Richardson In NH From July 3rd-July 6th

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will be in New Hampshire from Tuesday July 3rd until Friday July 6th. Here is his complete public schedule:

Tuesday, July 3rd

When: 10:00 PM
What: Greenville Pots and Pans Parade
Where: Greenville, NH

Wednesday, July 4th

When: 10:00 AM
What: Amherst Fourth of July Parade
Where: Amherst, NH

When: 1:00 PM
What: Merrimack Fourth of July Parade
Where: Merrimack Commons Parking Lot,
515 Merrimack Daniel Webster Highway, Merrimack, NH

When: 3:30 PM
What: Fourth of July House Party with Bow Democrats
Where: Bow, NH

When: 5:00 PM
What: Goffstown "Job Interview" Event
Where: Stonebridge Country Club,
161 Gorham Pond Road, Goffstown, NH

When: 7:00 PM
What: Fourth of July Fireworks
Where: Holman Stadium,
Sargents Ave., Nashua, NH

Thursday, July 5th

When: 7:45 AM
What: Meet with Teamsters
Where: UPS Warehouse, Nashua, NH

When: 4:00 PM
What: Marlow "Job Interview" Event
Where: Jones Hall -- Marlow Historical Society,
Church Street, Marlow, NH

When: 7:10 PM
What: Stoddard "Job Interview" Event
Where: Lakefalls Lodge,
Aten Road, Stoddard, NH

Friday, July 6th

When: 8:00 AM
What: Manchester Chamber of Commerce Candidate Forum
Where: 111 Amherst Street,
Manchester, NH

When: 10:00 AM
What: Meet with Voters with Bobby and Representative Susi Nord
Where: Candia Public Library,
55 High Street, Candia, NH

Bettencourt's Side of The Story

Last night, State Representative D.J. Bettencourt e-mailed us explaining his side of the story. I feel that it is appropriate to post excerpts of that e-mail. Here are some key points:

Money:
The issue for me was never money. I have not been on the payroll of a campaign since 2002 when I was working as an intern on Gordon Humphrey's campaign for Governor. Finally, I have made a vow that I would never take more money that simple reimbursement of personal cost from a campaign as long as I am in public office.

McCain/Immigration:
While not on the level of Tom Tancredo or Duncan Hunter, I am a member of the legislative caucus for legal immigration. I'm hardly a newcomer to the issue and chumming around with Ted Kennedy at press conferences promoting amnesty was more than I could stomach.

Feelings Towards McCain:
I'm not going to get into petty arguments over personalities or he said/she said and I want to make it clear the despite this incident I still hold Senator McCain in the highest regard and I wish his campaign well.

Romney Position:
I want to make this clear: I was never offered, nor am I being offered now any position or money from the Romney campaign. Their courtship of my support was fully ethical and completely above board.

McCain Position:
With regard to McCain and a paid position: The possibility of having my position become a compensated position did arise though never seriously. However, nothing formal was ever discussed, no amount was ever discussed, and NEVER were any demands made on my part.

Pindell/AP Story:
"(Bettencourt) told the Associated Press that he was indeed considering a job with McCain." Pindell is incorrect on this point. I never personally spoke with the AP.

McCain E-mail:
The e-mail provided by the McCain campaign was a personal correspondence between me and someone whom I considered a friend. Thus why the e-mail was sent from my personal and not political e-mail account. It was one paragraph from a five paragraph e-mail and was grossly out of its proper context. The entirety of the e-mail made it clear that I was not looking for, nor being offered any position or money from either Romney or McCain.

Rudy In Manchester on July 11th

On July 11th, Rudy Giuliani will be in Manchester. The former New York City mayor will be visiting the WMUR studios to tape a segment for the series "Conversation With The Candidate."

Gilmore Back In NH on July 10th

Former Virginia Governor Jim Gilmore is planning to visit to the Granite State on July 10th. Gilmore will be in Manchester at WMUR taping a segment for the series "Conversation With The Candidate." This will be Gilmore's 4th visit to New Hampshire.

