Thursday, January 31, 2008


As a Florida resident I have felt betrayed from the Florida primary election result. I wish that all Americans from the east coast to the west could see Mitt Romney as the great man that I know him to be. Our great nation deserves the best and all that we can give it. Today Mark Levin of the National Review has published a well articulated, concise and very poignant article highlighting how we must unite behind Mitt Romney for the better of our country.

McCain


Mike Laub, over at My Man Mitt, has made an amazing/amusing post on McCain.........click here for a MUST READ.

Tuesday, January 29, 2008

No Crying Allowed!!!

We lost, but it's not the end! Who would have thought 4 weeks ago that Mitt could get over 30% of the vote here?

Mitt has come a long way--fortunately for America, there's still 43 states left!

Thank you to everyone who made phone calls, placed signs, worked hard, and voted for Governor Romney. Romney will need your help again in November! Also, even though you've already voted, there's so much you can do to help Mitt Romney in the other states! Join Team Mitt today by going to mittromney.com!

One thing Florida has established is that this is a two man race between McCain and Romney--Rudy is dropping out!

We can expect endorsements and support coming out of the woodwork for Mitt as he is the last conservative standing! Huck will stay in the race to screw with Romney, but Mike has become insignificant. Rudy will endorse McCain, but let's face it, that's not going to win McCain a lot of conservatives.

Conservatives unite! We can still help Romney get the nomination! Hey all you Fredheads, welcome aboard!

P.S. Feel free to call Governor Crist's office to let him know how he made a mistake by endorsing McCain a couple of days before the election.......... that re-election won't be so easy. Feel free to dislike McCain for lying about Romney's record this last week.

For anyone yet to cast a vote today and the rest of the nation!


A desperate McCain in Florida has been bombarding voters with “untrue” and misleading attacks on Romney. McCain has stooped to lies and mudslinging manipulation. Make sure you check out the facts disproving McCain’s feud. FactCheck.org

We have a great nation. Lets keep it great! Go Mitt!!!!

Monday, January 28, 2008

Some Words Before the Florida Primary Elections

I've had a good day! I've spent the afternoon calling fellow Floridians sharing my excitement about the Romney message.........they were, for the most part, pretty receptive. The polls are not wrong folks, this is going to be a very close election................EVERY VOTE COUNTS!

You know, I've been running this blog since May of last year and it's hard to believe the 29th is only a couple of hours away.......sheesh! I'm hoping that this blog, in whatever way, has helped Mitt in Florida. America needs this man in the White House!

Here's some things that have become very evident after nearly 500 posts about our future President:

--No one measures up to Mitt's history of success. We're talking about a man who made a living out of turning struggling companies into giant successes--does Domino's Pizza and Staples ring a bell to anyone? We're talking about a man who took over a scandal-plagued Winter Olympics, 200 million dollar deficit included, and turned it around into the huge success it was. Finally, we're talking about a man who transformed a 3 billion dollar debt in Massachusetts into a 2 billion dollar surplus.

--My friends, the flip-flop label is a farce . I have concluded that Mitt is a consistent conservative but slandered constantly by distorted media. It is true that he is a convert to the pro-life movement....other than that, good luck finding a legitimate shift in policy or beliefs.

--Mitt is honest.......as other campaigns make up lies about Mitt, Mitt has stuck to the facts. It's not his fault that McCain voted against the Bush tax cuts, supported "Shamnesty", and impinged free speech with McCain-Feingold. It's not his fault that Huckabee wanted to give special tuition breaks to illegal immigrants, granted clemency to over a thousand criminals, and raised taxes 40% in his state. McCain and Huckabee, on the other hand, have lied numerous times, saying that Mitt wants a timetable for troops in Iraq, that he's not for the Bush tax cuts, and that he raised taxes in Massachusetts as governor.

--Mitt is the most conservative......more than any other candidate left, Mitt exemplifies the Reagan coalition that includes fiscal, social, and foreign-policy conservatives. Contrast that with Huckabee and McCain who say that era of conservatism is dead.

This is my last post before the elections--I'll be busy volunteering tomorrow. I just wanted you guys to hear my thoughts before the big day.

Thanks for taking time to read this blog, it's made all of my effort worth it!

"I'm Gray, Wrinkled, And I Have a Trunk"

Gov. Romney On McCain-Lieberman

Cheney: The Right Candidate To Lead

Liz Cheney On Supporting Gov. Romney

Gov. Romney On The Leadership And Experience Needed Today

James isn't Bloggin' Right Now, He's Too Busy Callin' Folks!

Sunday, January 27, 2008

Yeah....So, I'm Pretty Much Infuriated Too Jeff....



Must Read:

Please take time to read Jeff Fuller's post on McCain's DISHONEST smear campaign against Romney. Just click the bold statement above to get there. WE CAN NOT LET MCCAIN GET AWAY WITH THIS!
P.S. Mitt Romney hasn't expressed anger, but he did ask McCain for an apology that he didn't get........the picture is just for dramatics and humor.

Governor Romney's Comprehensive Endorsement List for Florida

What a list of fine Florida people...

Click Here to get the entire list (it's incredibly long).

Take Heed of this Message from a South Carolina Voter

Hello Florida Voters,

First off, I'm Ann Marie Curling the founder of Elect Romney in 2008. I've been posting messages here because I'm a former Florida resident. I was married, and gave birth to all four of my children in Jacksonville, and resided there from 1995 - 2005 when I packed up and moved to a small town in Kentucky to be closer to family. I still have very warm feelings for Florida, and many fond memories of living there.

Moving on, I received this message from a South Carolina voter on the National Blog today, and I felt that all of you Florida voters out there needed to hear it. Please take heed. All the best to each and every one of you!


Peter Combeson 27 Jan 2008 at 4:48 pm

From South Carolina. It’s such a helpless feeling being from a state that believed the lies.

Please Florida …….. Study …….. Listen to Mitt Romney’s message. Check his performance. Question the detractors.

This isn’t an audition for American Idle (sic), we are trying to save our country. There is only one person running in either party that can do that. He needs our help. Please.


Get out and vote Florida, and ask your friends and neighbors too. If they need a ride to the polls offer them transportation, but do everything you can to make sure that the John McCain "Straight Talk Detour" doesn't keep our country doing more of the same that hasn't worked for years.

Thank You,

Ann Marie Curling

3 Calls From McCain's Campaign.....

......And I like McCain less now then before they called.

