"That's Saul, folks!"Michigan Republican Party Blog

Articles of Interest 6-30-06

It seems like Jeff Daniels is talkin the talk BUT Mitch Daniels is walkin the walk.

Governor Granholm failed to faithfully act to bring a new Honda manufacturing plant to Michigan. Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels this week announced an agreement to bring the new plant to the Hoosier state, bringing with it 1,500 jobs. This, clearly, is a prime example of how Granholm has failed to provide effective leadership for Michigan.

We need a serious governor with a serious plan to bring jobs back to our state. With Michigan in a single-state recession, we don't have time for half-hearted measures. At the very least we deserve an honest effort to bring these important jobs to Michigan.

Jennifer Granholm campaigns on "going anywhere and doing anything." Her democratic comrades run television ads of how the governor "fights for Michigan." Not even the best automotive workforce in the world was enough to give Granholm's Michigan the edge over other states. Quite frankly, Ohio and Indiana outworked Michigan, and as a result 1,500 Michigan citizens will not gain employment. It is Granholm's fault for not doing everything to gain Honda's business.

Maybe she can visit Honda on her “next” trip to Japan?!?

For a line by line rebuttal of Granholm’s new ad go to:

http://www.migop.org/lte/backgrounders/Rebuttal.htm

The Cook Political Reports names Michigan U.S. Senate seat as one of the “interesting ones to watch”.  There are 6 incumbent Democrats seats that are on their list…Stabenow being on of them.

The Michigan Republicans establish a joint account with the National Republican Senatorial Committee for the sole purpose of  “banking” general election funds to defeat Debbie Stabenow this fall. Named the “Michigan Challenger Fund”, this account which is chaired by our state GOP Co-Chair, Jane Abraham,  will collect federal dollars and transfer 100% of those funds to our Republican nominee the day after the primary election.  Having a Republican primary with Mike Bouchard and Keith Butler criss-crossing the state, we wanted to start getting ready for our ultimate nominee and take advantage of the political climate in Michigan.

Congressman Mike Rogers stepped up and is the “first” Congressman to “max out” to this fund and help us be better prepared to send “do nothing Debbie” packing.  Congressman Rogers continues to lead efforts statewide to build our party, participate in various party events and now takes the lead in making sure the fund necessary to send a Republican to the U.S. Senate from Michigan are there.

Thanks again to Congressman Rogers for his continued leadership and support of our party. Together, we can make a difference!!!

We ended our third day of the “Mehlman Tour” with a swing through Saginaw, Bay City and Midland.  We had a great reception everywhere we went from local party activists and volunteers showing up at every stop.

Ken Mehlman and Karl Rove were the architects of the Bush victories.  Having Ken in Michigan to explain the value of voter vault, the 72 hour program and micro targeting to our activist was a huge advantage.  We all left each meeting inspired and motivated to do what it takes this November.

Ken thought he had a great trip and enjoyed talking with so many of you.  He committed to come back at least once if not twice more before the general election.  He is convinced we have one of the best chances in America to unseat a Democratic Governor and Democratic U.S. Senator. Well Ken, we’ll do everything we can on our part!

Saul Anuzis

Articles of interest 6-29-06

***ATTENTION ALL COUNTY CHAIRS AND VOTER VAULT USERS***

The RNC is currently in the process of making upgrades to the Voter Vault - both to the program, and to the data.  With this change, we need to be able to accurately identify each user and what portion of the file they have access to.   If we can not identify a user, that account will be deleted. 

We are asking all users, to make sure that your USER PROFILE is filled-in, and up-to-date. This can be done very quickly, and easily.  Upon log-in, simply click on "My Profile" then "Edit Profile" and fill-in all requested information.

County Chairs, please spread the word to all those in your county who may be using the Voter Vault.

Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, along with Honda Motor executives on Wednesday announced the completion of an agreement to bring a new manufacturing plant to the Hoosier state, bringing with it 1,500 jobs.

The people of Indiana were rewarded for the hard work put forth by their governor, Mitch Daniels. When Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm was ‘totally booked’ during her most recent trip to Japan, Indiana’s Mitch Daniels took action and fought for Honda’s business. Because Governor Granholm’s ‘11th hour pitch’ was too little and too late, as a result 1,500 new jobs will not be coming to a Michigan city near you. It is ironic that Granholm’s democrats are running television advertisements proclaiming the governor’s fight for the Michigan people. This, clearly, is a prime example of how Jennifer Granholm has failed to provide effective leadership. Other governors have it figured out, but Granholm and her team have not. At the very least we deserve an honest effort to bring these important jobs to Michigan. With Michigan in a single-state recession, we don’t have time for half-hearted measures. We need a serious governor with a serious plan to bring jobs back to our state.