Obama To Attend Hirshberg House Party

In addition to his Laconia event, on July 2nd, Barack Obama will attend a Concord house party hosted by Gary and Meg Hirshberg. This event is by invitation only.

Edwards Opens New Offices, Hires More Staffers

The John Edwards campaign has announced that it is officially open eight new offices and hiring eleven field staffers. Here is the press release:

"The John Edwards for President Campaign announced that its grassroots New Hampshire campaign continues to grow with the opening of eight new offices, bringing the total to 10, and the hiring of additional field staff.

"Our campaign in New Hampshire continues to build momentum," said Beth Leonard, New Hampshire State Director. "As Senator Edwards travels the state, people are responding tremendously to his leadership on ending the war in Iraq, providing truly universal healthcare, and fighting poverty.

"The campaign is opening new community offices in Berlin, Dover, Derry, Keene, Laconia, Lebanon, Nashua and Portsmouth. The campaign already has community offices in Concord and Manchester .

The campaign is hiring an additional eleven field staffers, bringing the total of paid staffers to 40. They will be joining dozens of interns, countless volunteers and a grassroots Leadership Committee of elected officials, community leaders and activists across the state."

Medical Marijuana Group Organizes For Primary

A group called the "Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana" has recently formed. According to a press release:

"With the medical marijuana issue already drawing attention on the presidential campaign trail, the Marijuana Policy Project (MPP) has returned to New Hampshire to join with local residents in an effort to press the candidates to take a stand on behalf of the seriously ill and their caregivers.

Based in Manchester, New Hampshire, Granite Staters for Medical Marijuana is a grassroots coalition of patients and activists. GSMM is organizing during the New Hampshire presidential primary campaign to raise awareness of the need for federal action to protect medical marijuana patients. For further information, please see www.GraniteStaters.com."

Biden To Walk In The Shoes of A SEIU Member

According to a SEIU press release,

"Sen. Biden will become the third presidential candidate to walk a day in the shoes of an SEIU member next month when he experiences firsthand what life is like for a member in New Hampshire."

Rep. D. J. Bettencourt's Statement

In the ongoing saga that is known has the D.J. Bettencourt story, we have obtained Bettencourt's statement announcing his support of Mitt Romney. Mr. Bettencourt has announced that he is withdrawing his support for John McCain and is now supporting Mitt Romney stating that "His values are New Hampshire values." Here is the statement:

STATEMENT FROM NEW HAMPSHIRE STATE REPRESENTATIVE D.J. BETTENCOURT(SALEM):

Over the past few weeks I have told the McCain campaign that I would withdraw my support as his Rockingham County co-chairman if Senator McCain continued to push for amnesty for illegal aliens. Although earlier I publicly endorsed Senator McCain, I cannot, in good conscience, continue to support him. His continued work to allow illegal immigrants to stay in this country indefinitely is out of step with New Hampshire voters. We must enforce the laws on our books, not provide amnesty for millions of people who have broken the law since the moment they stepped on our soil.

America is the land of opportunity and we should encourage legal immigration, but giving illegal immigrants a free pass simply isn't good policy. It weakens our national security and the drain on our public health, education, and law enforcement sectors costs U.S. taxpayers billions of dollars a year. It simply isn't fair to immigrants trying to come to this great nation the right way.

Today, I am publicly endorsing Governor Mitt Romney for president. His values are New Hampshire's values. We share the belief that in order to make our nation better we need a strong military, a strong economy, and strong family values. And his principled stand to not reward people who are here illegally with a permanent free pass to stay, is consistent with my views and the views of most New Hampshire citizens. I look forward to working with Governor Romney and his staff over the next several months to ensure that his message reaches every New Hampshire voter and that he gets every New Hampshire vote possible.

Merrill Joins McCain's Camp

John McCain's presidential campaign announced that state Republican National Committeewoman, Nancy Merrill will serve as John McCain's New Hampshire campaign co-chair. Merrill was a McCain supporter in 2000 and served as the campaign's vice-chairwoman. She will be joined by Former Executive Councilor Peter Spaulding who will also serve as co-chair.

