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January 12, 2007

Senate Resembles 3-Ring Circus

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON - The Senate last night resembled a three-ring circus as Democratic leaders tried to stall a pro-growth proposal to reform the earmark process.

Senator Jim DeMint offered strong reform to the most egregious spending abuses in Congress-a proposal that was sponsored by Speaker Nancy Pelosi and that passed the House just last week. After trying, and failing, to kill the DeMint proposal, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Senator Ted Kennedy and other Democrats used stall tactics to delay a final vote. Ultimately, the Senate was forced to postpone it.

"It's terribly hypocritical of Senator Reid and the Senate Democrats to demand earmark reform during last year's campaigns, but then, just two months later, use every trick in the book to block very sensible reforms that would only result in more transparency and accountability in federal spending," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey.

The Democrats said they have a 'New Direction' for America, but it looks like the direction they had in mind was into the back rooms of secret, excessive and wasteful pork barrel spending." said Toomey.

"We're grateful that Senator DeMint, in the face of such harsh opposition, remains steadfast in his insistence that taxpayers have a right to know how their own money is being spent and by whom." Toomey continued, "Senate Republicans, and Democrats willing to put principle over their party leadership's pressure, have a tremendous opportunity to follow Senator DeMint's lead by demonstrating to the American people that they learned one of the most important lessons of last fall's election; namely, that it's time for less wasteful spending in Washington."

The Club for Growth, with its 40,000 members, plans to score a “YES” vote as a pro-economic growth vote in its annual rating of Congress on the DeMint amendment. Click here to learn more.

Posted at 8:11 AM, January 12, 2007 | Trackback | Print | #

December 19, 2006

Club for Growth Wins Award

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, DC – The Club for Growth was voted “Best Business Blog” of 2006 in an annual contest. The results were announced yesterday and can be found here.

The Weblog Awards are the world's largest blog competition, with over 525,000 votes cast in the 2006 edition for finalists in 45 categories. Nominations ended November 24, and voting was conducted between December 7 and December 15.

“We are very proud of this award and I congratulate our staff on making our blog #1. We believe strongly in new media and are very enthusiastic about its future, and urge everyone to make the Club for Growth their homepage. We will build on this recognition and strive to keep the Club for Growth blog on the cutting edge of both content and creativity. The more people learn about what it takes to create and sustain growth, the better it will be for our economy and our country,” said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

As a sign of its ongoing commitment to online innovation, the Club relaunched its website as a blog in July of 2006. The Club's blog is updated daily to provide its readers with news and information about politics, elections, and free market economics.

Posted at 9:31 AM, December 19, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

December 6, 2006

Club Files FEC Complaint Against Schwarz

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON - Club for Growth filed a complaint today with the Federal Election Commission against Congressman Joe Schwarz, the Republican Main Street Partnership (RMSP) and the Republican Mainstreet Partnership PAC for what it described as “numerous” violations of election laws and regulations.

The complaint describes widespread evidence of illegal coordination between the Schwarz campaign and the RMSP PAC, acceptance of up to $465,000 in illegal donations from the RMSP or the RMSP PAC by the Schwarz campaign, flaunting of the “stand by your ad” provisions in FEC regulations by Schwarz and RMSP PAC, and other violations.

“Joe Schwarz hasn’t accepted the voters’ decision and is living in a fantasy world where he believes he lost because others didn’t play by the rules,” said Pat Toomey, president of the Club for Growth. “The reality is, the Club for Growth PAC did play by the rules but Schwarz and many of his key supporters are guilty of massive election law violations.”

“We will not stand idly and let people file bogus complaints against us, as Schwarz has, without taking a serious look at their own compliance. We looked at Schwarz and his supporters at the Republican Mainstreet Partnership and were shocked at their cavalier disregard of election laws and regulations. These violations are ironic since Schwarz was endorsed by Sen. John McCain and the Republican Mainstreet Partnership Board is full of those who favor onerous campaign rules and further limits on free speech.”

Click here (PDF file) to read the full complaint.

Posted at 11:53 AM, December 6, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

December 1, 2006

The Upcoming Senate Battle

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON – Citing lopsided polling results that show voters no longer believe the GOP is the party of limited government and lower spending, the Club for Growth today called on all Senate Republicans to stand firm and support Senators Tom Coburn and Jim DeMint in their efforts to remove the wasteful pork from the remaining FY 2007 spending bills that are due to hit the Senate floor with a massive thud next week.

“On Election Day, the voters held an intervention with the GOP on its self-destructive spending habit. Now it’s time to go cold turkey. Any Republican who votes for more pork and more wasteful spending as a final gesture before the party goes into the minority is either lost, in denial, or both,” said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

“We are now at a crucial fork in the road. It’s time for the GOP to return to the path of fiscal restraint, rather than go down the path of ever-expanding government. Senators Tom Coburn and Jim DeMint are doing the right thing both for taxpayers and for any hope of restoring the GOP’s core principle of fighting for limited government,” said Toomey.

Posted at 8:24 AM, December 1, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

November 10, 2006

Club for Growth Endorses Mike Pence

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON - The Club for Growth today endorsed Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) in the race to become Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. "The Republican Party has lost its brand, and the only way we can get it back is by returning to our principles of limited government, low taxes, and economic freedom. The American people still support this agenda, but Republicans failed to deliver. So we need to start a new chapter, and for that we need new faces and fresh ideas. Mike Pence is a gifted leader and communicator who is up to this challenge," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

Toomey continued: "I served in Congress with Mike and I've watched him closely from outside Congress. I know that he is 100% committed to the common-sense conservative principles that won our majority in 1994. With his commitment and demonstrated ability to communicate with the American people, Mike can bring the Republican Conference back into the majority."

Despite Republicans losing at least 28 seats in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, seven of the eight candidates whom the Club's PAC helped win their House primaries went on to win their general election races. This morning, Toomey wrote an opinion-editorial piece that is available at National Review Online about the challenges Republicans face after Tuesday's elections.

Posted at 9:25 AM, November 10, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

November 9, 2006

NEW POLL: People Want Limited Government

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON – The Club for Growth today released new survey data that shows the Republican Party has completely lost its brand as the party of limited government and low spending. The poll is instructive since it surveyed voter attitudes in 15 battleground districts where neither candidate suffered from personal scandal.

Regarding Tuesday's election results, former congressman and Club for Growth President Pat Toomey said, "There's no doubt in my mind it was not a repudiation of conservatives but it was a repudiation of the Republican Party." The results from this survey prove that.

To get a summary of the shocking, but unsurprising results, click on the link below.

Posted at 4:38 PM, November 9, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

November 8, 2006

Our PAC's 2006 Election Record

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON - Last night, the Club for Growth PAC demonstrated its unrivaled ability to help elect to Congress committed, limited-government, pro-growth, economic conservatives. Despite Republicans losing at least 28 seats in the House of Representatives, seven of the eight candidates whom the Club's PAC helped win their competitive House primaries went on to win their general election races.

We consider the following group as our top tier of pro-growth candidates because the Club's PAC and Club for Growth members supported them every step of the way, from their competitive primaries -- and for the primary winners -- through to their hard fought general elections.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 3:44 PM, November 8, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

October 20, 2006

ID-01: New TV Ad

Andrew Roth

The Club for Growth PAC will begin airing this TV ad tomorrow in Idaho's 1st district.

WASHINGTON, DC - Opening a new front in the fall elections, liberal representatives Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Charles Rangel (D-NY) are featured prominently in a campaign advertisement funded by the political arm of the influential Club for Growth. Pelosi and Rangel would become Speaker of the House and Chairman of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee respectively should Democrats win a majority in the House of Representatives. Rangel said recently that Democrats would raise taxes if he became Chairman.

"Take home pay, jobs and economic growth are on the ballot this November, and putting liberals in charge of the purse strings would threaten all of them. The liberal tax hike agenda is clear: no more $1,000 per child tax credit, raise tax rates across the board, bring the death tax back from the grave, and jack up the costs of investing. That's a recipe for economic disaster, and voters should think twice before giving them control," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

The advertisement will begin to air Saturday in Idaho's 1st Congressional district, where Republican Bill Sali is running against Democrat Larry Grant for the seat being vacated by Butch Otter, who is running for Governor. The ad is a 1,000 point media buy costing $168,000. The Club for Growth PAC has endorsed Mr. Sali in the race.

The Club for Growth PAC is considering running similar advertisements across the country.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 11:48 AM, October 20, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

October 12, 2006

Club's PAC Endorses George Allen

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, DC - The influential and well-funded Club for Growth PAC, with 9 wins and only 4 losses this election cycle, today endorsed Senator George Allen (R-VA) for re-election.