Michigan’s Democratic Party Chairman, Mark Brewer, made claims Wednesday during a House Oversight, Elections, and Ethics Committee meeting that China was secretly funding the Dick DeVos for Governor campaign…NOT true.

Mark Brewer just blurted out false claims during the House Committee meeting trying to create controversy and again create some “red scare” as they desperately try to deflect attention from Governor Granholm’s record.  I’m amazed to what lengths the Granholm team will go to in order to try and win re-election.  Have they considered honesty???

Way to go Lake County!  The Lake County Republicans put up this sign to get folks thinking about voting Republican…love the local initiative!!!  Thank for all you do.  To see what the sign looks like go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/welcome_to_lake.html

President Bush nominated 5 additional folks from Michigan to the federal bench.  Among them a Democrat.  Given the fact we have 2 Democrat U.S. Senators, some compromise had to be reached to get nominees approved.  I hope this helps gets our troops fired up to elect a Republican to the U.S. Sentate…nothing could be more important when it comes to getting good “constructionist, conservative” judges on the bench!

Day two of the “Mehlman Tour” took us to downtown Detroit, over to Macomb County, Flint and then Grand Blanc.  At every stop Ken impressed the local activists and our Dollar A Day members with his knowledge, enthusiasm and passion for our cause.  He was particularly passionate about the war on terror and gave the “rest of the story” of the many success of bringing freedom and the seed of democracy to Afghanistan and Iraq.  At the Macomb county Victory Center we had brought in our “bracketing” team and the Granholm Jobs Clock and our Do Nothing Debbie signs. 

Macomb County Chair Jim Carabelli with RNC Chair Ken Mehlman and MI GOP Chair Saul Anuzis during our Macomb event in Jim's backyard.

The Flint Victory Center had a packed house…making phone calls, picking up literature and bumpers stickers and providing the grassroots manpower to make a difference this fall.  We had a lively discussion, took pictures with many of the volunteers and local candidates who came by to meet our national Chairman.

A special thanks the Genesee County Chair Denise Graves and Fifth District Chair Michelle Vorheis for all their work on our Dollar A Day event in Flint.  It was a huge success!!!

RNC Chair Ken Mehlman with 5th CD Chair Michelle Vorheis, Genesee County Chair Denise Graves and MI GOP Chair Saul Anuzis.

County Chairs, State Committee members, Dollar A Day donors and others joined us throughout the day.  Ken had a chance to do interviews on WJR’s Paul W. Show and the Frank Beckman Show during the morning…tirelessly working the phone in the car and setting a great example of the kind of work and commitment is necessary to win in November.  He also talked with many of the Michigan political reporters, giving them an update of our activities.  Overall…Great day!

Welcome to Lake County - Republican Country!

The Lake County Republican's unveiled their "Welcome to Lake County - Republican Country" sign that will greet all those who travel through the county...great idea!!  Thanks to Joan Runnels and the Lake County Republicans for your efforts - and for passing these along!!

 

Articles of Interest 6-28-06

We started our three day tour with RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman in the heart of the  15th Congressional District…Dearborn Heights.  We had a great turnout of Dollar A Day members, State Committee members and party activist who joined us to hear Ken talk about the opportunities in Michigan.  Longtime stalwart Republican Frank Stella dropped by to say hi and talked about how Ronald Reagan recognized and appreciated the work grassroots activist do…because in his election, they made THE difference.

As we start day two of the “Mehlman Tour”,  I encourage you to join us and hear our National Chairman, break bread with friends and get the latest information about what we are doing to win in November.  No guitar or tie died t-shirts, but the spirit is there.  For more information go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/rnc_chairman_co.html

The Michigan Republican Annual Gala in metro Detroit was a big hit.  Senator John McCain and Dick DeVos keynoted our event which raised the party over $1 million dollars.  We received some great local coverage, including a front page picture of Dick DeVos and John McCain in the Oakland Press.  Senator McCain also had a national reporter from the New Republic traveling with him. Thanks again to all who participated.  For more info on the event go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/gala_a_big_hit_.html

You’ve got to love it….Draft Newt.  A friend of mine email this link to me last night.  I particularly enjoyed the mention of our own Joan Jackson from Leleenau County and the Michigan Womens Federation….way to go Joan.  Anyways, this looks like it will be a good place to track how, what, where and when things will be happening with Newt and some’s wishful thinking as to a potential Presidential bid.

http://www.draftnewt.org/

President Bush Called On The Senate To Join The House And Quickly Pass The Line-Item Veto, So He Can Sign It Into Law. The line-item veto, already passed by the House, would allow Presidents to target pork in large spending bills.  It is an essential part of the President's strategy to reform the budget process and enhance fiscal discipline.  The line-item veto President Bush has submitted to Congress is constitutional, effective, and has bipartisan support.

