Dear Faithful Friends,
Last night was a tough one for all of us. While Janet and I stood on the stage, we felt as if we were surrounded by a much larger family than our immediate family. We have been surrounded throughout the process by a large and growing family of faithful friends whose efforts in the campaign have humbled and amazed us day after day. I regularly wept or choked back tears just reading comments on the blog when I realized the sacrifices that so many have made for the campaign.
We had held out hope that we would win enough delegates to keep the contest going, but had vowed that if Senator McCain actually got the 1191 delegates, we would accept the will of the voters. In the end, the relentless hammering of the media that we "couldn't win" influenced enough voters and while we campaigned long and hard in the final states, it simply wasn't enough. I congratulate Senator McCain and will do what I can to assist him and influence him to take strong stands for issues that we conservatives cherish.
I don't see the long journey having reached its destination, but merely taking a detour. As my Marine friend Clebe McLary says, "I didn't lose--it's just that the game ended before I got finished playing."
In the immediate days ahead, we will be transitioning from campaign mode. For 14 months, there have been a lot of things put on hold in our lives. We have to join the many incredible people on our staff to figure out "what's next?" But this much I can tell you---we want to stay in touch and start now building a platform to continue addressing issues that brought us together in the first place.
Throughout my life, I've found that there are sometimes three possible answers to our prayers--"Yes," "No," or "Not Now." I would like to think our prayers were answered with a "Not Now."
We will keep our website up and as we transition, will want to create a way to keep in touch and continue the battle for our families, our freedom, and our future. We will also focus on assisting conservative Senate and House candidates, in places where we know our investment of time and energy can make a real difference. You can expect us to be active online as we do this and to regularly solicit your opinions and support. Too many big issues are at stake for us to sit on the sidelines.
In the immediate time, we have to make sure that we pay all the bills of the campaign and end in the black, help our staff find ways to earn a living, and make sure that we don't lose the momentum of the past 14 months, but instead follow the plan:
REFLECT, REST, RENEW, and RE-BOOT!
I really welcome your input and thoughts during these coming days. Pray for us as we seek wisdom as to what steps we take now. Despite what some have thought, we really didn't have a "Plan B' in the wings--we always thought we'd be in this until the inauguration in January of 2009!
God has been so good to us! We can never fully express our gratitude for all you have done and how you have touched and blessed our lives. I truly hope I didn't let you down. I promise to you that I gave it all I had to the last minute and left it "all on the field." What is more amazing is how you were willing to be "poured out" to the point of empty in order to be with us all the way. I stand amazed by it all and overwhelmed with gratitude.
We will dust off, pick ourselves up off the canvas, and answer the bell for the next round, whatever that may be. We love you all, and trust that the journey has just begun!
With tired bodies and grateful hearts,
Mike and Janet Huckabee
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Governor Huckabee's Letter to John McCain
This is the letter that Governor Huckabee sent to Senator McCain asking him to consider a debate. Republicans should have the chance to see a debate, so they can understand what both candidates stand for and make a decision for themselves. This race is far from over. Please co-sign Governor Huckabee's letter to John McCain and ask your friends and family to do so as well. To co-sign this letter, please click here and leave a comment
The Honorable John McCain
John McCain 2008
P.O. Box 16118
Arlington, VA 22215
Dear Senator McCain:
It's been my pleasure sharing the stage with you this past year, as we have worked to promote our ideas to lead this county. I have the deepest respect for you as a person, politician, and an American hero – and I appreciate the way you have run such an issue-based, positive campaign.
Now that the race for the Republican nomination is down to just the two of us, I believe this is the time for a real discussion about our vision for the future of this great country. I encourage you to join me in a Lincoln Douglas-style debate so that voters can better understand our views on critical issues such as health care, education, energy independence, terrorism and national security.
Our Democratic counterparts, Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, have had recent opportunities to underscore the differences in their positions. It seems only fitting to me that Republican primary voters are offered the same.
I look forward to working with your staff to schedule this as soon as possible. I would suggest we set the debate before the March Fourth Primaries. It is my hope that one of the TV networks would offer to sponsor such an event.
Senator, let's lead by example and get the ball rolling. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this idea and debating you in front of the American people
Sincerely,
Mike Huckabee
Former Governor of Arkansas (1996-2007)
The Honorable John McCain
John McCain 2008
P.O. Box 16118
Arlington, VA 22215
Dear Senator McCain:
It's been my pleasure sharing the stage with you this past year, as we have worked to promote our ideas to lead this county. I have the deepest respect for you as a person, politician, and an American hero – and I appreciate the way you have run such an issue-based, positive campaign.
Now that the race for the Republican nomination is down to just the two of us, I believe this is the time for a real discussion about our vision for the future of this great country. I encourage you to join me in a Lincoln Douglas-style debate so that voters can better understand our views on critical issues such as health care, education, energy independence, terrorism and national security.
Our Democratic counterparts, Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, have had recent opportunities to underscore the differences in their positions. It seems only fitting to me that Republican primary voters are offered the same.
I look forward to working with your staff to schedule this as soon as possible. I would suggest we set the debate before the March Fourth Primaries. It is my hope that one of the TV networks would offer to sponsor such an event.
Senator, let's lead by example and get the ball rolling. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on this idea and debating you in front of the American people
Sincerely,
Mike Huckabee
Former Governor of Arkansas (1996-2007)
Volunteer in Texas
Call 972-930-9930 if you are interested in volunteering for our campaign in Texas.
The Texas HQ is located at:
17480 Dallas Pkwy
Suite 125
Dallas, TX
If you live out of state you and can afford to spend the weekend Volunteering in Dallas for the campaign please come see us. Everyone is welcome!
The Texas HQ is located at:
17480 Dallas Pkwy
Suite 125
Dallas, TX
If you live out of state you and can afford to spend the weekend Volunteering in Dallas for the campaign please come see us. Everyone is welcome!
