Governor Mitt Romney

On the record, from around the Web (January 2, 2003 – February 7, 2008)

Examine the record and accomplishments of Mitt Romney while Governor of Massachusetts and you will find that he applied and practiced core conservative principles of fiscal and social conservatism in one of the most liberal states of the U.S. It required courage to take the conservative positions and actions he did in the face of a hostile political environment.

I believe we should care about Mitt Romney's actions while in a position of authority, since taking office in 2003, much more than we care about words he spoke in campaigns years ago. Mitt Romney's record as Governor, when his actions had real consequences, tells the real story about how he would govern as President.

The following information is a collection gathered from personal research all around the Web. I hope FReepers will give it an honest look.

Contents:
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#toc
[ Summary of 50 Policy Proposals in Campaign ] [ Romney Economic Stimulus Plan ] [ War on Terror ] [ Iran ] [ China ] [ Free Trade and U.S. Jobs ] [ Guns ] [ Abortion and Sanctity of Life ] [ Strengthening Families ] [ Promoting Adoption ] [ Judicial Appointments ] [ Homosexual Rights ] [ Immigration ] [ Government Spending and Taxes ] [ Campaign Finance Reform ] [ Public Education ] [ Crime and Ethics ] [ Health Care ] [ Environmental and Energy Policy ] [ Labor Unions ] [ Cuba and Latin America ] [ Mitt Romney's Business Résumé and Education ] [ Ann Romney's Biography ] [ Endorsements ] [ Photographs ] [ Miscellaneous Videos ] [ Resources ] [ Human Interest Stories ] [ Rebuttals: MassResistance, Brian Camenker Exposed, Defense of Marriage, Conservative 1994 Platform, Romney's Wealth ] [ Ping List ]

On September 18, 2007, Governor Mitt Romney released his Strategy for a Stronger America, a 68-page compilation of his policy proposals to bring conservative change to Washington and meet the new generation of challenges confronting our nation. In the Introduction of the document, Governor Romney lists some fundamental principles he would use to guide his decisions as President to meet the challenges facing our country:

• Our military superiority cannot be compromised

• Our government must remain federalist and governing should be conducted as close to the people as possible. Washington today is not the solution, it is part of the problem

• Money and resources are best used when they remain in the hands of the people. A competitive America is one where taxes are low and government is small

• Free market principles built the American economy. Unleashing the power of free markets is key to our economic future

• Culture determines the strength of a nation. American values must be cherished and developed in each generation

• Government should be accountable and transparent. Government service is a privilege and government officials should be held to the highest ethical standards

Governor Romney: "The jihadists are waging a global war against the United States and Western governments generally with the ambition of replacing legitimate governments with a caliphate, with a theocracy."
^{(Robynn Tysver, "Romney tours area with an eye on '08," Omaha World-Herald, 1/23/2006)}

Governor Romney: "There is a war being waged by the terrorists. And as long as we have a Republican president, we're going to have a war on terrorists."
^{(Jason Spencer, "Yankee Governor With Southern Values Backs Military And Attacks 'HillaryCare'," The Spartanburg Herald-Journal, 7/20/2007)}

Governor Romney (On the Threat of Radical Jihadism): "In the current conflict, there is only one way to lose, and that is if we as a civilized world decide not to lift a finger to defend ourselves, or our values, and our way of life. I will not be silent, you will not be silent!"

In May 2006, Governor Romney Traveled To Iraq To Meet With The Troops. "Traveling under tight security, Governor Mitt Romney yesterday wrapped up an unannounced, one-day trip to Iraq to visit troops from Massachusetts, and warned against a 'cut and run' pullout from the war-torn country."
^{(Frank Phillips, "Romney Makes Surprise Stop In Baghdad," The Boston Globe, 5/25/2006)}

Mitt Romney supports our troops and their mission in Iraq (watch the video). He supports President Bush's "Troop Surge" plan to stabilize the population in Iraq and bring the conflict to a successful conclusion.

On The Same Day The President Announced The Surge Strategy, Governor Romney Stated That He Supported Additional Troops. "I agree with the President: Our strategy in Iraq must change. Our military mission, for the first time, must include securing the civilian population from violence and terror. It is impossible to defeat the insurgency without first providing security for the Iraqi people. Civilian security is the precondition for any political and economic reconstruction. In consultation with Generals, military experts and troops who have served on the ground in Iraq, I believe securing Iraqi civilians requires additional troops."
^{(Romney For President, "Governor Mitt Romney On Iraq," Press Release, 1/10/2007)}

Governor Romney Would Not Deny Our Military Leaders And Troops The Resources And Time Needed To Succeed In Iraq. "Today, the nation's attention is focused on Iraq. All Americans want U.S. troops to come home as soon as possible. But walking away now or dividing Iraq up into parts and walking away later would present grave risks to the United States and the world. Iran could seize the Shiite south, al Qaeda could dominate the Sunni west, and Kurdish nationalism could destabilize the border with Turkey. A regional conflict could ensue, perhaps even requiring the return of U.S. troops under far worse circumstances. There is no guarantee that the new strategy pursued by General Petraeus will ultimately succeed, but the stakes are too high and the potential fallout too great to deny our military leaders and troops on the ground the resources and the time needed to give it an opportunity to succeed."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Rising To A New Generation Of Global Challenges," Foreign Affairs, July/August 2007)}

Governor Romney Is Committed To Success In Iraq And Afghanistan. "At a minimum, success means not leaving behind a safe haven in Iraq and Afghanistan for Al Qaeda or other terrorist groups, from which they can finance, train and launch devastating attacks on America, Israel, and the world. In Iraq, the Surge's success has been vital to ensuring that Al Qaeda is denied a safe haven from which to launch attacks."
^{(Romney For President, "Strategy For A Stronger America: Defeating The Jihadist Threat," Press Release, 10/17/2007)}

- Governor Romney: "Well, a President Romney is not going to set a specific timeline that would suggest that we don't care whether al Qaeda is playing a major role in that country or not. It is critically important to America and the world that al Qaeda not have a safe haven in the nation of Iraq. And, so, to set an artificial deadline which ignores whether or not al Qaeda is being successful is, in my view, a position which would – which should disqualify someone as a potential president -- president of the country."
^{(Fox News' "Your World," 9/12/2007)}

Gov. Romney Called The Petraeus Report "Good News For Americans And Iraqis." ROMNEY: "Today's testimony from General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker confirms the progress being made by our troops in Iraq. This is good news for Americans and Iraqis. The importance of a successful conclusion to Iraq must be weighed in light of the global threat of violent Jihad and terror. America must continue its commitment to the strategy General Petraeus is executing."
^{(Romney For President, "Governor Romney on Today's Iraq Testimony," Press Release, 9/10/2007)}

Gov. Mitt Romney Believes That General Petraeus Is An American Hero And Is Serving His Country Nobly. "I think the American people listened with interest to General Petraeus and Ambassador Crocker and recognized that we have true American patriots and heroes here. And they expressed their views openly. ... [T]hey pointed out the good and the bad. The net in both of their testimony was that we are making progress..."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Don Wade & Roma Morning Show," WLS 890 AM, 9/12/2007)}

Governor Romney: "[I] Think It's Time For American Citizens And Politicians To Make A Surge Of Support To Stand Behind Our Troops In Iraq." 'At a time when American families and individuals are making a surge of sacrifice to support this troop surge, I think it's time for American citizens and politicians to make a surge of support,' Romney said Wednesday in Pelham, N.H., a comment he repeated throughout the day.
^{(Glen Johnson, "Romney Donates $25,000 Amid Plea For Patriotic 'Surge'," The Associated Press, 8/02/2007)}

Governor Romney Is Encouraging Americans To Support Military Support Organizations. "A father's concern about U.S. support for the military surge in Iraq has prompted Republican Mitt Romney to both make a $25,000 donation to a variety of military support agencies and urge Americans to engage in a similar display of patriotism. The money will be divided between USO Care Packages, the Fisher House, A Soldiers Wish List, Packages from Home, Operation Thank You, Operation Shoebox and America Supports You. Links to each site have been placed on Romney's presidential campaign Web site, www.MittRomney.com/Surge."
^{(Glen Johnson, "Romney Donates $25,000 Amid Plea For Patriotic 'Surge'," The Associated Press, 8/02/2007)}

Governor Romney Said That The Direction In Which MoveOn Is Driving The Democrat Party Is "Disgusting." GOV. MITT ROMNEY: "And I frankly don't understand why Hillary Clinton hasn't repudiated MoveOn.org at this point. And I'm afraid the truth is that MoveOn.org has purchased the Democratic Party, if you will. That its funding, and the status of this 527, and the voice it has in the Democratic Party is so powerful that it's now calling the shots. And that Hillary Clinton, and Barack Obama and John Edwards are afraid to repudiate an ad and an organization which has taken a disgusting course against a great American."
^{(MSNBC's "Morning Joe" with Joe Scarborough, 9/14/2007) Read more in Gov. Romney Calls on Dems to Repudiate MoveOn Attack on General Petraeus}