The Line-Item Veto Also Has Bipartisan Support In Congress.  Thirty-five Democrats joined more than 200 Republicans in the House to pass the line-item veto last week.  The Line-Item Veto now pending in the Senate also has bipartisan support, with Senator John Kerry as a cosponsor of the legislation.  By coming together to pass this important reform, Congress will bring discipline to the budget process. 

Saul Anuzis

Notes from Jane

This is a busy and exciting week for Michigan Republicans. Our Gala last night was a smashing success. Senator John McCain always gives us "straight talk" and last night was no exception. I wish everyone could have heard his thoughts on how important it is that we succeed in Iraq and win the war on terror. David Trott and Robert Shumake chaired the event. It was evident that our success last night was the direct result of their leadership and hard work along with that of our Finance Chairman, Ambassador Ron Weiser. Thank you!

Ken Mehlman, Chairman of the National Republican Party, is spending three days in Michigan this week attending several Dollar-A-Day grassroots events. I hope you will attend the event closest to you.

Last week Democratic senators pounced on another opportunity to attack the current administration’s strategy regarding the Iraq War. President Bush and his administration see the Iraq War as part of a larger War in which we must spread democratic ideals in an effort to secure the ideals for which our nation stands. Through establishing a democracy in the Middle East, we can help individual citizens as well as the global community by promoting ideals that lead us to peace rather than ideological conflict.

Since the beginning of the administration’s attempt to encourage democracy for the citizens of Iraq, democrats have jockeyed to sway public opinion against the Bush administration and its plans for Iraq. Prominent Democratic senators including John Kerry, Russ Feingold, and Carl Levin have proposed plans that would set a timetable on U.S. withdrawal. These measures are antithetical to the cause for freedom. The very premise of the War is to promote ideals of individual freedom in a region crippled by turmoil and oppressive leadership.

Sadly, Michigan democratic senator Carl Levin proposed an amendment on the floor of senate last week calling for a phased redeployment of U.S. troops for Iraq beginning this year. In addition, he demands that the President submit a plan for continued redeployment by the end of the year. Cosponsored by Senator Reed, Senator Feinstein, and Senator Salazar, the bill received intense debate in the Senate, allowing high-ranking democratic senators to take cheap shots at the Bush administration. Unfortunately, Senator Debbie Stabenow was right in the fray. Additionally, Senator Clinton of New York accused the Bush administration of doctoring the war "as a strategy for Republicans to win elections here at home." The ridiculousness of this statement does not even deserve attention, as it is another feeble and unfounded attack by a Democratic senator who has a long record of poor performance and ineptitude.

If not political, the democratic accusations spring from a fundamental misunderstanding of the American mission in Iraq. We must plant the seed of democracy in the Middle East and protect it from the thorns that are oppressive leaders, insurgents, and radical ideas emanating from deeply held convictions. At this point, the United States has completed a successful military campaign in wiping out a tyrannical dictatorship, and now is charged with the task of encouraging a new foundation of government through which the Iraqi citizens can seek and find liberation.

In the beginning of the current endeavor, it was unclear who exactly our enemy was. However, it has become crystal clear that we are engaged in a war against an ideology that is incompatible with freedom, individualism, and a basic sense of human dignity. We have a defined picture of who we need to eliminate in order to triumph and accomplish our goals. The United States has been very successful recently in eradicating exactly who we target, exemplified by the recent death of criminal leader Zarqawi. Setting a timetable is ridiculous and counteractive, as it will give our enemies a clear sense of our plans and encourage them to persevere long enough to see American withdrawal.

Our success in Iraq has far-reaching effects in terms of the global state of democracy. We must ensure the development of a democracy in Iraq in order to start a "domino effect" in which democracies spring up around the region through the contagious nature of democratic ideals.

Gala: A Big Hit with DeVos & McCain

The Michigan Republican Gala was a big hit last night.  With nearly 500 in attendance the party will raise over $1 million dollars for our efforts this fall.

Senator John McCain gave a great speech about the importance of this election and our GOP nominee Dick DeVos talked about the race for Governor and what it will take to help turn Michigan around.

Articles of Interest 6-27-06

ATTENTION REPUBLICANS: We are organizing a series of events statewide with our RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman.  We have 7 different Dollar-A-Day events set up around the state and we encourage all our current members and various club members who have already paid their membership to come out and hear our national party Chairman share some of his excitement about our electoral prospects in Michigan.  For those of you who think I drink too much caffeine every day…you’ll be amazed to meet and hear Ken…who does it all without all those diet Dr. Peppers!?!

