Joe Barton Michael Burgess Ask GAO to Review Quality Control at UN Global Warming Panel

WASHINGTON – U.S. Reps. Joe Barton, R-Texas, ranking member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and Michael Burgess, R-Texas, ranking member of the Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, today asked the Government Accountability Office to review the U.S. funding for, and the scientific integrity and reliability of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s assessments.

“Congress needs reliable scientific assessments as it considers sweeping climate change legislation intended to limit greenhouse gas emissions and address global warming concerns,” the lawmakers wrote to Acting Comptroller General Gene Dodaro. “While the IPCC plays an important role in informing policy discussions around the world, some have recently questioned the reliability of the IPCC’s findings. … Various reports have identified problems concerning the IPCC’s quality-control procedures, peer review, accessibility of data, and political influence on the assessment writing process, raising questions about the integrity of the IPCC’s assessments and conclusions.”

The lawmakers asked GAO to address the following questions:

1. How much financial support has the United States government provided to the IPCC over the past 10 years?

2. To what extent are internal controls and oversight mechanisms at the U.S. Department of State and the IPCC sufficient to ensure that U.S. contributions are spent according to the terms of their contributions?

3. To what extent do the United States Government and the IPCC’s quality assurance processes ensure the scientific integrity and reliability of the IPCC’s assessment reports?

The letter in PDF format.

Press Release May 5, 2010 Joe Barton's Web Site 2322A Rayburn House Office Building | Washington, DC 20515 | (202) 225-3641

Steve Chabot Driehaus Does a Poll. Hides the Results!

Steve Driehaus’s campaign paid $34,000 on April 2nd, to The Feldman Group to do a poll. He has refused to release the results. In light of the fact that an independent poll was previously done by SurveyUSA showing that Driehaus was losing by 17 points (Chabot 56% - Driehaus 39%),

reasonable minds could conclude that if the poll authorized by the Driehaus campaign was positive for Mr. Driehaus, the poll results would have been released. And they haven’t been. So reasonable minds can come to but one conclusion – Mr. Driehaus is in trouble.

And no wonder. He has voted with the most liberal Speaker in our nation’s history, Nancy Pelosi, 94% of the time. He’s voted with her on the so-called stimulus package, which stimulated more government, but not jobs in the private sector; he voted with her on her budget, which is spending so much that the nation’s AAA bond rating is at risk; he voted with her on her global warming tax scheme (Cap and Trade), and he voted for her health care reform takeover, even though most Americans opposed, and continue to oppose it.

He’s even been in the Cincinnati Enquirer Opinion section of the paper twice over the last week, trying to convince us that our taxes are really low, and we ought to thank him for it! I’m not making this up.

On the campaign front, things continue to go well for the Chabot campaign. Stuart Rothenberg is editor and publisher of the Rothenberg Report, a non-partisan political newsletter that rates political races. He’s one of the top two or three most respected political oddsmakers in the country. Early last year he rated our race as “Tilts Democrat.” Some months later he moved it to a “Toss-up” race; later still to the “Tilts Republican” category; and last week upgraded our race to “Leans Republican.” Now I’m not sure exactly how much better a “Leans Republican” rating is from a “Tilts Republican,” but I know it’s good.

Obviously, with the election still six months off, there’s a lot of hard work to be done between now and Election Day – Tuesday, November 2nd. I want to thank all of you who take the time to read this blog on a regular basis. I especially want to thank you if you have forwarded the blog to your friends, or signed up to volunteer, get a yard sign, or contributed to my campaign.

This race is one of many which are being waged across America this year, that will determine the direction of our country. Are we satisfied with the explosive growth of government, the out-of-control spending, the mounting debt, and the arrogance of Washington? Or are we truly fed-up, and ready to take our country back? Remember in November.

TEXT and PHOTO CREDIT: Chabot for Congress

Rob Portman speaks to the National Wild Turkey Federation Picnic VIDEO

Rob Portman attended the National Wild Turkey Federation Picnic in Guernsey County on Sunday April, 25.

Rob Portman Don’t forget to vote tomorrow - lots of important issues and candidates on the ballot. I plan to vote tomorrow morning before getting on the road.