Call #1:
This call was from someone in Washington, a volunteer or worker. She was very polite; I told her I was supporting MY MAN MITT and that one of my reasons was because of the economic climate our nation faces and that McCain, only weeks ago, admitted he knows nada about our economy. She said that McCain would surround himself with intelligent people and resources.......fair enough, this was a decent conversation.

Call #2:
This was pre-made "robo-call" with a message from Jack Kemp, you know, Dole's running mate? All I heard for the most part was "blah, blah, blah" until I heard "Senator John McCain is for making the Bush Tax-cuts permanent".....Wha! At first I thought this was a blatant lie--when the heck did McCain say that, after all, he was ONE OF 2 REPUBLICAN SENATORS TO VOTE AGAINST THEM!??? I later found out that McCain has indeed flipped on this issue...geez, and they attack Romney for flip-flopping.....holy pandering Batman!

Call #3:
This was also a "robo-call" from McCain's wife. She went on a huge spiel on how McCain is such a great war hero....that's true, he is a hero, but as a former soldier myself, I don't appreciate the pandering--am I a traitor to the Army for not supporting McCain? The thing that made me most sour was when she emphatically stated, "....MCCAIN NEVER SUPPORTED AMNESTY....." okay, I've officially had enough of this guy! What else should we call a plan for all 12 million illegals to live here for the rest of their lives? Shamnest vs. Amnesty is like the difference between "marriage" and "civil unions"--after all is said and done, they're essentially the same darn thing...........for a man who loves "straight talk", he's rather deceitful lately.

So Ya Wanna See Romney, Eh?

Well, Here's Your Chance!

Governor Mitt Romney continues his "Change Begins with Us" Florida Tour on Monday, January 28.

6:55 a.m. EST
Governor Romney Holds a West Palm Beach "Change Begins with Us" Rally
Lobby of Galaxy Aviation at Palm Beach International Airport
3800 Southern Boulevard
West Palm Beach, Florida

9:15 a.m. EST
Governor Romney Holds a Ft. Myers "Change Begins with Us" Rally
Private Sky Aviation at Southwest Florida International Airport
One Private Sky Way
Ft. Myers, Florida

12:00 p.m. EST
Governor Romney Holds an Orlando "Change Begins with Us" Rally
Avion Jet Center at Orlando-Sanford International Airport
2841 Flightline Avenue
Sanford, Florida

2:10 p.m. CST
Governor Romney Holds a Panama City "Change Begins with Us" Rally
Rail Management - Durden Hangar, Rail Management Corporation at Panama
City-Bay County International Airport
1007 Jackson Way
Panama City, Florida

6:00 p.m. EST
Governor Romney Holds a Jacksonville "Change Begins with Us" Rally
Sheltair Aviation Services at Jacksonville International Airport
14600 Whirlwind Avenue
Jacksonville, Florida

Get Out The Vote Rally With Governor Mitt Romney

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2008
DOORS OPEN 9:30 AM
PRE-PROGRAM BEGINS AT 9:45 AM

CONVENTION CENTER OF TAMPA
333 SOUTH FRANKLIN STREET
TAMPA, FL

FOLLOW THE ROMNEY SIGNS !

Kindly RSVP to FloridaRSVP@MittRomney.com or 866-701-2079

Please Forward to Your Friends

McCain-Kennedy STILL alright with McCain

This morning on “Meet the Press,” Sen. McCain admitted that as President, he would sign the McCain-Kennedy immigration bill into law if it crossed his desk.

Considering the likelihood of a Democrat-controlled Congress next year, conservatives should think twice about McCain sitting in the Oval Office signing amnesty into law.





RUSSERT: "If the Senate passed your bill, S.1433, the McCain/Kennedy immigration bill, would you as president sign it?

SEN. MCCAIN: "Yeah. But look, the lesson is, it isn't – one, it isn't going to come. It isn't going to come." (NBC's "Meet The Press," 1/27/08)

Polls are nice, but...

HT: Paul Johnson at Elect Romney in 2008 posted the following post regarding The Florida Primary.


...they're not what got you there in the first place.

Mitt is surging in Florida because lots of people, with Mitt and his family at the top of that list, are working tirelessly to get the message out. We need to continue that work to assure victory in Florida. The polls are encouraging and show the message is working, but as we've seen the past couple days other candidates are very motivated to do what they can to steal that spotlight and get us off message. That may end up affecting the polls, too. So let's not let them steal the spotlight for long.

Here's a great response to my post of a couple hours ago:



We Romney supporters need to start thinking outside the box. It is great to come to this site and feel the Romney love, but we are all voting for Gov. Romney anyway. We need to get out of our comfort zone. Let’s focus on Florida. I know you all do great in your home states, but Florida is everything now. We win here, we have big “Mo” heading into Super Tuesday. Call radio shows (wait the 2 hours on hold for Rush), find radio shows in the Florida market and make a call, e-mail the T.V. networks, go onto other web sites that we would not consider going on and put out the word for Gov. Romney. Change people's minds. Tell people that when the topic of the economy comes up in the White House I think that our President should be the smartest person in the room. That person is Mitt Romney. Get creative. Let’s see how much of a difference we can make in the next 48 hours.


I agree. Get on the Florida newspaper websites (here's the list) and continue to talk about why we support Governor Romney. A number of people already have their minds strongly made up for someone else (like we do for Mitt), and that's fine. But others are reading political blog sites trying to make up their minds, and some of them may be hearing about Mitt for the first time. They're the "low-hanging fruit" we should be picking in the next 48 hours by giving them a compelling argument to vote FOR Mitt. If along the way we can correct some mis-information, great, but let's not lose focus and forget the reason we started surging in the polls in the first place. As we all know the one poll in Florida that really matters is the one that will be announced Tuesday evening. So let's get out of our comfort zone and tell everyone why we support Mitt!


Please heed his voice Florida. Get those letters to the editor out, and work to get Governor Romney elected our next President.

Jeff Toobin, CNN: "He's Lying"

Saturday, January 26, 2008

Democrats' Favorite Republican (Hint: it's not Mitt)

Economia ("Economy")

A Reader from Palm Harbor (Clearwater) Loves Mitt!

"So, who am I going to vote for? And, what is my criteria? (Click to read post in its entirety)

"Basically, as a conservative Republican I want a candidate who is going to best represent my ideology once elected as president. Moreover, I want someone of sound moral character and who I think is going to make sound and reasonable judgments as president.

