Thursday, November 30, 2006

Clymer Candidacy?

Constitution Party chairman Jim Clymer will appear as the party's presidential candidate for early signature requirements in West Virginia, according to Ballot Access News.

Clymer has not yet said if he will run or not but he is no stranger to running for office. He run for several offices in Pennsylvania as a Libertarian, independent and as a Constitution Party candidate. Most recently he ran as the Constitution Party's US Senate candidate and won 4% of the vote, where the party's presidential candidate, Michael Peroutka, didn't even receive a single percent in that state.

Frist Not Running

Retiring Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) will not be running for President in 2008.

“In the Bible, God tells us for everything there is a season, and for me, for now, this season of being an elected official has come to a close. I do not intend to run for president in 2008.

Karyn and I will take a sabbatical from public life. At this point a return to private life will allow me to return to my professional roots as a healer and to refocus my creative energies on innovative solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges Americans face." Frist announced in a statement.

McCain Wins the 1st CP08 Poll

John McCain won the first monthly match up poll for The Conservative President 2008.

NOVEMBER POLL RESULTS:

John McCain (R): 38.96%
Jim Gilchrist (CON): 36.36%
Hillary Clinton (D): 12.99%
Daniel Imperato (I): 5.19%
George Phillies (LIB): 5.19%
Par LaMacrche (GRN): 1.3%

Tuesday, November 28, 2006

Another Pro Choice Republican

New York Governor George Pataki is yet another possible Republican candidate for President that is pro choice.

In July Pataki vetoed a bill permitting specialized license plates because one of them was a Choose Life plate. He also ordered that all hospitals, including religious ones, give out the morning after pill.

The governor also supported a bill that would spend $100 million dollars of taxpayer's money on the life ending process of embryonic stem cell research. To find out more on Pataki's pro choice stands go here.

It keeps becoming more evident that the GOP is getting farther and farther away from Reagan conservatism.

Constitution Party Web Site Sees Big Boost

The Constitution Party web site, http://www.constitutionparty.com/, has had an increase in views in the past three months, according to Alexa.com. The page views for the site have gone up 79% in the last three months.

The Libertarian web page, http://www.lp.org/, has also seen a boost, it is up 30%. Meanwhile the Green Party's site, http://www.gp.org/, dropped 30%, the Democrat's site, http://www.democrats.com/, has seen no change and the Republican Party's web site, http://www.gop.com/, has dropped 5%.

Monday, November 27, 2006

The Conservative Voice: Third Party 2008

The Conservative Voice columnist William Calhoun said in his November 17th article, "Election 2008: Conservative Third Party?",that conservatives will likely have to turn to a third party candidate such as Lou Dobbs, Jim Gilchrist or Congressman Tom Tancredo.

Calhoun says that the leading Republicans for the nomination are too liberal and that the Republican Party is traditionally a liberal party.

"Although Mitt Romney has tried recently to sell himself as a conservative, he has a very long track record of liberal causes. One can almost be certain that he is a liberal in disguise.

Some may say that Newt Gingrich is not a liberal per se, but he (unlike Reagan) certainly backs a neocon interventionist foreign policy, and would probably start another war. And although he recently has criticized the third-world invasion of America, only a few years ago he supported amnesty. Newt Gingrich is more neocon than conservative." Calhoun said of the retiring Massachusetts governor and the former Speaker of the House.

Calhoun said that the only hope for conservative Republicans is that Tancredo may win the nomination and if that doesn't that perhaps he will run as a third party candidate.

Calhoun also points out that CNN news anchor Lou Dobbs or Minuteman Project Inc. founder Jim Gilchrist may be a third party option for conservatives.

In another article Calhoun said that Congressman Duncan Hunter, Congressman and 1988 Libertarian Presidential Candidate Ron Paul, 2004 Constitution Party Vice Presidential Candidate Pastor Chuck Baldwin and 2004 Constitution Presidential Candidate Michael Peroutka would also be good candidates.