VIDEO CREDIT: PortmanforSenate

Portman for Senate P.O. Box 39 Terrace Park, Ohio 45174 Contact@RobPortman.com

HUCK PAC ENDORSES MARLIN STUTZMAN FOR US SENATE IN INDIANA VIDEO

by Mike Huckabee: Huck PAC and I are pleased to support Marlin Stutzman for U.S. Senate. Marlin is unabashedly pro-life, and his position on protecting unborn children isn’t political it’s personal. Marlin is a member of the NRA and has received an A+ rating from the organization - in part for his work on getting Indiana’s lifetime handgun permit passed. Only candidate in the race that has an A+.

Like many states, Indiana unfortunately knows first hand the devastating effects of a struggling economy. As a fourth-generation farmer, Marlin understands how the states' families and small businesses are affected by poor economic policies. Marlin believes in lowering taxes on businesses, eliminating taxes on capital gains and investments and opposes the latest market-killing ‘solutions’ coming from Washington like Cap and Trade, government-run health care and card check.

We need more people like Marlin Stutzman in Washington because he’ll work for the right kind of change in D.C. Please join me in supporting Marlin Stutzman for U.S. Senate from Indiana.

TEXT CREDIT: Hoosiers for Stutzman

VIDEO CREDIT: marlinstutzman

John Hostettler Why Can’t Dan Coats Tell the Truth on Guns? VIDEO

ANTI-GUN DAN COATS: Dan Coats says in his TV campaign spot that he stood up for the 2nd Amendment when he was Senator. But Coats’ record on the 2nd Amendment is so bad, says RedState.com, that the National Rifle Association would back Democrat Brad Ellsworth over Republican Coats in a general election matchup.

Dan Coats doesn’t seem to recall his gun record clearly. Watch this video.

Because Dan can’t remember how he voted, John cleared up the record for him. Watch this.

In an April 22nd letter to its supporters, the NRA asked for help from Hoosier Republicans to protect gun rights.

The National Rifle Association said of Dan Coats:

…one of these candidates cast anti-gun votes during his tenure in office. In 1993, when then-President Bill Clinton had launched an all-out assault on the Second Amendment, then-Senator Dan Coats voted for the Feinstein Amendment to ban the purchase, sale and transfer of certain semi-automatic rifles (mislabeled “assault weapons”) and for the “Brady Bill” to impose a national waiting period for handgun purchases…

The NRA also made it clear that John Hostettler has never cast an anti-gun vote.

Dan Coats may not be clear on his anti-gun record, but Hoosiers are.

Tags: 2nd Amendment, Assualt Weapons, Brady Bill, Clinton Gun Ban, coats, GOA, gun owners, gun record, guns, honest, hunters, NRA, record, reliable

TEXT CREDIT: John Hostettler for Senate P.O Box 148 | Newburgh, IN 47629-0148 Tel: (317) 682-0280 | Oth: (812) 925-5342

VIDEO CREDIT: dangermouse9441

Coats Launches Second Television Spot in Indiana VIDEO

Advertising Campaign Will Be Sustained Through Primary

INDIANAPOLIS – Dan Coats’ Senate campaign began airing a second television commercial across Indiana today contrasting President Obama’s radical left program with Coats’ record of conservative leadership and Hoosier values.

“Because of the reckless tax and spend policies of President Obama and company, Dan and Marsha Coats decided to step up and do their part to help get our nation back on track and Hoosiers back to work,” said Coats advisor Kevin Kellems. “At a time of economic uncertainty and looming foreign threats, we need the steady hand of conservative leaders like Dan Coats.”

The campaign will remain on the air through the May 4 primary election.

A transcript of the ad follows:

“STEP UP”
[30 second TV Ad]

Announcer:

President Obama and liberal Democrats passed another massive tax increase calling it health care reform.

Dan Coats:

I’m Dan Coats.
As a conservative,
I fought against higher taxes and big spending.
President Obama is taking our country in the wrong direction -
and I had to step up.

Whether it’s the big power grab they call health care,
or the debt they’re passing on to our kids,
we need experienced conservative leaders who represent Hoosier values.

I’m Dan Coats, I approve this message,
and I’d appreciate your vote. # # #

Contact: Pete Seat, Press Secretary, at 317-395-3232 or pseat@coatsforindiana.com

TEXT CREDIT: DAN COATS FOR INDIANA - P.O. BOX 301141 - INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46230 - (317) 251-2200

VIDEO CREDIT: CoatsForIndiana

Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) Delivers Weekly Republican Address TEXT PODCAST VIDEO 05/01/10

Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) Delivers Weekly Republican Address TEXT PODCAST VIDEO 05/01/10

Rep. Hoekstra: “Americans are asking ‘where are the jobs?’ Washington’s answer, ‘trust us,’ rings as hollow today as it did a year ago, and a year before that. In Michigan and in Washington, sprawling government expansion has weighed heavily on the backs of people already pushed to the breaking point.”