"Senator Allen has been a leader in the fight to cut taxes, limit wasteful spending and open foreign markets for American goods and services. On the other hand, Jim Webb has already promised to raise taxes, expand government programs and erect protectionist barriers to trade if he were elected. Jim Webb's liberal economic policies would hurt our economic recovery and cost good paying jobs in Virginia and across the country," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 11:12 AM, October 12, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

September 28, 2006

Club's PAC Endorses 4 House Candidates

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, DC - The political action arm of the influential and well-funded Club for Growth, with 9 wins and only 4 losses this election cycle, today endorsed four candidates for the U.S. House of Representatives: Rep. Steve Chabot (OH-01); Ralph Norman (SC-05); David McSweeney (IL-08); and Michele Bachmann (MN-06).

"This week, the Democrats told us what they will do if they win the majority: pass big job-killing tax hikes. It was frightening but not surprising to hear Rep. Rangel say this, but it does underscore what is at stake. The House is up for grabs, and we need to make sure we're doing all we can to help elect men and women who want to cut taxes and grow the economy. These four candidates have superb records and will vote to keep our economy strong and job creation going," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

Rep. Steve Chabot, OH-01:

"Rep. Chabot consistently votes for low taxes and low spending, and because of that the DC Democrats want to knock him out. They're targeting him because he is true to his principles and knows what he stands for. He has stood up for jobs and economic growth, so the Club for Growth PAC will stand up for him against this Democrat onslaught," said Toomey.

Ralph Norman, SC-05:

"The Club for Growth PAC supports Ralph Norman because in addition to being a true leader for limited government in the state legislature, he is everything that Rep. John Spratt is not. Rep. Spratt consistently votes to keep taxes high and for more spending. His voting record on growth is as liberal as Nancy Pelosi's, which puts him way out of step with his district," said Toomey.

David McSweeney, IL-08:

"While Rep. Bean sometimes talks a good game on cutting waste in government, she voted against a budget this year which did just that. In contrast, David McSweeney knows that Washington spending doesn't help create jobs, it's the hard work and ingenuity of the American people that does," said Toomey.

Michele Bachmann, MN-06:

"Michele Bachmann believes strongly in limiting government and keeping taxes low, which is why the Club for Growth PAC is supporting her. Her opponent thinks we need more government red tape and meddling in health care and education, which are two bad ideas that will do much more harm than good," said Toomey.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 10:13 AM, September 28, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

September 12, 2006

The Facts About The Laffey-Chafee Race

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON -- Last year, the Club for Growth PAC endorsed Steve Laffey for today's Rhode Island Senate GOP primary race. And despite incredible odds, despite being outspent nearly 2-to-1, despite all the built-in advantages of incumbency, and despite overwhelming backing of the national party, there is a strong consensus from pundits that the race is a tossup.

"Issues matter. Voters still care about pocketbook issues like lower taxes, lower spending and less government waste. If economic growth wasn't important to voters, this race wouldn't be close. But the fact that it is speaks volumes about the viability of the issues this election cycle," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

AGAINST THE ODDS:

• According to an April 2006 independent public poll, Laffey was trailing Senator Lincoln Chafee by a 56% to 28% margin.
• Laffey has been outspent nearly 2-to-1.
• The Power of Incumbency: It is very rare for incumbent senators to lose in their party's primary -- just one elected Senate Republican incumbent has lost a primary race in the last 25 years.

"No matter what happens when the votes are counted, this race shows that the power of our ideas will be an influential factor in this election cycle," added Mr. Toomey.

Club for Growth members have donated over $725,000 to Laffey's campaign and the Club for Growth PAC has spent over $515,000 in independent expenditures in this race, including over $450,000 of TV ads in the last month.

Posted at 8:00 AM, September 12, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

September 5, 2006

Club for Growth PAC Endorses 3 Senate Candidates

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, DC - The political action arm of the influential and well-funded Club for Growth, with 9 wins and only 3 losses this election cycle, today endorsed three candidates for the U.S. Senate: Michael Bouchard in Michigan, Michael Steele in Maryland, and Mike McGavick in Washington. Bouchard and McGavick are challenging vulnerable incumbent Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Maria Cantwell (D-WA), while Steele is running for an open seat in Maryland.

"The Club for Growth PAC is making a big difference this election cycle: we're helping pro-growth candidates win and knocking anti-growth candidates out. We're excited about these candidates and their commitment to cut taxes, cut spending and growing the economy. Jobs and the economy are one of the top priorities to voters, and we will make it clear in each of these races what is at stake," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth.

MIKE BOUCHARD FOR SENATE - MICHIGAN

"The Club for Growth PAC is proud to support Mike Bouchard because of his strong pro-growth and pro-jobs agenda, which is what Michigan needs most. Sen. Stabenow, on the other hand, has voted repeatedly to kill tax relief, increase Washington spending, and threaten economic growth," said Toomey.

"Sen. Stabenow is good at one thing, however, which is raising piles of campaign cash. The Club for Growth PAC wants to make sure that Mike Bouchard gets a fair chance to talk about his record. With our support, we're confident that he will," said Toomey.

The Club for Growth PAC has already helped one pro-growth candidate win in Michigan this year when it endorsed Tim Walberg early in his race against Congressman Joe Schwarz and raised over $600,000 for his campaign. In addition, the Club for Growth PAC spent over $500,000 in independent expenditures including hard-hitting TV and radio ads that underscored Joe Schwarz's liberal record on economic issues.

"The Club for Growth PAC already helped Tim Walberg defeat one anti-growth incumbent from Michigan, and now we want to do the same for Mike Bouchard," said Toomey.

MICHAEL STEELE FOR SENATE - MARYLAND

"Michael Steele is a strong leader who knows that opportunity and economic growth are the keys to a bright future, not more government spending and higher taxes. Two of his leading opponents have a different view, as both have voted for an array of higher taxes and more spending in Congress. Michael Steele has a very good chance to be the first pro-growth Senator from Maryland in many years," said Toomey.

MIKE MCGAVICK FOR SENATE - WASHINGTON

"Mike McGavick has very strong free-market credentials and knows that limited government and low taxes lead to more jobs and more opportunity for workers. Senator Maria Cantwell talks a good game, but too often is voting the other way, siding with more taxes that could threaten the strong economic growth we've experienced in the past few years. The Club for Growth PAC wants to make sure that Mike McGavick gets a fair chance to talk about his record. With our support, we're confident that he will," said Toomey.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 11:26 AM, September 5, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

August 30, 2006

Club for Growth PAC Endorses Jon Kyl

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - Building on its impressive 9 - 3 record in the 2006 election cycle, today the political action arm of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 36,000 members, endorsed Arizona Senator Jon Kyl for re-election.

"From cutting spending to lowering taxes to expanding trade, Jon Kyl has been a leader in the Senate for economic freedom and pro-growth policies," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "The Club for Growth PAC and Club members are pleased to be able to support Senator Kyl's re-election bid this year."

"Sen. Kyl scored an impressive 100% on the Club for Growth's 2005 Congressional Scorecard making him 1 of only 3 senators to do so," Toomey said. "Without a doubt, Sen. Kyl is one of the most pro-growth members of the Senate."

"Knowing that Sen. Kyl's opponent has been funding, and continues to fund, his own campaign, Club for Growth members want to leave nothing to chance," Toomey said. "Jon Kyl has been a reliable supporter of an economically conservative agenda in the Senate and economic conservatives like Club for Growth members will be reliable supporters of his this election cycle."

"Sen. Kyl consistently demonstrates a willingness to put principles over politics," Toomey concluded. "We need more Senators like him and the Club for Growth PAC is going to make sure Sen. Kyl has a chance to keep up his great work."

During the last election cycle, Club for Growth members donated more than $9 million to the Club's PAC and candidates committed to pro-growth economic policies.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 8:13 AM, August 30, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

August 9, 2006

Doug Lamborn Wins in CO-05!

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Extending the Club for Growth PAC's record to 8-2 for endorsed candidates in the 2006 cycle, Colorado primary voters last night chose Doug Lamborn as the GOP nominee for the 5th Congressional District race. Doug is an endorsed candidate of the Club for Growth PAC, the political arm of the nation's largest free market advocacy organization with more than 36,000 members.

"This is a huge win for Doug Lamborn and the pro-growth agenda. Doug has demonstrated a consistently strong commitment to limited government and opposing higher taxes and the 5th District voters have responded," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey.

"The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a significant part in ensuring Doug had the support he needed to campaign effectively on lower taxes and less spending," Toomey said. "Club members donated over $200,000 to his campaign and the Club for Growth PAC spent nearly $100,000 on independent expenditures, including running TV ads during the closing days of the campaign."