Governor Romney on the Senate's Vote Condemning the MoveOn.org Ad. GOV. ROMNEY: "Hillary Clinton had a choice. She could stand with our troop commander in Iraq, or she could stand with the libelous left wing of her party. She chose the latter. The idea that she would be a credible commander-in-chief of our armed forces requires the willing suspension of disbelief."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Romney on the Senate's Vote Condemning the MoveOn.org Ad," Press Release, 9/20/2007)}

Governor Romney: "When Al Qaeda calls into America, we should be listening. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama voted against this common-sense foreign intelligence tool. They are dangerously out of touch when it comes to defending the homeland. Our most basic civil liberty is the right to be kept alive. We must use every reasonable measure to keep America safe."
^{(Romney for President, "The Romney Vision: The Intelligence Gathering Capabilities To Keep America Safe," Press Release, 8/07/2007)}

Governor Romney: "[Y]ou said the person's going to be in Guantanamo. I'm glad they're at Guantanamo. I don't want them on our soil. I want them on Guantanamo ... Some people have said, we ought to close Guantanamo. My view is, we ought to double Guantanamo."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Republican Presidential Candidates Debate, Columbia, SC, 5/15/2007)}

Governor Romney: "So long as it remains a vital tool to keep America safe, I will fight to keep Guantanamo Bay open."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney On Guantanamo Bay," Press Release, 12/05/2007)}

Presidential Campaign Platform

Governor Romney's Four Changes Needed To Meet A New Generation Of Global Challenges:

First, We Need A Stronger Military. Video: On a Stronger Military

• We Must Increase The Size Of Our Military By 100,000 Troops.

• We Need To Dedicate At Least Four Percent Of Our Gross Domestic Product To Defense, Making Up For Critical Gaps In Our Military Modernization, Equipment, Personnel And Health Care Efforts (Additional $30 Billion To $40 Billion Annually For Defense).

• Investing In Our Military, We Need To Ensure Funds Are Used To Address Critical Needs And Support The Men And Women Of Our Armed Forces, Rather Than Political Or Contractor Interests.

Second, America Must Become Energy Independent.

Third, We Must Transform And Strengthen Our Civilian International Efforts To Meet A New Generation Of Challenges.

Fourth, We Need To Strengthen Old Partnerships And Alliances, And Inaugurate A New One, To Address The Threat Of Jihadism.

• Governor Romney Will Build A Global Network Against Terror And Transnational Threats To Link Intelligence From Around The World

• Governor Romney Calls On The United States To Immediately Withdraw From The U.N. Human Rights Council And Build New Efforts With Nations Committed To Freedom

Governor Romney Will Create The Special Partnership Force (SPF) To Mobilize All Elements Of Our National Power In Contested Areas To Defeat Jihadists.

To meet today's challenges, we must mobilize and integrate all elements of national power in unstable areas where traditional civilian agencies cannot operate effectively and traditional military power alone cannot succeed. The Special Partnership Force will integrate all elements of national power under a new force with leadership drawn from a core group of our Army Special Forces trained to work with civilian governments and intelligence personnel to form a new capability that is:

• Focused On Locally-Targeted Efforts To Win Support In The Community While Identifying, Isolating And Eliminating Terrorist Elements.
• Highly Integrated And Able To Mobilize All Elements Of National Power, Including Humanitarian And Development Assistance And Rule Of Law Capacity Building.
• Closely Coordinated In Partnership With Local Governments.
• Intelligence Driven.
• Agile And Flexible In Its Operations.
• A Sustainable Effort In Contested Areas And Sanctuaries Of Jihadist Groups.

- The SPF Will Build On A Long History Of Successful Efforts Against Terrorists And Insurgent Groups. While a new capability, this force draws on the lessons learned from a long history of successful efforts against terrorist and insurgent groups, including U.S. efforts under the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) in World War II, post-9/11 efforts in Afghanistan, and recent Special Forces efforts in the Philippines.

From a retired U.S. Army Major:

"Another interesting aspect of Romney's SPF is its heavy reliance on recently updated Army counterinsurgency (COIN) doctrine. The Army COIN Field Manual 3-24 was developed under the watchful eye of General Petraeus during his tenure as Combined Arms Commander at Fort Leavenworth, KS. Just more evidence of Mitt's deep understanding of the issue. If I were still on active duty, I'd be excited to have him as my Commander-in-Chief."

Governor Romney on Combating Nuclear Terrorism Video: On Combating Nuclear Terrorism

• Expanding And Accelerating Actions To Combat Nuclear Terrorism
• Empowering A Senior Ambassador to Lead Efforts To Prevent Nuclear Terrorism
• Making Nuclear Trafficking A Crime Against Humanity
• Creating A Gold Standard For Nuclear Security
• Frank, Direct Efforts With Russia On Containing This Threat
• Removing The Incentive For Dangerous Civilian Nuclear Capabilities

Governor Romney Will Create A Permanent Rapid Innovation Force To Ensure That Our Troops In Harm's Way Have The Equipment And Technology They Need. Governor Romney will establish a Rapid Innovation Force within the military to rapidly deploy the equipment and innovative solutions our troops need for their success and protection.

- The Rapid Innovation Force Builds On Our Experience In The War On Terror. In response to the ever-changing nature of the threat in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq, the Army established a new Rapid Equipping Force that has deployed up-armored humvees, thousands of anti-IED robots and technology that has helped change the dynamics on the ground and save lives.

Governor Romney Will Strengthen Our Alliances Around The World. America's strength is amplified when it is combined with the strength of other nations. We need to expand alliances such as NATO and efforts among the world's leading nations to face the new threat of radical Jihad and increase our homeland security. To make America safer, Governor Romney will:

- Launch A New Type Of Marshall Plan Unifying Non-Military Sources Of Power To Support Moderate Muslims. As President, Governor Romney will call together our Middle East allies and the major nations of the developed world to establish a Partnership for Prosperity and Progress. This Partnership will assemble the resources of all developed nations to assure that threatened Islamic states have public schools, micro-credit and banking, the rule of law, human rights, basic health care, and competitive economic policies.

- Build A Global Network Against Terror And Transnational Threats To Link Intelligence From Around The World. The Global Network will link intelligence and law enforcement capabilities around the world to share data about border crossings, biometric indicators, passport fraud, nuclear and biological threats, criminal patterns, human trafficking and drug trafficking.

Governor Romney Will Strengthen Our Intelligence Community. Today, protecting the homeland must begin far from home. Intelligence and law enforcement efforts able to address threats before they reach our shores must be a priority for U.S. and international action. To make America safer, Governor Romney will:

- Strengthen Our Intelligence Communities By Eliminating Bureaucracy And Moving Resources To The Field. We need to eliminate duplicative efforts, revitalize recruitment and prioritize efforts in the field, expanding human intelligence

- Maintain The Patriot Act. The Patriot Act has given our men and women in the law enforcement and intelligence communities the tools they need to defend America.

- Listen When Terrorists Call Into The United States. Our most basic civil liberty is the right to be kept alive and Governor Romney will use every tool at our disposal to keep America safe.

Governor Romney Will Ensure That The Value Of The Montgomery G.I. Bill Keeps Pace With Rising Educational Expenses. Governor Romney will call for a regular outside review of benefits under the Montgomery G.I. Bill to ensure that our veterans, active duty military, and their eligible spouses and dependents have the resources they need to pursue the educational opportunities they deserve.

Governor Romney Will Ensure Military Dependents Get Access To In-State Tuition At Public Colleges And Universities. Governor Romney will level the playing field for military families by calling on every state to extend in-state tuition benefits to military dependents whose parents are stationed there and, furthermore, to permit the continuation of the in-state tuition rate even if their parents are reassigned and forced to leave the state.

Read about several other action items for the War on Terror from Governor Romney's comprehensive Strategy For A Stronger America: Defeating The Jihadist Threat.