A Call to Texans
Here's a very inspiring video calling all Texans to support Mike Huckabee in the March 4 primary and stand up for their convictions and principles. America needs Mike Huckabee and right now, Mike Huckabee needs you!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Statement by Governor Huckabee
Statement by Mike Huckabee in Response to Gov. Romney's Endorsement of Sen. McCain:
"I am seeking the Presidency because I care deeply about important issues facing America—Life, Marriage, the Fair Tax, the Second Amendment, American Border Security and Sovereignty. I am as committed to those issues as I ever was, and my campaigning around the country has convinced me that the majority of Republicans want me to continue to fight for these and other conservative causes. So I will.
I know all about the rumors swirling around. That's why I just went on national news show this afternoon, to knock those rumors down. I am still in this race. As I have said all along, I am in this race until someone gets to 1,191 delegates. That has not happened yet, and so I will keep campaigning for the Republican nomination. Period. That’s my ironclad commitment to my supporters."
"I am seeking the Presidency because I care deeply about important issues facing America—Life, Marriage, the Fair Tax, the Second Amendment, American Border Security and Sovereignty. I am as committed to those issues as I ever was, and my campaigning around the country has convinced me that the majority of Republicans want me to continue to fight for these and other conservative causes. So I will.
I know all about the rumors swirling around. That's why I just went on national news show this afternoon, to knock those rumors down. I am still in this race. As I have said all along, I am in this race until someone gets to 1,191 delegates. That has not happened yet, and so I will keep campaigning for the Republican nomination. Period. That’s my ironclad commitment to my supporters."
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Governor Huckabee at CPAC
Although I apologize for not putting this up earlier, Governor Huckabee gave an inspirational speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington DC last Saturday.
All three parts are viewable here.
All three parts are viewable here.
"You Speak for So Many of Us"
Here's a message from Governor Hucakbee:
We almost did it. For the first hour or so as the Virginia returns came in, we held our breath. The few polls that had come out for Virginia after Super Tuesday showed us down by 25 and 30 points. We finished within single digits of Senator McCain and had we had a few more days to reach voters the results may have been even closer than that.
The path before us is clear: a primary in Wisconsin on Feb. 19 and then four primaries in Texas, Vermont, Rhode Island and Ohio on March 4. Our challenge moving forward is to redouble our efforts on the ground and raise the money we need to compete.
Last evening I explained in my email why I am running for President and what issues I am fighting for. I am also running to give you a voice in the process. To lift up your voice with mine and to tell our Party and our government that we need to do better. We need to think big and fight for our ideas.
Your notes back to me are inspiring:
-"Please keep running & don't get discouraged! You have my vote for as long as you're in the race!"
-"Mike is NOT quitting this fight and neither are we!! And Mike's leadership on the Human Life Amendment...the Marriage Amendment and the FairTax are all well worth fighting for ALL THE WAY TO THE CONVENTION!! It's time to take the battle to Washington and Wisconsin !! Let's "leave it all on the field" and do everything we can to support Mike and win these states!!"
-"Governor Huckabee, I voted for you yesterday in Virginia . While it did not go our way, I stand by you more than ever in this race! I completely support your decision to remain in this race. Keep it up! God Bless! and Go Huckabee!!"
-"You said, this is a marathon, not a sprint. I just have never run a marathon before! So here goes, back to the wallet with another $25 donation so that you know that I'm still behind you 100%. I'm praying for a way for us to "max out" to $4600. I need a day or two for laundry and dishes, but than it is back to the phones. I want good government! I want you for our President!"
-"Mike - please don't give up! You speak for so many of us. Don't let that voice go silent!"
Thank you to everyone for their words of support and encouragement. I am truly humbled by the faith you have placed in me and reinvigorated for the race ahead.
I have heard you clearly and we will not stop.
We will keep fighting for our ideas and we will push our Party to do better. To continue I will need your help: identifying new supporters, making get out the vote calls, raising money and much more. Today I am headed to Wisconsin for two days of campaigning.
To make a difference in our campaign, please do these four things:
1) Make a contribution of $25 or more.
2) Find one person to join our team.
3) Prepare lists of friends and family that you know in Wisconsin, Ohio, Vermont, Rhode Island and Texas and encourage them by phone or email to join our team.
4) Schedule at least 30 minutes this weekend for time to make 25+ phone calls into Texas, Ohio and Wisconsin. We need to contact as many voters as we can i these states and your help will be critical.
We almost did it. For the first hour or so as the Virginia returns came in, we held our breath. The few polls that had come out for Virginia after Super Tuesday showed us down by 25 and 30 points. We finished within single digits of Senator McCain and had we had a few more days to reach voters the results may have been even closer than that.
The path before us is clear: a primary in Wisconsin on Feb. 19 and then four primaries in Texas, Vermont, Rhode Island and Ohio on March 4. Our challenge moving forward is to redouble our efforts on the ground and raise the money we need to compete.
Last evening I explained in my email why I am running for President and what issues I am fighting for. I am also running to give you a voice in the process. To lift up your voice with mine and to tell our Party and our government that we need to do better. We need to think big and fight for our ideas.
Your notes back to me are inspiring:
-"Please keep running & don't get discouraged! You have my vote for as long as you're in the race!"
-"Mike is NOT quitting this fight and neither are we!! And Mike's leadership on the Human Life Amendment...the Marriage Amendment and the FairTax are all well worth fighting for ALL THE WAY TO THE CONVENTION!! It's time to take the battle to Washington and Wisconsin !! Let's "leave it all on the field" and do everything we can to support Mike and win these states!!"
-"Governor Huckabee, I voted for you yesterday in Virginia . While it did not go our way, I stand by you more than ever in this race! I completely support your decision to remain in this race. Keep it up! God Bless! and Go Huckabee!!"
-"You said, this is a marathon, not a sprint. I just have never run a marathon before! So here goes, back to the wallet with another $25 donation so that you know that I'm still behind you 100%. I'm praying for a way for us to "max out" to $4600. I need a day or two for laundry and dishes, but than it is back to the phones. I want good government! I want you for our President!"
