Florida not as we are, but as we could be, as we should be and as we must be.”

Republican Senate-President Designate Mike Haridopolos will officially be sworn in as Senate President for the 2010-2012 term during an organizational session of the Senate in November of 2010.

Mike was first elected to the Florida Senate in March 2003, re-elected in 2006, and has served in the Florida Legislature since 2000. Serving Senate District 26, he represents over 400,000 constituents in portions of Brevard, Indian River, Osceola, and St. Lucie Counties. He currently serves as the Chairman of both the Senate Policy and Steering Committee on Energy, Environment, and Land Use and the Committee on Reapportionment. He is also the co-founder of the Freedom Caucus.

Mike graduated from Stetson University in 1992 with a B.A. in History, and in 1993 earned a Masters in History at the University of Arkansas.

Senator Mike is married to Stephanie who is a family practice doctor in Melbourne and they have three children, Alexis, Hayden, and Reagan.

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Friday, December 4, 2009

Florida Senators Honor FSU Football Coach

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators George LeMieux (R-FL) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) yesterday introduced a resolution honoring and commending Florida State University (FSU) Coach Bobby Bowden for his successful career. Coach Bowden has led the Seminoles football team for the past 34 years.

“For the past 34 years, Bobby Bowden has been a Tallahassee institution, helping young athletes grow to succeed in both football and in life,” LeMieux said. “As his legendary career comes to a close, Floridians can take inspiration from his leadership as one of the most successful college football coaches of all time. His wisdom, loyalty, and warmth have touched the lives of many throughout the years and will continue to serve as an example to all Floridians.”

“Bobby Bowden put FSU on the map,” said U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson. “Because of his accomplishments most everybody in America has heard of Florida State.”

Over his 44-year career, Bowden coached at Howard College, now Samford University, West Virginia University, and Florida State University. His 388 coaching victories are the second highest in college football history. Coach Bowden led FSU to 2 national championships in 1993 and 1999, and to a bowl game every year since 1982.

Statement by Governor Charlie Crist Regarding the Legislature’s Rail Transit Progress

“I am grateful to House sponsor Representative Gary Aubuchon, Chairman Dave Murzin and the House Economic Development & Community Affairs Policy Council for recognizing the importance of SunRail to Florida’s residents, visitors and businesses. The Council’s unanimous approval today demonstrates a common-sense approach to job creation and economic development that will benefit our state for decades. This is a positive first step, and I look forward to continued legislative support for transforming Florida’s transportation future.

“I also want to congratulate Chairman Andy Gardiner for conducting an excellent workshop in the Florida Senate today. The thoughtful and thorough discussion will certainly further our understanding and appreciation of what the Sunshine State will gain from additional passenger rail.”

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Lt. Governor Meets with Brevard County Business and Industry Leaders

SATELLITE BEACH – Today, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp met with a group of Brevard County’s innovators and industry leaders at Satellite Beach’s Lighting Science Group Corporation headquarters to discuss emerging technologies and tour their facility.

During a luncheon meeting with area businesses, the Lt. Governor stated, “The space industry is critical to Florida’s economy and benefits the well-being of all the people of Florida. It is clear that innovation, together with a focus on retaining and transitioning some of the ‘best and brightest’ highly skilled workforce to new opportunities once the shuttle retires, is an important step in addressing the continued economic health of our state.”

Earlier in the day, the Lt. Governor toured United Space Alliance and spoke with many workers who currently serve the space shuttle program and anticipate cutbacks once the shuttle program no longer requires their services. With only five launches left, the space shuttle fleet is expected to retire in 2010. NASA is developing plans for the next-generation space program and is waiting for the White House to issue its policy decisions following the Augustine Commission Report.

“One of our key priorities is to develop and execute programs designed to retain and expand space industry business in Florida, while maintaining the critical workforce and their skill sets required for the state’s next-generation space programs,” noted Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp.

RNC CHAIRMAN STATEMENT ON PRESIDENT OBAMA’S AFGHANISTAN STRATEGY

WASHINGTON – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Michael Steele released the following statement today:

“Although this decision took far too long and it should not have, I am glad the president will finally provide General McChrystal with the troops he needs. However, tonight’s speech must be the beginning, not the end, of the case President Obama makes to the American people as to why this is, as he said during the campaign, ‘a war we have to win.’ If the president remains committed to this crucial fight, Republicans – and the American people – will stand with him. But sending mixed signals by outlining the exit before these troops even get on the ground undermines their ability to succeed.”