Lamborn won with 27.0% of the vote while his top opponent, Jeff Crank received 25.4%. His primary win in this heavily Republican district almost assures he will replace Rep. Joel Hefley in Congress after the general election.

"Colorado's 5th District constituents expect strong, principled leadership and I am confident that Doug Lamborn will deliver on that expectation once he is elected in November," concluded Toomey.

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 6:14 AM, August 9, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

August 8, 2006

Tim Walberg Wins in MI-07!

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In its first-ever primary victory against an incumbent, the Club for Growth PAC extended its record to 7 wins and 2 losses when challenger Tim Walberg defeated incumbent Representative Joe Schwarz today in Michigan's seventh district. Michigan Republican voters sent a clear message to Congress that they are tired of the big-spending, big-government policies that contributed so much to Joe Schwarz's downfall.

"Michigan voters made it clear that they still want Congress to limit government, reduce wasteful spending and cut taxes," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a major role in helping Tim deliver his pro-growth, winning, message."

The Club for Growth PAC endorsed Walberg early in his race and raised over $600,000, from Club members, in contributions to the Walberg campaign. In addition, the Club for Growth PAC spent over $500,000 in independent expenditures including hard-hitting TV and radio ads that underscored Joe Schwarz' liberal record on economic issues.

"Our ads focused almost exclusively on the need to cut taxes and spending. The final ad we ran had a huge impact," Toomey said.

"Rep. Schwarz was one of the worst examples of Republican politicians who have abandoned any real commitment to limited government and pro-growth policy," Toomey concluded. "But Michigan voters have responded by electing to replace him with a true economic conservative who will work to enact the pro-growth agenda. We look forward to seeing Tim Walberg win in November and then serving in Washington in the 110th Congress."

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 11:42 PM, August 8, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

July 31, 2006

Our 2005 Congressional Scorecard

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - Pat Toomey, president of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 36,000 members, today announced the unveiling of the Club's first annual Congressional Scorecard to allow its members and the public the ability to monitor the actions and voting behavior of members of Congress on economic growth issues.

"This scorecard is an important tool in providing the general public the opportunity to see how their Representative and Senators vote," said Toomey.

The study included a comprehensive examination of each lawmaker's record on pro-growth policies and computed an Economic Growth Score on a scale of 0 to 100. A score of 100 indicates the highest support for pro-growth policies. Those lawmakers scoring 90 of higher receive the "Defender of Economic Freedom" award.

"We are delighted that 7 Representatives and 3 Senators scored a perfect 100%, with another 20 Representatives. and 6 Senators scoring 90% or above," Toomey said. "These Members of Congress demonstrate a strong commitment to economic freedom and free-market principles."

Those scoring 100% include: Reps. Jeff Flake (R-AZ), Trent Franks (R-AZ), Mike Pence (R-IN), Jeb Hensarling (R-TX), John Shadegg (R-AZ), Ed Royce (R-CA) and Todd Akin (R-MO) and Sens. Jon Kyl (R-AZ), John Sununu (R-NH) and Jim DeMint (R-SC).

The rating examines legislative actions that reflect the Club for Growth's immediate pro-economic growth policy goals, including:

• Making the Bush tax cuts permanent
• Death tax repeal
• Cutting and limiting government spending
• Social Security reform with personal retirement accounts
• Expanding free trade
• Legal reform to end abusive lawsuits
• Replacing the current tax code
• School choice
• Regulatory reform and deregulation

Whenever possible, the Club sent a "key vote" alert to each member of Congress prior to an expected roll call vote of pending legislative action that we planned to include in the scorecard.

"We are excited about this scorecard launch and commend the 36 Members of Congress who earned the 'Defender of Economic Freedom' Award," Toomey concluded. "It is our hope that in each year to come, support for common sense, economic principles will continue to grow, allowing more Members to earn this award."

Posted at 11:39 AM, July 31, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

June 1, 2006

Club for Growth Release New TV Ad in Rhode Island

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Club for Growth announced a new ad campaign designed to educate Rhode Islanders about the real record of Sen. Lincoln Chafee and to increase the pressure on him to support pro-growth policies. The six-figure TV, radio, and cable buy begins today.

"We are not surprised that Sen. Lincoln Chafee has chosen to distort Steve Laffey's record of fiscal responsibility with his new TV ads," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "Our new ads will help correct the record so that Rhode Islanders will have the facts, not the Chafee distortions. We are not surprised that he hides his true record of favoring massive increases in taxes and spending. We call on Rhode Islanders to urge Sen. Chafee to stop the distortions and to end his fiscal hypocrisy."

Here is the script for the TV ad:

Would you buy a cheap watch from this guy? / Then don't buy a cheap attack from this guy. / The truth is Steve Laffey's lowering taxes and he's cut millions in spending and waste in Cranston. / Lincoln Chafee? / He voted for $1.3 trillion in higher taxes. / Higher income taxes and capital gains taxes. / Chafee's one of the Senate's biggest spenders. / He even backed $200 million for that "Bridge to Nowhere" in Alaska. / Tell Lincoln Chafee he's too liberal with your taxes.

Click here to listen to the radio ad.

Posted at 3:01 PM, June 1, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

May 24, 2006

Bill Sali Wins in ID-01

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Extending the Club for Growth PAC's record to 6-1 for endorsed candidates in the 2006 cycle, Idaho primary voters last night chose Bill Sali as the GOP nominee for the 1st Congressional District race. The

Club for Growth PAC is the political arm of the nation's largest free market advocacy organization with more than 35,000 members.

"The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a significant part in ensuring Bill had the support he needed to campaign effectively on lower taxes and less spending -- and the voters have responded," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "Club for Growth members donated over $350,000 to his campaign and the Club's PAC ran a $133,000 independent expenditure TV ad during the closing days of the campaign."

"This is a huge win for Bill and another huge win for the pro-growth agenda," Toomey continued. "His belief in limited government, lower taxes and his willingness to stick to his principles as a legislator are traits desperately needed in Congress, especially at a time when congressional Republicans are struggling to hold onto their majority."

"As the state primaries march on toward November, we are seeing unprecedented signs that voters want change and are willing to elect those who will support pro-growth, free-market principles," Toomey continued. "Bill's victory last night is a clear indication of this."

With a few precincts still left to report, Bill won with 26% of the vote while his 5 other opponents were held to below 18% each. His primary win in this heavily Republican district almost assures he will replace Rep. Butch Otter in Congress after the general election.

"Idaho's 1st District constituents expect strong, principled leadership and I am confident that Bill Sali will deliver on that expectation once he is elected in November," concluded Toomey.

Posted at 11:43 AM, May 24, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

May 23, 2006

Club for Growth Supports Flake's Effort to Fight Pork

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - Today Pat Toomey, president of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 35,000 members, issued public support for Congressman Jeff Flake's (R-AZ) effort to remove earmarks that have been inserted in the House Agriculture Appropriations bill. "The House Agriculture Appropriations bill is so full of pork projects that it's enough to make any taxpayer squeal with horror," said Club for Growth President, Pat Toomey. "The Club for Growth strongly supports Congressman Flake's efforts to trim as much of the egregious fat as possible by offering amendments to block funding for these wasteful earmarks," Toomey continued. "We urge Congress to get serious about reining in wasteful spending and encourage President Bush to support this effort. The easiest way to start is by eliminating earmarks from spending bills." "We applaud Rep. Flake for his commitment to American taxpayers," Toomey concluded. "If Members of Congress don't act fast to eliminate egregious pork projects, voters may act fast to eliminate the members in November." UPDATE: Predictably, the House rejected Flake's bold attempt to defund the pork projects. Here are some lawmakers who stood up and publicly opposed Flake. Also, Flake didn't stop with the Agriculture Appropriations bill. The next day, he offered 6 more amendments to the Energy and Water bill. If you want to learn more about this and other economic issues, check out the blog.

Posted at 9:39 AM, May 23, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

May 10, 2006

Club Members Score Another Victory

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Extending the Club for Growth PAC's record to 5-1 for endorsed candidates in the 2006 cycle, Nebraska primary voters last night chose Adrian Smith as the GOP nominee for the 3rd Congressional District race. Adrian Smith is an endorsed candidate of the Club for Growth PAC, the political arm of the nation's largest free market advocacy organization with more than 35,000 members.

"The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a significant part in ensuring Adrian had the support he needed to campaign effectively on lower taxes and less spending -- and the voters have responded," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "Club for Growth members donated over $320,000 to his campaign and the Club's PAC ran a $70,000 independent expenditure TV ad during the closing days of the campaign touting Adrian's experience as a proven tax fighter."