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Hunter Recieved 100% and 0%

Congressman Duncan Hunter, who has formed an exploratory committee for the 2008 Republican Presidential nomination, received a 100% rating from the Christian Coalition in 2003, indicating a pro family voting record. Also in 2003, the pro choice organization NARAL gave Hunter a 0%, showing he has a pro life voting record.

Monday, November 20, 2006

Russo to Run As Republican in 2008?

Multi Party candidate Gene Chapmen's web site reports that Aaron Russo is planning to seek the Republican presidential nomination with the slogan "Save the Republic."

Russo lost the 2004 Libertarian presidential nomination and also lost 1998 Republican nomination for Governor of Nevada.

Russo is a film producer who most recently produced was America: From Freedom to Fascism, which recieved a good review from 2004 Constitution Vice Presidential nominee Chuck Baldwin.

Russo made these 12 statements about the two major parties during his 2004 campaign:

1. Both political parties lie to us, and neither can be trusted.

2. Our economy is a disaster.

3. We’re losing our right to free speech.

4. Both parties passed the Patriot Act, a crime against all Americans.

5. Both wage war against medical marijuana and alternative medicine.

6. Both attack our right to bear arms.

7. Both parties overtax, overspend, and over-regulate.

8. Where is the gold owned by the American people? Neither party will address this issue and we need answers.

9. Both parties station our troops around the world rather than protecting our borders from terrorism and illegal immigration.

10. Both parties are guilty of starting the war in Iraq.

11. Both parties want to keep our troops there indefinitely.

12. Both parties are equally guilty for America’s youth dying there for no reason.

Why Newt Can't Win

Newt Gingrich, who has said that he will make his mind up about running for President in September of next year, should not even bother running. Newt Gingrich could not win the general election, if he could even win the Republican nomination.

Newspaper opinion columnist Molly Ivins has already attacked Gingrich's hypocrisy during the impeachment of President Clinton for having an extramarital affair while he himself was having one. She also goes on to point out that during Newt's first marriage he served his wife the divorce papers while she was in the hospital.

Could a person that could not be faithful to his wife (or in this case wives) be true to Americans?

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Mr. Poll Polls

There are many 2008 presidential polls on the Mr. Poll web site. Here are some intersting poll results from this web site. Some polls have more than one question.

Poll #1


If these were the choices for President in 2008
who would you vote for?
Hillary Clinton (D) (37%)
John McCain (R) (27%)
John Kerry (I) (15%)
Michael Badnarik (L) (9%)
Alan Keyes (C) (8%)
Pat Lamarch (G) (1%)
209 total votes

If these were the choices for President in 2008
who would you vote for?
John McCain (R) (39%)
Hillary Clinton (D) (38%)
John Kerry (I) (23%)
204 total votes


This next Poll was Put Out By The Conservative President 2008


Who would you vote for as the Republican
candidate for President?
George Allen (25%)
John McCain (20%)
Rudy Giuliani (13%)
Mitt Romney (11%)
Newt Gingrich (6%)
Pat Buchanan (5%)
Other (4%)
Tom Tancredo (4%)
Elizabeth Doll (2%)
John Cox (2%)
Mike Huckabee (1%)
Tommy Thompson (0%)
Michael Smith (0%)
143 total votes

If a liberal Republican became the Republican nominee,
would you consider voting for a third party candidate?
Yes (69%)
No (31%)
137 total votes

If these were the choices for President in 2008,
who would you vote for?
Hillary Clinton (D) (47%)
Tom Tancredo (R) (41%)
Daniel Imperato (I) (6%)
Jim Gilchrist (C) (6%)
140 total votes

If these were the choices for President,
who would you vote for?
Hillary Clinton (D) (39%)
John McCain (R) (34%)
Jim Gilchrist (C) (20%)
Daniel Imperato (I) (5%)
143 total votes

If these were the choices for President,
who would you vote for?
Hillary Clinton (D) (42%)
Rudy Giuliani (R) (38%)
Jim Gilchrist (C) (15%)
Daniel Imperato (I) (3%)
141 total votes

Thursday, November 16, 2006

Thompson Ready to Run

Former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson has announced that he will form an exploratory committee to run for President in early 2007, according to USA Today.