-"Mike - please don't give up! You speak for so many of us. Don't let that voice go silent!"
Thank you to everyone for their words of support and encouragement. I am truly humbled by the faith you have placed in me and reinvigorated for the race ahead.
I have heard you clearly and we will not stop.
We will keep fighting for our ideas and we will push our Party to do better. To continue I will need your help: identifying new supporters, making get out the vote calls, raising money and much more. Today I am headed to Wisconsin for two days of campaigning.
To make a difference in our campaign, please do these four things:
1) Make a contribution of $25 or more.
2) Find one person to join our team.
3) Prepare lists of friends and family that you know in Wisconsin, Ohio, Vermont, Rhode Island and Texas and encourage them by phone or email to join our team.
4) Schedule at least 30 minutes this weekend for time to make 25+ phone calls into Texas, Ohio and Wisconsin. We need to contact as many voters as we can i these states and your help will be critical.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Washington Caucus Vote Update
UPDATE: Campaign Chairman Ed Rollins issued the following statement today:
“The Huckabee campaign is deeply disturbed by the obvious irregularities in the Washington State Republican precinct caucuses. It is very unfortunate that the Washington State Party Chairman, Luke Esser, chose to call the race for John McCain after only 87 percent of the vote was counted. According to CNN, the difference between Senator McCain and Governor Huckabee is a mere 242 votes, out of more than 12,000 votes counted—with another 1500 or so votes, apparently, not counted. That is an outrage.
“In other words, more than one in eight Evergreen State Republicans have been disenfranchised by the actions of their own party. This was an error in judgment by Mr. Esser. It was Mr. Esser’s duty to oversee a fair vote-count process. Washington Republicans know, from bitter experience in the 2004 gubernatorial election, the terrible results that can come from bad ballot-counting.
“Frankly, I am disappointed in the way that Mr. Esser has handled this urgent matter. So I call upon Mr. Esser and his colleagues to cooperate fully with the Huckabee campaign—and all Republicans, everywhere, who care about honest and transparent vote-counting—to make sure that every vote is counted and that all Republicans in Washington have the chance to make their votes count. Attempts by our campaign to contact Mr. Esser have been unsuccessful. Our lawyers will be on the ground in Washington State soon, and we look forward to sitting down with Mr. Esser to evaluate this process, to see why the count took so long, and why the vote-counting was stopped prematurely.
“It would be a disservice to every voter in Washington State to not pursue a full accounting of all votes cast.
“This is not about Mike Huckabee. This is not about Senator John McCain. This is about the failings of the Washington State Republican Party. All Republicans should unite to demand an honest accounting of the votes, so that Republicans can have full confidence in the results, and full confidence in the eventual Republican nominee. As I said, we are prepared to go to court, and we are also prepared to take our case all the way to the Republican National Convention in September.
“Our cause is just. We must reemphasize the sacred American principle that all ballots be counted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.”
Statement From Earlier Today:
The Washington State GOP, with 87.2 percent reporting, discontinued the counting process. We are looking into the matter. We are committed to making certain EVERY vote is counted. We will keep you posted.
Thank you for your support of Governor Huckabee -- and please make those Virginia calls!
“The Huckabee campaign is deeply disturbed by the obvious irregularities in the Washington State Republican precinct caucuses. It is very unfortunate that the Washington State Party Chairman, Luke Esser, chose to call the race for John McCain after only 87 percent of the vote was counted. According to CNN, the difference between Senator McCain and Governor Huckabee is a mere 242 votes, out of more than 12,000 votes counted—with another 1500 or so votes, apparently, not counted. That is an outrage.
“In other words, more than one in eight Evergreen State Republicans have been disenfranchised by the actions of their own party. This was an error in judgment by Mr. Esser. It was Mr. Esser’s duty to oversee a fair vote-count process. Washington Republicans know, from bitter experience in the 2004 gubernatorial election, the terrible results that can come from bad ballot-counting.
“Frankly, I am disappointed in the way that Mr. Esser has handled this urgent matter. So I call upon Mr. Esser and his colleagues to cooperate fully with the Huckabee campaign—and all Republicans, everywhere, who care about honest and transparent vote-counting—to make sure that every vote is counted and that all Republicans in Washington have the chance to make their votes count. Attempts by our campaign to contact Mr. Esser have been unsuccessful. Our lawyers will be on the ground in Washington State soon, and we look forward to sitting down with Mr. Esser to evaluate this process, to see why the count took so long, and why the vote-counting was stopped prematurely.
“It would be a disservice to every voter in Washington State to not pursue a full accounting of all votes cast.
“This is not about Mike Huckabee. This is not about Senator John McCain. This is about the failings of the Washington State Republican Party. All Republicans should unite to demand an honest accounting of the votes, so that Republicans can have full confidence in the results, and full confidence in the eventual Republican nominee. As I said, we are prepared to go to court, and we are also prepared to take our case all the way to the Republican National Convention in September.
“Our cause is just. We must reemphasize the sacred American principle that all ballots be counted in a free, fair, and transparent manner.”
Statement From Earlier Today:
The Washington State GOP, with 87.2 percent reporting, discontinued the counting process. We are looking into the matter. We are committed to making certain EVERY vote is counted. We will keep you posted.
Thank you for your support of Governor Huckabee -- and please make those Virginia calls!
Huckabee Wins Kansas and Louisiana!
What a great night for Team Huckabee! Governor Huckabee won a landslide victory in Kansas over Senator McCain by almost a 3:1 margin and also claimed victory in Louisiana. These are big wins for Governor Huckabee and proves that Governor Huckabee is still very much in the race. Governor Huckabee didn't "major in math, but majored in miracles". I know Huckabee supporters and his team believe in miracles, and it's paying off. Lets get going!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
James Dobson to Endorse Huckabee
AP Breaking News: Evangelical leader James Dobson to endorse Mike Huckabee for GOP presidential nod
By ERIC GORSKI
AP Religion Writer
James Dobson, one of the nation's most prominent evangelical Christian leaders, is about to endorse former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee,the Associated Press has learned. Dobson, founder of Colorado Springs, Colo.-based Focus on the Family, talked to the GOP presidential hopeful Thursday and later was to release a statement explaining his choice, said Gary Schneeberger, a spokesman for Dobson.