UPDATE: Rep. Bettencourt Dumps McCain Over Money; Not Offered A Job With Romney

According to James Pindell, "D.J. Bettencourt, 23, a Republican from Salem, told the Associated Press that he was indeed considering a job with McCain, but that he does disagree with McCain on immigration. The campaign contends he was upset with the job offer."

More can be read here: NH lawmaker leaves McCain over money

While, Phil Elliott writes that Bettencourt "had been offered a paid position with the Romney campaign." His story is here: McCain supporter leaves campaign, asked for money

UPDATE: A Romney spokesperson has told us that "This is factually wrong. The campaign never offered him a job. The campaign never planned on offering him a job. We're not going to offer him a job."

UPDATE 2: Elliott also writes in the story "But in e-mails provided by the McCain campaign, Bettencourt, 23, said he had been offered a paid position with the Romney campaign and "they are on the hunt for conservatives."

As far as I am concerned, it's time to move on and no more updates will be posted on this story.

Romney Travels 3.97 Times Around The World

We're not sure what to take from this, but according to the Romney press shop Mitt Romney, since the February 13rd presidential announcement, has traveled 98, 716 miles. He has also made 350 campaign stops, including 36 in the Granite State. For the health nuts reading this 98, 716 miles is 3.97 times around the world and if you walk that you will burn 13,524,996.869931027 calories.

You know it's a slow news day when you I post something on burning calories.

Senator Molly Kelly, 5 State Reps Endorse Clinton

From the Clinton campaign:

The New Hampshire for Hillary campaign continues to build a strong organization in every corner of the state, and today announced Senator Molly Kelly and five new state representatives have endorsed Hillary for President, bringing the total number of NH legislators supporting Hillary to 50. State Representatives Susan Beauchesne (Allenstown), Roger Berube (Somersworth), Tom Fargo (Dover), Anne Grassie (Rochester), and Tom McGuirck (Hampton) join Kelly in announcing their support today.

McCain Announces Legislative Caucus

Today, John McCain's campaign released the members of the New Hampshire Legislative Caucus for McCain. Members include, Rep. Sharon Carson (R-Londonderry), Rep. Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett), Rep. Karen Hutchinson (R-Londonderry), Rep. Rip Holden (R-Goffstown), Rep. Maureen Mooney (R-Merrimack) and Rep. Andy Peterson (R-Peterborough). In a press release State Representative Gene Chandler said, “While all too many politicians are comfortable merely criticizing controversial legislation, John McCain gets things done. His ability to reach across the aisle, and willingness to spend political capital when push comes to shove, is unmatched in Washington. This is the brand of leadership we need in the White House.”

Clinton, Romney Lead; Gore Would Beat Clinton

A new 7NEWS-Suffolk University poll shows Mitt Romney and Hillary Clinton leading their respective fields. According to the poll, "Of likely Democratic voters, 37 percent said they support or lean to Hillary Clinton, 19 percent picked Barack Obama, while John Edwards and Bill Richardson each received 9 percent." However, the poll also shows that 32 percent of Democrats would vote for Al Gore over the candidate they are currently supporting.

On the GOP side Mitt Romney is leading with 26 percent, followed by Rudy at 22 percent, McCain at 13 and Fred Thompson with 13 percent.

The poll also showed New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg with 6-to-8 percent of the vote. In six general election scenarios the Democratic nominee would maintain or improve their margins.

The poll can be found here: http://www.suffolk.edu/20780.html

Hillary Announces Another Legislator Endorsement

Tomorrow, Hillary Clinton's campaign will announce that they have received endorsements from 50 state legislators. That legislator will discuss their endorsement, in a conference call with reporters.

Sargent To Lead Clinton's "LGBT Americans For Hillary"

This from the Clinton campaign:

On the eve of the 38th anniversary of Stonewall, the New Hampshire for Hillary campaign today is pleased to announce the formation of the “LGBT Americans for Hillary.” The new national steering committee is comprised of over 65 leaders in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) community, including Manchester Attorney and local Democratic activist Greg Sargent.