Thompson served as Wisconsin governor from 1987 to 2001 and more recently served as the Secretary of Health from 2001 to 2005.

Thompson is against abortion but he does support stem cell research. As governor he cut taxes a total of 91 times and he is opposed a national sales tax. As governor Thompson also created the nation's first private school choice program. To see where Thompson stands on other issues log onto On the Issues.

Tommy Thompson's brother, Ed, may also make a run for the White House in 2008 as a Libertarian. Ed Thompson is a former mayor of Tomah, WI and ran as the Libertarian candidate for Wisconsin Governor in 2002, winning 11% of the vote.

Candidate Hargis Answers Questions

Independent Presidential candidate Bob Hargis answered these questions for The Conservative President 2008.

1. Why are you running for President?

Because I believe that I can represent America while being fair with respect to socioeconomics and social/political viewpoints. I am a critical decision maker by nature and by trade and have an unwavering ability to remain calm and objective. I have no political agendas, and my hope is for the nations well being, protection and prosperity. I desire only a better and more UNITED America .


2. What makes you the best choice for President?

I love this country and its people passionately. I am a servant. I believe that the USA should be united and that I am the type of facilitator that can work to make that change happen. I believe that fair government can only be accomplished when those who lead are not manipulated or controlled by money driven organizations. I am a leader who is non-biased, non-political and fair. I am positive, and I convey hope and optimism to those with whom I communicate. This country needs hope.

3. What do you think is the biggest problem with the Republicans and Democrats?

I believe that the bipartisan system has caused a power struggle that is based on power and money. The central focus of serving the people has been lost. As a result, this division has split our country in two. This line that has been drawn in the sand has weakened our infrastructure and brought unity and cooperation to an all time low. Both major parties are unable to see past their agendas to realize that we all live in his country together and that the spirit of cooperation is a must if we are to remain strong.

4. Do you consider yourself a social and fiscal conservative?

Yes and Yes

I have a moderately conservative view on most social issues. I am deeply rooted in my faith, but I am not judgmental towards those with differing opinions.

I am very fiscally conservative. I believe that spending our children’s future on interest for a foreign debt is irresponsible. I believe in wise and conservative spending, responsible budgeting and financial accountability for all areas of government spending.

5. What is the top issue your campaign is focused on?

My primary focus is on unity and non-partisan government that represents the voice and will of the American people.

6. If another candidate with similar views as yours were to arise, would you consider dropping out of the race?

Although not likely, I would not make that decision until I was well informed about another candidate with whom I had gained trust.

Wednesday, November 15, 2006

Pro Choice Holds Lead in GOP Field

According to Rasmussen Reports Rudy Giuliani and Condi Rice are leading the field for the 2008 Republican nomination.

In a recent poll Giuliani received 24% of the total and Condi Rice beat out John McCain for second place with 18% compared to McCain's 17%.

Both Giuliani and Rice are pro choice.

Tuesday, November 14, 2006

Candidates - Joe Schriner

This is the fourth in a series on announced candidates for the Presidency.

Joe Schriner is running his third independent campaign for the Presidency. Schriner doesn't really have a job currently. He received journalism degree from Bowling Green State University in 1983. From 1983-1990 Schriner was a family counselor and in 1990 he started a research trip through America. "Average Joe" Schriner has been campaigning for the White House since 1999.

When it comes to illegal immigration, Schriner supports amnesty, "During a talk at an Immigration Rally of some 300 people in Flagstaff, Arizona, I said my administration would push for amnesty for illegal immigrants and family reunification… In addition, I told the Santa Rosa News in New Mexico that I fell heavily on the side of social justice, and a Schriner administration would ardently work for a living wage, benefits and optimal working conditions for all new arrivals to the country…", his web site says.

On taxes Schriner wants to shrink the income tax , and he supports a "Let's Help More" voluntary tax.

When it comes to life and death, Schriner is aginst abortion, euthenasia and embryonic stem cell research but, he also opposes the death penalty.

To find out more about "Average Joe" Schriner logg onto his campaign web site, http://www.voteforjoe.com/.