"For me, a conservative candidate should stand for a combination of the following issues: pro-life on the issue of abortion, against gay marriage, for lower taxes, for the privatization of Social Security, in favor of a strong military and anti-terrorism measures, pro-school choice, and determined to be strong in coming up with ways to curb illegal immigration into the United States.

"The candidate I determined who best represents what I am looking for is the former governor of Massachusetts, Mitt Romney."

--George (aka Michelle's husband)

Central Floridians for Mitt

Why I support Mitt Romney?

I almost have to ask, "Is there any other viable choice?" I have been following the debates, web sites, etc since they first went up. I thought of what is MOST important to me and my family at this time in our lives.

--Economics.. Mitt is the ONLY candidate on either side with the experience and know-how to fix our economy.
--Immigration.. Mitt is strong, fair and firm (thank you)
--Family Values and Ethics.. Mitt is morally conscious and ethically just, but not a goody two-shoe who puts himself or his personal religion/beliefs on a pedestal.

I am more positive, comfortable and enthusiastic about Mr. Mitt Romney than I have ever been in all my years of voting. I have contributed, bought Mitt gear, and e-mailed EVERYBODY and I have also taken every opportunity to sway those who are undecided or decided wrongly! I tell people every day "Tell me what is most important to you this election, and I will tell you why Mitt Romney is the one for the job!" Thank You, ~Becky

When Desperate Johnny Attacks......


.....Things can get a little crazy!
(click on the following links)

Huckabee Up to No Good


McCain Attacks......Romney Fights Back!


Erin McPike:
PENSACOLA --

"Romney responded to McCain's attacks today that he's a manager rather than a leader with a counterpunch of his own.

"After opening his remarks at a rally here, he said, 'I guess Sen. McCain didn't think as positively of that debate last night as I did, and so he's had to come back and flail a bit, trying to attack my record.

"Romney ticked off the lines on his resume that he believes qualify him to take charge of national economic troubles (like his business background, gubernatorial experience, and Olympics leadership), he gave a proverbial raise of the eyebrows to McCain.

"Romney said McCain thinks 'being on the Commerce Committee in the Senate, that's what gives you the expertise you need to know about how the economy works.' He added sarcastically, 'Yeah, oh yeah,' before citing several of McCain's quotes in the last several years in which the Arizona senator acknowledges his weakness in economic matters."

(click here to read the entire article)

Latest Florida Polls


Mitt Romney Finishing Strong!
P.S. Keep in mind, the polls don't include the masses impressed with Romney's debate performance yesterday!

Thursday, January 24, 2008

Joe Scarborough: "Mitt Romney Absolutely Dominated"

Florida's Debate.....By the Way--Mitt Did GREAT!!!

Gov. Romney: Stimulus To Grow Jobs


Gov. Romney: Turning Around Massachusetts


Gov. Romney: Changing Washington


Gov. Romney: General Petraeus Not General Clinton


Gov. Romney: Supporting The Mission In Iraq


Gov. Romney: Working Together On Social Security

Election Night Celebration!

Join Governor Romney and supporters from across the state on election night.

7:30 p.m.
Romney For President Florida Election Night Event
Mirror Lake Lyceum - Grand Hall
737 Third Avenue, North
St. Petersburg, FL
Note: There will be a mult-box available. Doors will open to the pressat 1:00 p.m. and filing space will be in the Tower Room.

"Change Begins with Us" Florida Tour on Saturday, January 26th.

Governor Mitt Romney continues his "Change Begins with Us" Florida Tour

8:15 a.m.
Governor Romney Addresses Employees at a Largo "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
1 ValPak Marketing Systems
1 ValPak Avenue
St. Petersburg, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

10:25 a.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Lutz "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
Opinicus Corporation
1827 North Point Parkway
Lutz, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

1:55 p.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Lakeland "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
Citrus Mutual Headquarters
302 South Massachusetts Avenue
Lakeland, Florida

Friday, January 25, Ann Romney will campaign in Florida

Ann Romney Campaigns in Florida:

1:15 p.m.
Ann Romney Meets with New Port Richey Voters
Republican Women Dessert and Coffee
Allison Crumbley Residence
10811 Panicum Court
New Port Richey, Florida
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

3:15 p.m.
Ann Romney Tours the YMCA of the Suncoast
1801 119th Street North
Largo, Florida
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

Gov. Romney Continues "Change Begins with Us " Florida Tour on Friday, January 25th

"Change Begins with Us"

8:00 a.m. EST
Governor Romney Addresses the Latin Builders Association
Miami Biscayne Bay Hilton Hotel
1601 Biscayne Boulevard
Miami, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

12:30 p.m. CST
Governor Romney Holds a Pensacola "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
Avalex Technologies
115 A Gregory Square
Pensacola, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

5:05 p.m. EST
Governor Romney Holds a "Change Begins with Us" Media Availability
Signature Flight Support - Conference Room
14525 Airport Parkway
Clearwater, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available

Don't Miss the Debate Tonight!

9:00 pm Eastern on MSNBC. I know, I know, I'm not a fan of MSNBC either.

Ann Romney Stops for Interview in Orlando

Wednesday, January 23, 2008

The Mitt Mobile Hits South Florida Tomorrow!

Craig, Tagg and the Mitt Mobile Travel Florida:

On Thursday, January 24, Craig and Tagg Romney will campaign with the Mitt Mobile in Florida.

8:45 a.m.
Tagg Romney meets with volunteers at a Romney for President Phone Bank
7450 Griffin Road #130
Davie, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.
*Note - Craig and Tagg Romney will campaign together at this point*

11:00 a.m.
Tagg and Craig Romney attend a Rock the Vote Event
Florida International University
Biscayne Park Campus
3000 N.E. 151st Street
North Miami, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

12:45 p.m.
Tagg and Craig Romney attend the Grand Opening of Romney for President West Palm Beach Headquarters
1609 South Dixie Highway Suite #3
West Palm Beach, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.
*Note - Craig and Tagg will assume separate schedules at this point*

2:45 p.m.
Tagg Romney attends a Meet and Greet
David Posnack Hebrew Day School
6511 West Sunrise Boulevard
Plantation, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

3:00 p.m.
Craig Romney attends a Meet and Greet
Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach at FAU
777 Glades Road Building LY-3A
Boca Raton, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

Emily Says Vote for MITT !

This Floridian girl has made over 1000 phone calls in South Florida for Mitt Romney. Hey Emily! I believe that Mitt will be the best President ever too!