Gov. Romney's Experience And Record Concerning Homeland Security And Support For Our Military

Gov. Romney's experience and credentials in Homeland Security and Disaster Preparedness include:

• Commander-in-Chief of Massachusetts National Guard
• Co-chaired the National Governor’s Association Homeland Security Council
• Member of the Department of Homeland Security’s Advisory Council
• Chaired the DHS’s State and Local Officials Senior Advisory Committee
• Chaired the DHS’s Homeland Security Funding Task Force
• The Boston Globe and Boston Herald reported in 2004 that Romney was being considered as the next Sec. of Homeland Security
• Testified before Congress on three occasions about homeland security related issues. (1, 2, 3)
• Lectured twice at the Heritage Foundation on homeland security issues (1, 2)
• Under Romney’s direction, MA became one of only 10 states to receive the highest grade possible for disaster preparedness.
• He led MA through the worst flooding in the state in the last 70+ years, earning high marks from local and national press.
• The CDC praised Romney’s response plan in MA for the Avian Flu as a model for other states to emulate.
(Matt C, "Romney Gets It On Homeland Security," Race42008.com, 5/14/2007) • (Jeff Fuller, "Romney on Homeland Security: A Leader I'd Want In Crisis," ElectRomneyIn2008.com, 7/04/2006)

Mitt Romney managed the first Olympic Games held in a post-9/11 world just five months after the attacks. Complex and costly security measures were a major part of the challenge of turning around the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics. The budget for security at the Olympic Games was $300 million for the huge international event involving 23,000 volunteers. The very successful Olympics went off without incident, and some of the security measures developed for the 2002 Games are used in other major venues today, for example, the Super Bowl. Romney turned a $379 million deficit for the Olympic Games into a $100 million profit. Romney personally contributed $1 million, and donated his three years of salary ($922,980 total) and his $476,000 severance pay to charity. That counts for something in real world management experience in the War on Terror.

Gov. Mitt Romney created the Commonwealth Fusion Center in Massachusetts to implement recommendations he made to the nation’s governors as Chair of the White House’s Homeland Security Task Force. The core mission of the Fusion Center is to facilitate critical and timely information sharing from the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation to municipal police, fire and emergency response agencies to assist in the identification and investigation of possible terrorist activities.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Unveils Commonwealth’s Anti-Terror Fusion Center," Press Release, 5/11/2005)}

Mitt Romney is thought to be the best read among the candidates about the threat of the Jihadist. Romney’s reading list includes the following books among others on the topic:

The Looming Tower by Lawrence Wright
American Jihad: The Terrorists Living Among Us by Steven Emerson
Future Jihad: Terrorist Strategies Against America by Walid Phares
America Alone by Mark Steyn
Cobra II: The Inside Story of the Invasion and Occupation of Iraq by Michael R. Gordon and Bernard E. Trainor
The Assassin’s Gate: America in Iraq by George Packer

"The old statement 'know thine enemy' is appropriate," Romney told ABC News.

"Romney wants the public to know that Jihadists are not an "armed group of crazed maniacs in the hills of Afghanistan." Rather, Romney says the United States is facing a "far more sinister and broad-based extremist faction" with a "very 8th century view of the world."

"Based on his reading of books such as "American Jihad: The Terrorists Living Among Us," by Steven Emerson, and "Future Jihad: Terrorist Strategies Against America" by Walid Phares, Romney believes the Jihadists want to "retake the ancient Muslim lands and unify umma, or the world of Islam, under a caliphate."
^{(Teddy Davis, "'Know Thine Enemy,' Romney Says of 'Jihadists'," ABC News, 4/30/2006)}

Mitt Romney described the threat of radical Islamic Jihad at the National Review Institute Conservative Summit.

Talk radio host Hugh Hewitt interviewed professor of military history and noted author Victor Davis Hanson who observed Mitt Romney's ability to discuss Middle East foreign policy at length with experts at the Hoover Institution:

Hugh Hewitt: What I like is that he’s a voracious reader, not only your books, but things like The Looming Tower by Lawrence Wright, Mark Steyn’s America Alone. I think this is pretty rare these days, to find curiosity at that level, and at that sort of voracious appetite for information. What do you talk about with him?

Victor Davis Hanson: Well, we talk about history just like you and I talk about. We talk about foreign policy, he talked about the plan or the effort to democratize the Middle East, the shortfalls, the problems, the liabilities, and you know what? He [Gov. Romney] came to the Hoover Institution and got in front of 40 senior fellows. And in that room there were Nobel Prize winners, a lot of egos, too. And he held court with them, and there were a lot of hostile questions, and he went for an hour and a half, head to head, with these people. When he walked out of that room, I think everybody was impressed with him. He didn’t pull any punches, and he could argue and was as logical as any Hoover fellow, and I was more impressed with him than I was with my colleagues.
^{(Hugh Hewitt, Interview with Victor Davis Hanson," The Hugh Hewitt Show, 3/13/2007)}

In 2003, Governor Romney Swore In Congressional Medal Of Honor Recipient Thomas Kelley As The State's First Secretary Of Veterans' Services. Gov. Romney elevated the state agency that advocates on behalf of the Commonwealth’s veterans to a cabinet level post in recognition of their contributions to state and country.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Appoints State's 1st Secretary Of Veterans' Services," Press Release, 8/28/2003)}

Governor Romney introduced and signed into law the "Welcome Home Bill," the most significant expansion of military veterans' benefits in recent years. The new law reduced to zero the cost members of the Massachusetts National Guard must pay to attend public colleges and universities, increased twenty-fold the death benefit paid to families of members killed in the line of duty, created a new annuity benefit for Gold Star spouses and boosted the amount paid to Gold Star parents.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Legislation Expanding Military Benefits," Press Release, 11/11/2005)}

Governor Mitt Romney signed legislation that provided disabled Massachusetts veterans with extensive tax exemptions, allowed communities to suspend real estate taxes for active duty National Guardsmen and reservists until 180 days after they return home, and provided financial relief for the families of servicemen and women killed or missing in action.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Expands Tax Benefits For Disabled Veterans," Press Release, 8/14/2006)}

Governor Mitt Romney signed into law a measure to help state employees and their families meet their financial obligations while they are on active military duty. It provided state employees called to active military leave with the differential cost between their military and state salaries and guaranteed employees on active military duty would not lose any seniority, accrued vacation leave, sick leave, personal leave, compensation time or earned overtime.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Lends a Hand to State Employees on Military Duty," Press Release, 11/27/2003)}

Governor Romney signed into law a bill preventing employers from discriminating against current or prospective employees who are enrolled in any of the nation’s Reserve forces including the Air and Army National Guards and the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps and Naval Reserves. Gov. Romney said, "The American servicemen and women of the Guard and Reserve leave their jobs, their spouses and their children to wear the uniform that defends our country. This selfless commitment should be honored by businesses across Massachusetts as we work to ensure they are treated fairly while they balance their employment responsibilities and obligations to the armed services. No business should ever put the bottom line ahead of America’s front line."
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Law Protecting Armed Service Members," Press Release, 9/23/2004)}

Governor Romney Signed Legislation Ending The Practice Of Denying Benefits To Veterans Who Served Only During Periods Of Peace.
^{(Courtney Hollands, "Concerns Over Fate Of Veterans Bill," The [Quincy, MA] Patriot Ledger, 6/16/2004)}

Governor Romney filed a bill enabling Massachusetts prosecutors to seek the death penalty in cases of first-degree murders that were committed as an act of political terrorism, assassination of law enforcement officials, or multiple killings. Massachusetts is one of only 12 states that do not have a capital punishment sentencing option.
(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Relying on Science, Romney Files Death Penalty Bill," Press Release, 4/28/2005) • (Read the Death Penalty Testimony of Governor Mitt Romney given on 7/14/2005)

Iran
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#iran

Mitt Romney holds some of the most hawkish, anti-jihadist positions among the presidential candidates; especially against Iran as revealed in his major foreign policy speech delivered at the Seventh Annual Herzliya Conference in Israel on January 23, 2007. Romney was the only candidate who traveled to Israel to attend the conference and speak. While attending the conference, Gov. Romney had private meetings with Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Vice Prime Minister Shimon Peres, Foreign Minister Tzipi Livni, and other Israeli officials and toured the country's borders with Gaza and Lebanon.

Watch the short video clips from his speech about Iran and decide if you like what you hear from Mitt Romney concerning the War on Terror.

Romney: On Why Wishful Thinking on Iran is Wrong
On Confronting the Iran Threat: A 5-Point Plan
Concluding Remarks on the Iran Threat (with comments on Romney's plan from former Ambassador Ronald Lauder)

Transcript of speech at Seventh Annual Herzliya Conference

Excerpts:

"What we should have realized since 9/11 is that what the world regarded as an Israeli-Arab conflict over borders represented something much larger. It was the oldest, most active front of the radical Islamist jihad against the entire world. It was not really about borders. It was about the refusal of many parts of the Muslim world to accept Israel's right to exist - within any borders.

"This distinction was brought into clear focus this summer. The war in Lebanon had little to do with the Palestinians. It had nothing to do with a two-state solution. It demonstrated that Israel is now facing a jihadist threat that runs from Tehran through Damascus to Southern Lebanon to Gaza.