"This is a huge win for Adrian and the pro-growth agenda," Toomey continued. "His belief in limited government, lower taxes and his willingness to stick to his principles as a legislator are traits desperately needed in Congress, especially at a time when congressional Republicans are struggling to hold onto their majority."

Adrian won with 39% of the vote while his top opponents, John Hanson, an aide to the current congressman, Tom Osborne, and Jay Vavricek, the mayor of Grand Island each received 29% and 28%, respectively. His primary win in this heavily Republican district almost assures he will replace Rep. Tom Osborne in Congress after the general election.

"Nebraska's 3rd District constituents expect strong, principled leadership and I am confident that Adrian Smith will deliver on that expectation once he is elected in November," concluded Toomey.

Posted at 8:26 AM, May 10, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

May 3, 2006

Press Release on Our Free Speech Coalition Letter

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. - With the House of Representatives preparing to vote on a lobbying reform bill that will ultimately include dramatic restrictions on speech, leaders of sixty-five of the nation's leading conservative organizations released a letter today calling on members of the House and Senate to oppose any bill that forces 527 organizations to become PACs.

"The outcry from the conservative community against this move to suppress free speech is loud and unified," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading pro-growth advocacy organization with more than 35,000 members. "With a congressional majority potentially hanging in the balance this fall, Republicans in Congress ignore the concerns outlined in this letter at their peril."

The open letter to members of Congress outlines the strong opposition the signers, and the millions of citizens they represent, have to efforts currently being considered by Congress to ban any communication over $1000 at any time by any method by any 527 group unless it becomes a PAC. Specifically, H.R. 513 and S. 1053 include this provision.

"Forcing 527 groups to become PACs will not only force free speech restrictions on any organization wishing to speak to the public about actions taken by Congress or stands taken by candidates," continued Toomey. "It will also drastically reduce transparency as money shifts to organizations that have far less reporting requirements than 527s currently do."

Under current law, other non-profit organizations such as labor unions, business associations and social welfare groups need not publicly disclose donations and expenditures.

"When you were sworn into office, you took an oath to 'support this Constitution,'" concludes the letter. "We ask you to faithfully uphold that oath by rejecting H.R. 513, S. 1053 and any other bill that restricts political free speech."

A copy of the coalition letter can be viewed here.

Posted at 12:25 PM, May 3, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

Press Release on Ohio Primary Victories

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Extending the Club for Growth PAC's record to 4-0 for endorsed candidates in the 2006 cycle, last night Ohio primary voters overwhelmingly voted for the two candidates endorsed by the Club for Growth PAC, the political arm of the nation's largest free market advocacy organization with more than 35,000 members, and the pro-growth agenda they advocate: Secretary of State Ken Blackwell for Governor, and State Senator Jim Jordan for the 4th Congressional District. Club for Growth PAC support was vital to both victories.

"These are huge wins not only for Ken Blackwell and Jim Jordan, but for the entire pro-growth agenda," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "The Club for Growth PAC is proud to have played a significant part in ensuring these two candidates had the support they needed to campaign effectively on lower taxes and less spending and the voters have responded."

"Ohio voters also sent a message to Republicans in Washington that they strongly favor candidates who say yes to cutting taxes and no to wasteful government spending," continued Toomey. "That's an important lesson congressional Republicans should heed as they struggle to hold onto their majority during this year's mid-term elections."

Club for Growth PAC-endorsed Ohio Secretary of State Ken Blackwell defeated Ohio Attorney General Jim Petro for the Republican nomination for Governor by 13 points, 56-44.

"The Club for Growth PAC rarely endorses gubernatorial candidates and it's a sign of Ken's commitment to the pro-growth agenda and the importance of this race that we endorsed him," said Toomey. "Ken Blackwell has the ability to once again make Ohio a leader by cutting taxes and reducing state spending to support stronger economic growth."

Club for Growth PAC-endorsed State Senator Jim Jordan won 51 percent of the Republican primary vote in Ohio's 4th Congressional district among a crowded field of five other challengers - including one who spent $1.4 million of his own money. His primary win in this heavily Republican victory almost assures he will replace Rep. Mike Oxley in Congress after the general election.

"Congress demonstrates on almost a daily basis why we need Jim Jordan and more people like him who are truly committed to the pro-growth agenda in Washington," said Toomey. "With Club for Growth PAC support, Jim was able to post a solid primary victory against a very well-financed opponent and we look forward to calling him Congressman after November."

Posted at 11:24 AM, May 3, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

March 8, 2006

Henry Cuellar Defeats Unified Left Wing

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, issued the following statement after the announcement of election results from the Democratic primary in Texas' 28th Congressional district showing Club for Growth PAC-endorsed Rep. Henry Cuellar defeating former Rep. Ciro Rodriguez and his coalition of ultra-liberal Members of Congress and advocacy groups to win the Democratic primary: "A united coalition of the biggest mouths and money on the tax-hiking Far Left couldn't defeat Henry Cuellar and his commitment to pro-growth principles. "With aggressive support from the Club for Growth PAC that included a series of phone calls to turn out pro-growth voters, along with Club members who donated more than $165,000 to his campaign, Rep. Cuellar was able to run on his agenda of pro-growth tax relief and increased economic opportunity through free trade and the voters responded by giving him a strong victory. "There are important lessons from this election for leaders in both parties in Washington. Democratic leaders need to understand that just because the loudest voices on the left are shouting for higher taxes, more spending and greater government control over people's lives doesn't mean that's what voters -- even Democratic primary voters -- want. "Taxes and spending in Washington have gotten out of control because too many Republicans think they need to let tax cuts expire, oppose trade agreements and bring government pork back home to get re-elected. But if a Democrat can successfully campaign on tax relief and free trade, then Republicans - supposedly the party of limited government - should be able to as well. "The Club for Growth PAC endorsed Rep. Cuellar, the first Democrat to receive such an endorsement, because of his principled commitment to the pro-growth agenda. We congratulate him on his victory and encourage others to follow his example."

Posted at 8:13 AM, March 8, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

February 6, 2006

Statement by Pat Toomey on the President's 2007 Budget

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - Today Pat Toomey, president of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, made the following statement regarding the President's proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2007: "I commend the President for sending Congress a budget that makes the pro-growth tax relief permanent, eliminates some wasteful government programs, holds growth in discretionary spending below the rate of inflation and actually cuts non-security discretionary spending. But if the federal government is going to get serious about economic growth and fiscal responsibility, Congress should consider this a starting point from which to cut further. "Congress should also cut taxes further. With a top personal income tax rate that is 25 percent higher than it was when Ronald Reagan left office, and the second highest corporate tax rate in the world, the Federal tax burden is still excessive and it inhibits America's economic growth potential. "Congress should cut spending further. Cutting or eliminating 141 wasteful programs worth $15 billion is but a minor nick in the thousands of federal programs that now cost almost $3 trillion. Especially at a time when our nation is conducting an expensive war, more domestic programs should be cut or eliminated. "Congress should cut entitlement spending further. Discretionary spending is steadily diminishing as a percentage of the budget, making cuts there little more than symbolic. Entitlements (excluding net interest) now consume 53% of all program spending and a record 10.8% of GDP. True fiscal responsibility will come with reforming our entitlement programs to make them less costly and more effective. "The President has outlined his plan and now it is Congress's responsibility to build on it by demonstrating their commitment to fiscal responsibility. In a tight election year, economic conservatives around the country will be watching." (Source: Tax and spending figures are from the Heritage Foundation)

Posted at 4:15 PM, February 6, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

Club's PAC Endorses Jim Jordan in OH-04

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - The political action arm of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, today endorsed state senator Jim Jordan for Congress in Ohio's 4th Congressional District. The seat is being vacated by Republican Congressman Mike Oxley. The 4th District is solidly Republican, so whoever wins the primary most likely will go on to win the general election. "Jim Jordan has a solid record of opposing higher taxes, having lead the fight against two of the largest tax hikes in state history," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "His commitment is so strong that he opposed Governor Taft's hefty tax hike in 2003, and even offered an alternative budget in its place that didn't raise taxes." "Jim's principled philosophy is exactly what the taxpayers need in Congress," said Toomey. "The Club for Growth PAC is committed to helping elect him, and more legislators like him, to Congress." During the last election cycle, Club for Growth members donated more than $9 million to the Club's PAC and candidates committed to pro-growth economic policies. Mr. Toomey concluded, "Ohio's 4th District constituents expect strong, principled leadership and I am confident that if elected, Jim Jordan will deliver on that expectation."