Please join us and meet our dynamic National Chairman…

For more information on RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman’s visit to Michigan go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/rnc_chairman_co.html

The Michigan Republican Gala was a huge success last night.  Nearly 500 guest packed the Meadowbrook Hall in Rochester Hills (Jim…I got it).  Private joke.  State Committee member and Rochester Hills Councilman Jim Dustemier wanted to make sure everyone knew the event was in Rochester Hills….not Rochester.

Anyways, it was a great event.  Senator John McCain helped the state party raise over $1 million dollars toward our election efforts this fall.   Senator McCain was kind enough to meet with donors and party activists, take pictures and share his perspective of what is happening around the county. 

Special thanks to Robert Shumake and David Trott who Chaired this event, along with our state Finance Chairman Ambassador Ron Weiser who worked the phones like few others and wouldn’t take no for an answer.

Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land and Attorney General Mike Cox helped round out the evening by meeting with donors and activists throughout the night.  Speaker of the House Craig DeRoche, GOP Co-Chair Jane Abraham and U.S. Senate candidates Keith Butler and Mike Bouchard mixed and mingled throughout the crowd.

Our state College Republican Chairman Dan Carlson was elected Midwest Caucus Chairman for the College Republican National Committee this last Saturday.  There are only four caucus’s in the entire country, and Dan was the unanimous choice in our region.  Dan Carlson and the College Republicans throughout Michigan are a huge part of the state party’s efforts this fall and we encourage you to help your local campus get more students involved, offer them tickets to local events and support their efforts to help us make a difference.  Congratulations to Dan for a job well done!

Leadership….or just jumping our in front of a politically popular issue….at this point of the game, we’ll take it anyway we can get it…Governor Granholm???

Welfare reform has hit the Governor’s desk…whatever excuse you can come up with…Governor please sign the bill.

The “castle doctrine” bill is about to hit the Governor’s desk…as Dick DeVos has said:

"The passage of this law is far too important to allow political posturing to impede the progress. Therefore, I'm asking you to please move the legislation and allow the governor to take credit for its passage, if she (the Governor) so chooses.”

"The residents should be allowed to protect their families and homes without the fear of victim prosecution. This is an urgent matter of public safety and security."

Governor, either lead, follow or get out of the way…maybe the voters of Michigan will help you make that decision in November.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 6-26-06

"This gave me occasion to observe, that when Men are employ'd they are best contented. For on the Days they work'd they were good-natur'd and chearful; and with the consciousness of having done a good Days work they spent the Evenings jollily; but on the idle Days they were mutinous and quarrelsome, finding fault with their Pork, the Bread, and in continual ill-humour."

-- Benjamin Franklin (Autobiography, 1771)

Reference: Franklin: Writings, Lemay, ed., Library of America (1447)

Welfare Reform – OK Governor Granholm, here is your chance to do the right thing!

Granholm has been a long time opponent of welfare reform and opposed to throwing able-bodied welfare recipients off the welfare rolls after 4 years. It’s an election year…how about another flip-flop on a politically popular position?.  She’ll probably even blame the President or his Administration …who “made her do it”.

Flip-flop…flip-flop…stand for nothing!

The Republican legislature did all the heavy lifting…all the Governor has to do is sign it.

Both Democrat members of the Board of Canvassers have resigned after being held in “contempt of court” by the Michigan Court of Appeals for playing politics with a citizen initiated petition…rather than doing their constitutional duty in applying the law of the land.

Now that the courts have done what Governor Granholm refused to do, that is, removed from positions of public responsibility her appointees who thumbed their nose at the law, the Governor has the opportunity to get it right this time, not just appoint some political hack…but rather, someone who will uphold the law.

These are partisan appointments, however, the Board of Canvassers have an awesome responsibility to approve both language for citizen initiatives and petition signatures for candidates and initiatives to be put on the ballot.  It’s not a question of whether you agree with particular language or like a specific candidate…if the people of Michigan have done what the law requires, the Board has a legal and moral obligation to follow the law.  The Governor’s appointments will speak volumes about her commitment to allowing the citizens of Michigan to petition their government.

Senator John McCain is in Michigan today.  The party hopes to raise near $1 million at tonight’s event at Meadowbrook Hall.  Thanks to all of you who have helped.

RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman comes in for a 3 days tour of Michigan.  We have a series of events that are open to our donors and activists…I hope you can make it.