Romney in Naples, FL

Gov. Romney On Getting The Economy Going Again

Gov. Romney On The Experience Need To Strengthen The Economy

Vin Weber On Fox Business Network

The Economy on People's Minds

Sun-Sentinal
Boca Raton:

"As economy churns, Romney touts his economic skills"

".....With the financial markets in turmoil, Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney used campaign stops in South Florida today to tout his chief executive credentials as ideal in confronting a turbulent economy.

".....'With the nature of the challenges America faces, economically and in foreign policy…it would be vastly beneficial to this country to have a leader who's actually had a job in the private sector,' Romney, the former Massachusetts governor and venture capitalist, said in a Boca Raton campaign stop.

".....While President Bush and some in Congress are proposing tax rebates of up to $800 for individuals, Romney outlined a different approach: expanding tax write-offs for corporations, securing mortgages for at-risk homeowners and lowering the tax rate for lower-middle class residents.

".....Romney acknowledged his short-term stimulus approach is less focused on individual, and added that any tax rebates should only go to people who pay federal income taxes.

".....'It's interesting that right now the economy is on people's minds,' Romney told the Boca Raton morning gathering of a few hundred. 'I almost fear for this meeting to be over. I don't want to see what's happening in the stock market today.'

".....Romney linked the economy and his executive experience with foreign policy and the war on terrorism.'We can't have the strongest military in the world unless we have the strongest economy in the world,' he said, adding having a president who has 'lived and worked in the real economy for a whole career is essential at this very critical time.'

".....On foreign policy, Romney hammered the United Nations as ineffective, vowed to step up economic and diplomatic pressure to keep Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and vowed 'a very clear commitment, a very clear statement, that we will never allow the destruction of Israel.'"
--By Josh Hafenbrack

Romney Courts Republicans in South Florida

The Miami Herald:

"Romney Courts Votes in South Florida"

--TERE FIGUERAS NEGRETE

"......'There's a great deal of nervousness about what's happening in the stock market,' said Romney, addressing a a group of more than 200 at a Jewish Republican Coalition event. He noted that in his career as a businessman he often saw such gloomy indicators as a hopeful sign of things to come, and said the looming threat of a recession should not dissuade potential investors.

"......'In my experience, what goes down always comes back up,' said Romney.

"......Traveling on the red-white-and-blue 'Mitt Mobile' through the state this week, Romney passed through South Florida en route to other stops in Naples and Sarasota. But he'll loop back to Miami on Friday, an aggressive campaign schedule designed to cover as much ground -- and woo enough voters -- in the crucial lead-up to the Jan. 29 primary."

McCain Has No Economic Record to Criticize Romney's

Palm Beach Post:

".....Romney became animated during a brief interview with The Palm Beach Post when asked about a press release from McCain's campaign on Monday that criticized job growth in Massachusetts under Romney's watch.

".....'What's his record, by the way?' Romney said. 'What's McCain's record of job growth? What's he done?. . .I think you have to have a record before you criticize some else's.'

".....I think you're going to find the debate largely focused on what's happening in the economy and that's a place I am very comfortable indeed,' Romney told the Post."
--Michael C Bender

Ann Romney in West Labelle

TODAY, Jan. 22nd:
12:15 p.m.
Ann Romney Meets with Central Florida Voters
Flora & Ella's Restaurant
550 Highway 80 West
West Labelle, FL
NOTE: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

Tagg Romney Goes to Florida to Meet With Voters

On Wednesday TODAY, January 23, Tagg Romney will join his family and campaign in Florida.

11:00 a.m.
Tagg Romney hosts a Meet and Greet with Supporters
White Way
1510 King Street
Jacksonville, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

2:00 p.m.
Tagg Romney hosts a Meet and Greet with Supporters
9825 San Jose Boulevard
Jacksonville, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

Craig Romney Campaigns in Florida

On Wednesday TODAY, January 23, Craig Romney will campaign in Florida.
1:00 p.m.
Craig Romney hosts a Seminole County Meet and Greet
Barney's Coffee120 International Parkway
Lake Mary, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

2:45 p.m.
Craig Romney hosts an Osceola County Meet and Greet
The Home of Iris Larson
1611 Loyallynn Drive
Kissimmee, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

5:30 p.m.
Craig Romney hosts a Stuart Meet and Greet
Martin County Republican Party Headquarters
925 Lincoln Avenue
Stuart, FL
Note: Be prepared for natural light and sound.

Join Governor Romney in Boca Raton

Thursday, January 24, join Governor Romney for a Pre-Debate Rally
6:45 p.m.
Governor Romney Attends a Romney for President Pre-Debate Rally
Bogart's Bar & Grille
Muvico Palace 20
3200 Airport Road
Boca Raton, FL
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

Tuesday, January 22, 2008


Running for the Right Reasons!


From Fort Lauderdale:


Why I support Mitt Romney

He's doing it for the right reasons! Some people, and some in the media, would have you believe that Mitt is a dishonest, politically-expedient phony, and that his opponents, although wrong on some issues, at least tell the truth. It is actually the opposite. I trust Mitt Romney. I believe him when he speaks, and I think he has the correct reasons for running. His opponents don't convince me the same way. Mitt doesn't need the money, he doesn't love the power, it's not "his turn", and he's not doing it to favor a particular group. As CEO of the Olympics, he didn't accept payment for his services, neither did he as Governor of Massachusetts, and he won't as President. So why is he running? It's because he believes it's his duty. He is confident in his abilities as a leader and he knows he would be an asset to this country. Have you ever felt that way? Have you ever desired leadership simply because you knew your skills could help others? I don't know if I have, but what an incredible feeling. And he would be more than just an asset. He would forever change the country. He would make it even better than it is. He loves America, he loves his family, and he knows he can make our futures brighter. I trust Mitt Romney because I have listened to him. You can just tell.
The more the country talks about a recession, the better Mitt's chances of winning.


--Elliot Jolley

Mitt's Visiting Tampa and Sarasota Tomorrow!

Governor Mitt Romney continues his "Change Begins with Us" Florida Tour
on Wednesday, January23.

9:00 a.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Sarasota "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
Keiser University - Sarasota Campus, Banquet Room
6151 Lake Osprey Drive
Sarasota, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

12:00 p.m.
Governor Romney Tours the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
Stabile Research Building (Upstairs Laboratory)
12902 Magnolia Drive
Tampa, Florida
Note: This will be a photo-op only.