Delivering the weekly Republican address, Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) talks about how Washington Democrats’ agenda of more spending, higher taxes, and bigger government is making matters worse at a time when Americans are asking ‘where are the jobs?’ The lawmaker also points to Washington Democrats’ growing credibility gap in light of revelations that the new health care law will actually increase Americans’ health care costs despite President Obama’s pledge that it would not. Lastly, Hoekstra discusses Republicans’ better solutions to end permanent bailouts for Wall Street, put people back to work, rein in out-of-control Washington spending. Now in his ninth term in Congress, Rep. Hoekstra is the top Republican on the House Intelligence Committee. Text and Podcast of the address follows: Download MP3 for PODCAST

“Hi – I’m Congressman Pete Hoekstra from Michigan. Today, President Obama will deliver the commencement address at the University of Michigan, my alma mater. This is a moment filled with optimism and pride – for both the graduates and their families. I join with Michiganders across the state in welcoming President Obama to our home.

“We also welcome the opportunity to show the President – first hand – the painful plight of the people of Michigan. Like countless Americans, they face fewer jobs and fewer opportunities today than when he took office. The Democrats have run Congress since 2007, and yet when the residents of Michigan and across America ask themselves are they better off now than they were four years ago, the answer is – inevitably – ‘no.’

“The problem is worst among our young people. Many of the graduates President Obama will address will soon learn first-hand how tough it is to find a job in this economy. In fact, the share of young Americans out of work – 37 percent, to be exact – is the highest it’s been in more than 50 years.

“Americans are asking ‘where are the jobs?’ Washington’s answer, ‘trust us,’ rings as hollow today as it did a year ago, and a year before that. In Michigan and in Washington, sprawling government expansion has weighed heavily on the backs of people already pushed to the breaking point.

“Enough is enough. We simply can’t go on like this. That’s why Republicans have proposed smart, common-sense solutions to create jobs, reduce spending, and clear the way for American opportunity and ingenuity to lead us to a better future.

“But Democrats in Washington have repeatedly chosen to go it alone with their partisan, big-government, tax-borrow-and-spend agenda. We saw it with the economic stimulus spending, the-cap and-trade bill, with health care, and now seeing it again with the bailout bill President Obama and Democrats are trying to rush through Congress.

“The American people have spoken loud and clear: They’ve told us ‘No more bailouts. Never again.’ We’ve heard you, and that’s why Republicans have been working in good faith to guarantee this legislation would protect taxpayers from being forced to bail out Wall Street banks yet again.

“Of course, we’ve seen this tired partisan playbook from Washington Democrats before: it’s exactly how a trillion-dollar government takeover of health care that Americans strongly opposed became the law of the land.

“An Obama Administration report released last week says that under the new health care law, national health care costs will increase – increase – by $311 billion over the next 10 years. A month ago, they said it would lower costs. Today, they admit it will increase costs. Why didn’t the American people get the real truth before the bill was passed?

“Need another example? Remember how President Obama pledged that his trillion-dollar ‘stimulus’ would create jobs immediately and keep unemployment below eight percent? Well, our economy has lost millions of jobs since then and unemployment is near double-digits nationwide – and above 14 percent here in Michigan.

“The one thing the American people wanted out of the ‘stimulus’ was jobs – it didn’t happen.

“The one thing the American people wanted out of health care reform was lower costs – it didn’t happen.

“The American people want financial reforms that end the bailouts, don’t kill jobs, and address the root causes of the financial crisis. But do you think we can trust Washington to deliver?

“The House passed a bill that makes the bailouts permanent, and the Senate bill kills jobs, hurts small businesses on Main Street, and does nothing to address the government mortgage companies that caused the meltdown by giving too many high-risk loans to people who couldn’t afford it.

“Republicans are standing with the American people and the people of Michigan by fighting for an end to permanent bailouts, ending wasteful Washington spending, and proposing a plan that would address the root causes of the financial crisis. We are standing for real solutions.