PAID FOR BY CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC AND NOT AUTHORIZED BY ANY CANDIDATE OR CANDIDATE'S COMMITTEE. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 2:37 PM, February 6, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

February 2, 2006

Statement by Pat Toomey on House Majority Leader Race

Andrew Roth

Pat Toomey, president of the Club for Growth, issued the following statement in response to John Boehner being elected House Majority Leader: bq. "By electing John Boehner as Majority Leader, House Republicans have demonstrated their desire for a change in direction and are recommitting themselves to the core principles of limited government around which the party built its majority. bq. "John Boehner has a solid record of support for pro-growth principles and a history of building effective the necessary political, legislative and communications support needed to enact those principles into law. bq. "This will be a challenging election year, but with John's new leadership and a legislative agenda that focuses on lower taxes and less spending Republicans can strengthen and build their majority. The Club for Growth is eager to support Leader Boehner in this effort."

Posted at 1:58 PM, February 2, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

January 31, 2006

New Poll in House Majority Leader Race

Andrew Roth

Washington, D.C. - The Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, is announcing the results from a poll of likely voters from 20 swing districts currently held by Republicans which show that voters overwhelmingly prefer a new House Majority Leader who comes from outside the existing senior leadership and does not have close ties to the Washington lobbyist community. Fifty-two percent of those polled said that the type of person the House GOP elects as Majority Leader would impact how they viewed Republicans in Congress. "Voters in the GOP-held districts where the battle for the majority in the House of Representatives will be most hard-fought want Republicans to make a clean break from the past by choosing as Majority Leader someone new and without extensive ties to lobbyists," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "As the only candidate in the race who isn't associated with the current senior leadership or the Washington lobbying community, John Shadegg offers Members a choice that can help improve the image of the GOP with voters as we go into a tough election cycle." The survey was conducted by Basswood Research on January 28-29, 2006, among 1000 likely general election voters throughout 20 "swing districts" nationwide currently held by Republican incumbents. A summary of the key findings can be found here (PDF). "Voters are watching what's going on in Washington and they don't like what they see," continued Toomey. "More voters associate the Republican leadership in Congress with corruption and dishonesty than with any other issue or action other than the war and an amazing eighty percent think ethical misconduct in Congress is either serious or scandalous." "To refocus the Republican majority on its core principles of limited government and adequately address voters' concerns about ethics, House Republicans need to make a clear change in leadership," concluded Toomey. "John Shadegg, an effective, principled leader, is the best choice to do just that."

Posted at 10:28 AM, January 31, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

January 17, 2006

Club for Growth PAC Endorses Henry Cuellar

Andrew Roth

CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC MAKES FIRST EVER ENDORSEMENT OF A DEMOCRAT, BACKING REP. HENRY CUELLAR (TX -28) FOR RE-ELECTION Washington, D.C. - The political action arm of Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, today endorsed sitting Democratic Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) in his bid for re-election to his San Antonio-based House seat. He is running against former Democratic Congressman Ciro Rodriguez and Victor Morales in the Democratic primary. This is the first ever endorsement of a Democratic candidate by the Club for Growth PAC. "By voting for CAFTA, to repeal the Death Tax, to prevent huge tax increases, and for supporting school choice, Congressman Cuellar has become one of the House's most pro-economic growth Democrats," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "The House of Representatives would be better off with more Democrats - and even some more Republicans - who demonstrate Rep. Cuellar's commitment to their constituents' prosperity through economic freedom. It is particularly noteworthy that Rep. Cuellar cast these votes for a stronger economy despite intense pressure not to by some in his party." "Former Congressman Ciro Rodriguez's record is a prime example of what we don't need more of in Washington," Toomey said. "During his eight years in Congress, he established one of the most anti-growth voting records, consistently supporting higher taxes, wasteful government spending, and a protectionist anti-trade agenda. He even voted against allowing poor families the freedom to choose the school their children could attend." "While Congressman Cuellar's record isn't perfect, it is far better than his opponents' and his demonstrated commitment to pro-growth principles over politics is exactly what the Club for Growth PAC looks for in Congressional candidates, regardless of party affiliation," concluded Toomey, "It's why we're committed to helping elect him, and more legislators like him, to Congress." During the last election cycle, Club for Growth members donated more than $9 million to the Club's PAC and candidates committed to pro-growth economic policies.

This press release was paid for by Club for Growth PAC and authorized by Texans for Cuellar. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 10:58 AM, January 17, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

January 13, 2006

Press Release: Club Endorses John Shadegg

Andrew Roth

CLUB FOR GROWTH ENDORSES JOHN SHADEGG FOR U.S. HOUSE MAJORITY LEADER Washington, D.C. - Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 34,000 members, announced today that it is endorsing Rep. John Shadegg's candidacy for U.S. House Majority Leader. "There is no member of the House of Representatives more committed to the idea of limited government and economic freedom than John Shadegg," said Club for Growth president Pat Toomey. "To be an effective governing party, Republicans must focus once again on these core issues and John Shadegg has the unique qualifications to lead the way." Rep. Shadegg is one of only four Members of the House of Representatives to vote the pro-growth position on every key vote identified last year by the Club for Growth. To view the scorecard, click here. "The House Republican Conference has been ideologically adrift," continued Toomey. "This nominally conservative party is responsible for a huge expansion of government and letting spending get out of control." "John Shadegg is a principled, effective leader who can build consensus across the full range of the Conference to return to the core issues of limited government and economic freedom that produced a Republican majority in the first place," Toomey concluded.

Posted at 2:27 PM, January 13, 2006 | Trackback | Print | #

December 7, 2005

John Campbell Wins in CA-48 Special Election

Andrew Roth

Club for Growth PAC-Backed Candidate, John Campbell, Wins California - 48 Special Election Washington, D.C. - Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 33,000 members, congratulates respected state senator, taxpayer hero and Club for Growth PAC-endorsed candidate John Campbell for winning the California-48 special election. The seat was vacated by Rep. Chris Cox who now heads the Securities and Exchange Commission. "With his strong commitment to limited government and his stellar record of opposing higher taxes in the California State Government, it is no surprise that we will soon call John Campbell, Congressman," said Club for Growth president Pat Toomey. "The Club for Growth PAC was pleased to endorse John's campaign and supported it with independent expenditures and contributions from Club members." During the last election cycle Club for Growth members donated over $9 million to the Club's PAC and its recommended pro-growth candidates. For this election cycle, the Club's PAC established a new and more aggressive approach to begin the campaign process much earlier to give proven, pro-growth candidates like John Campbell the best possible chance to win their races. "Having John Campbell win a seat in Congress reflects the desire of the American people to support pro-growth and anti-tax increase policies," Toomey concluded. "We look forward to working with Congressman-elect Campbell, and other free-market candidates and legislators to help promote these types of initiatives in Congress."

Posted at 8:46 AM, December 7, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

December 6, 2005

The Club Launches New Website

Andrew Roth

Club for Growth Unveils First Website to Highlight Liberal Record of Various Lawmakers JoeSchwarzIsALiberal.com details poor record by Michigan freshman Washington, D.C. - The Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 33,000 members today unveiled a new website called "Joe Schwarz is a Liberal", (www.JoeSchwarzIsALiberal.com) which details how freshman Congressman Joe Schwarz (R-MI) is one of the worst examples of a Republican politician who has no real commitment to limited government and pro-growth policies. "Joe Schwarz is a perfect example of a Republican congressman with no genuine commitment to the core Republican principles of limited government and economic freedom," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "As a result, the Club for Growth created the website www.JoeSchwarzIsALiberal.com to showcase his terrible record in Congress." This is the first of several similar websites that will be created by the Club for Growth. The next one will detail the liberal spending habits of three legislators in the Northwest. "RINO's can no longer hide behind their liberal voting records, thanks to the Internet," Toomey concluded. "It's time for all economic conservatives to know the truth about these members and their liberal records, and we are determined to make that happen through these websites. We call on all concerned citizens to tell these lawmakers to promote the pro-growth policies that this country needs."