"As Tony Blair quite accurately put it, Hezbollah was not fighting 'for the coming into being of a Palestinian state...but for the going out of being of an Israeli state.'

"Yet I don't think we have still not fully absorbed the magnitude of the change. I think it is critical that we understand that as far as our enemies are concerned, there is just one conflict. And in this single conflict, the goal of destroying Israel is simply a weigh station toward the real goal of subjugating the entire world.

Summary of Governor Romney's Five-Point Plan To Confront The Iran Threat

First, We Should Tighten Economic Sanctions. The Administration deserves recognition for restricting access to banking and credit services. Other nations must act now to follow our lead. In addition, Governor Romney has called for strategic divestment from companies that support the Iranian regime's dangerous actions. As the world's financial center, no state could have a bigger impact than New York. After a new state Comptroller was named for New York, Governor Romney wrote the Comptroller, Governor Spitzer and Senators Schumer and Clinton urging them to join in the effort to stop New York pension funds from aiding Iran's efforts.

Second, We Should Isolate Iran Diplomatically. Their leaders should be made to feel like those of Apartheid South Africa. Until there are indications that high level engagement would do anything other than reward bad behavior, the United States should not engage Iran in direct, bilateral negotiations over their nuclear weapons program. Finally, Iran's President Ahmadinejad should be indicted under the terms of the Genocide Convention for incitement to genocide.

Third, Arab States Must Join This Effort To Prevent A Nuclear Iran. These states should support Iraq's government; turn down the temperature of the Arab-Israeli conflict; stop the financial and weapons flows to Hamas and Hezbollah; and tell the Palestinians to drop their terror campaign and recognize Israel's right to exist.

Fourth, We Must Make It Clear To The Iranian People That While Nuclear Capabilities May Be A Source Of Pride, It Can Also Be A Source Of Peril. If nuclear material from their nation falls into the hands of terrorists and is used, it would provoke a devastating response from the civilized world. The military option remains on the table.

Fifth, Our Strategy Must Be Integrated Into A Broader Approach To The Muslim World. We must work with moderate Muslim communities and leaders to build a lasting Partnership for Prosperity and Progress.

Gov. Mitt Romney denied Massachusetts state police protection to Iran’s former President Khatami when he visited Boston to speak at Harvard and Romney ordered all other Massachusetts state government agencies to decline support for the visit. Gov. Romney thought it was a mistake for Harvard to invite Khatami to the U.S., calling it, "a disgrace to the memory of all Americans who have lost their lives at the hands of extremists, especially on the eve of the five-year anniversary of 9/11."
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Denounces Khatami Visit to Harvard," Press Release, 9/05/2006)}

Governor Romney sent a letter to the United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on 9/17/2007 urging "the United Nations to revoke any invitation to President Ahmadinejad to address the General Assembly. The only way he should be greeted in the United States is with an indictment under the Genocide Convention."

In his letter, Governor Romney wrote:

"The Iranian regime under President Ahmadinejad has spoken openly about wiping Israel off the map, has fueled Hezbollah's terror campaign in the region and around the world, and defied the world community in its pursuit of nuclear weapons – capabilities that make these threats even more ominous. As General David Petraeus testified last week, Iran is also supporting Shia militia extremists and violence that is taking the lives of American soldiers and undermining the Iraqi government."

"A failure by the United Nations to take a strong stand against Iran’s President Ahmadinejad would be especially disturbing given the United Nations’ record of failure to prevent genocide in other circumstances and the failure of the United Nations Human Rights Council to confront the Iranian regime and others among the world’s worst human rights abusers. Failure to act would mean that the United States must reconsider its level of support and funding for the United Nations as we look to rebuild and revitalize effective international partnerships to meet 21st century threats."

Governor Romney's Statement To The National Rally To End The Threat Now (statement read at U.N. protest rally in New York City on 9/24/2007 against Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's visit to the United Nations and New York City)

Excerpt:

Governor Romney: "We are long past the time for political correctness and accommodation of Ahmadinejad's and his regime's outrageous rhetoric and support for terror. It is time to speak clearly and frankly, to strengthen alliances and build new ones, and to act with unity and decisiveness against a regime that threatens to reintroduce the world to the horrors of nuclear devastation and genocide."

China
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#china

A Primary Factor, NRO Q&A with Kathryn Jean Lopez, December 14, 2006:

Kathryn Jean Lopez: Governor, you recently got back from a trip to Asia. What were you doing there?

Gov. Mitt Romney: I traveled to Japan, China, and South Korea. Two things from my China trip stand out. First, they will be a more powerful economic competitor than we in America recognize. They are hard working, market oriented, and smart. They even have some lower taxes in some areas than we do. Bottom line: They are competing to win. Second, it is important for us as a nation to reach out to China and to chart out a course that is consistent with a free economy and a free society. This goal must be consistent with our own principles.

We also had the opportunity to go to visit the DMZ when we were in Korea. Imagining what goes on behind that border is one thing — but standing there, staring into North Korea is chilling. Communism and the brutal repression there have exacted an extraordinarily heavy penalty on the people of North Korea and the contrast with the exuberance and prosperity of South Korea could not be more stark.

Lopez: China is, of course, a bit of a human-rights disaster too. Did you have qualms going there at all?

Gov. Romney: I believe in building bridges not walls. We specifically addressed the detention of a Massachusetts citizen, Yang Jianli, with Chinese officials and we asked for special attention and consideration for his early release. Working with China on our own security interests — including the isolation of North Korea — must not be at the expense of our commitment to freedom and basic human rights.

Laura Ingraham Interviews Governor Mitt Romney, Laura Ingraham Radio Show, August 28, 2007:

Laura Ingraham: "The human rights violations in China is something you care about, right? This is brutal and it’s not getting freer. It’s getting in many ways more repressive than it was ten, fifteen years ago; more open economically but that doesn’t mean there are more freedoms."

Governor Romney: "No, there are not more freedoms and they’re fearful. In my view, the leadership of the country is fearful that they will have an explosion, if you will, of popular uprising. It has happened before, as you know, in China and they’re fearful of that happening. So they try and repress dissent, and that unfortunately is wrong-headed. That will only make the dissent louder and they don’t quite understand that, at least from our standpoint. But again, are they a potential threat, absolutely. But are they also a potential partner for stability in the world, yes they are, and we need to work very hard to make sure they’re the latter, not the former."

Video interview for Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, April 27, 2007:

Governor Romney: "I think it’s important first for the American people and our leadership to understand that China is not like the Soviet Union of old. The Soviet Union, Khrushchev in particular, wanted to bury us. China doesn’t want to bury us. They want to see us succeed and thrive so we can buy more Chinese products, and they’re a competitor economically. More power to them. We know how to compete.

"We want to make sure the competition is fair and legal and that they protect our intellectual property rights and they have a monetary policy that’s fair. So we’ve got some challenges to make sure that the playing field is level with China. But we can compete. We can be successful with China and I will reach out to them. I’ve already met with their leadership and will do so again if I’m lucky enough to be President.

"Making China a partner for stability in the world will be one of my highest priorities.

"China is really key in many respects as they become a very large economy. Their GNP is going to surpass ours at some point just given the scale of the nation’s population. We have to recognize they’re going to be an economic powerhouse like us. With that reality we need to make sure they are friendly, that we understand each other, that we’re open and communicating and we’re collaborating on important topics like keeping North Korea from pursuing the nuclear armament which they’ve begun and getting Iran to avoid or to abandon their nuclear ambitions.

"China and we together will have a great deal of positive influence for stability if we’re able to work that relationship properly.

Competing with Asia:

Governor Romney: "China and the rest of Asia are on the move economically and technologically. They are a family oriented, educated, hard-working, and mercantile people. We must be ready and able to compete. This means ensuring our children are educated to compete in this new market, our trade laws are fair and balanced, and our economy and tax laws welcome new investment. If America acts boldly and swiftly, the emergence of Asia will be an opportunity. Trade and commerce with these huge new economies can further strengthen our economy and propel our growth. If America fails to act, we will be eclipsed."