If you haven’t seen it yet, the National Republican Senatorial Committee launched a new web page called ThanksDebbie.com.  This web site will provide timely updates on votes Senator Debbie Stabenow has taken that do NOT help the taxpayers, voters and citizens of Michigan.  Click on the various “pictures” on the wall for more information on the site and make sure you click on the “more” buttons to get all the details.  Go to:

www.thanksdebbie.com

This is a big week for Michigan Republicans.  Our Victory Centers are in full swing.  We are now working on recruiting volunteers and manning our phone banks and lining up folks to go door-to-door on a weekly basis.  Please do what you can, give the team an hour or two as often as you can…regularly scheduling a time slot really helps.

Thanks again for all you do.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 6-25-06

Tomorrow, Monday June 26th we will have our Lincoln Reagan Dinner at the Meadowbrook Hall with Senator John McCain.  This is our largest annual dinner

This Gala is the Michigan Republicans biggest fundraising events for the year.  I hope you will consider attending this event and supporting our party.

We are also organizing a series of events statewide with our RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman.  We have 7 different Dollar-A-Day events set up around the state and we encourage all our current members and various club members who have already paid their membership to come out and hear our national party Chairman share some of his excitement about our electoral prospects in Michigan. 

For more information on RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman’s visit to Michigan go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/rnc_chairman_co.html

It’s going to be a busy week.  I hope you take an opportunity and come out and meet our RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman.

Saul Anuzis

Articles of Interest 6-24-06

I just made it back from boy scout camp.  The kids had a great time.  We started our day out at 5:00am with the sunrise to prepare to “take down” our camp and get the kids ready to go home.

We ended up having 152 kids at camp for the whole week.  Everyone was complaining that they couldn’t stay longer…one cub scout quipped he wished “camp would last for a whole year”.  That’s how I define success!

I called Holly on the way back, she and Chuck where on their way to the Greenville headquarters grand opening today.

Well, I’m exhausted and still have to go unload a trailer full of camp supplies…then shower…then get a nap…before I hit one of my scout leaders graduation party…and then hopefully “earlier” to bed.

There is some good reading in today’s clips…lots happening.  Good night :)

Saul Anuzis

Notes from Jane

It was good to see so many folks at various events this week. I especially enjoyed seeing such a great group of women at a DeVos event co-chaired by Anne Mervenne, Barbara Gattorn and Deidre Lambert-Bounds. It was wonderful seeing so many strong, diverse women who make up the Republican Party (and some from outside our Party) coming together to discuss the challenges facing Michigan, talk about what’s at stake for our kids and learn more about Dick DeVos and the leadership he will provide once he’s elected Governor. There are so many issues which unite us. I look forward to doing everything I can to help women from every corner of Michigan find ways to get involved in this election and help put our great state back on course!

It is becoming increasingly obvious that the defining issue in November’s gubernatorial election is the condition of Michigan’s floundering economy. Democrats have tried to place blame on President Bush, the climate of the auto industry, Governor Engler, and just about any source that would take the spotlight off Governor Granholm and her administration. The fact of the matter, however, is that Granholm has not taken any effective steps in mollifying the auto industry’s struggles, and continues to blame Washington instead of working to find solutions that will enable a revitalized economy. We need leadership that will bring fresh ideas and a proactive approach in dealing with Michigan’s difficulties.

Granholm recently has cited outsourcing and competition with China as a major driving force behind Michigan’s woes. However, globalization and international economic cooperation are not only inevitable in the 21st century, but also need not be a hindrance if dealt with properly. It is essential that leadership provide a proper balance between taxation and government spending in order to spur business growth and increase revenue. This in turn will create not only more jobs, but also higher paying jobs. In addition, all fifty states must deal with outsourcing to varying degrees. Amazingly, the rest of the country is embracing globalization and enjoying economic growth after a brief period of national recession. Which begs the question, why aren’t we?

It is important to examine Engler’s economic record in order to dispel Granholm’s criticisms as well as illustrate the strength of Republican policy. When Engler took office, Michigan’s unemployment rate was over 9%, one of the highest recorded unemployment rates. During his tenure, Engler created 800,000 jobs and brought the unemployment rate to 3.4%, the lowest level ever recorded in Michigan. He signed 32 tax cuts into law, which saved Michigan taxpayers $32 billion. The state’s inheritance and capital gains taxes were eliminated. Personal exemptions for children, seniors, and the disabled were significantly increased, and the personal income tax rate was lowered to 3.9%. Such an impressive economic record should not be forgotten, as it demonstrates Granholm’s lack of leadership in addition to highlighting the effectiveness of Republican economic policies.

