Dissociated Press

Ron Paul Comments on Election Results

2008-04-21T20:57:00.000-07:00

Letter released to the public from Congressman Ron Paul:

We’re in! Thanks to all who voted, either for me or for my opponent. You are the reason
democracy functions! Thanks to those who helped on my campaign, as they did most of the
legwork, and their contributions led directly to this victory. Thanks also to Representative
Kucinich for his passionate thoughts and views. While I can’t say that I agree with him on
everything, it certainly is a wonderful thing to have someone as passionate as he as an opponent.
His concern for the future of our country is shared by many.
This election was about the balance of power. In a majority vote, you chose local control
over federal bureaucracy. Wisdom and logic suggest that people are in control when the power is
closest to them. The federal government should be restricted to the tasks given to them by the US Constitution.
We’ve seen serious deviation from these principles over the past several years, and its
time to go to work to fix the problem. The US must return the power to the states, and it must
yield decisions that are not defined in the Constitution. Then, and only then, will we be able to
claim a government for the people and by the people.
I look forward to serving you in Washington this term, and I hope to correct the
egregious errors that have been made for years.
Once again, I thank you for the opportunity to represent you. I will be back often to visit
with you, to work to understand your concerns and wishes, and to see that you’re satisfied with
your representation. Feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Now it’s time to move forward in bringing the government back home! Thank you, and
God bless America!

Ron Paul Facts

2008-04-17T23:00:00.000-07:00

Served in the house from 1976–1977, 1979–1985, and 1997–present.
Has missed 10% of votes since 1997.
Serves on the following committees:

Member, House Committee on Financial Services
Ranking Member, Subcommitte on Domestic and international Monetary Policy, Trade, and Technology
Member, Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
Member, House Committee on Foreign Affairs
Member, Subcommittee on International Organizations, Human Right and Oversight
Member Subcommittee on The Western Hemisphere
Member, Joint Economic Committee

Has sponsored 351 Bills since 1997 of these 245 have not made it out of committee.
Has co-sponsored 1931 Bills.
Co-sponsored Bills:

H.R. 4684: Cancer and Terminal illness Patient Health Care Act of 2007
H.R. 4683: Free Competition in Currency Act of 2007
H.R. 3835: To restore the Constitution's checks and balances and protections against government abuses as envisioned by the Founding Fathers
H.R. 3344: Treat Physicians Fairly Act of 2007

Voted in favor of forces against terrorism in Afghanistan.
Voted against the war in Iraq.
Advocated ending Federal income Tax.
Opposes the patriot act, the federal war on drugs, no child left behind and gun control.

Dennis Kucinich Facts

2008-04-17T22:45:00.000-07:00

Served as mayor of Cleveland in the late 1970's.
Elected to the house in 1996.
Has missed 5% of votes since 1997.
Has membership on the following committees:

Member, House Committee on Education and Labor
Member, Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary and Secondary Education
Member, Subcommittee on Healthy Families and Communities
Member, House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform
Chair, Subcommittee on Domestic Policy
Member, Subcommittee on Federal Workforce, Postal Service, and the District of Columbia

Sponsored 104 bills while in office. Of these, 92 never came out of committee and two were enacted.
Co-sponsored 3150 bills.
Recent Sponsored and Co-Sponsored bills:

H.R. 3400 Rebuilding America's Infrastructure
H.R. 1234 To end the United States occupation of Iraq immediately
H.R. 808 Department of Peace and nonviolence act
H.Res. 799/303 impeaching Richard B. Cheney, Vice President of the United States, of high crimes and misdemeanors

Against the war in Iraq and hostility in Iran.
Signed a letter of solidarity with Hugo Chavez.
Advocates withdrawal from the North American Free Trade Agreement.
Reduce emissions and work toward positive environmental impact.

A Mid-Spring Afternoon’s Debate

2008-04-16T21:30:00.000-07:00

The debate opened with experienced moderator Bruce Nesmith thanking the assembled masses, promising that the debate would be brief, and advising the room to consider the benefit of healthy eating habits, suggesting lunch as the perfect end to a spirited debate, adding “If you’ve already eaten, eat again, it’s good for you.”

Moderator Bruce Nesmith

Candidate Ron Paul opened with abundant thanks and launched into his campaign’s central issue, assuring the room that the “Most important thing to consider in this election (is the question) where is the power?” Paul offered a brief description of the office of presidency, suggesting a president’s job is to uphold and defend the constitution.

Stressing the importance of state’s rights Paul argued, the “best way to have influence is to have power closest to you.”