Huckabee had long sought Dobson's endorsement, believing he is the best fit to advance Dobson's conservative, moral worldview.
To read the full story click here.
By ERIC GORSKI
AP Religion Writer
James Dobson, one of the nation's most prominent evangelical Christian leaders, is about to endorse former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee,the Associated Press has learned. Dobson, founder of Colorado Springs, Colo.-based Focus on the Family, talked to the GOP presidential hopeful Thursday and later was to release a statement explaining his choice, said Gary Schneeberger, a spokesman for Dobson.
Huckabee had long sought Dobson's endorsement, believing he is the best fit to advance Dobson's conservative, moral worldview.
To read the full story click here.
Governor Romney Leaves the Race
This is excellent news and just the miracle I hoped that God would give us! I just love how the media is now saying that this effectively makes McCain the winner of the Republican nomination. We know that's not true. Governor Huckabee has defied people's expectations over and over again. Let's get started on those calls and get all the conservatives to head over to the Huckabee camp instead of conceding to McCain.
This is Governor Huckabee's Statement about Romney's Withdrawl:
Today, Mitt Romney announced that he will no longer seek the Republican nomination for President. I wish Mitt and his family all the best.
Over the past year, Mitt and his entire family have sacrificed a lot during the course of his campaign and for that, we should all be appreciative of their service and dedication.
This is a two-man race for the nomination, and I am committed to marching on. I believe in the importance of a strong national defense -- which includes winning the war against Islamic extremists and the protection of American sovereignty.
I am redoubled in my resolve to carry on my campaign in a civil, dignified manner. The issues that got me into this campaign—protecting life and traditional marriage, enacting the Fair Tax, and border security are going to keep me in this campaign.
As a true authentic, consistent, conservative, I have a vision to bring hope, opportunity and prosperity to all Americans, and I’d like to ask for and welcome the support of those who had previously been committed to Mitt.
This is Governor Huckabee's Statement about Romney's Withdrawl:
Today, Mitt Romney announced that he will no longer seek the Republican nomination for President. I wish Mitt and his family all the best.
Over the past year, Mitt and his entire family have sacrificed a lot during the course of his campaign and for that, we should all be appreciative of their service and dedication.
This is a two-man race for the nomination, and I am committed to marching on. I believe in the importance of a strong national defense -- which includes winning the war against Islamic extremists and the protection of American sovereignty.
I am redoubled in my resolve to carry on my campaign in a civil, dignified manner. The issues that got me into this campaign—protecting life and traditional marriage, enacting the Fair Tax, and border security are going to keep me in this campaign.
As a true authentic, consistent, conservative, I have a vision to bring hope, opportunity and prosperity to all Americans, and I’d like to ask for and welcome the support of those who had previously been committed to Mitt.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Super Tuesday Has Come!
Today is the day! Vote, vote!
Lets get the vote out and send a strong message that the Republican race isn't a two man race between McCain and Romney. It is not over yet. Huckabee isn't quitting and neither should we. As of now, he has won West Virigina, winning all of its 18 delegates and is also currently leading in Georgia.
Here is a message from Governor Huckabee:
This campaign is on the move!
We won the West Virginia Convention early this afternoon and claimed 18 delegates against the heavy favorite Gov. Romney. Why? Because conservatives are rallying around our campaign.
New polls show us rising in Georgia, Alabama, Missouri and Tennessee as well. Voter turnout today is critical.
The media is having a hard time explaining our win in West Virginia and we are loving every minute of it. In fact, one reporter wrote about our win saying: "Romney loses West Virginia!" I guess it's hard to say "Huckabee wins" when you have been pretending this was a two man race.
Lets work together and make them say "Huckabee wins" a couple of more times tonight.
1. Email or call your friends and family and make certain they vote.
2. If you live in a Super Tuesday state make certain you vote and bring your friends and family to the polls.
If we continue to focus on turning out votes today we are going to do very well. There is still plenty of time left to vote.
With deep gratitude and BIG THANK YOU to West Virginia!
Lets get the vote out and send a strong message that the Republican race isn't a two man race between McCain and Romney. It is not over yet. Huckabee isn't quitting and neither should we. As of now, he has won West Virigina, winning all of its 18 delegates and is also currently leading in Georgia.
Here is a message from Governor Huckabee:
This campaign is on the move!
We won the West Virginia Convention early this afternoon and claimed 18 delegates against the heavy favorite Gov. Romney. Why? Because conservatives are rallying around our campaign.
New polls show us rising in Georgia, Alabama, Missouri and Tennessee as well. Voter turnout today is critical.
The media is having a hard time explaining our win in West Virginia and we are loving every minute of it. In fact, one reporter wrote about our win saying: "Romney loses West Virginia!" I guess it's hard to say "Huckabee wins" when you have been pretending this was a two man race.
Lets work together and make them say "Huckabee wins" a couple of more times tonight.
1. Email or call your friends and family and make certain they vote.
2. If you live in a Super Tuesday state make certain you vote and bring your friends and family to the polls.
If we continue to focus on turning out votes today we are going to do very well. There is still plenty of time left to vote.
With deep gratitude and BIG THANK YOU to West Virginia!
The Power of Faith
Recently, out on the campaign trail, a voter asked if my personal faith informed my decisions. My answer was simple, just as it always has been: my faith is my life - it defines me. My faith doesn't influence my decisions, it drives them.
Real faith makes us humble and mindful, not of the faults of others, but of our own. Because of our faith, we become less judgmental in that we see others having the same frailties as ourselves. Faith gives us strength in the face of injustice and motivates us to do our best for "the least of us."