The facts do not lie. Michigan is the only state experiencing a recession in the midst of national economic growth under Republican leadership. Michigan’s unemployment rate, which hit 7.2% in April of 2006, was drastically higher than the national level of 4.7%. Even when Michigan’s unemployment rate drops, which is indeed rare, it is directly a result of the civilian labor force shrinking due to people leaving the state in hopes of finding work elsewhere. Sadly, our greatest export in this time of economic decay is educated citizens who know enough to read the signs of Michigan’s economy under current Leadership. It is time we provide hope to Michiganders that we can compete in the 21st century.

Let’s stop complaining about extraneous forces, and start focusing on what we can do to improve our economy. Voting for Dick DeVos is a positive step in displacing inactive leadership and providing new ideas to strengthen our economy.

Articles of Interest 6-23-06

We ended the day at Michigan State University at "Boys State". Mark Brewer and I led off their "political evening" talking about the differences between the Republican and Democrat parties. Brewer decided to use President Bush as part of his presentation making his arguments why certain policies, beliefs were not to his liking. I thought and mentioned that his approach, although appealing, didn't allow me to use President Clinton in my speech because most of the discussion wasn't appropriate for public discourse, let alone age appropriate. I'm not sure why, but that got a pretty good laugh!?!?

Over 500 boys from around the state heard a give and take between us and then broke into 16 smaller groups to debate and discuss the issues at hand in greater detail. It was a great time and hopefully we helped some sharpen their skills and arguments about what it means to be an American.

MONDAY - This Monday, June 26th is our annual Gala at the Meadowbrook Hall. Our special guest this year is Senator John McCain. If you haven't purchased a ticket, please call our office or check with one of the many ticket sellers who are working so hard to make this a great success. We need your help.

Also, don't forget our national Chairman Ken Mehlman is coming to Michigan.

We are organizing a series of events statewide with our RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman. We have 7 different Dollar-A-Day events set up around the state and we encourage all our current members and various club members who have already paid their membership to come out and hear our national party Chairman share some of his excitement about our electoral prospects in Michigan.

For more information on RNC Chairman Ken Mehlman's visit to Michigan go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/rnc_chairman_co.html

The DeVos campaign released their in-depth proposal as to how Dick plans to lead the state and help turn Michigan around. Many said it was the most comprehensive and detailed plan ever put forth by any candidate.anywhere. When you compare it to the Governor's record and the propaganda and "leadership by press release" brochure she calls a "plan".it is so very obvious why we are in the situation that we are in today.

Today I'm heading off to our Boy Scout camp to close things down. I apologize in advance that I will be unreachable most of Friday afternoon and Saturday morning. We're packing up the tents, cleaning the mess hall, and loading up the kids in their parent's car after a week of fun and adventure.

And for those of you "hard core Articles of Interest" readers, Saturday's edition will be late! I hope to be back home around noon or so and will get the Articles and commentary out as soon as I can.

Have a great weekend!

DeVos Tax Cut Vow Sets the Right Tone

Michigan is in a single state recession...the ONLY state in the country to lose jobs 3 years in a row.  We need new leadership.

To see a discussion of the numbers above, please go to the Detroit News editorial at the link below:

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060622/OPINION01/606220329

Editorial: DeVos tax cut vow sets right tone for election

GOP candidate keeps focus on creating jobs

Republican gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos made a key commitment Wednesday in announcing his economic goals for Michigan: He vowed to give Michigan businesses a tax cut while also holding the line on all other taxpayers...

Articles of Interest 6-22-06

Lots of news today…lots of new things to talk about.  I apologize for the length of this morning’s commentary right up front.

The Democrats and the Granholm spin machine launches a new ad.  Their strategy…blame President Bush for the problems (even though every other state is moving forward) and “claim” Governor Granholm went to work to get a new plan built here.  OK…maybe she could or should have been working all along and help create an environment here in Michigan where jobs would have stayed.

Then they run MILLIONS of dollars of state funded ads to “attract jobs” to Michigan….in Michigan???  That’s right, in an attempt to move “right track, wrong track” numbers, the Governor is spending our tax dollars to run ads in Michigan about doing business in Michigan…hello…we live here…we know and we feel the pain!

Michigan is in a single state recession…CEO Granholm (under Bush, 5.3 million new jobs nationwide).

Michigan has lost ONE job for every TWENTY minutes Granholm has been in office
(under Bush, 5.3 million new jobs nationwide).

Michigan needs to “buy” jobs and plants by offering “one time” fixes to our tax and regulatory climate…Republicans are arguing we change the environment for all jobs providers, making this a great state to build and expand in…all the time.