Dennis Kucinich followed with a summation of the general shift, in current years, among politicians from “good politics.” Addressing a key issue of division Kucinich stressed that the answer to solving problems is not in scrapping the federal government as, in his opinion, it is capable of being fixed. Kucinich ended his opening statement by describing his idea of America with a government intent on helping and protecting people.

The first question asked by the moderator was concerning Iraq and the ramifications of a withdrawing of forces, a stance supported by both candidates. Kucinich responded by stating that withdrawal from Iraq would be “easier than I think people assume.” Paul stressed the need to avoid compounding the issue, asserting that American government should be concerned with Americans first.

Congressman Ron Paul

The next question related to energy policy. Paul addressed the need to shake loose the bondage of foreign oil, adding that we need to stop depending on other countries when we are capable of sustaining our own energy needs. Kucinich suggested the issue required liberation from the bondage of oil altogether, adding that alternative energy sources need be investigated and tax cuts for oil companies need to be eliminated.

The controversial issue of health care was next on the moderator’s agenda. Kucinich proposed the need for “full universal health care” citing the fact that the US is “the only developed nation that does not have universal health care and that is awful.” Paul countered, citing his experience as a physician, that government involvement in health care would only complicate matters and keep patients from receiving necessary medical testing. Paul also repeated the phrase “Tax and spend” in an effort to dismiss Kucinich’s plan. Paul did however suggest streamlining the federal government and using that money, in the form of tax breaks, to subsidize medical costs for American citizens.

The wise and smartly dressed moderator then raised the issue of economic insecurity being at an all time high. Paul responded by suggesting that taxes are causing citizens to pay “out the nose” and that they were ultimately responsible for the economic troubles faced by our nation, adding, “Of course it’s their (the government’s) fault you don’t have any money, they took it all.” Kucinich responded to the prompt by suggesting taxes be cut among the lower and middle classes, also calling on the federal government to put an end to corporate welfare.

Congressman Dennis Kucinich

On the issue of free trade with Columbia both candidates opposed the proposal. Kucinich noted that he would vote against it to protect American workers and manufacturers. Paul pointed out that America does not benefit from this deal and as such would oppose it.

On a rare point of contention, Paul and Kucinich differed in their responses to the notion of the US government funding UN measures for family planning on a world-wide scale. Paul asserted that US money and the distribution thereof should remain the responsibility of the US. Kucinich, on the other hand, suggested that the US needed to take a leadership role in the UN, that unilateralism has proven itself ineffective in Iraq, and that the UN is more familiar with the needs of the people in other nations and as such should be trusted with US funding.

Ending the formal debate Kucinich stated “I do believe that we can do better as a society.” He stressed that the US should resume the mantle of “friend to the world.” Bemoaning the loss of countless lives Kucinich asserted that the US has “forgone greatness for fear, bigotry, and racism,” adding that the government should “exist to help people.”

Paul concluded the formal debate by stating that “freedom is a wonderful thing.” At this point he countered some of Kucinich’s stances, stating forcefully that “Kucinich wants to take your freedoms” and “raise by taxes 7.7%.” Paul would add, “I’m a doctor, my job is to care about people.” Ending his statement by advising that the electorate “leave it up to the states” rather than the federal government.

After the formal debate came to a close the candidates took questions from the audience, the first of which concerned US giving monetary aide to foreign nations. Paul responded by stressing the need to control where US money goes while Kucinich suggested supporting the UN as they are better able to give, being closer to the problem. In response to a follow up question concerning the seeming irony in these policies – Paul’s argument that a distant US government is best equipped to handle global health issues seemingly contradicting his policy that states are better equipped to deal with issues based on proximity, while Kucinich’s plan of suggesting a lack of federal control over spending US money seemed to betray his general assurance that the federal government should be granted greater amounts of power – the candidates attempted to clarify their answers. Paul suggesting the problem with offering US funding to be distributed by the UN is that the US would be left without recourse if the money was spent in an undesirable way. Kucinich noted that the federal government is a means with which to push forward and as such can protect citizens from unfit state government.

The next informal question concerned health care costs, or more to the point, insurance companies already hindering health care. Paul responded by agreeing that the insurance companies are indeed problematic and that medical bills, under his plan, would be written off as tax exemptions. Paul also referred to a “Magic Money Room” which he implied Kucinich seemed to believe in.

Addressing a question concerning the quality of universal health care, Kucinich responded that universal health care not only works, but that it works well, also asserting that anyone can afford it, “because it’s free.” Paul, in response suggested that the real problem with the health care system is frivolous malpractice suits, to which Kucinich suggested doctors like Ron Paul should try to avoid malpractice. Paul essentially finished off the session by suggesting government involvement in health care would reduce the position of doctor to “just another bureaucratic office,” suggesting that the overall quality of health care would decrease.