Posted at 10:17 AM, December 6, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

November 30, 2005

NRSC's Anti-Laffey Ad Campaign Backfires

Andrew Roth

NRSC ANTI-LAFFEY AD CAMPAIGN BACKFIRES Following NRSC Ads, GOP Primary Voters More Likely To Support Chafee Challenger Washington, D.C. -- Results from a poll by the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 33,000 members, show that a Rhode Island TV ad campaign by the National Republican Senatorial Committee designed to help liberal incumbent Senator Lincoln Chafee appears to be angering core Republican voters and driving up support for his Republican primary challenger, Cranston, Rhode Island, Mayor Stephen Laffey. The poll of 300 Republican primary voters was conducted by National Research Inc. on Nov. 14-15. The poll asked whether respondents had seen television ads about Stephen Laffey. Among those who had, three out of four respondents said the ads either made them more likely to support Laffey or had no effect. Among those who reported that the ads affected their views, nearly three out of five of those (or 58%) respondents reported they were more likely to support Laffey. "From bridges to nowhere to campaign ads that have the opposite of their intended effect, some Republicans in Washington are proving that they are simply no good at spending other people's money effectively," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "If the NRSC really wants to win the support of GOP members in Rhode Island, they should try encouraging Sen. Lincoln Chafee to vote for what the Republican party is supposed to stand for -- a pro-growth agenda of limited government, lower taxes and less federal spending." The poll produced the following results: THE NATIONAL REPUBLICAN SENATORIAL COMMITTEE IS SPENDING MONEY ON ATTACK ADS AGAINST STEPHEN LAFFEY, A FELLOW REPUBLICAN HERE IN RHODE ISLAND. DO YOU THINK THEY SHOULD BE SPENDING MONEY ON THIS NEGATIVE CAMPAIGN, OR SHOULD THEY BE SPENDING MONEY AGAINST DEMOCRATS INSTEAD?

SHOULD BE	9.3%
SPEND AGAINST DEMOCRATS	71.7%
DON'T KNOW/REFUSED	19%

HAVE YOU SEEN ANY TELEVISION ADVERTISING OVER THE PAST SEVERAL WEEKS ABOUT STEPHEN LAFFEY?

YES	61%
NO	35.3%
DON'T KNOW/REFUSED	3.7%

AND DID THE ADVERTISING MAKE YOU MORE LIKELY OR LESS LIKELY TO VOTE FOR STEPHEN LAFFEY IN THE REPUBLICAN PRIMARY FOR U.S. SENATE?

MORE LIKELY	33.9%
LESS LIKELY	24.6%
NO EFFECT/UNDECIDED	39.3%
REFUSED	2.2%

"Washington-based Republicans' elevation of incumbency protection over principle is disgusting rank-and-file GOP members. Great numbers of them are hoping for leaders who advocate returning the party to the pro-growth agenda that helped it achieve a governing majority in the first place," concluded Toomey. "While I'm sure Mayor Laffey actually appreciates the results of the NRSC's ads against him, it's a sad commentary on the state of the Republican party leadership in Washington."

Posted at 2:53 PM, November 30, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

November 7, 2005

Club's PAC Endorses Tim Walberg

Andrew Roth

The Club for Growth PAC issued the following press release this morning: bq.

CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC MAKES ITS FIRST GOP PRIMARY CHALLENGER ENDORSEMENT OF '06 ELECTION CYCLE Former State Rep. Walberg Endorsed Against Rep. Joe Schwarz (MI-07) bq. Washington, D.C. - Identifying incumbent Congressman Joe Schwarz (R-MI) as one of the worst examples of Republican politicians who have abandoned any commitment to limited government and pro-growth policy, the political action arm of Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 33,000 members, today endorsed former state representative Tim Walberg in the race for Michigan's 7th Congressional district seat. The endorsement is the Club for Growth PAC's first for a Republican primary challenger candidate for the FY06 cycle. bq. "Republicans in Congress are sliding toward abandoning their core commitment to limit the size and scope of the Federal government," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "Rep. Joe Schwarz is a major part of the problem and one of the worst offenders. By replacing him with a true economic conservative, we improve our ability to enact the pro-growth agenda." bq. "Tim Walberg is a steadfast opponent of higher spending and taxes, having never voted for a tax increase during his 15 years in the Michigan State Legislature," continued Toomey. "His principled philosophy is exactly what the taxpayers need in Congress," said Club for Growth president Pat Toomey. "The Club for Growth PAC is committed to helping elect him, and more legislators like him, to Congress." bq. During the last election cycle, Club for Growth members donated more than $9 million to the Club's PAC and candidates committed to pro-growth economic policies. For this election cycle, the Club's PAC has established a new and more aggressive approach to begin the campaign process much earlier and give proven, pro-growth candidates like Tim Walberg the best possible chance to win their races. bq. "The endorsement of Tim Walberg, as a Republican primary challenger, is a first for this election cycle and one of the earliest recommendations that the Club for Growth PAC has made. It reflects our new approach to supporting strong, pro-growth candidates early," said Toomey.

This press release was paid for by Club for Growth PAC and authorized by Walberg for Congress. 202-955-5500.

Also, here is a glimpse of Joe Schwarz's positions on economic issues: bq. As reported in the Detroit News, Schwarz once candidly said, "Prop A was the biggest tax increase in the history of the state...I helped write it; it was a great idea." Schwarz is also on the record for suggesting that the Bush tax cuts might need to be rolled back. In an AP article on Sept. 16, Congressman Schwarz stated with regard to paying for the Katrina rebuilding, "it may require some adjustment of the tax structure," and "if that means suspending or rescinding some of the tax cuts that have already been made, so be it." A look at Schwarz's voting record in Congress this year shows that he is living up to his reputation as a liberal. Here is a long list of bad votes:

• Voted against an effort to restrict eminent domain powers post Kelo (source)
• Voted against the RSC's conservative budget resolution (source)
• Voted against reducing sugar subsidies (source)
• Voted against a 1% across-the-board appropriations spending reduction (source)
• Voted to federally fund PBS (source)
• Voted to federally fund National Endowment of the Arts (source)
• Voted to federally fund Amtrak (source)
• Voted to support impotency drug purchases financed with taxpayers' money (source)
• Voted against ANWR drilling (source)
• Voted against cutting contributions to the United Nations (source)

Posted at 2:40 PM, November 7, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

October 25, 2005

The Senate's Own 'Operation Offset'

Andrew Roth

Pat just issued this statement following the press conference given by the Senate's new 'Fiscal Watch Team': bq.

SENATE FISCAL WATCH TEAM SETTING RIGHT EXAMPLE IN PROMOTING KATRINA SPENDING OFFSETS bq. WASHINGTON, D.C. - Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading advocacy organization for free-market, pro-growth economic policies, issued the following statement in support of the Senate "Fiscal Watch Team's" efforts to offset federal spending for Hurricane Katrina. The Senators who comprise the Fiscal Watch Team include: Sens. Brownback, Coburn, DeMint, Ensign, Graham, McCain, and Sununu. bq. "The effort put forth by these senators is a solid compliment to "Operation Offset" created by members of the House Republican Study Committee, who have identified specific areas of the Federal budget that can be cut or eliminated to reduce the fiscal impact of Katrina recovery spending. bq. "By the government's own admission, there are billions of dollars wasted every year in our $2.6 trillion budget. There are billions more in programs that simply cannot be called priorities. bq. "True leadership, especially by those who call themselves economic conservatives, means setting priorities and being responsible with the taxpayers' dollars. The Fiscal Watch Team and Members of Congress responsible for Operation Offset are demonstrating that kind of leadership. Let's hope the Administration and Congressional leadership join them."

Posted at 3:12 PM, October 25, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

October 20, 2005

Press Statement

Andrew Roth

We just issued the following press statement: bq.

Toomey: Spending Debate a Defining Moment for Republicans bq. Club for Growth President Pat Toomey issued the following statement over the debate on spending restraint and offsets. bq. "This is a defining moment. The Republican Party came into power in 1995 by advocating limited government. But in the last 4-5 years, there has been no evidence that the Republican officials in the Federal government have any remaining commitment to this vital principal. bq. "Federal spending in virtually every area has grown at a record pace, the culmination of which has been a pork-infested transportation bill and an open-ended commitment to spend after hurricanes Katrina and Rita. bq. "If Republicans can't see the need to rein in Federal spending even now, they will have abandoned the one big idea that unites the Republican coalition. And if that happens, core elements of that coalition may in fact abandon the Republican Party before the 2006 elections. It is an unfortunate fact that achieving some modicum of fiscal discipline will have to be done by Republicans alone. Thus far, no Democrats have shown any interest in controlling spending - they want to make the problem worse. But it is Republicans who have majorities in Congress so they have the responsibility. bq. "I lead an organization with more than 32,000 members from all across America. They are deeply troubled by the growth in Federal spending under the Republican majority. They want to see Congress come back next week and agree to modify the Budget Resolution to expand the reductions in the growth of mandatory programs, and institute an across-the-board cut to begin to institute some fiscal responsibility."

Posted at 10:49 AM, October 20, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

October 5, 2005

Club PAC-Endorsed Candidate Wins CA-48 Open Primary

Andrew Roth

We issued the following press release following John Campbell's open primary victory last night in California's 48th congressional district. If you'd like to get more information on the race, including election results, the OC Blog has excellent coverage.