"We have to keep our markets open or we go the way of Russia and the Soviet Union, which is a collapse. And I recognize there are some people who will argue for protectionism because the short-term benefits sound pretty good, but long term you kill your economy, you kill the future. What you have to do in order to compete on a global basis long term is invest in education, invest in technology, reform our immigration laws to bring in more of the brains from around the world, eliminate the waste in our government. We have to use a lot less oil. These are the kinds of features you have to invest in, you have to change in order to make ourselves competitive long term."
^{(Governor Romney, Kudlow and Company, CNBC, 3/22/2006)}

Governor Romney Believes The United States Must Continue To Work To Open Markets To American Products. Governor Romney is a strong believer in free trade and opening foreign markets to American products. While continuing to promote free trade, Governor Romney will also work to ensure that free trade is fair and there is a level-playing field for American products.
^{(Read more in Romney Agenda: A New Vision To Open Markets And Help U.S. Workers To Succeed)}

Governor Romney Will Address The Issue Of Embedded Taxes On American Products. In the global economy, American products carry a very heavy load known as embedded taxes. It's estimated that our products face about a $100 billion disadvantage around the world. Because of a WTO ruling, taxes that are embedded in Americans products cannot be refunded to exporters. As President, Governor Romney will fight for a level playing field for American products around the world.

Guns
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#guns

Governor Romney: "Americans should have the right to own and possess firearms as guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution. I’m proud to be among the many decent, law-abiding men and women who safely use firearms."
^{(Ted Novin, "Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney Visits Firearms Industry's Trade Show," National Shooting Sports Foundation, 1/12/2007)}

Hasn’t Gov. Romney been against the right to bear arms?

No. Governor Romney has always supported the individual right to keep and bear arms. The firearms bills that Governor Romney signed into law (see below) were all endorsed by the National Rifle Association (NRA) and/or the Gun Owners' Action League (GOAL), which bills itself as "The Official Firearms Association of Massachusetts."

The NRA gave Mitt Romney a rating of 'B' in the 2002 election race for Governor of Massachusetts.
^{(Scott Helman, "Romney retreats on gun control," The Boston Globe, 1/14/2007)}

Craig Sandler, former Director of General Operations of the National Rifle Association and former Nashua Police Chief, endorses Governor Mitt Romney for President.

In endorsing Governor Romney, Craig Sandler said, "Throughout his career in both the public and private sectors, Mitt Romney has demonstrated exceptional leadership ability, integrity, and commitment to principle. As a New Hampshire resident, former law enforcement officer, and avid sportsman, I am supporting Governor Romney because he is the candidate who will protect our Constitutional rights and strengthen our nation."

Governor Romney On Parker v. District of Columbia:

Governor Romney: “It is my hope that the Supreme Court will reaffirm the individual right to keep and bear arms as enshrined in the Bill of Rights and protect law abiding gun owners everywhere. To further guard this fundamental liberty, as President, I will take care to appoint judges who will not legislate from the bench but will instead strictly interpret the Constitution.”
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Romney On The U.S. Supreme Court's Decision To Review Second Amendment Case," Press Release, 11/21/2007)}

Question for Romney from Human Events editor Jed Babbin: Do you view the second amendment as vesting an individual right to keep and bear arms? I know the Supreme Court is about to consider the Parker v. District of Columbia case. Aside from the legalities: as you personally look at the Second Amendment, do you think that’s the right of the state or is that the right of the individual gun owner?

Governor Romney: “It’s the right of the individual. I believe that our Constitution vests in the citizens of the United States the right to bear arms, to have weapons for their personal protection, for hunting and for any legal and lawful purpose. I’d like to see our gun laws enforced, to see people who use guns in the committing of crimes in jail for a long time, but I believe that individuals have the right to bear arms, and any incursion on that right, I would find in violation of the constitution.”
^{(Editors of Human Events, "Romney's Four Wedge Issues," Human Events, 11/21/2007)}

Governor Romney Believes The Second Amendment Is About More Than Just Self-Defense Or Sport; It's About The Basic Freedom Of Lawful Citizens To Live Their Lives. The Second Amendment was enshrined by the Founding Fathers in our Constitution and our Bill of Rights to protect the rights of our citizens to own firearms. Bumper sticker gun control does not protect the individual but instead takes away protections and penalizes law-abiding citizens. Criminals do not buy guns in stores nor subject themselves to background checks. Law-abiding citizens certainly have a right to protect their homes and their families.

Governor Romney Believes We Need To Focus On Enforcing Our Current Laws Rather Than Creating More Laws That Burden Lawful Gun Owners.

Governor Romney addressed the National Rifle Association in a videotaped message at the NRA's "Celebration of American Values" in Washington, D.C. on 9/21/2007. Gov. Romney discussed his position and record in support of the Second Amendment and his intent to oppose McCain-Feingold legislation, liberal judicial activism and tort claims being used to erode our 2nd Amendment rights. Must See Mitt TV!

Governor Romney Supports The Rights Of Pro-Second Amendment Groups To Be Involved In The Political Process. "And I'll ask Congress to repeal the McCain-Feingold law which sought to impose restrictions on the First Amendment rights of groups like the NRA to advocate for issues we care about. Some parts have already been declared unconstitutional. We ought to get rid of the entire bill."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Remarks To The NRA," Washington, D.C., 9/21/2007)}

Governor Romney Opposes Backdoor Attempts To Ban Guns. "We need tort reform as well. That's the way we fight the backdoor attempt to ban guns by bankrupting manufacturers."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Remarks To The NRA," Washington, D.C., 9/21/2007)}

Governor Romney's Statement On The Second Amendment — Dec 28, 2007

"I believe that the Second Amendment protects a truly fundamental individual right.

"I believe that every law-abiding American has the right to own a firearm for hunting, personal protection, skeet, trap or target shooting, or for any other sporting purpose or as part of a collection.

"I do not support any new gun laws including any new ban on semi-automatic firearms. As president, I will follow President Bush's precedent of opposing any laws that go beyond the restrictions in place when I take office. The laws I do and will support include decades-old restrictions on weapons of unusual lethality like grenades, rocket launchers, fully automatic firearms and what are legally known as destructive devices and would include similar restrictions on new and exotic weapons of similar or even greater lethality.

"I believe in safe and responsible gun ownership. I also applaud the efforts of Second Amendment supporters – particularly in the aftermath of the terrible crimes at Virginia Tech – to support measures to improve the National Instant Criminal Background Check System as a screening tool to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and those judged mentally incompetent. I will protect the promise of a fair and instant check and oppose any effort to expand the NICS beyond its original purpose. I was pleased, in fact, that recently, Congress passed the NICS Improvement Act with NRA support and over liberal opposition to finance, improve, and streamline the current NICS system.

"I believe that any discussion regarding firearms and crime control must focus on the criminal. Unfortunately, many in Washington believe that restricting the rights of law-abiding gun owners will diminish violent crime. They are wrong. Over the years, the idea that it is possible to curtail crime by banning firearms has run up against a mountain of empirical evidence that forces one to conclude that gun control laws fail because they rely on the cooperation of a very unlikely element – the criminal. Any measure that fails to focus on the criminal and infringes on the constitutional rights of law-abiding Americans will be a non-starter for me.

"My message on the Second Amendment is simple: the rights of law-abiding gun owners will be protected in a Romney administration.

"On the other hand, if you're a criminal, here is your warning: I will ask every law enforcement agency across this great land to enforce the gun laws that are already on the books so that those who use guns illegally will know that they will be caught, prosecuted, convicted and jailed.

"I believe the right to keep and bear arms is a cornerstone of our personal freedoms. Should I be fortunate enough to become President, I will stand up and fight against any attempt to weaken or infringe upon our Second Amendment rights. And I will do this without any apology and without any hesitation."

In July 2006, despite a heavily Democratic anti-gun Legislature in Massachusetts, Gov. Romney signed a NRA-backed bill (H. 4552) reversing burdensome regulations for the makers of customized target pistols sold in Massachusetts. The Gun Owners' Action League praised Gov. Romney for his support of H. 4552.

"Governor Mitt Romney today signed legislation approving an exemption for the makers of customized target pistols, who due to a provision within state law have found it increasingly difficult to do business in Massachusetts."

..."Target shooters are an important part of our membership and I know they will be very pleased with this change," said James Wallace, Executive Director of the Gun Owners’ Action League.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Romney Approves Exemption for Target Pistols," Press Release, 7/26/2006)}

Governor Mitt Romney signed legislation aimed at providing one clear definition of a loaded shotgun or rifle for the state's hunting enthusiasts. For years, two competing definitions had existed on the books, leaving law abiding gun owners wondering when and how they can enter or cross a public way with their firearms.

"On behalf of the lawful gun owners of the Commonwealth, I would like to thank Governor Romney and all who took part in the passage of this legislation. We have taken another important step in reforming the 1998 gun laws," said Jim Wallace, Executive Director of the Gun Owners' Action League. "This new law addresses a conflict that had previously caused great concern in those who use traditional muzzle loading rifles and shotguns. Now they confidently know what is expected of them and can enjoy their heritage without the fear of being prosecuted for violating a poorly written law."
^{("Massachusetts Clarifies Muzzleloader Law," Buckmasters, 11/22/2005)}

In 2005, Governor Romney Signed Into Law A Provision Providing Free Replacement Licenses.
^{(Gun Owners' Action League Official Website, "GOAL's Record of Success," Accessed 12/31/2007)}

In 2005, Governor Mitt Romney Suspended 'Administrative Fees' To The Natural Heritage And Endangered Species Fund Of Massachusetts.
^{(Gun Owners' Action League Official Website, "GOAL's Record of Success," Accessed 12/31/2007)}

In July 2006, Gov. Romney signed legislation requiring all new hunters to take a hunter education course. The measure had the strong support of sportsmen and gun owners.