One of course wonders whether a health care system ranked by the World Health Organization in the lower 30’s (2^nd worst in infant mortality according to CNN) for years can stand suffering further degeneration. One must also consider whether the United Nations can be trusted to preserve American interests in their quest to aide the world. The voters at least have something to consider.

The Debate

2008-04-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

Candidates Dennis Kucinich, left, and Ron Paul share a light moment after their debates. Kucinich reiterated his plans for a stronger federal government with relief for the middle and lower income groups. Paul proposed lowering of taxes and less government control of the economy. Both agreed on the swift removal of troops from Iraq if elected.

Kucinich Campaign Pillars

2008-04-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

Dennis Kucinich has consistently delivered the message that he has three core values to his platform. The pillars Kucinich has set forth in his campaign are Education, Civil Liberties, and the Environment. Kucinich believes that providing quality education for future generations is essential for keeping America strong and free. He also believes that Civil Liberties are the pulse that keep this country alive. In a statement Kucinich eluded that "It is way too easy for governmental officials to overstep their authority." He further believes that sustaining the environment is one of the most important things America needs to focus on. Breathing clean air and having pure water to drink is essential to Americans health. Because of Kucinich's beliefs on the enviroment, he has made it an important part of his campaign.

News Brief: Kucinich Volunteers

2008-04-13T22:24:00.000-07:00

Congressman Kucinich spent the afternoon of Sunday, April 13th volunteering with the Special Olympics. The event took place at Clark Field on the Coe College Campus in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Ron Paul Hosts Cookout

2008-04-13T22:16:00.000-07:00

Congress man Ron Paul held a cookout to promote his campaign. The cookout, held at the Greene basketball courts on 5 pm on Sunday the 13th featured an array of food. Paul, personally cooked for the guests at the event. While cooking, Paul visited with guests at the event and enjoyed the company of his campaign staff. Shortly after this event, Paul released a letter to the press.

Letter from Ron Paul campaign:

Ron Paul Statement to the Press
4/13/08

It’s a pleasure to run for office, but the greater pleasure is in service. America was
founded on certain principles, namely the adherence to our Constitution. Those who started this
country did so out of appreciation for freedoms, and those freedoms ought to be observed. I’ve
been criticized by my opponent for my views on abortion, as he comments that I oppose the
freedom to abort babies. It is not a freedom that was noted in the Constitution, so under the 10th
amendment, any regulation referring to abortion as freedom (note Roe v. Wade) must be made at
the state level. The Supreme Court and all other federal entities must defer to the states in this
case. The only law the federal government can make relevant to abortion is whether or not we
are able to define the act as the murder of a living human being. However, just because the
Supreme Court does not define abortion as such, no right is given to the federal government to
legalize the “freedom to choose.” This must be left to the states. I do not support the right to
abortion, and I’m pushing for legislation to declare abortion to be murder. If that does not occur,
the choice must be left to the states.
Now, on healthcare, I must again disagree with my opponent’s position. He is in favor of
public health, yet I remind you that with federal healthcare travels federal regulation. Not only is
this inherently unconstitutional, it simply will not work. The government has influenced
healthcare more than many other industries, and the healthcare system is a mess! Government
failure is not a reason for further government intervention.
You know, as a practicing physician, I’ve seen thousands of patients. And I know, and
you know, that healthcare is at its best when patients and doctors can interact freely, without the
threat of harsh regulations and statutes that came from people who’ve never been to medical
school, and who have no stake in your personal health. I’m a doctor. Your health is my life.
I favor medical expenses being tax deductible. I favor “Free Market Medicine,” where
you’re in charge. I favor allowing drugs from Canada to be prescribed in the United States where
the savings can be passed on to the patients. I’m not suggesting that medical care will ever be
cheap, but I do know that real saving occurs when you control your money AND your healthcare
choices.
Education is also an important, and we must continually update and upgrade our
education system. However, this country began with a plan for education to be locally controlled,
funded, and planned. Acts such as No Child Left Behind, as well as the creation of the
Department of Education have assaulted this premise. The states and their local governments
should have complete control over the education system. Allow counties to allocate funds in a
manner that they deem fit. It’s a principle democracy needs to survive. The will of the people
must reign supreme, and that demographic stops at the state level. The United States Constitution
does NOT provide for the Department of Education, and the states MUST receive the power.
From that level, how the responsibility is distributed is optional, but at least it will be legal.
Friends, I ask that you join me in returning the power to the states. Allow the federal
government to focus itself on the responsibilities and actions prescribed for its consideration in
the Constitution. We must adhere to the Tenth Amendment, and we must give the power back to
the states. Take charge of your government! Have an impact! Be involved, for if you do not, you
cannot affect the change you wish to see.
The choice is yours, and the government can be too.
-- Ron

Kucinich Event Speech

2008-04-09T23:50:00.001-07:00

The quality is lacking, but this gives you an idea of what occurred at the event.