“Today’s graduates at the University of Michigan are looking for the economic freedom and opportunity of every previous American generation. Let’s give it to them.

“Thanks for listening.”

Is the EPA Really This Gullible?

A feather-duster attached to a space heater covertly submitted by GAO investigators as a “Room Air Cleaner” had an “Energy Star” designation approved by the EPA. Issa and Barrasso Ask EPA to Account for Outrageous “Energy Star” Approvals; Ask How EPA Will Catch Fraud in a Carbon Offset Program WASHINGTON D.C. – House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Darrell Issa and Senate Environment and Public Works, Subcommittee on Oversight Ranking Member John Barrasso today asked Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lisa Jackson to account for outrageous failings of the Energy Star Program discovered by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

“The GAO found that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) administered Energy Star program was extremely vulnerable to fraud and abuse,” the lawmakers wrote to Jackson. “EPA’s apparent failure with a program designed to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions is alarming and it has put multiple millions of taxpayer dollars in serious jeopardy. Moreover, it calls into question EPA’s ability to take on the larger responsibility of overseeing the integrity of future greenhouse gas reduction efforts.”

“If EPA can be punked with a space heater and feather duster, how does it expect to police carbon-offsets under cap-and-trade?” asked Rep. Issa. “Expanding EPA’s responsibilities under cap-and-trade will lead to massive fraud, kill American jobs, and devastate our economy.”

According to Senator Barrasso, “Once again, independent federal watchdogs have discovered more waste and abuse at the EPA. The recent GAO report makes the Energy Star Program seem like an Energy Fraud Program. If the EPA can’t effectively manage the Energy Star Program, how will the agency be able to successfully implement a complicated cap and trade program? Our letter today calls upon the EPA to clearly explain its inability to protect American taxpayer dollars. We need more jobs in this country – not more government waste and inefficient bureaucracies.”

The Energy Star program was introduced by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 1992, under the authority of the Clean Air Act, as a voluntary labeling program designed to promote energy efficient computers and monitors. Through expansions the label is now found on over 60 product categories including residential heating, ventilation, and cooling (HVAC) equipment, major appliances, office equipment, lighting, home electronics, new homes, and commercial and industrial buildings, with a reported energy-efficiency savings of up to 10 to 25 percent over the minimum federal standards. GAO tested the program for susceptibility to fraud by submitting qualified product information (QPI) forms and efficiency information via the Online Product Submittal (OPS) tool for 20 bogus products. Of the products submitted, 15 (including the “Air Room Cleaner”) were approved, 2 were denied Energy Star qualification, and 3 products were voluntarily removed by GAO because it had not received an official qualification determination by the time our investigation was completed.

the letter Rep. Issa and Sen. Barrasso sent to Administrator Jackson in PDF format.

GAO Energy Star report in PDF format.

Michael Giuliano Announces Campaign New York 28th District

EAST ROCHESTER, N.Y., April 30 /PRNewswire/ -- On Thursday, April 29, 2010, Rochester area native and attorney editor Michael Giuliano announced himself as a Republican candidate for Congress in New York's 28th District before a gathering of Monroe County Republican elected officials, candidates and other party members at an East Rochester GOP "Victory Dinner." The 28th District is currently represented by Louise Slaughter. The campaign has filed papers with the Federal Election Commission.

"I will be a voice for freedom and constitutional government when elected," said Giuliano in a statement following the announcement. "Rochester and Buffalo residents will have a representative who fights for their liberties and for policies that make Western New York attractive for small businesses. We should not have a tax system that rewards the offshoring of jobs. We do not need any more 'Slaughter Solutions' or general disregard for Constitutional limits on government by entrenched politicians who have been in office since the Watergate era. We need a restoration of individual freedom and an end to President Obama's bankrupting and endless Middle East conflicts that he vowed to bring to a close. I will respect the limits upon Congressional power and, unlike the incumbent, I will also respect my neighbors and voters."