"We are pleased with the passage of yet another correction of Chapter 180 of the Acts of 1998, which created a confusing standard for acquiring a hunting, sporting or fishing license," said James Wallace, GOAL’s executive director. "Prior to the passage of this law some eight years ago, hunter education was mandatory for all first time hunters. While GOAL does not normally support mandatory training, it is our belief that every first time hunter should be exposed to the ethics, safety aspects and laws in Massachusetts regarding hunting before taking to the field for the first time."
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Legislation to Promote Hunter Safety," Press Release, 7/06/2006)}

On the 31^st anniversary of the Gun Owners' Action League, Governor Romney declared May 7, 2005 as "The Right to Bear Arms Day" in Massachusetts to honor "the right of decent, law-abiding citizens to own and use firearms in defense of their families, persons, and property and for all lawful purposes, including the common defense."
^{(Scott Helman, "Romney retreats on gun control," The Boston Globe, 1/14/2007)}

Opponents of gun control and critics of Governor Romney point to the fact that he signed firearms legislation in July, 2004 that included a ban of assault weapons in Massachusetts (S.2367). However, the bill only reaffirmed an existing Massachusetts state ban on assault weapons that was enacted as part of sweeping gun control laws passed in Massachusetts in 1998, five years before Romney took office, and didn't ban any additional guns. … The state ban of assault weapons enacted in 1998 was not due to disappear, nor would it have become invalid with the sunset of the federal ban in September, 2004. … The bill was passed in the Senate by a vote of 36 - 1 in favor and the House passed it with no amendments or debate on a "voice" vote. This represented by far the broadest support a reform bill has ever seen in the Massachusetts State House. Only one legislator in the entire building voiced opposition to the bill.
^{(National Rifle Association - Institute for Legislative Action, "Massachusetts - Firearms Reform Bill Sent to the Governor`s Desk," Press Release, 6/29/2004)}

The firearms reform bill signed by Governor Romney in 2004 had the endorsement of the NRA (a MUST READ). It was also supported by the Gun Owners' Action League, law enforcement and Massachusetts gun owners. The Executive Director of GOAL attended the signing ceremony for the bill. The legislation added several measures these groups favored, including a lengthening of the terms of firearm identification cards and licenses to carry, namely;

1) Extending the term of a firearm identification card and a license to carry firearms from four years to six years,
2) Granting a 90-day grace period for holders of firearm identification cards and licenses to carry who have applied for renewal, and
3) Creating a seven-member Firearm License Review Board to review firearm license applications that have been denied.

"This is truly a great day for Massachusetts' sportsmen and women. These reforms correct some serious mistakes that were made during the gun debate in 1998, when many of our state’s gun owners were stripped of their long-standing rights to own firearms."
^{(MA State Senator Stephen M. Brewer (D), Press Release, 7/01/2004)}

"I want to congratulate everyone that has worked so hard on this issue. Because of their dedication, we are here today to sign into law this consensus piece of legislation. This change will go a long way toward fixing the flaws created by the 1998 law. Another key piece to this legislation addresses those citizens who have applied for renewals. If the government does not process their renewal in a timely fashion, those citizens won't be put at risk because of the 90 day grace period that is being adopted today."
^{(MA State Representative George N. Peterson, Jr. (R), Press Release, 7/01/2004)}

"There are a lot of good things in the bill," said Jim Wallace, legislative director of the Gun Owners' Action League, the state's leading pro-gun group. "In all, the bill represents a healing process, or the beginning of the healing process, between lawful gun owners and the Massachusetts Legislature."
^{(Scott S. Greenberger, "State moves on assault weapons ban," The Boston Globe, 6/24/2004)}

The firearms reform bill signed in 2004 prohibited the sale of the same weapons in Massachusetts banned in the 1998 legislation but loosened other restrictions imposed by the 1998 gun bill. Furthermore, it protected Massachusetts' gun owners with a permanent reference to federal definitions that provided them with a list of exempt firearms, numbering nearly 700, which could not be declared "assault weapons." Therefore, after Governor Romney signed the gun bill in 2004, gun owners in Massachusetts had fewer restrictions on gun ownership than at any time since 1998.

Mitt Romney joined the NRA in August, 2006 and signed up for a lifetime membership. Romney said of the NRA, "I think they're doing good things, and I believe in supporting the right to bear arms."
^{(George Stephanopoulos, "Mitt Romney: The Complete Interview," ABC News This Week, 2/18/2007)}

Governor Romney: "I know the NRA does not support an assault weapon ban. So I don't line up on that particular issue with the NRA, either does President Bush. He likewise says he supported an assault weapon ban."

"Today we don't have the Brady bill because we have instantaneous background checks. That's no longer a operative or needed measure."

"But I'm a strong proponent of Second Amendment rights. I believe people, under our Constitution, have the right to bear arms."

"We have a gun in one of our homes. It's not owned by me, it's owned by my son, but I've always considered it sort of mine."

"I've been a hunter all my life, not frequently, but as a boy, when I worked on a ranch in Idaho, we used to go out shooting rabbits, because they were eating all the barley, and I got pretty good with a single shot .22 rifle, and been quail hunting more recently."

"So I'm a hunter and believe in Second Amendment rights, but I also believe that assault weapons are not needed in the public population."
^{(George Stephanopoulos, "Mitt Romney: The Complete Interview," ABC News This Week, 2/18/2007)}

Like President Bush, Governor Romney Would Have Signed The Assault Weapons Ban Extension At That Time (2004) But Will Not Seek To Reinstate The Ban. As Governor Romney stated on CNN and "Meet the Press," had he been President and had the Assault Weapons Ban extension reached his desk, like President Bush, he would have signed it. That bill did not pass Congress. Governor Romney has stated that he would not reinstate that Assault Weapons Ban. In fact, Governor Romney does not support any new gun laws including a ban on semi-automatic firearms. He would consider limitations on weapons of unusual lethality like grenades, rocket launchers, fully automatic firearms and what are legally known as destructive weapons.
^{(NBC's "Meet The Press," 12/16/2007; CNN's "The Situation Room," 11/26/2007; The Des Moines Register, 10/23/2007)}

Campaigning in Indianapolis on Thursday, Romney said he has hunted small game since his youth. "I'm not a big-game hunter. I've made that very clear," he said. "I've always been a rodent and rabbit hunter. Small varmints, if you will. I began when I was 15 or so, and I have hunted those kinds of varmints since then. More than two times."
^{(Emily Udell, "Romney Aims Again to Explain Hunting," The Associated Press, 4/06/2007)}

Abortion and Sanctity of Life
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#abortion

Governor Romney: "I will be a pro-life President. I will appoint and fight for justices who follow the law and the Constitution, who understand judicial restraint and who won't legislate from the bench. But being a pro-life president also means promoting policies that reflect our respect for the sanctity of life. I will oppose taxpayer funding of abortion, oppose partial birth abortion, oppose abortion in military clinics, oppose funding abortion in international aid programs, and I will work to ban embryonic cloning. I will work to increase adoptions by making the adoption tax credit permanent and raising awareness about embryonic adoption, or snowflake babies."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Address to the Family Research Council's Values Voter Summit," Washington, D.C., October 19, 2007)}

Governor Romney was presented with legislation concerning life issues on several occasions from the 85% majority Democrat Legislature in Massachusetts. In every instance he took the pro-life position by vetoing bills or lobbying for the pro-life approach, including the following actions:

He vetoed the bill providing state funding for human embryonic stem cell research
^{(Theo Emery, "Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney Vetoes Stem Cell Bill," The Associated Press, 5/27/2005)}

He vetoed a bill that provided for the "morning after pill" without a prescription because it is an abortifacient and would have been available to minors without parental notification and consent
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "Why I Vetoed Contraception Bill," The Boston Globe, 7/26/2005)}

He pledged to veto any bill that would expand access to RU-486, the abortion pill
^{(Hugh Hewitt, "Interview with Governor Romney," The Hugh Hewitt Show, 7/27/2005)}

He vetoed legislation which would have redefined Massachusetts longstanding definition of the beginning of human life from fertilization to implantation
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Letter To The Massachusetts State Senate And House Of Representatives, 5/12/2005)}

He supported parental notification laws and opposed efforts to weaken parental involvement
^{(John McElhenny, "O'Brien And Romney Spar In Last Debate Before Election," The Associated Press, 10/29/2002)}

He fought to promote abstinence education in public school classrooms with a program offered by faith-based Boston group Healthy Futures to middle school students. Gov. Romney's administration was the first in Massachusetts to use federal abstinence education funds for classroom programs.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Announces Award of Abstinence Education Contract," Press Release, 4/20/2006)}

Governor Romney: "Times of decision are moments of great clarity. Before I was Governor, the life issue was just that, an issue. But when responsibility for life or ending life was placed in my hands, I made the right decision. I chose life."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Remarks At The National Right To Life Convention Forum, Kansas City, MO, 6/15/2007)}

Eight prominent leaders of pro-life and pro-family groups in Massachusetts wrote an open letter on January 11, 2007 praising Gov. Romney for his leadership and accomplishments in these important issues and attesting to his commitment to the pro-life and pro-family causes. (This letter is a MUST READ)

Excerpt:

"Since well before 2003, we have been laboring in the trenches of Massachusetts, fighting for the family values you and we share. It is difficult work indeed – not for the faint of heart. In this challenging environment, Governor Romney has proven that he shares our values, as well as our determination to protect them.