CLUB FOR GROWTH PAC-ENDORSED CANDIDATE WINS CA-48 PRIMARY
New Strategy of Early Support Already Generating Results For Pro-Growth Agenda

Washington, D.C. - With substantial assistance from the political action arm of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 31,000 members, California State Senator John Campbell won the Republican nomination in the open primary in California's 48th congressional district. The seat was vacated by Rep. Chris Cox, who recently became chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

"The voters of California's 48th congressional district have made a strong statement in favor of the limited government, lower taxes agenda for which Sen. Campbell is a leading advocate," said Club for Growth President Pat Toomey. "It was because of Campbell's leadership on these issues that the Club for Growth PAC was among his first and biggest supporters."

For the 2006 election cycle, the Club for Growth PAC has established a new and more aggressive approach to begin the campaign process much earlier and give proven, pro-growth candidates the best possible chance to win their races. As part of that new strategy, the Club for Growth PAC endorsed Sen. Campbell on August 8th because of his stellar record of opposing higher taxes and higher spending in the California General Assembly and State Senate.

Following the endorsement, Club for Growth members donated more than $115,000 to Sen. Campbell's campaign. The Club for Growth PAC was also the first organization on the air with ads, spending more than $56,000 to make clear that Campbell's opponent, Marilyn Brewer, was not a leader on pro-growth issues.

"The Club for Growth PAC's early endorsement of John Campbell for Congress, our aggressive efforts to raise money for his campaign and our independent expenditure radio and TV ads demonstrate the sort of influence the Club for Growth PAC will have throughout the 2006 cycle," continued Toomey.

The Club for Growth PAC has already endorsed four other congressional candidates for 2006: Sharron Angle (NV-02), Phil Krinkie (MN-06), Bill Sali (ID-01) and Rick O'Donnell (CO-07).

This press release was paid for by Club for Growth PAC and not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. 202-955-5500.

Posted at 8:54 AM, October 5, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

August 17, 2005

Our Endorsement Press Release

Andrew Roth

Nation's Leading Free Market Advocacy Group Endorses Bill Sali for Congress in Idaho - 1 Washington, D.C. - The political action arm of Club for Growth, the nation's leading free-market advocacy organization with over 31,000 members, today endorsed respected state representative and taxpayer hero Bill Sali for Congress in Idaho's 1st congressional district. The seat is being vacated by Rep. Butch Otter, who is running for Governor. "Bill Sali is one of the most fiscally conservative members of the Idaho Legislature and has been the strongest and most consistent voice for lower taxes and less spending," said Club for Growth president Pat Toomey. "The Club for Growth PAC is committed to helping elect him, and more legislators like him, to Congress." Mr. Toomey continued, "Idaho's 1st District deserves a principled and effective leader like Bill Sali to represent them." During the last election cycle Club for Growth members donated more than $9 million to the Club's PAC and candidates committed to pro-growth economic policies. For this election cycle, the Club has established a new and more aggressive approach to begin the campaign process much earlier and give proven, pro-growth candidates like Bill Sali the best possible chance to win their races. "The endorsement of Bill Sali for Congress is one of the earliest recommendations that the Club for Growth has made. It reflects our new approach to supporting strong, pro-growth candidates early," said Mr. Toomey. The Club's first endorsed candidate for '06, Sharron Angle in NV-02, raised more money in one month, following the Club's endorsement, than any other candidate raised in a quarter. Mr. Toomey concluded, "I am confident, that if elected, Bill Sali will display the principled and effective leadership that his constituents will expect of him."

Posted at 1:21 PM, August 17, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

August 12, 2005

Time to Modernize Social Security

Andrew Roth

The Club just issued this press release:

SOCIAL SECURITY 70TH ANNIVERSARY: The Country Has Modernized, Time To Update Our Retirement System Too; Failure To Modernize In Last 70 Years Threatens Program, Under Serves Americans

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Sunday's 70th anniversary of President Roosevelt's signing Social Security into law is a reminder that the failure to modernize Social Security over the last seven decades has created a situation where the nation faces dire consequences unless steps are taken now to reform the program and add increased ownership opportunities through personal retirement accounts.

"Despite massive changes in our nation's economy and population during the last 70 years, Social Security has failed to change with the times. As a result it is under serving Americans and threatening to bankrupt the country," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club For Growth, the nation's leading pro-growth advocacy group.

The Heritage Foundation reports that under the current program, Social Security spending will exceed projected tax collections in 2017 and will quickly balloon to alarming proportions. Annual inflation-adjusted deficits will reach $96 billion in 2021, $205 billion in 2026, and $324 billion in 2034.

"Because of the leadership of the President, we have an extraordinary opportunity to modernize this system so that it becomes sustainable, increases ownership opportunities for Americans and generates a better return on the investment of their hard-earned money," continued Toomey. "Personal retirement accounts would give Americans significantly more control over their retirement and even with modest, secure investment options would generate a better rate of return."

According to research by the Cato Institute, if a 28-year-old worker making $13,500 per year and paying $1,674 in Social Security tax were allowed to invest in a conservative savings program that earned just a 4 percent return, she would accrue $177,147 by age 67. That amounts to a monthly benefit of $1,243 -- $400 more per month than the benefits promised by Social Security.

"Leaving the program untouched means it will swamp our economy in a sea of debt that can only be alleviated through massive tax increases or drastic benefit cuts," concluded Toomey. "We can do better, but we need to act now while the political window of opportunity created by the President's leadership is open. It's time for Congress to move forward with a plan for meaningful Social Security reform that includes personal retirement accounts."

Posted at 2:55 PM, August 12, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

July 29, 2005

Press Release on the Highway Bill

Andrew Roth

IDLE THREATS ARE THE SPENDERS' WORKSHOP Since 2004, the White House has been explicit that a veto was all but guaranteed if Congress sent the President a Highway Bill that exceeded certain spending levels. Congress is now preparing to send the President a Highway Bill that exceeds the White House's proposed spending level of $284 billion and the Administration appears to be backing away from two years worth of veto threats. "It's ironic that the White House would let Congress get away with directly defying a Presidential veto threat by overspending after the Administration just finished citing spending restraint as a reason for improvement in the deficit forecast," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. Toomey added, "If the President fails to follow through on his Administration's veto threats over excessive spending in the Highway Bill, what hope is there of forcing Congress to control other Federal spending?" BELOW IS PAST EVIDENCE OF THE WHITE HOUSE'S COMMENTS ON THE HIGHWAY BILL.

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Highway Bill '05 "Under the final version of the surface transportation bill, total obligation limitations for surface-transportation programs (combined with contract authority that is exempt from obligation limitations and general fund appropriations for public transportation) must not exceed $283.9 billion over the period 2004 through 2009. Likewise, the net authorization level must not exceed $283.9 billion over the six years. (To the extent the gross authorization level exceeds $283.9 billion, an offsetting rescission should be included in the legislation.) Should the obligation or net authorization levels that would result from the final bill exceed these limits, the President's senior advisors would recommend that he veto the bill." (emphasis in the original) -- STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY: H.R. 3 --Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, April 26, 2005 "The President has clearly stated that we need to have legislation that meets our transportation needs but that also keeps us on track to cut the deficit in half by 2009. The President put forward a responsible budget and a responsible plan for meeting our transportation needs. We have made it very clear, and we reiterated here today, that the President's senior advisor would recommend a veto if that legislation exceeded the $283.9 billion that we have proposed." (emphasis added) -- Scott McClellan, White House Briefing, May 17, 2005 "But our view is very clear that if it exceeds that limit, his senior advisors would recommend that he veto that legislation." (emphasis added) -- Scott McClellan, White House Briefing, May 17, 2005 "Now Bush is threatening to veto this one [highway bill] over an $11 billion difference. 'Our position is real and strong,' White House spokeswoman Dana Perino says." -- USA Today, May 27, 2005 "'Our position [veto threat] hasn't changed, because the president's number is 284,' said White House spokeswoman Dana Perino, referring to the amount in billions of dollars that the House approved and the Bush administration has been requesting for authorized federal transportation spending between FY04-09." (emphasis added) -- CongressDaily, June 7, 2005 "We've continued to reach out and work with members of Congress so that we can move forward on this legislation. It's an important piece of legislation. We want to get it done and get it passed. And our commitment continues to be to the level of $284 billion." -- Scott McClellan, White House Briefing, June 21, 2005 "The President's position is well known...And I don't believe that Congress is going to send us a piece of legislation that the President would need to veto." (emphasis added) -- Scott McClellan, White House Briefing, June 21, 2005 Highway Bill '04 "And our views are very well-known in terms of the President being prepared to veto legislation if it goes beyond his -- or if it does not meet his principles and goes beyond the resources that he outlined in the legislation." (emphasis added) -- Scott McClellan, White House Briefing, March 31, 2004 "In total, the House bill authorizes $284 billion in spending on highways, highway safety, and mass transit over the next six years, a full $28 billion above the President's request for the same period. Accordingly, if this legislation were presented to the President in its current form, his senior advisors would recommend that he veto the bill." (emphasis in the original) -- STATEMENT OF ADMINISTRATION POLICY -- H.R. 3550 - Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users, March 30, 2004