Monday, November 13, 2006

Giuliani Making Preperations for Run

Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani has begone a Presidential campaign exploratory committee, Rudy Giuliani Presidential Exploratory Committee, Inc., according to NewsMax.

The article also goes to point out that "America's Mayor" is pro choice and doesn't fully support the Second Amendment which may cause him problems among conservative Republicans.

McCain Prepares for Campaign

This past Sunday Sen. John McCain sat down with Tim Russert on Meet the Press and discussed the possibility of him taking another run for White House.

"Are we doing the things organizationally and legally that need to be done? Yes. The important thing is we will not make a decision until I sit down with my family, but we will be prepared," McCain said.

Saturday, November 11, 2006

Candidates React to Midterms

Four candidates for President told The Conservative President 2008 what there reaction to Tuesday's election results in the House and Senate and how they thought it would effect the 2008 Presidential election.

Independent Steve Adams: "Two years is a long time to forecast, and much will depend on what the Democrats do with their new balance of power. The takeover of both the House and Senate clearly demonstrates that the American public is disappointed with Republican leadership. My prediction is that in two years, they will also be equally disappointed with Democratic leadership. What this means for the presidential election is perhaps the desire to look elsewhere, such as an independent candidate like me. I plan on being there to offer that choice."


Republican John Cox: "This election validated what I have been saying for the past ten months all over the country. Republicans have not been acting like Republicans and have not been adhering to the principles of our party, the principles of Ronald Reagan. Just as the party responded after the 1976 loss to Jimmy Carter, we will reform our party around those principles that define us; fiscal responsibility, strong defense and traditional values. We must do more than merely mouth the words, we must lead with policies that effectuate solutions that reflect those principles and that address the challenges the public wants to have addressed.

This result will definitely impact the 2008 election. The public spoke - they are tired of the money seeking, power seeking career politicians. They are looking for positive solutions; they demand integrity, fiscal discipline and a resolution in Iraq. They reject arrogance and wish to see the US promote opportunity and hope for Americans as well as all people of the world. They don't want to see Americans die in battle but do want the best defense we can provide. They want our values defended but do not want partisan attacks and division. They absolutely insist on border security and enforcement of the law to address the immigration crisis.

The celebrities running in 2008 are in for a rude awakening. The public wants substance and action, not sound bites. My experience in the private sector and in politics will be attractive. The experience of the successors to three governors planning presidential bids has to hurt their prospects. The low regard for Congress has to impact any US Senator or Congressman planning to run. Former NY Mayor Rudy Giuliani has name recognition but is out of sync with the social conservative wing of the party.

Conservatives, who still form the base of the Republican party; they will appreciate my humble roots as I represent the small businesses that have built this country and create the jobs and economic growth we enjoy. I represent the American Dream and that is the vision of the Republican party we need in 2008."

Democrat Randy Crow: "I wish I was not so pessimistic. The bad guys, Karl Rove and company, have worked hard to make the United States a one party system. In North Carolina partisan judgeships are a thing of the past and in my area major Democratic and Republican candidates did not print party affiliation on mail outs for the November 7 election. Things, namely the war in Iraq and the Mid East have the possibility of becoming much worse under Democratic leadership. It is my guess the Karl Rove, Big George Bush, and yes James Baker, Republican game plan will be to get the Democrats to sanction and support Israel's, which really means the USA's, bombing of Iran and the approval of John Bolton as our ambassador to the UN. So I see the Democrat control of the US House and Senate as a possible plus for the bad guys. As the country's Republican and Democratic voters sigh a sigh of relief that comrade Little George has been stopped, the bad guys will get the Democrats to lead the charge of killing every Arab that moves, spreading bird flu, gutting the US Constitution, making the US a police state, and stealing every quart of oil in Iran and the Caspian Sea. Expect Democrats to demand that the USA become energy sufficient, which is a typical mantra at this stage of the game - which of course will never happen, with oil, anyway, and is a stupid suggestion for the purpose of justifying an invasion of Iran and then Russia. Recently I read an interesting article which stated that whoever controlled Russia' heartland controlled the world. So the Neocon path may be to Russia's heartland via, Iraq, Lebanon, Iran, Caspian Sea.