"For four years, Governor Romney has been right there beside us, providing leadership on key issues – whether it was politically expedient to do so or not. He has stood on principle, and we have benefited greatly from having him with us.

"It is clear that Governor Romney has learned much since 1994 – to the benefit of our movement and our Commonwealth. In fact, the entire nation has benefited from his socially conservative, pro-family actions in office. As we explained earlier, his leadership on the marriage issue helped prevent our nation from being plunged into even worse legal turmoil following the court decision that forced “gay marriage” upon our Commonwealth.

"For that our country ought to be thankful. We certainly are.

Massachusetts Citizens for Life gave Governor Romney their 2007 Mullins Award for Outstanding Political Leadership recognizing him for consistently seeking to advance the pro-life cause while in office. The award was presented at the MCFL Mother's Day Pioneer Valley Dinner where Gov. Romney delivered the keynote speech.

Ann Romney serves as co-chairman of the Massachusetts Citizens for Life capital campaign.

Massachusetts Citizens For Life Executive Director Marie Sturgis: "Having Governor Romney in the corner office for the last four years has been one of the strongest assets the pro-life movement has had in Massachusetts."
^{(Kathryn Jean Lopez, "An Early Massachusetts Primary," National Review Online, 1/10/2007)}

Massachusetts Citizens For Life Pioneer Valley Chapter Chairman Kevin Jourdain: "Mitt Romney was a great Governor, who served with honor and distinction. But most importantly, he was a pro-life Governor. He vetoed a number of pro-abortion pieces of legislation and made many pro-life appointments. He was always there for us."
^{(Kevin Jourdain, Remarks at Massachusetts Citizens for Life Mother's Day Pioneer Valley Dinner, Agawam, MA, 5/10/2007)}

Governor Romney has received the important endorsement of James Bopp, Jr., a nationally-known constitutional lawyer, leading advocate for the pro-life movement, and author of the Human Life Amendment for the Republican Party Platform. James Bopp reviewed Romney's record as Governor and questioned him personally before giving Romney his endorsement. Bopp later joined the Romney Presidential campaign as a special adviser on life issues, an unpaid position.

James Bopp Jr. wrote about the record of Governor Romney:

"These actions as governor have lead leaders of the most important social conservative groups in Massachusetts, including Massachusetts Citizens for Life, Massachusetts Family Institute, and the Knights of Columbus, to observe that, while previous comments by Romney “are, taken by themselves, obviously worrisome to social conservatives including ourselves, they do not dovetail with the actions of Governor Romney from 2003 until now — and those actions positively and demonstrably impacted the social climate of Massachusetts.” They conclude that Romney “demonstrat[ed] [his] solid social conservative credentials by undertaking” these actions, and has therefore “proven that he shares our values, as well as our determination to protect them.”
(James Bopp Jr., "The Best Choice Is Also a Good Choice - Why social conservatives should support Mitt Romney for president," National Review Online, 2/21/2007)

Governor Romney believes Roe v. Wade should be overturned as a first step, allowing the States to set abortion policy, as a goal that can be achieved more quickly. For a longer range goal after overturning Roe v. Wade, he supports a Human Life Amendment to the Constitution and endorses legislation to make it clear that the 14th Amendment's protections apply to unborn children.

Romney believes that controversial abortion policy should be decided through the democratic process by citizens in the several states and their elected representatives rather than by federal judicial mandate.

Governor Romney: "I understand that my views on laws governing abortion set me in the minority in our Commonwealth. I am prolife. I believe that abortion is the wrong choice except in cases of incest, rape, and to save the life of the mother. I wish the people of America agreed, and that the laws of our nation could reflect that view. But while the nation remains so divided over abortion, I believe that the states, through the democratic process, should determine their own abortion laws and not have them dictated by judicial mandate."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "Why I vetoed contraception bill," The Boston Globe, 7/26/2005)}

Gov. Romney Praised The U.S. Supreme Court Decision Upholding A Partial-Birth Abortion Ban. "Today, our nation's highest court reaffirmed the value of life in America by upholding a ban on a practice that offends basic human decency. This decision represents a step forward in protecting the weakest and most innocent among us."
^{(Romney for President, "Statement On Supreme Court's Partial Birth Abortion Ruling," Press Release, 4/18/2007)}

Statement from Romney Communications Director Matt Rhoades: "Governor Romney does not believe that abortion legislation should punish women who have abortions. Governor Romney recognizes that we must be sensitive to both lives involved in these situations, the unborn child and the mother. The people who should be held accountable for violations of this nature are the people who perform an illegal abortion, the penalties of which could include anything from disciplinary action to incarceration."
^{(Terence P. Jeffrey, "Romney Open to Incarcerating Abortionists," CNSNews.com, 11/21/2007)}

View video of a portion of a speech delivered by Mitt Romney at the National Review Institute Conservative Summit in which he describes a pivotal event in his life while learning about stem cell research and embryo farming from Harvard research scientists. From a researcher's comment explaining that there wasn't a moral issue at stake in the embryo farming process because the embryos are destroyed after 14 days, Romney was hit hard by the harsh realization that, in his words, "We have so cheapened the value and sanctity of human life in our society that someone could think there is not a moral issue because we kill human embryos at 14 days." Gov. Romney publicly affirmed his pro-life position thereafter.

Governor Romney: "I don't believe that somatic cell nuclear transfer or cloning and embryo farming are appropriate and would not pursue federal funding of those forms of stem cell research."
^{(David A. Lieb, "Romney Wraps Self In Reagan Lingo," The Associated Press, 2/11/2007)}

In August 2006, Gov. Romney imposed a limit on stem cell research, saying that scientists could not use stem cell lines developed in states with less restrictive laws than Massachusetts, which barred the production of embryos for the expressed purpose of scientific exploration. Public health regulators appointed by Romney's successor, Democrat Gov. Deval Patrick, reversed that limit in October, 2007.
^{(Stephen Smith, "Health Council repeals Romney limit on stem cell research," The Boston Globe, 10/11/2007)}

Governor Romney Believes We Can Support Techniques That "Produce The Equivalent Of Embryonic Stem Cells But Without Cloning, Creating, Harming, Or Destroying Developing Human Lives." Governor Romney: "I studied the issue for many months, and entered into conversation with experts from across the nation who were looking for consensus solutions, like Stanford's Dr. William Hurlbut. In the end, I became persuaded that the stem-cell debate was grounded in a false premise, and that the way through it was around it: by the use of scientific techniques that could produce the equivalent of embryonic stem cells but without cloning, creating, harming, or destroying developing human lives."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "A Stem-Cell Solution," National Review Online, 6/15/2007)}

Important Stem-Cell Research Update:

"Ever since the debate of embryo-destructive stem-cell research began in earnest in 1998 when researchers at the University of Wisconsin first isolated human embryonic stem cells, we’ve known that the best overall answer to the ethical impasse would be a solution that both allows the search for stem-cell related cures to go foreword, while doing so without harming or destroying embryonic human life in the process.

"We now have that solution.

"Two major scientific papers published today in Science and Cell offer proof of principle research to show that it is possible to generate patient-matched pluripotent stem cells without human cloning and its attendant moral pitfalls: the need to harvest and use human eggs from female donors and the subsequent destruction of cloned human embryos. Both studies used reprogramming of adult human cells to generate stem cells known as “induced pluripotent state cells” (iPSCs) that have all the properties of human embryonic stem cells.