Our forefathers birthed this great nation in a spirit of faith - not a mandate telling us what to believe, but an acknowledgement that divine providence pervades our world.
I firmly believe the greatness of our nation then, does not come from our government or politicians, but lies in the hopeful, optimistic spirit of everyday Americans. Americans who acknowledge that providence has set us apart.
I have campaigned long and hard for the Republican nomination for President because I believe this to be true. There have been peaks and valleys. Yet throughout the journey there has always been my fervent hope that the good people of America will come together and support my candidacy, because they share these same principles and optimism. If you share these beliefs, your vote tomorrow is critical to my success. I humbly ask for your vote.
Now I could go on and tell you how great I am and why you should vote for me. I won't. Instead, I have asked prominent religious leaders and friends to share with you, what they think of me and why your vote for me is important.
Dr. Rick Warren, Saddleback Church: "I know most of the candidates running for president but I've known Mike Huckabee the longest, since we did our graduate degrees together in the late 70s. Mike's a man of vision, compassion, and integrity. I've watched his uncanny ability to identify with normal people in ways that many leaders don't. That's probably why TIME named him one of the five best governors in America. He's definitely presidential material. But honestly, what I find most appealing is his self-deprecating humor. That's a key sign of a spiritually and emotionally healthy leader - someone who is comfortable with himself, is authentic, doesn't wear a mask, and is secure enough to be humble. People love that."
Janet Folger, World Net Daily: "We don't have the luxury to sit back and wait to see what happens without us. Too much is at stake. Bypass the "Fear Tier" who have negotiated the non-negotiables of life and marriage and turn to the candidate from the pro-family tier who has the best chance of winning: Mike Huckabee. The good news is now we don't have to choose between a pro-life, pro-marriage candidate and a "tier one" candidate "who can win." Huckabee just became both. Now we just need to unite behind him."
Stephen Strang, who was recognized by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the "Top 25 Evangelicals in America": "Mike Huckabee is an outstanding communicator who has a proven track record of success as governor of Arkansas . He is a true conservative who holds values common to most Americans. Governor Huckabee is a strong, Bible-believing candidate who articulates our values as well as any politician in my lifetime."
Rick Scarborough, who heads Vision America, a national coalition of Pastors whose mission is to call Christians to be proactive in restoring America to her Judeo-Christian heritage: "In Mike Huckabee, we have a man who has successfully bridged the chasm that divides people of both parties who share common values and faith. At this time in American history, we desperately need someone to lead us who can step over the partisan divide and unite people if we are going to solve the massive problems facing our nation."
Jerry Cox, who is also the past director of Unborn Child Amendment Committee: "Long before his involvement in politics, he was a defender of the unborn, a promoter of character in our schools, and stalwart champion for traditional values. His compassion for people, his command of the issues, his faith in God, and his genuine desire to work with people on both sides of the aisle are a rare find in the politics of today."
Jim Pfaff, who is president and CEO of the Colorado Family Action and has been active in pro-life/pro-family politics for more than 20 years: "It is critical, at this time in the history of our country, that our elected representatives truly understand the significant role that families play in our culture today and in the future. Mike Huckabee has been a reliable champion for the values of faith, family and the protection of the unborn over many years of public service."
Mathew Staver is Dean of Liberty University School of Law and founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, a nationally prominent legal, educational and policy organization specializing in religious liberty, the sanctity of human life and the traditional family: "We need a leader who understands and is prepared to confront radical Islamic terrorism, who will protect America and her boarders, who does not merely lip sync moral and religious values but who really believes and practices them, and who has the experience and personality to govern a divided Congress. Mike Huckabee is that man."
Kelly Shackelford, who serves as Chief Counsel of Liberty Legal Institute and president of Free Market Foundation: "The reason you are starting to see everyone coalesce around Mike is that he doesn't just talk about conservative issues, he breathes them and has a passion for them. He speaks the truth with an honesty and grace that no other candidate can match in either party."
Phil Burress, the president of Citizens for Community Values who won this year's Focus on the Family Grassroots Action Award: "I have met and interviewed most of the Republican Presidential candidates. After several months of research, I am pleased to announce that Governor Mike Huckabee is the most qualified candidate to hold the office of President of the United States ," Burress said.
Real faith makes us humble and mindful, not of the faults of others, but of our own. Because of our faith, we become less judgmental in that we see others having the same frailties as ourselves. Faith gives us strength in the face of injustice and motivates us to do our best for "the least of us."
Our forefathers birthed this great nation in a spirit of faith - not a mandate telling us what to believe, but an acknowledgement that divine providence pervades our world.
I firmly believe the greatness of our nation then, does not come from our government or politicians, but lies in the hopeful, optimistic spirit of everyday Americans. Americans who acknowledge that providence has set us apart.
I have campaigned long and hard for the Republican nomination for President because I believe this to be true. There have been peaks and valleys. Yet throughout the journey there has always been my fervent hope that the good people of America will come together and support my candidacy, because they share these same principles and optimism. If you share these beliefs, your vote tomorrow is critical to my success. I humbly ask for your vote.
Now I could go on and tell you how great I am and why you should vote for me. I won't. Instead, I have asked prominent religious leaders and friends to share with you, what they think of me and why your vote for me is important.
Dr. Rick Warren, Saddleback Church: "I know most of the candidates running for president but I've known Mike Huckabee the longest, since we did our graduate degrees together in the late 70s. Mike's a man of vision, compassion, and integrity. I've watched his uncanny ability to identify with normal people in ways that many leaders don't. That's probably why TIME named him one of the five best governors in America. He's definitely presidential material. But honestly, what I find most appealing is his self-deprecating humor. That's a key sign of a spiritually and emotionally healthy leader - someone who is comfortable with himself, is authentic, doesn't wear a mask, and is secure enough to be humble. People love that."