Little George is irreplaceable for touting the bad guy agenda. So I have not ruled out the bad guys making a move to seize the USA before November 2008. If we accidentally have Election 2008 with comrade Little George out of the picture, the anointments will be contrived and scripted by great writers to make people think we are not a communi$t country and that a two party system is alive and well, ho, ho, but there is no real difference between the Republicans and Democrats. Bad guy Republicans want the minimum wage increased, inflation, and big government so badly they can taste it."

Libertarian Christine Smith: "Overall, due to my rejection of the invasion of Iraq, I am pleased the election results show, in my opinion, an overwhelming rejection by the American people of the course the current administration has pursued.

However, I am simultaneously quite concerned with government spending. Although this may mean a more preferred foreign policy, the prospect of our nation's "budget" will probably not improve. Frankly, I view both the Democratic and Republican parties as big government, big spenders.

I am deeply concerned about America's problems, especially the precarious economic situation I think we're in. We and generations to come may have to eventually face an inflationary future and extreme economic strife due to the enormity of our national debt. Thus since I view Republicans and Democrats as big spenders I don't think the mid-term elections will change that.

Fiscally, I'm conservative. I seek less government at all levels because I believe less government means less taxation and less regulation of business (as well as less intrusion into people's private lives). Perhaps the gridlock of a divided government will result in less government spending, which will prove beneficial.

How does this affect the presidential 2008 election? I think it shows the people, when disgusted with the party in power, are willing to express it at the voting booth. Despite the probability the opinion ratings of the president may now go up before he leaves office, I still think he will go down in history as one of the worst presidents we've had. I think that will be reflected in the 2008 presidential election, as many Americans will again vote for candidates that are not Republican.

Voting for either a Democrat or Republican, is simply continuing the corrupt status quo...it's choosing between the lesser of two evils, it's still voting for more spending and bigger government. It's time the people vote for a candidate, not simply against a candidate who represents a party whose sitting president's policies they reject. The mid-term election shows the people will vote for change, but in the long run neither major party will, in my opinion, produce much change in areas that matter most. With the Democrats success of this mid-term, I think it will of course help them in 2008, but I am still hopeful that those who want smaller government will look toward candidates who want to limit government not expand it."

Thursday, November 09, 2006

AFP Says They Are the Conservative Choice

The America First Party formed after the fraction of the Reform Party that supported Pat Buchanan for President in 2000 split from the party in 2002.

The party claims to be the alternative for conservative voters, "We are the alternative to the present failing 'conservative' strategy. We offer concerned Americans the opportunity to organize around a set of principles which have long been the foundation of the success and greatness of our Republic. By avoiding the failed strategies of other third parties, and exploiting our opportunities and skills, we know that our success is a realistic possibility," party chairman Jon Hill said in a press release on Wednesday.

The America First Party did not run any candidates for federal or state offices this year and endorsed Constitution Party candidate Michael Peroutka for President in 2004, according to Wikipedia.

To find out more on the America First Party log onto http://www.americafirstparty.org/.

Wednesday, November 08, 2006

Tancredo Wins Re-Electon

Representative Tom Tancredo has won re-election to the US House of Representatives. Tancredo, who is known for his support of boarder security, easily beat his opponents with 59% of the vote compared to Democrat Bill Winter and Libertarian Jack Woehr's 1%.

Tancredo is likely to seek the Republican nomination in 2008 as a way of pushing illegal immigration on the front burner of voter's minds.

Spencer Campaign Not Total Loss

Republican John Spencer's campaign against Hillary Clinton was not a total lost. Spencer only received 31% of the vote compared to Clinton's 67% but, while doing so he has pointed out Clinton's flaws on the issues.

On Spencer's web site, it is pointed out that Hillary Clinton: opposes securing our boarders, favors gun control, favors abortion, supports gay rights, and Hillary Clinton even supports flag burning.

Spencer has done well in showing us that Hillary Rodham Clinton is not a person that should be elected President of the United States.