12:30 p.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Tampa "Change Begins with Us" Tour Stop
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute
Stabile Research Building Auditorium
12902 Magnolia Drive
Tampa, Florida
Note: There will be a mult-box available.Press Info:This is an open press event.

With questions please contact Romney for President,Inc Press Shop at 857-288-6390.
*All Times Are Eastern Standard Time
Start Time: 09:00 AM
End Time: 1:30 PM

What's Mitt Up to in Florida?

Orlando FL:
"Mitt Romney told Florida voters yesterday that he will use his business experience to fix the ailing economy, while his campaign targeted appeals to Hispanics and Jews, key constituencies in the state's fragmented electorate."

Jacksonville:
"'What I'm worried about is people who are at the edge and who wonder, 'Can they put meals on the table for their kids' and 'Will they have good health insurance for their kids and themselves' and 'Will they be able to keep a job,' ' he told 70 employees of Gate Petroleum in Jacksonville. 'Those are the folks you really worry about when you see a recession.'

Miami:
"Romney also launched his first Spanish-language television advertisement, a spot running in the Miami area that features his son, Craig, who became fluent in Spanish while working as a missionary in Chile. (see 'Mi Padre' below)."

--Boston Globe

"Mi Padre"

"Conservative Change"

Mitt Romney Doesn't Need Us--We Need Mitt Romney!

"How anyone can watch and listen to Mitt Romney and not believe that he is the greatest and best hope for our country is truly placing politics over what is best for America.

"He brings to this nation a higher standard of behavior and performance in EVERY category - personal, professional and political. We have allowed our dignity, pride and self respect to be compromised for the few. It is time that we fight to restore them and restore this country to the greatness it so richly deserves.

"Every Floridian needs to spread the word to vote for Mitt Romney - 'go to the mattresses' = 'fight, fight, fight' to help him win Florida - make a contribution - never a greater investment could be made at this moment in history than in a person who can strengthen our economy, our military and our families for now and future generations - that person is beyond a shadow of a doubt - Mitt Romney. Jan 29th is right around the corner - get a bumper sticker on your car, put a sign in your yard, speak proudly and confidently - Mitt Romney does not need us - we need Mitt Romney."

--Renna, a "Florida For Romney" reader.

Latest Polls Look Good!

The following is a direct quote from Mike Hackmer, a fellow Mitthead:

"I think the latest polls look very good for Mitt Romney - the latest showing him within striking distance or 5 pts up. I also think there are two or three other factors people need to consider.

1) The economy
"I think the relative decline in the economy over the last few months, recent stock market activity and our ongoing fiscal crisis calls for an executive who has managed tough situations. People are going to want a conservative who will use the opportunity to cut taxes to spur economic growth, reduce spending, and make the right choices. McCain cannot offer that, neither can Huckabee.

2) Republicans only
"The Florida primary is open only to registered Republicans. This will not help McCain. Should Fred Thompson drop out - his endorsement may or may not mean anything. An endorsement of McCain would be seen as a sell-out to hard-core Republicans who backed his campaign. I think Thompson's decline benefits Romney in the long run.

3) Democratic debate
"The Democratic debate showed some intensity that is not likely to die- down soon. Romney has an opportunity to use the negative attacks and anti-Clinton sentiment to his advantage during the debates, politely distinguish his record, and build a more positive image amongst Florida voters."
--Mike Hackmer

Monday, January 21, 2008

More on Tomorrow's Events (Jan. 22nd)

8:30 a.m.
Governor Romney Addresses the Republican Jewish
Coalition of Florida
Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center 5150 Town Center Circle
Boca Raton, Florida 33486
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

10:00 a.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Broward County "Change
Begins with Us" Tour Stop
Wings Plus
9880 West Sample Road
Coral Springs, Florida 33065
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

3:30 p.m.
Governor Romney Holds a Collier County "Change
Begins with Us" Tour Stop on the Steps of
the Collier County Courthouse
Collier County Sheriff's Office Memorial
3301 East Tamiami Trail
Naples, Florida 34112
Note: There will be a mult-box available.

Florida Headquarters

Contact Information
Florida HQ
201 S Monroe, Suite 301
Tallahassee, FL 32301
850-254-7959

Ann Romney's Travel Schedule for Florida--Jan. 22nd

Tuesday, January 22, 2008:
11:00 a.m. Ann Romney Attends Women for Mitt Early Lunch
Pat Bailey Residence
2 Little Bay Harbor
Ponte Vedra, Florida

1:30 p.m. Ann Romney Visits with Gainesville Area Voters at Afternoon Tea
Conestogas
14820 Main Street
Alachua, FL

3:30 p.m. Ann Romney Rides at Ocala School of Equestrian Art
5101 NW Highway 225A
Ocala, Florida

Romney Campaign Event in Coral Springs Tomorrow

Rasmussen Report: Romney Ahead in Poll !



“Last week, before the Michigan and South Carolina Primaries, Rasmussen Reports polling found essentially a four-way tie for the lead in Florida. However, Mike Huckabee has slipped to 13% in the current poll. A week ago, he was the top choice for 17%”

Other highlights of the poll show that Romney leads among conservative voters at 28% with Giuliani in a distant second at 18%. It is also notable how quickly Mike Huckabee has slipped. This most current poll has him in a distant 4th place, slipping considerably. Among Huckabee’s strongest voter base, evangelical voters, Romney has nearly matched Huckabee.

The poll also highlights that only 54% are “certain” of how they are going to vote. “Among those who are “certain” how they will vote, Romney is the pick for 25%, Giuliani 24%, and McCain 17%. “

Winning the Michigan primary, winning the Nevada caucus and showing strong leadership and experience in economic issues Mitt Romney is definitely getting his message of change, conservative family values and experience of successful leadership out to the people and it very well may be showing in the polls.

Mitt Romney Takes Lead in Florida!!!

NEWS FLASH: RASMUSSEN Florida poll to be released: Romney 25, McCain 20, Giuliani 19... Developing...
--Drudge Report

HAPPY MLK DAY!

Sunday, January 20, 2008

Mitt Romney on Health Care

Gov. Romney On His Economic Stimulus Package

Mitt Rallies Support in Florida

Romney has key Florida endorsements......read what some of his supporters had to say:

Romney Starts Florida Campaign In Jacksonville After Nevada Win
(click title to read entire article....it's worth it)

"JACKSONVILLE, FL -- The sign was clear. In the words of Mitt Romney's campaign, 'Washington Is Broken', and he's the one to fix it. A message that a few state and local leaders here on the First Coast believe and rallied behind.