Janet Folger, World Net Daily: "We don't have the luxury to sit back and wait to see what happens without us. Too much is at stake. Bypass the "Fear Tier" who have negotiated the non-negotiables of life and marriage and turn to the candidate from the pro-family tier who has the best chance of winning: Mike Huckabee. The good news is now we don't have to choose between a pro-life, pro-marriage candidate and a "tier one" candidate "who can win." Huckabee just became both. Now we just need to unite behind him."
Stephen Strang, who was recognized by Time magazine in 2005 as one of the "Top 25 Evangelicals in America": "Mike Huckabee is an outstanding communicator who has a proven track record of success as governor of Arkansas . He is a true conservative who holds values common to most Americans. Governor Huckabee is a strong, Bible-believing candidate who articulates our values as well as any politician in my lifetime."
Rick Scarborough, who heads Vision America, a national coalition of Pastors whose mission is to call Christians to be proactive in restoring America to her Judeo-Christian heritage: "In Mike Huckabee, we have a man who has successfully bridged the chasm that divides people of both parties who share common values and faith. At this time in American history, we desperately need someone to lead us who can step over the partisan divide and unite people if we are going to solve the massive problems facing our nation."
Jerry Cox, who is also the past director of Unborn Child Amendment Committee: "Long before his involvement in politics, he was a defender of the unborn, a promoter of character in our schools, and stalwart champion for traditional values. His compassion for people, his command of the issues, his faith in God, and his genuine desire to work with people on both sides of the aisle are a rare find in the politics of today."
Jim Pfaff, who is president and CEO of the Colorado Family Action and has been active in pro-life/pro-family politics for more than 20 years: "It is critical, at this time in the history of our country, that our elected representatives truly understand the significant role that families play in our culture today and in the future. Mike Huckabee has been a reliable champion for the values of faith, family and the protection of the unborn over many years of public service."
Mathew Staver is Dean of Liberty University School of Law and founder and chairman of Liberty Counsel, a nationally prominent legal, educational and policy organization specializing in religious liberty, the sanctity of human life and the traditional family: "We need a leader who understands and is prepared to confront radical Islamic terrorism, who will protect America and her boarders, who does not merely lip sync moral and religious values but who really believes and practices them, and who has the experience and personality to govern a divided Congress. Mike Huckabee is that man."
Kelly Shackelford, who serves as Chief Counsel of Liberty Legal Institute and president of Free Market Foundation: "The reason you are starting to see everyone coalesce around Mike is that he doesn't just talk about conservative issues, he breathes them and has a passion for them. He speaks the truth with an honesty and grace that no other candidate can match in either party."
Phil Burress, the president of Citizens for Community Values who won this year's Focus on the Family Grassroots Action Award: "I have met and interviewed most of the Republican Presidential candidates. After several months of research, I am pleased to announce that Governor Mike Huckabee is the most qualified candidate to hold the office of President of the United States ," Burress said.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Huckabee Voter Guide
Please reach out to friends and family nationwide this weekend and ask them to support Gov. Huckabee. Here is a simple guide to his stance on the issues.
Huckabee for President Volunteer Issue Guide
ACCOMPLISHMENTS1. With ten-and-a-half years of experience running state government, Governor Mike Huckabee of Arkansas has more relevant executive experience than any candidate in the race – either Republican or Democrat.
2. Recognized and tapped by his peers for leadership, the National Governor’s Association selected Governor Huckabee as it’s Chairman.
3. TIME Magazine honored him as one of the five best Governors in America.
4. Governor Huckabee is a fiscal conservative who cut taxes almost 100 times in the state of Arkansas, including the state’s first broad-based tax cuts, and turned a $200 million deficit into an $850 million surplus.
ISSUES
1. TAXES/ECONOMY –Governor Huckabee supports The FairTax because it will restore the “Made in America” label, making American goods 12-25% more competitive, boosting economic growth, increasing our exports, and securing American jobs. It also prevents criminals or illegal aliens from avoiding taxes, and makes the taxes we all pay 100% transparent.
2. GOVERNMENT SPENDING – Governor Huckabee is committed to reducing government spending. One way he’ll do this is by reducing the cost of welfare. Governor Huckabee will work with states to reduce welfare roles through programs like the one he implemented in Arkansas, which reduced welfare roles by 50%.
3. HEALTH CARE –Governor Huckabee will implement a consumer-based healthcare system that emphasizes preventative medicine and wellness. Because 70% of our $2 trillion dollar healthcare costs is spent treating chronic, preventable diseases, this approach will make healthcare more affordable for everybody while keeping us healthier.
4. FAMILY VALUES –Governor Huckabee supports a federal constitutional amendment to protect the right to life. He Successfully fought for Arknasas’ marriage amendment and strongly supports a similar, federal constitutional amendment defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
5. IMMIGRATION –Governor Huckabee will secure the border (with physical barriers, electronic surveillance, and more border-patrol personnel and detention facilities). He will also end sanctuary cities and increase penalties on, and enforcement against, employers who hire illegal immigrants. Governor Huckabee will make sure the border patrol has adequate funding to end our “catch and release” system so that everyone caught trying to enter illegally, overstaying their visa, or committing a crime will be held until they’re tried, convicted, and deported. Gov. Huckabee has also signed the Numbers USA "No Amnesty" Pledge.
6. WAR ON TERROR AND IRAQ – Governor Huckabee knows it takes a large, well-equipped military to ensure our national defense and to deter conventional military confrontations. He also knows we need large, well-equipped intelligence and Special Forces operations for our national offense – so we can effectively find and eliminate terrorist threats at home or abroad. Governor Huckabee will be a Commander in Chief who knows that IF WE HAVE TO FIGHT A WAR, our President has to fight it the way our GENERALS tell him it can be won, not the way we wants it to be won.
7. ENERGY INDEPENDENCE –Governor Huckabee will implement a program to end the import of foreign oil in the next ten years by increasing domestic oil production in the short term, and then replacing oil-based energy infrastructure with alternative and renewable energies.
8. CLEMENCIES – Arkansas Governors grant clemency, but the parole board grants parole. Wayne DuMond’s parole was granted by the board and NOT Governor Huckabee.