High-Speed Railroad to Nowhere

"'Real Tax Freedom Day,' as determined by the Tax Foundation, does not arrive until May 17 this year as Americans are saddled with a tax and federal budget deficit burden that will eat up nearly five months of their work for the year, a major financial peril threatening the economy and the dollar. Congresswoman Slaughter, in response to the crisis, proposes more vote-buying pork-barrel spending schemes including $151 Million for exactly eleven miles of high-speed rail track between Chili and Bergen, New York. We all remember the taxpayer rip-off that was to allow Rochestarians to enjoy 'fast ferry' service to Toronto," said campaign director Jamie Heaton. "Now we will have a high speed 'railroad to nowhere.' None of this waste, of course, has any effect on the 24-year incumbent's lavish salary and benefit package. Mike is running to be a citizen servant. He will not accept the full Congressional salary and pension, and he is not running to have buildings named after him at local colleges by way of redistributing taxpayer funds to special interests."

"The contrast between the two candidates could not be much greater. Louise Slaughter may believe that concerns regarding her 'dignity' prevent her from meeting with area residents who disagree with her, and whom she has contemptuously referred to as 'those people,' but with Mike, they will have a Congressman who will meet with constituents and believes in our constitutional liberties and protections," said Heaton.

More information can be found at www.GiulianoForCongress.US

CONTACT: Jamie Heaton Campaign Director Phone: 585-794-2177
E-mail: michael@giulianoforcongress.us

Cuba Day on Capitol Hill to Celebrate ‘Ladies in White,’ Cuban Human Rights Activists

Photo: Maria Gabriela Zambrano

ADVISORY – May 12 – Cuba Day on Capitol Hill to Celebrate ‘Ladies in White,’ Cuban Human Rights Activists; Keynote Address by Human Rights Activist Janisset Rivero

(WASHINGTON) – U.S. Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, is proud to join her colleagues Congressmen Lincoln Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), and Albio Sires (D-NJ) in sponsoring the 13th annual Cuba Day on Capitol Hill. This year’s event will be held on Wednesday, May 12th from 12:00 noon – 1:00 p.m. and will raise awareness about the plight of the Cuban people and honor the courage and sacrifices of Cuba’s “Ladies in White,” Orlando Zapata Tamayo, and Guillermo Fariñas. Statement by Ros-Lehtinen:

“This event is an important opportunity to honor the courage and sacrifice of those struggling in Cuba to be free from the atrocious brutality of the Havana regime. I am particularly excited that the courageous Janisset Rivero will join us to provide her insight on the state of human rights in Cuba.

“The life and death of Orlando Zapata Tamayo represents the dream of all who live and breathe for freedom in Cuba. His strength and perseverance resonates still today as courageous human rights activists like Guillermo Fariñas and the ‘Ladies in White’ carry on the struggle to bring freedom to Cuba’s shores.

“Because we will never give up hope, we will continue to spread this message for freedom and human rights until they emanate from all corners of Cuba once more.”

Note: Cuban human rights activist Janisset Rivero will speak about the current situation on the ground in Cuba, the brutal tactics employed by the Castro regime, and the state of Cuban civil society.

****Information on room location will follow**** #####

House Foreign Affairs Committee U.S. House of Representatives Republicans Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Ranking Republican For Immediate Release April 30, 2010 Contact: Brad Goehner, (202) 226-8467 Alex Cruz, (202) 225-8200

Howard P. “Buck” McKeon Tapped for House Republican National Security Working Group

Washington, D.C.—U.S. Rep. Howard P. “Buck” McKeon (R-Calif.), the Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, was tapped today by House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) to join a new National Security Working Group. Led by Homeland Security Committee Ranking Member Peter T. King (R-N.Y.), the solutions group will take the lead in advocating and developing better solutions to the national security challenges facing America and hold the Administration accountable when it pursues misguided policies that make the American people less safe.

“The American people deserve and are demanding a stronger national defense,” opened McKeon. “While our citizens are skeptical of some of the decisions made by this Administration, they fundamentally want to trust the federal government to provide for the common defense. Our efforts, combined with those of Kevin McCarthy, will be focused on listening to the American people, including our brave troops and their families, and developing national security policies that are responsive to their needs and concerns.”

“Republicans joined in support with the President when he made responsible decisions, such as renewing the U.S. commitment to winning the war in Afghanistan. However, we opposed him when he made decisions that we believed could compromise our national security, including his efforts to import Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and his terrorist cohorts into the United States,” continued McKeon.

“We are committed to providing our troops with the tools, time and support they need to do their jobs as safely as possible. This overarching goal will continue to drive our discussions and actions,” concluded the Ranking Member.