Allen Blows Chances For 2008

Virginia Senator George Allen was once thought to be a leading candidate for the 2008 Republican presidential nomination.

Now, after a re-election campaign for US Senate against Democrat Jim Webb it is still uncertain if Allen will win another term. Right now, according to CNN, Webb is holding a one percent lead with 50% to Allen's 49%, third party candidate Gail Parker is coming in with just 1% of the vote.

During his campaign, as it is well known, Allen was went under fire for a remark that he made while on the campaign that is considered as a racial slur. Due this incident more was dug up from his past that resulted in hurting his campaign even more.

Even if Allen does turn out as the winner in this election, it will be nearly impossible for him to become the Republican nominee and even more so to win the general election in 2008.

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

Gingrich, Romney Leading Conservative Republicans

Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich are current leading conservative Republicans for the 2008 presidential nomination.

Former liberal New York City mayor Rudy Giuliani and maverick Senator John McCain are still leading in the polls.

The Next Prez reported these poll results for Romney & Gingrich:
WASHINGTON: Romney - 7% ; Gingrich - 6%
NEW JERSEY: Romney - 8% ; Gingrich - 5%
WISCONSIN: Romney - 8% ; Gingrich - 5%
GEORGIA: Romney - 5% ; Gingrich - 3%
PENNSYLVANIA: Romney - 5% ; Gingrich - 13%
FLORIDA: Romney - 7% ; Gingrich - 5%
MICHIGAN: Romney - 17% ; Gingrich - 6%

Monday, November 06, 2006

Edwards on Citizenship

Former Senator and 2004 Democratic Vice Presidential candidate John Edwards believes that hard working illegal immigrants should gain United States citizenship, according to On the Issues.

That is just not the way people should become American citizens. People should not come into the States ILLEGALLY work a while and then be given citizenship for doing so.

Immigrants should come to America LEGALLY and then find work. There is no excuse for unidentified people to cross into America. The boarder situation will never be solved until penalty's are give to the illegal immigrants.

Friday, November 03, 2006

Is it Waste to Vote Third Party?

Recently Republican candidate for Illinois governor Judy Baar Topinka, a liberal, stated that people voting for the third party candidate that will be on the ballot, Rich Whitney (Green Party), would "waste their vote".

As is noted in the 2006 endorsement list, the Conservative President 2008 does not support any of the candidates that will be on the ballot in Illinois, we support write in candidate Randy Stufflebeam. Conservative President 2008 also supports another non-major party, Timm Knibbs (Concerned Citizen's Party) who is running for US Senate in Connecticut.

When does a person waste their vote? When that person chooses to vote for a candidate that is the lesser of two (or more) evils, and in the case of the Illinois governor's election Judy Baar Topinka and Democrat Rod Blagojevich come in a tie with Green Rich Whitney coming in a close third.

Wednesday, November 01, 2006

Tancredo Takes TNP GOP Poll

Colorado Congressman Tom Tancredo won the Next Prez October Republican straw poll.

TNP OCT. REPUBLICAN STRAW POLL RESULTS
Tom Tancredo: 23%
Mitt Romney: 19%
John McCain: 13%
Michael Smith: 11%
Chuck Hagel: 10%
Rudy Giuliani: 10%
John Cox: 9%
Newt Gingrich: 4%
George Allen: 3%

Utah Rep. Ferrin On the GOP and Third Party Politics

Utah State Representative Jim Ferrin lost the Republican nomination for his seat and in turn endorsed the candidacy of Constitution Party candidate Ed McGarr.

Rep. Ferrin answered these questions for The Conservative President 2008.