Don’t be fooled…ask your neighbors, does it make sense the rest of the country is moving ahead, creating new jobs, building new factories and Michigan is the ONLY state in the country losing jobs, losing our recent college graduates and having to “buy” factories.  The Granholm spin machine is good…but talk about the facts…there on our side.  Granholm has a record…and it’s the worst in the country!

Chuck & Susan Gaidica hosted a State Party fundraiser at their home with special guest Governor Mitt Romney.  The Governor was called back to Massachusetts for some official state business but was kind enough to call in and talk to the group by phone. We had a great conversation with the Governor and he did a wonderful job talking about Republican values and how optimistic he was about America’s future.  This was one of our largest regional fundraisers we have had…folks are fired up and ready to fight!

Thanks again to Governor Mitt Romney and the Gaidica’s for their generosity.

Governor Granholm’s attack team has charged over and over that Dick doesn’t have a plan.  Meanwhile, after 1,263 days in office, the current Administration still has no plan.  Given Granholm’s record, it’s understandable they want to avoid the discussion.

Starting today, they can’t make that charge or deflect attention anymore.

Dick’s Jobs Plan (The Michigan Turn Around Plan,/ v2.0 / Volume One / Jobs Plan) is being released today.

It’s being released to editorial boards Wednesday and Thursday.  On Thursday it’ll also be released on the D4G website and the capitol press media will be briefed on Friday. 

This plan is unprecedented in two ways:  First, it’s earlier than Granholm released plan in 2002 by 3 months. Second, it’s the most specific plan on an economic turnaround released in a campaign.

The 65-page plan breaks down Michigan’s turnaround into 4 big missions that comprise 134 action ideas.

This is a living document, hence the 2.0 version.  It’ll be posted on the D4G web site and voters will be solicited to provide their feedback and provide input in its next generation.  This is also only Volume One – Jobs.  While it does contain plans on education, health care and the environment, it is not an Education, Health Care or Environment Plan.  Those plans will be forthcoming.  But the Jobs Plan is central to the campaign and therefore the most detailed and first to be released.

Be prepared for the press to go after this plan.  There appears to be a “double standard” when it comes to this Governor.  She gets away with putting out press releases, no specifics…then hides from her record and calls her press releases a “plan”.  Surprise surprise, surprise, …the media not only “buys it” they help “sell it”.  We just need to “stay the course”.

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/devos_release_p.html

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Cartoons often have a way of saying it all.  Governor Granholm is desperately looking for “something new” to attempt to distract the voters of Michigan from her record.  As an incumbent whose policies and plans have clearly failed…Granholm will ultimately have to defend her record…losing ONE job for every TWENTY minutes she has been in office.  For another look at a frustrated Democrat go to:

http://www.uclick.com/feature/06/06/21/wpswi060621.gif

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Our State Party bog “That’s Saul Folks” got a nice mention and I think a compliment in the National Journal’s Hotline blog for “political folks”. My goal is to keep our party activists updated with the latest facts, information and political rumors.  Please share the link and my daily emails with anyone who you think might be interested in finding out more.  To see the post go to:

http://hotlineblog.nationaljournal.com/archives/2006/06/michigans_open.html

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New Strategic Vision poll was released yesterday.  Some important factors are that Governor Granholm’s job approval rating is down to 39% and they confirm that DeVos continues to hold a slight lead this early in the race.

Again, these numbers are trending in the right direction and are great for our efforts to take back the Governor and U.S. Senate seats in Michigan.  But it’s only a snap shot in time…but fun to watch.  To see the complete poll go to:

http://migop.blogs.com/blog/2006/06/new_strategic_v.html

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The National Republican Senatorial Committee launched a new web page called ThanksDebbie.com.  This web site will provide timely updates on votes Senator Debbie Stabenow has taken that do NOT help the taxpayers, voters and citizens of Michigan.  Click on the various “pictures” on the wall for more information on the site and make sure you click on the “more” buttons to get all the details.  Go to:

www.thanksdebbie.com

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Bottom Line:  Governor Granholm has a record, she has worked her policies and plans for the past 4 years…results: Michigan is losing ONE job for every TWENTY minutes this Governor has been in office.

Dick DeVos is offering an alternative plan, a vision for bringing Michigan back.  Michigan needs leadership to help turn things around.  Dick DeVos is the ONLY candidate who can provide that leadership!

Saul Anuzis

DeVos Releases Plan...challenging Granholm's record

Dick DeVos is meeting today with editorial boards around the state and laying out his 65 page plan on how to revitalize Michigan.  It includes 4 broad missions that include 165 action ideas.

DeVos vs Granholm....plan vs record...hope vs despair...jobs vs single state recession.