Kuchinich Event

2008-04-08T20:00:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at 8:00pm the Dennis Kucinich campaign held a study session for students at Coe College. The event, in the Armstrong/Douglas lobby at Coe College in Cedar Rapids, IA recieved relatively low attendance. Donuts, orange juice and milk was provided for all of those who attended. Unfortunately, there was relatively low attendance due to inclimate weather and low visibility. However, Kucinich was successful in drawing students from outside his constituency. For the students who came Kucinich delivered a speech on the three pillars of his campaign.

Kucinich Meets the Press

2008-04-08T18:47:00.000-07:00

Dennis Kucinich announced the agenda of his campaign at a donut-and-milk event in the Armstrong-Douglas Hall lobby, April 8.

Paul Announces Bid for Congressional Seat

2008-04-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Announcing his candidacy to the collected electorate, Ron Paul opened his brief speech with a quick summation of his past experience as both a physician and an established long-time congressman who has “never voted to raise taxes” or “congressional pay” while serving on both the House Committees for foreign affairs and financial service.

Paul praised his rival Dennis Kucinich (who’d three days earlier announced his candidacy before the same collected mass of voters) suggesting that they share an appreciation for strength and independence. The candidate claimed that their policies began to diverge after this point, noting Paul’s longstanding favor for limited federal governmental power.

The congressman also claimed to have never “seen a UFO,” a comment which may have done less to further his popularity than alienate the electorate. “The UFO jokes felt petty,” noted one voter. But Paul would continue with his speech, emphasizing his strict adherence to the constitution, “unlike Kucinich,” who he claims “wants to create a department of peace,” which Paul believes is patently unconstitutional.

“There’s too much government intervention in health care as it is,” Paul noted, citing what may prove to be a divisive issue in the coming election. With liberal application of the word “constitution” Paul would continue to denounce government intervention in issues that should (unaddressed by the candidate) be dealt with by state government. Paul, then asked (what could seemingly be described as his main campaigning point) “Where do you want the power?” suggesting that a vote for Paul is a vote for limiting the federal government.

Paul would conclude his speech by announcing a campaign event, scheduled to take place on Sunday, April 13^th at 5:00, where “food and dessert” is to be served.

Reaction to Paul’s message was somewhat mixed, one voter described Paul’s tone as “somewhat condescending,” adding that “Kucinich wasn’t condescending; that was nice.” Another student described Paul’s speech as worthy of consideration, noting “I don’t mind the intrusion (on class time)” describing the election process as “kind of interesting.”

Kucinich Declares Self “Candidate”

2008-04-04T12:00:00.000-07:00

Dennis Kucinich, in a public address to Stuart hall room 305, threw his hat into the ring for an apparently vacant congressional seat. The candidate’s speech stressed the issues the Kucinich campaign seemed to feel would serve as the basis for his platform in the coming race.

Beginning with education, Kucinich reveled in the importance of removing privilege from the education system. “Only 2.9% of the federal budget is spent on education,” Kucinich admonished, calling for an alteration of the current system and a repeal of the Bush administration’s “No Child Left Behind” act.

Moving dutifully to the issue of Civil Liberties, Kucinich pointed out his opposition to the Patriot Act, noting he’d opposed the controversial act which allows for, in addition to many suspect powers, increased government surveillance and the negation of habeas corpus. Kucinich, in a crowd pleasing statement, announced his intentions to “lower the voting age to 16” and the “drinking age to 18.” Kucinich punctuated by adding, “You deserve liberties.”

Finishing the speech on another of his campaign points Kucinich addressed the issue of the environment, claiming “a clean environment is necessary for the planet’s future.” Kucinich noted the need to monitor the cleanliness of our nation’s foods, citing “the need to keep sick animals out of our food.” Finishing on a more global note Kucinich asserted “Clean safe water is a human right.”

Reception of Kucinich’s speech wasn’t entirely fervent. One potential voter would respond “They just came into our class and started talking…I didn’t really get it.” Despite some admitted bewilderment another student would offer some praise, stating “even though the situation was rather awkward, I was very impressed by the professionalism.”

First Post

2008-03-25T22:29:00.000-07:00

This blog will be a media outlet used in the campaign run by Professor Nesmith's Political Parties and Elections Class.