In addition to Rep. McKeon, the following members from the House Armed Services Committee were tapped as members of the National Security Working Group: Rep. Michael Conaway (R-Tex.), Rep. Trent Franks (R-Ari.), Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), Rep. Jeff Miller (R-Fla.), and Rep. Mac Thornberry (R-Tex.). ###

News and Press Releases :: April 29, 2010 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Lindsey Mask

U.S. Congressman Buck McKeon Washington, D.C. Office Congressman Howard P. Buck McKeon U.S. House of Representatives 2184 Rayburn HOB Washington, D.C. 20515 ph: (202) 225-1956 fax: (202) 226-0683

Darrell Issa Jim Jordan Call on General Motors to End ‘Shameful’ Ad Campaign VIDEO

Issa & Jordan Assail General Motors’ Deceitful Tactics. Thursday, Call on GM to End ‘Shameful’ Ad Campaign.

WASHINGTON. D.C. – House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Ranking Member Darrell Issa (R-CA) and Domestic Policy Subcommittee Ranking Member Jim Jordan (R-OH) today sent a scathing letter to General Motors (GM) Chairman and CEO Edward Whitacre assailing GM’s “slick marketing campaign” built around statements that “constitute a lie to the American people.”

“We are concerned that GM, under your leadership, has come dangerously close to committing fraud, and that you might have colluded with the United States Treasury to deceive the American public,” Issa and Jordan wrote. “Your false statements may expose GM to millions of dollars in damages, further reducing the value of the taxpayer-owned company. The American people, as the majority shareholders of GM, have a right to know the truth behind the cost of the GM bailout and GM’s genuine financial condition.”

In exchange for the $49.5 billion committed to GM through Treasury’s Automotive Industry Financing Program, Treasury received a 60.8 percent common equity stake in GM, $2.1 billion in preferred stock, and $7.1 billion in GM debt. Treasury put $17.4 billion of the $49.5 billion bailout in an escrow account, which required GM to obtain Treasury’s permission to draw down. On November 16, 2009, GM disclosed that it intended to use the taxpayer money in the escrow account to finish paying back the original $7.1 billion loan by June 30, 2010, drawing on the taxpayer money in the escrow account to pay back the taxpayer loan.

“Although the motives behind your recent decision to advance this timetable are not clear, some have speculated that these actions were taken to increase the political palatability of GM’s application to the Department of Energy for $10 billion in low interest loans to retool its plants to meet the government’s tougher new Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards,” noted Issa and Jordan. “Regardless of your motive, however, the facts are clear: not one cent of your recent “repayment” came from GM’s operating revenue, and the American taxpayers are not one cent richer as a result.”

Issa and Jordan added, “Deceptive and dishonest advertisements and statements that attempt to disguise what is merely the exchange of one pool of taxpayer money for another pool of taxpayer money as “real progress” potentially expose GM to charges of fraud and further destroy the credibility of GM with the American public. These actions will inevitably hamper GM’s future ability to truly repay the taxpayer bailout. GM’s false advertisements are counterproductive and shameful, and they should stop.” ###

Committee on Oversight and Government Reform 29 April 2010 12:36 B350A RAYBURN HOUSE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON, DC 20515 PHONE: (202) 225-5074 FAX: (202) 225-3974

Republican Whip Eric Cantor Congressman Peter Roskam Meet with Jerusalem Mayor Barkat VIDEO

WASHINGTON D.C. – House Republican Whip Eric Cantor (R-VA) and Congressman Peter Roskam (R-IL) today met with Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat to discuss U.S.-Israel relations. After their meeting this morning they made the following remarks:

Cantor Opening Statement:

“We’re here today listening to the Mayor’s vision for a Jerusalem that enjoys bipartisan support on Capitol Hill, a Jerusalem that not only will serve as the eternal capital of the Jewish state of Israel, but a city in which people of all religions can live, enjoy, and practice their faith.

“We have talked today about some of the land use complications in that city and as we operate in the larger context of what’s going on with the U.S-Israel relationship, it’s very important that we continue to build bipartisan support for a united Jerusalem, that we continue to focus on the bonds that this country has with Israel, and to make sure that we emphasize the continued threat that Israel faces as our ally and the fact that Israel’s security is synonymous with our own.”

Roskam Opening Statement:

“Israel does enjoy bipartisan support, particularly here on Capitol Hill. My sense is that the Mayor’s presence today in briefing members of the House Republican Israel Caucus is an opportunity to equip them with the details of some of the municipal drama that has been happening in Israel.