"It is my honor to be a part of Hillary Clinton’s campaign in New Hampshire . She was the first candidate to congratulate the NH legislature for its leadership on the civil unions bill and she has long fought to end discrimination against gays and lesbians,” said Greg Sargent.

Obama To Complete Tour of All 10 NH Counties

Senator Barack Obama will complete his tour of all New Hampshire counties with a visit to Belknap County. Obama will visit Laconia on Monday, July 2nd.

Monday, July 2nd

MEET THE CANDIDATE
Rotary Riverside Park
25 Beacon St E.
Laconia, NH
Gates open: 12:00 Noon

The event is open to the public, but an RSVP is strongly encouraged. You can RSVP either by calling John Oxtoby in the Concord office at (603) 224-8004 or by visiting us on the web at http://nh.barackobama.com (listed under Upcoming Events, at right).

The 411 on the 603

The 411 on the 603

The Clacker advises John McCain to "get into (move into!) the early primary states and kick some...

While, Skip is busying calling all NH Fred Heads

And the GraniteProf concludes that in New Hampshire, a Bloomberg candidacy would gain "Democratic-leaning independents."

To answer the GraniteProf's question, a safe distance for trailing Romney (and other presidential candidates) is usually two cars. Unless they pull down a dirt road, then all bets are off.

Obama Launches "iChange"

This Saturday, Barack Obama's New Hampshire campaign is launching "iChange." The new program is designed to "engage students...and empower them to take action." The program will begin with a door to door canvass, followed with an after-party featuring live music. According to NH Students for Obama, here is the definition for "iChange."

iChange (i-cheynj), noun:

1. a new level of youth participation needed to elect a new kind of politician to the White House: 2008 Presidential candidate Senator Barack Obama.
2. campaign activities run by, made for, or involving youth activists.

We're on PBS

To our surprise, this website is linked on PBS's NewsHour website. Specifically, we're under the Reporter's Blog section. Here is a link to their website:

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/vote2008/blog/

And remember to support your local broadcast station!

Hunter To Walk Merrimack Parade

On July 4th, Congressman Duncan Hunter will be participating in the Merrimack 4th of July parade.

Richardson In NH July 4th-5th.

New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson will be in the state on July 4th and 5th. On July 4th, Richardson will be participating in the Amherst 4th of July Parade. Also, on the 4th, Richardson will be at a Bow house party sponsored by Deborah de Moulpied. Interested citizens are encouraged to RSVP at (603) 206-4593. Then on July 5th, the New Mexico Governor will be at Jones Hall in Marlow. Again, those interested in this event should contact Mary Blank, who is the President of the Marlow Historical Society.

Edwards Airs First Granite State TV Ad

Today, John Edwards launched its first New Hampshire television ad. The ad is entitled, "Strength of America" highlights "Edwards’ belief that the strength of our country lies in the American people and that by taking action we can strengthen the middle class, lift families out of poverty and transform America."

"Strength of America" script:

John Edwards:
“Will we make America, the country of the 21st Century?
That depends on all of us.
It’s not that we don’t know what needs to be done.
To lift families out of poverty.
To strengthen the middle class in this country.
We know what needs to be done.
The strength in America is not just in the Oval office,
The strength in America is in this room, right now.
It’s the American people.
And it’s time for the President of the United States to ask Americans to be patriotic about something other than war.”
“I’m John Edwards and I approve this message.”

The ad can be seen here: http://johnedwards.com/nh/ad

McCain Forms NH Legislative Caucus

From a McCain press release:

U.S. Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign today announced that the New Hampshire Legislative Caucus for McCain – the only legislative caucus for a presidential candidate – will hold a press conference to release the chairs and members of the group on the steps of the Legislative Office Building on Wednesday, June 27th.

Paul Pays NH 3rd Visit; Supporters Raise Money

This event summary and photo was submitted by Jane Aitken. Mrs. Aitken is a supporter of Congressman Paul. Here is her story:

Friday June 22nd, US Congressman Dr. Ron Paul (R) made his 3rd trip to NH.

First stop was the taping of Arnie Arnesen's television show "Political Chowder" which aired on Sunday the 24th. He also taped another show with a young local host, Lee Rogers.