Plan will be posted on www.devosforgovernor.com To see Detroit News article go to: http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060621/UPDATE/606210437

Dixie Chicks Land....ho!

If we could only get that lucky....

Rove & Mehlman..."fired up GOPers"

National Journal's Hotline Reports

WH Dep. CoS Karl Rove and RNC chair Ken Mehlman fired-up GOPers and gave a preview of the GOP's election strategy at the '06 "Volunteer Deployment Kickoff" on 6/20 at the Hyatt on Capitol Hill. The event encouraged hundreds of GOPers to volunteer in battleground states during the end of 10/06 up until Election Day. Sen. Rick Santorum (R-PA) made a surprise visit and said there is "nothing more important in an election than volunteers."

      All of the speakers placed a heavy emphasis on the election's importance to the war, likening the U.S. to a theater in the War on Terror and the midterms as a battle in the war. Mehlman said the GOP is on the "offensive" against terrorists, versus the Dems who have "three" positions on the war: "cut and run; walk and run; and jog and run." Mehlman said "the enemy would see" a Dem Congress' policy "as surrender and America would be weaker" as a result. Mehlman: Do we want "our generals fighting subpoenas or terrorists?" if Dems take Congress. Santorum: "A lot of folks on the left don't want to believe (that the U.S. is at war.) ... The rest of the world and the enemy will be looking, as they always do, (at the election and the) resolve of the American people. (The) war will be lost or won in the hearts and minds of the American people." Neither man mentioned Iraq by name, only "the war" at-large.

      Mehlman said '06 would be one of the most important elections in U.S. history, likening it to elections at the outset of the Cold War, the civil rights era and the 1980 victory of Ronald Reagan and the GOP. Mehlman said the war is the most important reason GOPers must hold Congress, but tax cuts must also be protected to keep the economy growing and the U.S. must prepare of the "retirement of the baby boomers."

      Mehlman analyzed how a changing media landscape will benefit GOPers. Mehlman said while there are more TV channels and websites than ever, the larger media have low credibility and influence among voters. Mehlman: "A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention." Voters pay "more attention" to "friends, neighbors and talk radio" than TV and the Internet. Mehlman said John Kerry in '04 was worried about the "old networks -- ABC, CBS" when GOPers were focused on people. "Neighbors talking to neighbors beat their paid backs. People are networks." The lesson of Mehlman's tutorial: the GOTV advantage that won '04 and can win '06.

      The biggest history lessons came not from Mehlman, but from Rove. The event was originally advertised with VP Dick Cheney as the keynote speaker, but Rove came instead. No reason was given for the switch, and Rove said little about Dems, but took aim at pundits, journalists and "academics" whom he said predicted GOP doom in '00, '02 and '04. For each election, Rove used an anecdote about how talking heads said the GOP would surely lose, only to have their predictions ruined by GOTV efforts and the pundits' own aloofness with the American public. Rove said each victory was "historic," comparing them to Dem wins under FDR. Rove laid these histories in front of the crowd, expecting them to be extrapolated and make a GOP win in '06 look as plausible as their previous victories (Hotline reporting, 6/21).

New Strategic Vision Poll for Michigan

New Strategic Vision poll was released yesterday.  Some important factors are that Governor Granholm’s job approval rating is down to 39% and they confirm that DeVos continues to hold a slight lead this early in the race.

Again, these numbers are trending in the right direction and are great for our efforts to take back the Governor and U.S. Senate seats in Michigan.  But it’s only a snap shot in time…but fun to watch.  To see the complete poll go to:

http://www.strategicvision.biz/political/michigan_poll_062106.htm

Congressional Quaterly Forecast: Granholm v DeVos - "No Clear Favorite"

http://www.cqpolitics.com/2006/06/mi_gov_economic_woes_help_pull.html

MI Gov.: Economic Woes Help Pull Granholm Into a Tossup
By Marc Rehmann   |   4:43 PM; Jun. 20, 2006 | 

Republican Dick DeVos is a vastly wealthy businessman who is challenging Michigan Democratic Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm in her bid for a second term. And he is spending money at a rate unprecedented in Michigan politics — shaking up the contest in the marginally Democratic-leaning state and turning it into an apparent tossup at this point in time.

With both polls and state political analysts indicating that DeVos’ expensive early media blitz is taking its toll on Granholm, CQPolitics.com has changed its Election Forecaster rating on the race from Leans Democratic to No Clear Favorite.

http://www.cqpolitics.com/2006/06/mi_gov_economic_woes_help_pull.html

Gov. Granholm: Putting it in a "bag" doesn't make it a "plan" either??? Hiding from your record?