“I took my family over in November of 2006 and one of the things that my kids picked up on was the religious freedom that was on display in Israel – a real opportunity for people of many of the world’s faiths that hold Jerusalem in a very high view and to be able to worship freely there. That’s the history, that’s the heritage, and that’s the way the Israelis have governed Jerusalem since it was united in 1967.

“I appreciate hearing from the Mayor and hearing his plans as somebody who is trying to run a large municipality in the midst of a great deal of turmoil and conflict. As so often times happens, when you begin to hear the facts a lot of the drama recedes.”

April 28, 2010 Contact: Brad Dayspring 202-226-5249

VIDEO CREDIT: EricCantor

TEXT CREDIT: Eric Cantor Office of the Republican Whip

Marco Rubio views of the immigration law in Arizona. "VIDEO"

On Tuesday, April 28, Marco Rubio discussed his views of the immigration law recently passed in Arizona. Marco Rubio Talks With Fox 92.5 FM’s Trey Radel

"VIDEO" CREDIT: MarcoRubio

Pat Toomey Sends Letter to Sen. Specter about his Negative TV Ads against Rep. Sestak

Allentown, PA – U.S. Senate candidate Pat Toomey sent the following letter to Senate Arlen Specter, urging him to remove his attack ad targeting Joe Sestak’s military service.

Senator Arlen Specter
711 Hart Bldg
Washington, DC 20510

Dear Senator Specter:

It is a clear matter of record that I have very strong disagreements with Congressman Joe Sestak on many important issues affecting the economy, health care, taxes, and even national security. But I also have the utmost respect for his decades of military service to our country. It is highly regrettable that you have chosen to disparage an honorable man’s military service in order to promote your own political career.

Over the years, you have developed a reputation for political attacks ads. I had not even announced my candidacy last spring when you raced out of the blocks with an attack ad that was so wildly inaccurate it was quickly discredited by fact checkers and news organizations. You will recall that your ad was characterized by FactCheck.Org as a “scorched-earth slip-up” and you were forced to remove it from the airwaves.

But now you have stooped to a new low, attacking Congressman Sestak’s thirty-year military service. This is not only insulting to veterans across America who sacrifice so much to protect our nation, but to all Pennsylvanians. Is there no low to which you will not stoop in an attempt to win an election?

Our state’s Democratic primary voters will decide whether they prefer you or Congressman Sestak as their nominee, and that is their right. But it’s pretty clear that there will be two different races in the fall depending on their choice. Joe Sestak and I have already engaged in two spirited, yet civil debates. Pennsylvanians can rightly expect that we would continue in that manner, which is not only respectful to each other, but more importantly, respectful to voters. If you become your new party’s nominee, then it appears that Pennsylvanians will be in for one outrageous or blatantly false attack ad after another. Our state deserves better.

I hope you will do the right thing and remove your attack on Joe Sestak’s military service. And I hope you will pledge to the citizens of our state that should you make it to the general election, you will cease your brand of negative advertising that the Pittsburgh Tribune Review called “embarrassing.”

Sincerely,

Pat Toomey for Senate

• 484-809-7994 |
• info@toomeyforsenate.com |
• 3440 Hamilton Blvd, Allentown, PA 18103

Marco Rubio on Arizona immigration legislation 04.27.10

“Our legal immigration system must continue to welcome those who seek to embrace America’s blessings and abide by the legal and orderly system that is in place. The American people have every right to expect the federal government to secure our borders and prevent illegal immigration. It has become all too easy for some in Washington to ignore the desperation and urgency of those like the citizens of Arizona who are disproportionately wrestling with this problem as well as the violence, drug trafficking and lawlessness that spills over from across the border.

“States certainly have the right to enact policies to protect their citizens, but Arizona’s policy shows the difficulty and limitations of states trying to act piecemeal to solve what is a serious federal problem. From what I have read in news reports, I do have concerns about this legislation. While I don’t believe Arizona’s policy was based on anything other than trying to get a handle on our broken borders, I think aspects of the law, especially that dealing with ‘reasonable suspicion,’ are going to put our law enforcement officers in an incredibly difficult position. It could also unreasonably single out people who are here legally, including many American citizens. Throughout American history and throughout this administration we have seen that when government is given an inch it takes a mile.