9. TAXES –When Governor Huckabee left office, the tax rates remained exactly the same as when he first came into office. Governor Huckabee returned almost $400 million to Arkansasf taxpayers, and he also DOUBLED the standard deduction for individuals and married couples, DOUBLED the childcare tax credit, and eliminated the marriage penalty. He also repealed capital gains taxes for home sales, lowered the capital gains rate by 25%, expanded the homestead exemption, and set up tax-free savings accounts for medical care and college tuition. Gov. Huckabee has also signed the Americans for Tax Reform's pledge not to raise taxes.
10. SECOND AMENDMENT-
• Lifetime member of the NRA, member for over 15 years
• First Governor to have concealed-carry permit
• Removed restrictions on carry permit holders
• Protected gun manufacturers from frivolous lawsuits
• Opposes reauthorization of the Assault Weapon Ban
• Opposes expansion of the unconstitutional “Brady Bill”
• Opposes waiting period for purchase of firearms
• Opposes background checks on private firearms transactions at gun shows
• Will nominate judges who interpret the constitution as the Founders intended, rather than as a “living document reflecting current political trends or opinions”
• An avid hunter and conservationist, and a member of the Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation and BASS.
Huckabee for President Volunteer Issue Guide
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
2. Recognized and tapped by his peers for leadership, the National Governor’s Association selected Governor Huckabee as it’s Chairman.
3. TIME Magazine honored him as one of the five best Governors in America.
4. Governor Huckabee is a fiscal conservative who cut taxes almost 100 times in the state of Arkansas, including the state’s first broad-based tax cuts, and turned a $200 million deficit into an $850 million surplus.
ISSUES
1. TAXES/ECONOMY –Governor Huckabee supports The FairTax because it will restore the “Made in America” label, making American goods 12-25% more competitive, boosting economic growth, increasing our exports, and securing American jobs. It also prevents criminals or illegal aliens from avoiding taxes, and makes the taxes we all pay 100% transparent.
2. GOVERNMENT SPENDING – Governor Huckabee is committed to reducing government spending. One way he’ll do this is by reducing the cost of welfare. Governor Huckabee will work with states to reduce welfare roles through programs like the one he implemented in Arkansas, which reduced welfare roles by 50%.
3. HEALTH CARE –Governor Huckabee will implement a consumer-based healthcare system that emphasizes preventative medicine and wellness. Because 70% of our $2 trillion dollar healthcare costs is spent treating chronic, preventable diseases, this approach will make healthcare more affordable for everybody while keeping us healthier.
4. FAMILY VALUES –Governor Huckabee supports a federal constitutional amendment to protect the right to life. He Successfully fought for Arknasas’ marriage amendment and strongly supports a similar, federal constitutional amendment defining marriage as a union between one man and one woman.
5. IMMIGRATION –Governor Huckabee will secure the border (with physical barriers, electronic surveillance, and more border-patrol personnel and detention facilities). He will also end sanctuary cities and increase penalties on, and enforcement against, employers who hire illegal immigrants. Governor Huckabee will make sure the border patrol has adequate funding to end our “catch and release” system so that everyone caught trying to enter illegally, overstaying their visa, or committing a crime will be held until they’re tried, convicted, and deported. Gov. Huckabee has also signed the Numbers USA "No Amnesty" Pledge.
6. WAR ON TERROR AND IRAQ – Governor Huckabee knows it takes a large, well-equipped military to ensure our national defense and to deter conventional military confrontations. He also knows we need large, well-equipped intelligence and Special Forces operations for our national offense – so we can effectively find and eliminate terrorist threats at home or abroad. Governor Huckabee will be a Commander in Chief who knows that IF WE HAVE TO FIGHT A WAR, our President has to fight it the way our GENERALS tell him it can be won, not the way we wants it to be won.
7. ENERGY INDEPENDENCE –Governor Huckabee will implement a program to end the import of foreign oil in the next ten years by increasing domestic oil production in the short term, and then replacing oil-based energy infrastructure with alternative and renewable energies.
8. CLEMENCIES – Arkansas Governors grant clemency, but the parole board grants parole. Wayne DuMond’s parole was granted by the board and NOT Governor Huckabee.
9. TAXES –When Governor Huckabee left office, the tax rates remained exactly the same as when he first came into office. Governor Huckabee returned almost $400 million to Arkansasf taxpayers, and he also DOUBLED the standard deduction for individuals and married couples, DOUBLED the childcare tax credit, and eliminated the marriage penalty. He also repealed capital gains taxes for home sales, lowered the capital gains rate by 25%, expanded the homestead exemption, and set up tax-free savings accounts for medical care and college tuition. Gov. Huckabee has also signed the Americans for Tax Reform's pledge not to raise taxes.
10. SECOND AMENDMENT-
• Lifetime member of the NRA, member for over 15 years
• First Governor to have concealed-carry permit
• Removed restrictions on carry permit holders
• Protected gun manufacturers from frivolous lawsuits
• Opposes reauthorization of the Assault Weapon Ban
• Opposes expansion of the unconstitutional “Brady Bill”
• Opposes waiting period for purchase of firearms
• Opposes background checks on private firearms transactions at gun shows
• Will nominate judges who interpret the constitution as the Founders intended, rather than as a “living document reflecting current political trends or opinions”
• An avid hunter and conservationist, and a member of the Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation and BASS.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
WORLD Magazine Talks About Huckabee
Here is an part of an article that appeared on WORLD Magazine about Hucakbee's conservatism.
Is Mike Huckabee conservative?
An interview with the candidate on the eve of showdown contests
By Marvin Olasky
Some GOP conservatives worry that a President Mike Huckabee would be like George W. Bush in domestic policy, not using his constitutional power to restrain government spending, and like Jimmy Carter in foreign policy, not using military power to restrain anti-American forces.