He then taped two radio shows at WXKL studios in Concord. One was for WXKL's 1450 AM political news, and the other for NH Taxpayer Radio with Ed Naile and Jane Aitken, likely to air in July .

Dr. Paul then attended a dinner with NH Right To Life at the Chateau Restaurant in Manchester, arranged by Barbara Hagan.

Aitken, who has to date raised over $25,000 for Dr. Paul in just two visits, said the campaign is growing by leaps and bounds.

Keough Helps Romney Raise Money

Photo is: ©Chris Fitzgerald/CandidatePhotos.com

This afternoon Mitt Romney's campaign hosted a fundraising event entitled, "America’s Calling." In a released statement, Bruce Keough, Mitt's New Hampshire Chairman, said “It was incredible to witness the electricity in the room today. The excitement in the air over helping Governor Romney finish out a successful second quarter was palpable. People are really energized about where the campaign is right now, and I’m happy to be part of it.” We're told that Keough beat his personal goal and raised more than $5, 000 from supporters in New Hampshire today.

America 's Calling" Fast Facts:
Number Of Tables: More Than 100
Number Of Volunteer Fundraisers Participating: More Than 600
Number Of Calls Made: More Than 20,000

One Opens Office

According to The Concord Monitor, "The ONE campaign - a group devoted to combating worldwide poverty - will soon open an office on Main Street. To bolster support for the campaign, former Bill Clinton press secretary Mike McCurry and Jack Oliver, a strategist for President Bush's campaigns, will be in town for an event July 11." More can be found here: Never too early for a Senate race

Chris Dodd outlines National Service Plan

Photo is: ©Chris Fitzgerald/CandidatePhotos.com

From a Chris Dodd press release:

Speaking on the steps of Nashua City Hall where John F. Kennedy held his first campaign event in 1960, Senator and Presidential candidate Chris Dodd today outlined his comprehensive national service plan -- the American Community Initiative. Saying that America needed to tap the resources of all its people to meet the challenges before us, Dodd called on all Americans to establish a new era of American Patriotism through service.

Key elements of Dodd's American Community Initiative include:

-Promote the Corporation for National Service (CNS) to Cabinet Status.
-Mandate School-Based Service as a Requirement for High School Graduation.
-Double the Size of the Peace Corps by 2011 and Again by 2050.
-Dramatically increase the number of AmeriCorps Members to 1,000,000 and immediately raise the amount of the education award.
-Create a Rapid Response Reserve Corps.

Tancredo: NH Victory Would Galvanize Campaign

Photo is: ©Chris Fitzgerald/CandidatePhotos.com

Over fifty people turned out to hear Tom Tancredo speak at a house party in rural Westmorland, NH. At the conclusion, he told the audience that if could place well in the New Hampshire Primary election, it would galvanize his campaign because of the attention it would receive nationwide.

After the candidate had departed, one attendee of the party confirmed his support for Tancredo. Jim Flanders, a proponent of the right of an individual to bear arms, pulled back his jacket for a photographer, revealing a concealed Smith & Wesson 38 Special that he was carrying legally, as a matter of course. He said, "You can't take away law abiding American's guns because they won't stand for it." He attended the party with a friend who was also carrying a concealed pistol. He surmised that several other people at the event with whom he was acquainted were also toting concealed weapons, all legally.

Dodd Engages Manchester Crowd at Lawn Party

This campaign summary was submitted by Luke Vargas. Mr. Vargas's website is: http://www.vargas2040.blogspot.com/ Here is his summary:

A sizeable gathering greeted Senator Chris Dodd at the home of New Hampshire State Senator Lou D’Allesandro Saturday evening. Following his national service speech earlier in the day in Nashua, Dodd touched on his new proposal as well as his energy plan and proposals to combat global warming. The Senator also answered a number of questions ranging from Veteran’s healthcare to the Iraq war. Dodd concluded his remarks with a anecdotal story about a man running for city council who lost by four votes who forgot to ask his neighbor for her support; he finished, “I’m here to ask for your support.”