“I hope Congress and the Obama Administration will use the Arizona legislation not as an excuse to try and jam through amnesty legislation, but to finally act on border states’ requests for help with security and fix the things about our immigration system that can be fixed right now – securing the border, reforming the visa and entry process, and cracking down on employers who exploit illegal immigrants.”

Marco Rubio for US Senate Contact by phone: (786) 953-6711

Democrats Vote for Bailouts Twice in 24 Hours

Washington, Apr 27 - Republican Study Committee Chairman Tom Price (R-GA) issued the following statement after the Senate Democrat leadership chose to push for a second vote on their permanent bailout protection bill this afternoon.

“Senate Democrats remain wholly invested in Washington’s bailout mentality,” said Chairman Price. “The American people are tired of seeing their tax dollars used to rescue private companies from the consequences of their own bad decisions, yet the Democrats are trying to make bailouts and too-big-to-fail institutions a permanent part of this now political economy. Instead of holding another pointless vote on their fundamentally flawed bailout protection bill, the Democrat leadership should join Republicans in working to end the bailouts once and for all, streamline the financial regulatory system, protect consumers, and revitalize the dynamic power of our economy.

“House Republicans have already offered a strategy that will accomplish these goals, and our approach also does not ignore the role Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac played in the financial collapse. The Majority remains beholden to a taxpayer financed culture of bailouts that distorts the market at the expense of responsible private sector job creators on Main Street, and no amount of political gamesmanship by our Senate Democrat colleagues will change that fact.” ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 4.27.2010 Congressman Tom Price is Chairman of the Republican Study Committee (RSC)

Documents Show Companies See Incentive in Dropping Health Coverage

Employers, unions warned months earlier that health bill would trigger losses.

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Joe Barton, R-Texas, ranking member on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, today released a staff memo that indicates four large employers under investigation by committee Democrats see incentives in dropping employer health care coverage thanks to the new health care law.

“Turns out ObamaCare means if you like your health plan you can lose it. The president didn’t have to actually strong-arm companies into dumping their employee health insurance because his bill carried financial incentives to virtually guarantee that result,” Barton said. “But something’s very wrong when, like AT&T found out, paying $600 million in penalties will allow you to stop paying $2.4 billion for insurance, leaving both workers and taxpayers stuck. I suppose we can’t know for some years how many thousands, hundreds of thousands or even millions of workers will lose their company insurance because of health care reform, but I know that it will be a breach of faith for most of them and a tragedy for some.”

The preliminary investigation by the Republican staff indicates:

1. “Each of the large employers under investigation warned that health care legislation would trigger reporting requirements (of pending losses) months before passage of the health care law.

2. “Internal company documents from each large employer under investigation reflect concerns over the health care legislation’s new taxes and effect on costs.

3. “Internal company documents indicate that there will be an incentive to drop employer health care coverage because the cost of providing coverage will be much larger than the penalty imposed by the health care legislation.”

For example, a presentation provided to investigators by AT&T shows that the company could save $1.8 billion annually by dropping coverage for current employees and paying the penalty imposed in the law.

A copy of the Republican staff memo can be found here.

Please note: We have redacted information in these updated files.

The documents from AT&T can be found here.

The documents from Caterpillar can be found here and here.

The documents from John Deere & Company can be found here.

The documents from Verizon can be found here.

Joe Barton's Web Site 2322A Rayburn House Office Building | Washington, DC 20515 | (202) 225-3641

Rassmussen Poll: Are you confident that policymakers know what they’re doing 64% Say, “No”

“How confident are you that the nation’s policymakers know what they’re doing when it comes to addressing the current economic problems on Wall Street?

64% Total not confident
24% Not at all confident
40% Not very confident

32% Total confident
9% Very confident
23% Somewhat confident

4% Not sure

Rassmussen; conducted April 19-20, 2010; National Survey of 1,000 Adults Republican Study Committee (RSC)

Second Gilbert Baker TV Ad VIDEO

The Time Is Now To Reform Washington: Our forefathers banded together to cast off a system that was broken. This time it's Washington that's broken! It's our time now!

Watch as Gilbert rallies Arkansans to fix Washington problems not with Washington people, and Washington solutions.

TEXT CREDIT: Gilbert Baker for U.S. Senate, 2010, PO Box 3471 • Little Rock, AR 72203 Contact: info@senatorgilbertbaker.com

VIDEO CREDIT: bakerforussenate