Despite big jumps in spending, President Bush did not veto any bills during his first six years in office. WORLD asked Huckabee, "How will you hold the line against increased federal domestic spending?" He responded, "I will work hard to get a line-item veto that meets constitutional muster. My general philosophy will be to oppose creating new government programs. . . . I will reduce the federal payroll through attrition as many baby boomer federal employees retire."
Huckabee also emphasized the role of state government: "I will look to the states for innovations they have found in their 'laboratories of democracy' that we should adopt at the federal level, and I will look for areas where we can provide block grants to the states instead of expensive, detailed federal programs. Since states must balance their budgets, they know how to stretch taxpayer dollars more effectively than the federal government."
One oft-cited conservative charge is that Huckabee would push aside individual preferences and demand a national smoking ban. WORLD asked him about that, and Huckabee responded, "I believe that regulation of smoking should be left up to the states. However, the issue is not banning smoking, but providing clean air for people in workplaces." That statement is a typical Huckabee turning of perspectives, from (for example) patrons of restaurants and bars to those who work there.
On the use of military force, some Christians are pacifists who believe that Jesus' injunction to turn the other cheek is a universal commandment. The more common exegesis, though, is that this refers to personal offenses but not to national policy concerning terrorism. Question: "When an adversary attacks us, should we turn the other cheek?" Huckabee's response: "Absolutely not, and we can't wait to be attacked, we must prevent attacks. In this age of terror, we must constantly be on the offensive to hunt down radical extremists who want to kill every last one of us and destroy our civilization."
Some conservatives are calling Huckabee a "compassionate conservative" and equating that position with liberalism. WORLD noted that misidentification and questioned Huckabee about it: "Compassionate conservatism started out as a program to help the poor while decreasing the size of government by increasing the role of civil society. Bush administration spending led some Republicans to call it a euphemism for big government. What's your view of compassionate conservatism?"
Huckabee responded, "I believe each of us has an obligation to give of our treasure, time, and talent, to help those less fortunate. However, I don't support trying to have big government substitute for individual and community responsibility. I don't view compassionate conservatism as 'big government,' but rather as encouraging individuals and groups to do more for those less fortunate, sometimes with help from government at various levels."
He went on to say, "The most valuable thing the government can do for the poor is protect the opportunity created by our free-market economy, enacting pro-growth policies that create jobs, make certain that every child has access to a first-rate education, and adopt policies (like tax policies) that encourage marriage and the family. Much of the poverty in this country is in families headed by a single mother."
Jonah Goldberg, a strident anti-Huckabee conservative, complained last week that Bush/Huckabee compassionate conservatism is "a political program that apparently measures compassion by how much money the government spends on education, marriage counseling and the like."
He has a point, since the Bush administration has regularly defended itself against charges of callousness by citing dollars of federal spending. One test of Huckabee will be whether he can explain better than Bush the alternative to both soft-headed liberalism and the hard-hearted variety of conservatism.
Is Mike Huckabee conservative?
An interview with the candidate on the eve of showdown contests
By Marvin Olasky
Some GOP conservatives worry that a President Mike Huckabee would be like George W. Bush in domestic policy, not using his constitutional power to restrain government spending, and like Jimmy Carter in foreign policy, not using military power to restrain anti-American forces.
Despite big jumps in spending, President Bush did not veto any bills during his first six years in office. WORLD asked Huckabee, "How will you hold the line against increased federal domestic spending?" He responded, "I will work hard to get a line-item veto that meets constitutional muster. My general philosophy will be to oppose creating new government programs. . . . I will reduce the federal payroll through attrition as many baby boomer federal employees retire."
Huckabee also emphasized the role of state government: "I will look to the states for innovations they have found in their 'laboratories of democracy' that we should adopt at the federal level, and I will look for areas where we can provide block grants to the states instead of expensive, detailed federal programs. Since states must balance their budgets, they know how to stretch taxpayer dollars more effectively than the federal government."
One oft-cited conservative charge is that Huckabee would push aside individual preferences and demand a national smoking ban. WORLD asked him about that, and Huckabee responded, "I believe that regulation of smoking should be left up to the states. However, the issue is not banning smoking, but providing clean air for people in workplaces." That statement is a typical Huckabee turning of perspectives, from (for example) patrons of restaurants and bars to those who work there.
On the use of military force, some Christians are pacifists who believe that Jesus' injunction to turn the other cheek is a universal commandment. The more common exegesis, though, is that this refers to personal offenses but not to national policy concerning terrorism. Question: "When an adversary attacks us, should we turn the other cheek?" Huckabee's response: "Absolutely not, and we can't wait to be attacked, we must prevent attacks. In this age of terror, we must constantly be on the offensive to hunt down radical extremists who want to kill every last one of us and destroy our civilization."
Some conservatives are calling Huckabee a "compassionate conservative" and equating that position with liberalism. WORLD noted that misidentification and questioned Huckabee about it: "Compassionate conservatism started out as a program to help the poor while decreasing the size of government by increasing the role of civil society. Bush administration spending led some Republicans to call it a euphemism for big government. What's your view of compassionate conservatism?"
Huckabee responded, "I believe each of us has an obligation to give of our treasure, time, and talent, to help those less fortunate. However, I don't support trying to have big government substitute for individual and community responsibility. I don't view compassionate conservatism as 'big government,' but rather as encouraging individuals and groups to do more for those less fortunate, sometimes with help from government at various levels."
He went on to say, "The most valuable thing the government can do for the poor is protect the opportunity created by our free-market economy, enacting pro-growth policies that create jobs, make certain that every child has access to a first-rate education, and adopt policies (like tax policies) that encourage marriage and the family. Much of the poverty in this country is in families headed by a single mother."
Jonah Goldberg, a strident anti-Huckabee conservative, complained last week that Bush/Huckabee compassionate conservatism is "a political program that apparently measures compassion by how much money the government spends on education, marriage counseling and the like."
He has a point, since the Bush administration has regularly defended itself against charges of callousness by citing dollars of federal spending. One test of Huckabee will be whether he can explain better than Bush the alternative to both soft-headed liberalism and the hard-hearted variety of conservatism.
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