“'I am proud to support Mitt Romney as the next President of the United States,' says former Florida Speaker of the House, John Thrasher.

“'Sheriff David Shore and Sheriff Tommy Seagraves, Governor all three Northeast Florida sheriffs are riding for brand of the Mitt Romney campaign,' says Jacksonville Sheriff John Rutherford."
--Angela Williams

GOP Turns to Florida



".....Romney, buoyed by wins in Nevada, Michigan and Wyoming, portrayed McCain as a consummate Washington insider and himself, a former one-term Massachusetts governor, as just the outsider able to fix Washington.

".....'He has been in Washington all of his career. And I don't think you're going to see change in Washington by somebody who's been such a part of it all of these years,' Romney said before also assailing McCain's votes against the Bush tax cuts.

".....A former venture capitalist, Romney also took issue with Giuliani, saying "he's spent his life working in the public sector, in the governmental sector" and, thus, doesn't necessarily understand how the economy works."

--LIZ SIDOTI

Anti-Mormon Bias Finds Cover

Vanderbilt poll explains why Romney's flip-flopper label sticks; Political scientist says anti-Mormon bias finds cover.
“There is no question that Romney has changed his positions on some issues, but so have some of the other candidates,” Geer said. “Why does the label stick to Romney but not his opponents? At least some of the answer lies in Romney’s Mormon beliefs.”
--John Greer
"We find that of those who accuse Romney of flip-flopping, many admit it is Romney’s Mormonism and not his flip-flopping that is the real issue,”............“Our survey shows that 26 percent of those who accuse Romney of flip-flopping also indicate that Mormonism, not flip-flopping, is their problem with Romney.”
--Brett Benson
"Benson noted that the pattern is especially strong for conservative Evangelicals. According to the poll, 57 percent of them have a bias against Mormons."
"The study’s findings suggest that criticizing Romney for flip-flopping is an effective campaign strategy because it sticks with two different groups: those who are genuinely concerned about Romney’s shifts on certain issues and those who use the label as cover for the fact that they do not want to vote for a Mormon for president."
--News from Vanderbilt University
Now, we already knew that this was the case, but now there's significant statistics and findings to go along with our assumption.

Romney win shows strength in West


"'Today, the people of Nevada voted for change in Washington,' Romney said in a statement his campaign released. "For far too long, our leaders have promised to take the action necessary to build a stronger America, and still the people of Nevada and all across this country are waiting. Whether it is reforming health care, making America energy independent or securing the border, the American people have been promised much and are now ready for change.'

"Historical significance aside, South Carolina lost half its 47 delegates when it broke national party rules and moved up its primary. The result: Nevada is worth more delegates, 34 to 24. In such a contested field, the difference may prove important.

"'It's his business experience that really draws me to him,' Joshua Nielsen said before more than two dozen caucus-goers at Green Valley High School in suburban Henderson on a clear and cool Saturday morning.

"Nielsen said he was in college as a business major in Salt Lake City when Romney came in to reform the scandal-plagued 2002 Winter Olympic Games. Even Romney's critics call his restoring the Games to strong footing an accomplishment. The law student has been a supporter ever since.

"Romney 'does have a message that's resonating in the Mountain West,' said Robert Eisinger, a political scientist at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Ore., and an expert on presidential polling. 'But he's also dedicating resources there.'

"With his Silver State win, Romney can say he has strong support in the Intermountain West. He easily won Wyoming this month, and he enjoys backing from Colorado's GOP elite. "

By Chuck Plunkett The Denver Post

Candidates Set Sight on Florida

With a Crowded Republican Field, Candidates Set Sights on Florida

".....Messers. Giuliani, McCain and Huckabee will square off in Florida against Mitt Romney, who has the most wins thus far. Mr. Romney won a trio of early contests, though in the comparatively little-watched states of Wyoming, Michigan and, on Saturday, Nevada.

".....All four have a shot at Florida, according to recent surveys. An average of polls taken between Jan. 9 and Jan. 16 (the days after contests in New Hampshire and Michigan, respectively) gave Mr. McCain a lead within the statistical margin of error. He has 23 points, compared to 20 for Mr. Giuliani, 18 for Mr. Romney and 17 for Mr. Huckabee. Fred Thompson, who came in a disappointing third in South Carolina, has 8.5 points. Ron Paul, the distant second-place finisher in Nevada, has just five.

".....While candidates refocus their messages for Floridians, they'll also reexamine their finances. Mr. Romney, the richest candidate in the race, has the least to worry about in terms of the bottom line both because of his personal fortune and his wealthy network of investors. On the other end of the spectrum is Mr. Giuliani, whose financial situation is far less secure. Reports surfaced last week that some of his top aides have gone without pay checks. The McCain camp reported a boost in funding after the wins in New Hampshire and South Carolina. Mr. Huckabee is holding a fund-raiser in Texas today – his band, Capitol Offense will perform – and is expected to appear with martial arts star Chuck Norris.

".....Mr. Romney, who arrived in Jacksonville Saturday afternoon, had similar sentiments. "I do acknowledge how important it is to win here in Florida and how much I'd like to win here," he said. "My guess is so would everybody else."

".....Mr. Romney will spend the next week competing around Florida under a strategy devised by his Sunshine State advisors. His team includes many associates of Jeb Bush, the former governor of this state and brother of President Bush. Sally Bradshaw, an advisor to Mr. Romney, was Mr. Bush's chief of staff from 1999-2000 and managed his gubernatorial campaigns in 1994 and 1998. Ann Woods Herberger, Mr. Romney's national finance chair, is from Miami and also worked on Mr. Bush's 1998 gubernatorial campaign."
--ELIZABETH HOLMES

A Chance to Help Out Northwest Florida!

Mail from fellow Floridians is coming in........it's rather refreshing to hear the support Mitt has around the state!

If you would like to post why you want Mitt to be our next president, or if you want to be a regular blogger, please contact James at jmccann@nova.edu! You can also do what Gina Maddox from Gulf Breeze has done--she has offered us a way to contribute:

"If you are listing volunteer opportunities I’d appreciate a mention –
Gulf Breeze, Florida – near Pensacola
Monday, January 21, 6:00 to 8:30 p.m. phone banking to get support for Mitt.
Go to mittromney.com and join the group “Northwest Floridians for Mitt” to get all the details!"