Posted at 11:22 AM, July 29, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

July 19, 2005

Club Issues Press Release on NV-02 Race

Andrew Roth

TAX-AND-SPEND CANDIDATES BEWARE: CLUB'S PAC SETS A NEW CANDIDATE SUPPORT RECORD ALMOST A YEAR BEFORE PRIMARY Endorsement In NV-02 Propels New Candidate To Top Of Fundraising In One Month WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Club for Growth PAC has set a new organizational record for House candidate support with over $178,800 in contributions by Club members as of July 14 following its June endorsement of NV-02 congressional candidate, Assemblywoman Sharron Angle. Donations from Club for Growth members helped establish Mrs. Angle, after only one month as a declared candidate, as the top fundraiser in the race in the second quarter according to FEC filings that became available over the weekend. "These numbers should be a loud wake-up call for tax-and-spend candidates across the country," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "The Club for Growth PAC's increasingly massive fundraising power will be at work early this cycle to help candidates with a demonstrated commitment to pro-growth policies gather the support and resources they need to win primaries, and ultimately, general elections." Because of strong competition from establishment politicians whose bigger-government track record helps them raise money from interest groups, principled economic conservatives need solid help when it counts most - early in the primary season. So beginning with the 2006 cycle, the Club for Growth PAC for the first time will get involved at the earliest stage in the election process. The Club for Growth PAC first implemented this strategy last month by endorsing Assemblywoman Sharron Angle in Nevada's 2nd congressional district. Mrs. Angle raised $158,888 in the second quarter. The Club for Growth PAC's endorsement helped Mrs. Angle raise more second quarter money than the other two candidates and amass the second highest amount of cash on hand. "This record-breaking outpouring of financial support so early in the election process demonstrates that the Club for Growth is continuing to expand its membership and influence," concluded Toomey. "It is a new Club PAC record for a single solicitation for a House race more than two months from an election. We look forward to having the Club's PAC put this kind of financial firepower into action throughout the entire 2006 cycle to help Sharron Angle and other true economic conservatives campaign and win."

Posted at 9:33 AM, July 19, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

July 14, 2005

Club Announces New TV Ad Campaign

Andrew Roth

NEW CLUB FOR GROWTH AD TARGETS CHAFEE, LANDRIEU, PRYOR AND LINCOLN SAYING "ISN'T A LIFETIME OF TAXES ENOUGH?"
TV Spot Urges Support For Permanent Repeal Of Death Tax In Upcoming Senate Vote WASHINGTON, D.C. - Noting that the Death Tax can rob Americans of up to 55% of the money they save to pass on to their family, the Club for Growth is launching a new television ad campaign which will initially urge four key U.S. Senators to vote for permanent repeal of the Death Tax when the issue comes before the U.S. Senate later this month. "No one works hard their whole life to be able to leave a nice nest egg for the Federal government," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth, the nation's leading advocacy organization for free-market, pro-growth economic policies. "This ad campaign is designed to urge Senators Chafee, Landrieu, Pryor and Lincoln to respect the hard work of their constituents and protect the fruits of their labor for their families rather than for government coffers." The pro-growth tax cuts proposed by President Bush in 2001 included a phase-out of the estate tax by 2010. But under current law the tax will be reinstated in 2011 when the 2001 tax law expires. The U.S. Senate is expected to hold a vote on permanent repeal of the Death Tax before adjourning for recess at the end of July. The Club for Growth ad will begin running on Monday, July 18, in the following states: Rhode Island, Louisiana, and Arkansas. "The upcoming Senate vote will be a choice between supporting families, small businesses, and economic freedom versus economy-stifling tax policy," concluded Toomey. "This ad urges Senators Chafee, Landrieu, Pryor and Lincoln to make the right choice. The more than 30,000 members of the Club for Growth across the country will be watching closely." Watch the Ad: Windows | Real Player | Quicktime

Posted at 5:24 PM, July 14, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

July 13, 2005

Club Issues Press Statement on Budget Forecasts

Andrew Roth

94 BILLION EXAMPLES OF TAX CUTS AT WORK: NEW BUDGET FORECASTS SHOW STRONG DECREASE IN DEFICIT Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth, issued the following statement about projections in the White House Office of Management and Budget's Mid-Session Review that the federal budget deficit for FY05 would be $94 billion less than previously forecasted. "These new numbers offer ninety-four billion examples of tax cuts at work, supporting economic growth and deficit reduction. Once again we are seeing the proof that supply-side economics works. It works because it is based on the simple truth that incentives matter. The 2003 pro-growth reductions, particularly in marginal income tax rates, capital gains and dividend taxes, have spurred robust economic growth and consequently, accelerating federal tax revenue. "The only way to continue driving down the deficit is to make permanent the pro-growth tax relief responsible for our progress so far and to begin reducing federal spending. The President can send a strong signal to Congress that he's committed to this approach by vetoing the highway bill if it exceeds his spending limit of $284 billion. "While these numbers are great news in the short-term, unless meaningful Social Security reform is passed our future deficit situation will quickly become catastrophic. Congress needs to pass Social Security reform with the ownership of personal retirement accounts now before we are faced with economy-busting debt and tax increases."

Posted at 5:45 PM, July 13, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

July 12, 2005

Club Announces New Congressional Scorecard

Andrew Roth

WASHINGTON (07/12/05) - The nation's leading advocacy organization for free-market, pro-growth economic policies announced that it is implementing a new key vote scoring system to hold members of Congress accountable for their actions once elected to office. The first votes scored will be votes on spending provisions and the CAFTA-DR agreement. "Clearly it's not enough to elect candidates to Congress who talk a good game about pro-growth policy," said Pat Toomey, President of the Club for Growth. "We have to hold them accountable for their votes once in office and this key voting system will help us do that." To provide accountability, for the first time in its history the Club for Growth will designate key votes on economic issues that maximize growth like expanding trade, reducing government spending, lowering taxes and reforming Social Security. Members of Congress will be given a score based on their actions and votes on whether they favored policies that would boost economic growth and opposed policies that would hurt growth. Those scores will help in understanding the true policies of members of Congress and will guide selection of congressional candidates to receive support from the Club for Growth PAC's massive resources. Equally important, the scorecard will help determine which incumbents could face Club for Growth PAC endorsed challengers in a primary or general election. "Too many politicians campaign as pro-growth candidates and then vote for higher spending, higher taxes, corporate welfare and protectionism once in office," continued Toomey. "With the vote on CAFTA coming up, we're saying to members that we're keeping track of the important votes and there will be consequences to campaigning one way and voting another." During the last election cycle, the Club for Growth members and the Club's PAC raised $9 million for candidates. The Club for Growth PAC will also be putting that power to work earlier this cycle than ever before to help candidates with a demonstrated commitment to pro-growth policies gather the support and resources they need to win primaries and ultimately general elections. The first key vote identified was the Blumenauer/Flake amendment on the Agriculture appropriations bill in the House. The Club for Growth supported a "yea" vote on the amendment. The next anticipated key vote will be on CAFTA-DR in the House.

Posted at 3:22 PM, July 12, 2005 | Trackback | Print | #

June 30, 2005

Pat Issues Statement on CAFTA

Andrew Roth

Club For Growth President: CAFTA Passage In Senate An Excellent Step Forward; Reports Suggest Americans Still Saddled With Unfair Sugar Tax "The Senate's passage of CAFTA takes us one big step closer to lower trade barriers, higher American exports and accelerating economic growth. "Unfortunately, news reports suggest that the Bush Administration may have made major concessions to get the votes of certain sugar protectionists, like Norm Coleman. Any side agreements which undermine CAFTA's tiny opening of the sugar market will continue to saddle American consumers with an unfair sugar tax we are all currently forced to pay. "Nevertheless, the vote on CAFTA itself generally distinguishes which senators vote for free trade and economic growth and which prefer protectionism and economic stagnation. The Club for Growth will publish its first-ever scorecard on congressional actions, and today's Senate vote and the upcoming House vote on CAFTA will be strong key votes in the new rating. "If those in office today won't support the free-market policies we need to generate prosperity and economic growth, the Club for Growth PAC and Club members will look for others who will."

Posted at 10:10 PM, June 30, 2005 | Trackback |