1. Why did you endorse Ed McGarr to replace you in the Utah House ofRepresentatives and not your party's candidate?
I have great regard for the integrity and importance of the Utah Legislature, as an institution. I understand very well that the legislature is no better than its members. I believe we should ALWAYSchoose the best person for the job, regrdless of party affiliation. And, as a Republican partisan, I almost always believe the Republican ISthe best person for the job. However, in this race I chose to supportMr. McGarr because, of the two candidates, his beliefs, positions,philosophy, and policies are closer to mine than are those of his Republican opponent. I know, from first-hand experience, of the heavy influence in the legislature wielded by the teachers' union, the UEA. I support public education and I believe we can and should rise to the challenge of providing a first-rate, world class education to our children. Yet, I strongly disagree with the union as to how that shouldbe achieved. For six years I fought for greater choice and competition in our public education system. I feel we have made great improvements there. The UEA has always opposed every effort to introduce principles of choice and competition, whether it be tuition tax credits, vouchers,charter schools, merit pay for quality teachers, starting bonuses, orany of the many other reforms that have been introduced in the legislature. Mr. Sandstrom has supported these UEA positions and has articulated them very well on their behalf. Mr. McGarr agrees with meon each of these important issues. Additionally, as a citizen I am verytroubled that a candidate with Steve Sandstrom's long history of tax liens (both federal and state), court ordered default judgements onloans, and other defaults on loans and unpaid bills would now seek tobecome our Representative and lawmaker. I am troubled with his cavalierdenial of responsibility for his federal tax liens, and his silence on his state tax liens. I think his history speaks to the character and integrity of the soul. On the other hand, I find Mr. McGarr enjoys a universal reputation of integrity and respect among those that know him. Finally, Steve Sandstrom told me that from childhood, he has "alwayswanted to be in the legislature." I suppose that is OK. But, my regard for the institution tells me that it is a place of trust and service,not merely an achievement to be sought of its own accord, not a steppingstone for higher elected office. My experience of Ed McGarr is that he seeks the office not to fulfill a personal ambition, but out of a genuine desire to serve and to stand for principles. Given all of this,notwithstanding my being a devout Republican partisan, I must still choose the better candidate for the job - Ed McGarr.

2. Do you think the Republican Party is becoming more liberal?
No, but I do believe that conservative Republicans became overly complacent during the primary election cycle last summer. I believe that a vast majority of Republicans in my district believe as I do (andas Ed McGarr does) on the vital issues before state government. However, I also believe that the vast majority of those Republicans,feeling very complacent, simply failed to turn out and vote. I lost the primary election by 124 votes in an election in which only about 15-20%of the registered voters voted. We saw organized efforts from the teachers' union, instructing members to change parties to the Republicanparty to vote, then switch back to whatever you want. After the election UEA chiefs bragged they had mobilized 1100 union members to vote against me. The result was to elect the UEA friendly Steve Sandstrom by 124 votes. But, again, I don't believe it was the heart and soul of the Republican party that elected Sandstrom. Rather, the conservative heart and soul of the Republican party simply stayed home,didn't vote, and got Steve Sandstrom as their nominee in the process.

3. In the 2008 election, who would you like to see become the Republican Presidential candidate and if that person does not become the candidate would you consider supporting a third party candidate?
I would like to see Mitt Romney become the Republican nominee for President. I will support the Republican nominee, no matter who it is. This is a VERY different scenario from the Ed McGarr/Steve Sandstromquestion in my legislative district. In this little race we have no Democrat in the race. So, a vote for McGarr does not inadvertantly elect an even more liberal candidate. Plus, Republicans enjoy such a majority in the Utah House that election of the non-Republican does not influence party control of the House (who serves as Speaker, committee chairs, etc...). But, the Presidential race is a very different affair. I think it fairly certain that the Republican Presidential nominee will not be entirely to my liking on all issues. But, it is also fairlycertain that he/she will be much better than any Democrat nominee. And,I don't believe any third party candidate has any chance whatsoever of being elected. So, a vote for the third party would be a defacto vote for the person I really don't want.

4. Do you think that third party's could become a formidable force in US politics?
No, requirements for majority votes on issues force people of similar(if not identical) political philosophies to gather together to form majorities - not just pluralities. This has lead to the two party system. Plus, a successful third party would have t o draw sufficently from both the major parties to produce any meaning affect - which means it would have to be more liberal than the Republican party but more conservative than the Democrat party. It could not be successful drawing from the philosophical extremes of either party. Most third parties have done just that.
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