Thanks!
Love your site!

--Gina

Saturday, January 19, 2008

Romney on Leno

This is yesterday's news, but I bet some of you missed Romney on Leno and would have liked to see how it went. So here ya' go! If it doesn't work, just click here.

Hey Florida! Are You Ready?

I want to take a minute and thank everyone for your support! Thanks a bunch guys! I had no idea how this endeavor would have an effect on my life. Like many of you, I have become passionate about the future of America. The mission to get Mitt Romney in the White House has become more than just a popularity contest for me. Washington is broken and needs fixed. Who better to fix this mess than a man who has spent his life turning around challenging predicaments and crises.........from the Olympics, to countless businesses and also the state of Massachusetts. It feels that everything Mitt touches is changed for the better. I shook his hand and can attest to that =).

We all have the opportunity to change America....as someone on this blog (Renna) once commented: "Mitt Romney doesn't need us, we need Mitt Romney." Getting Mitt Romney elected is something attainable folks.

Please click EVERYTHING FLORIDA on the link list and it will take you to all of the Florida-focused posts on this blog. There are posts showing ways we can be more involved in Mitt's campaign in Florida.

Please email me at jmccann@nova.edu and share why you want Mitt Romney to be the next President. I will post them on this blog for the rest of Florida to see. Also, please let me know if you would like to be a blogger--especially on the weekends, I have to deal with a dial-up connection =).

Mitt Romney Wins Big in Nevada!


Interestingly, the media is crediting the victory to the Mormon turnout. One source said that Mormons made up 50% of Romney's support (that is not an official report).

Hmmm.....okay, take away half of Mitt's votes and he still has double the amount of caucus-goers than anyone else!

Update: Thanks to Lance in Texas, the Mormons accounted for 1 in 5 of the vote (read the comments).......that's pretty different than APs report "Mormons gave Mitt about half of his votes." In other words, "about half" could mean anywhere from 20-50%.

Friday, January 18, 2008

United We Stand


I found this video to be inspirational, moving, and patriotic.

Mitt Romney in Nevada Before Caucus—Jan 17th 2008

I wasn’t able to embed these videos but click the following links to watch them:

Part 1

Update: I was able to embed Part 2--watch it below!

Huck's Lucrative Talent

Huck's Hoax:

".....Who knew a candidate of Christian identity politics would be afforded such respect? But Huckabee has managed it, which is one reason why he should open a strategic-communications firm the day after he leaves the presidential race. The ability to gull analysts into making so much from so little is a rare and potentially lucrative talent."

--Rich Lowry

Another Nevada Newspaper Endorses Governor Romney



".....Romney is a successful businessman who showed his ability to get voters to cross party lines when he won the governor’s office in Massachusetts, home of the Kennedys, Michael Dukakis and John Kerry. He left that office with his reputation and his relationships intact.

".....Romney’s most remarkable feat, however, was his stewardship of the Salt Lake City Olympics. He showed that he could bring disparate groups together, clean up a mess left by his predecessor, and to put on possibly the most successful games ever."

--Reno Gazette-Journal

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Mitt's Coming to Florida Soon!

Click on the following links to find out more concerning these fundraisers. I'll try to keep you posted on other events.......it's quite likely he has more speeches to give and more community meetings and get-togethers to hold.

January 25th, 2008
Tampa Bay, FL Joins Governor Romney for Dinner - Fundraiser

January 27th, 2008
Governor Romney Attends Reception at Palm Beach, FL - Fundraiser

January 27th, 2008
Boca Raton, FL Welcomes Governor Mitt Romney for Dinner – Fundraiser

Las Vegas Newspaper Endorses Our Man Mitt

Las Vegas Review-Journal (click to read entire article)

"........the viable candidate most likely to lead Republicans in such a direction is Mitt Romney, the former governor of Massachusetts.

"Mr. Romney's economic agenda includes several pro-growth policies, including a plan to eliminate taxes on capital gains, interest and dividends for any household earning less than $200,000 a year. He backs a line-item veto, favors making the Bush tax cuts permanent and understands that imposing higher taxes as a means of fixing Social Security will only make the problem worse.

"He's supportive of free trade, rejects protectionism, backs tort reform, supports school choice and accountability, and while governor was even able to successfully push a handful of spending reforms through Massachusetts' overwhelmingly Democratic legislature. Mr. Romney vows to exercise his veto power if Congress doesn't embrace spending restraint and understands the drag that excessive federal regulation imposes on the innovation and the economy.

"Mr. Romney did push a measure to ensure universal health insurance in Massachusetts, but says as president he'd offer incentives for states to experiment with their own solutions, rather than embrace a top-down, national single-payer system. He also understands that a sensible energy policy will require developing more of America's domestic resources.

"Mr. Romney has extensive experience in the private sector, which is unusual for far too many politicians. Before becoming governor of Massachusetts, he was the president and CEO of the Salt Lake City Olympic Organizing Committee. He is a former vice president and CEO of Bain & Company Inc., a Boston management consulting firm, and also a founder of Bain Capital, a private equity firm."

Ann Coulter's Take on the Election


Ann wrote some interesting things yesterday. I tend to agree with her, but caution......Ann is not for the thin-skinned or sensitive type. She makes her living using free speech to raise controversy and speak her mind, so I find her at worst, entertaining. The FEMA statement you'll find in her article is a shocker, but I'm a Floridian...........and I'm not blind; I would never be so bold to state it the way she did, but then again, I'm not Ann Coulter.

Here's a sample (click on the title below to read the entire article).


"I've been casually taking swipes at Mitt Romney for the past year based on the assumption that, in the end, Republicans would choose him as our nominee. My thinking was that Romney would be our nominee because he is manifestly the best candidate.

"I had no idea that Republican voters in Iowa and New Hampshire planned to do absolutely zero research on the candidates and vote on the basis of random impulses.

"Dear Republicans: Please do one-tenth as much research before casting a vote in a presidential election as you do before buying a new car."

--Ann Coulter

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

Big Win For Romney!

Check out the following articles:
Who’s on First? Mitt Romney
Romney Wins Easily
Mitt Romney’s Decisive Victory:

"'One of the important things about this win is that Michigan is a microcosm of the national electorate as well as the Republican Party electorate,' said Romney spokesman Kevin Madden, speaking over the din of his candidate's victory party. 'This is indicative of the governor’s broad appeal to the entire spectrum of the party.'"
--Jonathan Martin

The Trouble With McCain (Hint: Conservatives Don’t Like Him)
Michigan a ‘Victory of Optimism’:

"'The people of Michigan said they believe in someone who is going to fight for them,' the Michigan native told The Associated Press Tuesday in a telephone interview. 'I'm obviously very, very pleased. Now, on to South Carolina, Nevada, Florida. This campaign is going to go to all 50 states.'"
--Glen Johnson

Michigan GOP Makes Mitt Romney’s Night:

"In addition to restoring the former Massachusetts governor's fortunes, the outcome underscored Arizona Sen. John McCain's challenges of translating support centered on independents and moderates in a party dominated by conservatives and mainline Republicans. It again showed former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee to have a weaker lock on evangelicals than he enjoyed in Iowa. And it made former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani look less formidable than ever."
--Gary Langer
Gov. Romney: Victory For Optimism Over Washington Pessimism

Gov. Romney On Victory in Michigan

Monday, January 14, 2008

Michigan Crowd Boos McCain On Illegal Immigration

Hey Floridians! Do You Want to be More Involved?

Many of you are getting excited about the chance to vote in Florida on January 29th. Yikes, that's only a couple of weeks away! Also, many of you want to help Mitt get elected, but maybe aren't sure how to go about doing that. Here's some ideas:

--JOIN TEAM MITT! (by clicking here) It's free, you'll stay informed about upcoming events, and you'll be given opportunities to help the campaign. Here's some of the things you can sign up for as you apply for Team Mitt:

(Click picture to enlarge)
--You can make telephone calls for Mitt Romney......it's easy! Just email "Count me in!" to callathome@MittRomney.com.

--Get a bumper sticker or mitt merchandise by clicking here!

--Have you told your friends how you feel? Why don't you email them?

--Contribute $ to the campaign by clicking here!

--Please email me your thoughts about why you support Mitt Romney. I will collect them, and post them on this blog when all of the attention is on Florida. Email me at jmccann@nova.edu.

Thanks for your help guys! Together, we can get America back on track!

Florida Poll: Mitt Romney Behind Just 3 Pts

"The Quinnipiac University poll, conducted from Wednesday through Sunday, gave McCain a 22 percent to 20 percent edge over Giuliani, within the survey's margin of error of plus or minus 4.8 percentage points. Huckabee and Romney were close behind at 19 percent, with Thompson in fifth at 7 percent."

Huckabee and Clemency

 
Posted by Picasa
Click picture to enlarge

Gov. Romney: It's Time For Change In Washington

"Mitt Romney!" On ESPN

Jack Welch: Romney Best Chief Executive

The Princess Bride Deleted Political Scene. Election 2008!!!

Mitt Romney's "Electric" Rally

Who I have chosen for President

Romney on Michigan's Economy

McCain Mailer Smells Of Dirty Politics/Dirty Campaigning

McCain's Hypocritical Attack On Taxes

Friday, January 11, 2008

Do We Have a 3rd Newspaper Endorsement in Michigan?

..............It sure feels like it. What a great day for the Romney campaign!

The following two articles are from The Detroit Free Press:

Romney pledges to fight for Michigan jobs during debate
Romney would make best choice for Great Lakes

Mitt Romney......Michigan's, and America's, Candidate of Hope


Does anyone else notice that Mitt is the only economic/fiscal conservative in the race?

It was the theme behind the newspaper endorsements (Grand Rapids and Oakland County) and every televised interview Mitt had this morning (MSNBC, CNN, FOX). I'm grateful that Mitt has avoided McCain's defeatist strategy cloaked under "straight-talk". Mitt won't give up, he won't throw in the towel, and he doesn't predict doom and gloom for Michigan's one-state recession!

His desire and promise to give incentives to businesses and corporations, his promise to reduce government regulations and mandates that inhibit job growth, and finally his promise to invest in innovation and technology has got to feel like a message of hope for the people of Michigan. This is how Michigan is won folks......the fact that the temporary "frontrunner" there is a man (McCain) who has given up on many Michigan jobs, should surely knock McCain out of contention.

CNN: Gov. Romney On The Michigan Economy

Fox News: Gov. Romney On The Michigan Economy

MSNBC: Gov. Romney On The Michigan Economy

Another Michigan Newspaper Endorses Mitt

.......This time, in Grand Rapids:

Press editorial board endorses Romney
by Grand Rapids Press Editorial Board
Friday January 11, 2008, 12:15 AM


"Many issues will confront the nation in the next four years, from the ongoing threat of terrorism to the need to find a sensible immigration policy. For Michigan, however, one challenge dominates: the economy. We stand at a critical moment, bearing on our backs a worst-in-the-nation unemployment rate, staring at an uncertain future.

"Among Republicans on the ballot in Tuesday's presidential primary, two candidates would offer solid leadership, Arizona Sen. John McCain and former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney. However, when it comes to Michigan's challenges and needs, the passion and knowledge of Mr. Romney tip the scales in his favor. During a visit with Press editors this week, Mr. Romney vowed, 'I will not sleep until Michigan is strong and active and vibrant again.' Because of that focus, MITT ROMNEY has our vote in the Republican presidential primary. We do so in the context of the current president, who has paid only cursory attention to the Detroit Three auto makers and Michigan's manufacturing woes.

"Mr. Romney first came to the national stage as the turnaround man for the scandal-plagued 2002 Winter Olympics in Utah. His deft handling of the bribery mess and deficit is a case study in successful management. He served as governor of Massachusetts for one term, ending in 2006. There, he worked with the Legislature to enact a law that required every citizen of the state to have health insurance, and provided state aid for those who couldn't afford it. As president, he said he would push states to enact their own health care solutions. He would aggressively pursue alternative energy and energy efficiency. He supports merit pay for teachers and more educational choices for parents and children, ideas that deserve furtherance in Washington. The next president will need to transcend the stunting polarities that bedevil Washington. As the Republican leader of a Democratic state, Mr. Romney had to reach across partisan boundaries. Mr. Romney's father, George Romney, served as governor of Michigan in the 1960s, a tie that strengthens his understanding of Michigan. He knows that this state's job losses and struggle to find a new economic footing are the 'canary in the mine,' as he rightly put it, for the nation as a whole.

".......on the issue that matters most to Michigan, Mr. Romney's message resonates. In Grand Rapids this week, he said, 'Michigan's one-state recession will come to an end if I'm president.' That's a bold promise. Michigan voters should increase his chance to make it reality."