... "In the highly contentious political battle over federal funding for stem-cell research, one cannot help but note that of all the current presidential candidates, only Governor Mitt Romney embraced an unambiguous and principled stance on the alternatives, incorporating them into his proposed domestic policy."
^{(Father Thomas Berg, "The Future Is Now — Stem-cell debate changes," National Review Online, 11/20/2007)}

Governor Romney On Stem-Cell Research Announcement: "New developments confirm that cutting edge science and ethical principles are not opposed to one another. Scientists have provided a means for producing new cells functionally identical to embryonic stem cells without creating or destroying embryos and without the need to exploit women for their eggs. This is a result the whole public can celebrate. The scientists deserve credit for their genius, but equally, the voices insisting on ethical science and respect for human life provided the incentive for this revolutionary research."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Romney On Stem-Cell Research Announcement," Press Release, 11/21/2007)}

Read more about the contrasts in policy in a Research Briefing: Promoting A Culture Of Life: The Romney Vision Vs. The Democrat Vision

The influence of family members and events in Mitt Romney's life on matters of abortion are worth considering. They illuminate obstacles he surmounted to adopt pro-life beliefs in his private life. Mitt Romney’s mother, Lenore Romney, advocated a pro-choice position in her unsuccessful 1970 run for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, writing in her campaign platform, "I support and recognize the need for more liberal abortion rights while reaffirming the legal and medical measures needed to protect the unborn and pregnant woman [sic]." Mitt Romney revealed in 1994 that his brother-in-law's sister, a close family friend, died after a botched illegal abortion in the 1960s when Mitt would have been in his teens and early 20s.
^{(Stephanie Ebbert, "Romney releases mother's statement on abortion issue," The Boston Globe, 6/28/2005)}

In a February 14, 2007 appearance on ABC's Good Morning America TV show, Ann Romney talked about her personal struggle with multiple sclerosis and offered her perspective on embryonic stem cell research with a powerful, inspiring message opposing medical experimentation that could conceivably relieve her own suffering. Read a thought-provoking commentary by Alliance Defense Fund constitutional lawyer David French on Ann Romney's strength of character in opposing embryonic stem cell research as seen in the ABC Good Morning America segment.

Gov. Romney made a $15,000 contribution in 2006 to the pro-life group Massachusetts Citizens for Life from the Tyler Charitable Foundation, a joint family trust of Mitt and Ann Romney. They also donated $10,000 to the Massachusetts Family Institute during the same time period.

The Tyler Charitable Foundation has donated more than $2.9 million to more than 40 health care groups, schools, and other charitable organizations since 1999.

Judicial Appointments
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#judicial

When asked to describe the type of justices he would appoint to the federal bench if elected President, Romney responded:

Governor Romney: "I think the justices that President Bush has appointed are exactly spot-on. I think Justice Roberts and Justice Alito are exactly the kind of justices America needs. They’re people who believe that the Constitution is what they’re to follow, not what they’re to depart from; people who do not believe that legislation from the bench is the responsibility or authority of being on the bench. I respect legal scholars of all backgrounds, but those who are going to be on the bench, if I were lucky enough to appoint them, would be people who believe their job is to follow the law and follow the Constitution."
^{(Robert B. Bluey, "Romney on Judges: Follow Bush's Lead," RedState Blog, 2/02/2007)}

Governor Romney: "There's a lot more to being pro-life beyond appointing conservative justices. That, I will do. I like (Supreme Court Chief Justice John) Roberts and (Justice Samuel) Alito, I like (Justice Clarence) Thomas and (Justice Antonin) Scalia. I like that kind of thinking on the bench, and that's the kind of justice I will appoint. You also have decisions as an administration on things like abstinence education, on the morning-after pill, on teaching kids to wait before they have babies, on insisting on parental responsibility for a father who has an out-of-wedlock child. These policies are also important, and will become a major part of my effort to encourage a culture of life rather than the culture of death."
^{(Jonathan Martin, "Romney jabs Giuliani on abortion," Politico.com, 4/25/2007)}

Governor Romney: "As President, I intend to nominate judges who respect the separation of powers, are committed to judicial restraint, and have a genuine appreciation of the text, structure, and history of our Constitution. The judges I nominate will recognize, as I do, that as Justice Scalia once said, the Court ought not take the field as some kind of ‘junior-varsity Congress.’ That would wrongly displace the first-string legislature, drawn from our deepest pool of talent – ‘we, the people.’"
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney On The Beginning Of The U.S. Supreme Court Term," Press Release, 10/01/2007)}

Video: Gov. Romney talks about judges and legislation on life issues, Fox News, Hannity & Colmes, 3/12/2007

Didn't Gov. Romney appoint more Democrat judges to the bench than Republicans, including two gay activists?

Gov. Romney nominated 9 registered Republicans, 13 unenrolled voters, and 14 registered Democrats to fill a total of 36 district court and clerk magistrate positions in the criminal courts of Massachusetts. The positions filled were not in courts that ruled on issues of constitutional law such as those that dominate the federal judicial debate. State court judges at this level have absolutely no influence over abortion rights. Abortion is primarily a matter of federal, not state constitutional law.

The Boston Globe reported in an article on July 25, 2005 that, "Romney said he had not paid a moment's notice to his nominees' political leanings or sexual orientation, or to the impact his choices might have on a future presidential run. He said he had focused on two factors: their legal experience and whether the nominees would be tough on crime. He said most of the nominees had prosecutorial experience."

“People on both sides of the aisle want to put the bad guys away. With regards to those at the district court and clerk magistrate level, their political views aren't really going to come into play unless their views indicate they will be soft on crime, because in that case, apply elsewhere,” Romney said." ...

"The governor said that, so far, he has had few chances to appoint judges to the highest state courts, where his criteria would change to include "strict construction, judicial philosophy." ...

"Some of Romney's nominees do have stellar Republican or conservative bona fides. For example, Romney's pick for Peabody clerk magistrate, Kevin L. Finnegan, is a former two-term Republican state representative. Another choice was Bruce R. Henry, the son-in-law of former SJC Justice Joseph Nolan — whom Romney wanted to represent his administration in seeking a stay of the court's gay marriage ruling."
^{(Raphael Lewis, "Romney jurist picks not tilted to GOP," The Boston Globe, 7/25/2005)}

"Romney also sanitized the judicial selection process, requiring the nominating panel to conduct an initial blind review of candidates without knowing their names, gender, or references. 'The review process was completely apolitical,' said Ralph C. Martin II, who chaired the Judicial Nominating Commission for half of Romney's term."
^{(Brian Mooney, "Taking office, remaining an outsider," The Boston Globe, 6/29/2007)}

Nominations for judicial appointments arrived on Gov. Romney's desk from the Judicial Nominating Commission without the nominee's name attached. The nominees were interviewed by Gov. Romney. If he found the candidate's crime-fighting record and credentials acceptable, the nomination was forwarded to the eight-member Governor's Council for final review and approval.

Regarding the relative number of Republicans, Independents, and Democrats among the judicial nominees by Romney, it is very important to consider that every one of Governor Romney's judicial nominees had to be approved by the Governor's Council in Massachusetts. The Governor's Council is a popularly-elected board that was dominated by Democrats in all eight voting positions on the Council during Romney's term in office. Lt. Gov. Healey, who served ex officio as chair of the Governor's Council, was the only Republican but had no vote.

David French, a Harvard graduate and leading constitutional lawyer working for the conservative, non-profit Alliance Defense Fund wrote:

“Imagine a situation where the President of the United States had to run all of his judicial nominees by a Senate that contained 85% Democrats — most of them of the radical sort. That would change the picture a bit, wouldn't it? I think the best way to think of Governor Romney's track record in nominating judges is that he did the best that he could have done.”
^{(David French, "A Comment from a Romney Opponent (or a ‘Pre-supporter?’)," EvangelicalsForMitt.org, 1/05/2007)}

Homosexual Rights
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#gayrights

Mitt Romney has always opposed same-sex marriage. He diligently lobbied Congress in favor of a Federal Marriage Amendment (FMA) to the U.S. Constitution defining marriage to be between one man and one woman. Romney testified before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on the Federal Marriage Amendment, and sent a letter to all 100 U.S. Senators on June 2, 2006 asking them to vote for the Amendment. John McCain and Rudy Giuliani oppose the FMA.

Institute For Marriage and Public Policy President Maggie Gallagher, writing for National Review Online, wrote that the Governor's testimony on the issue before the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee was "the single most eloquent and articulate defense of our traditional understanding of marriage I have heard from an American politician."
^{(Maggie Gallagher, "In Defense Of The Family," National Review Online, 6/25/2004)}

Governor Romney: "Some argue that our principles of federalism and local control require us to leave the issue of same sex marriage to the states—which means, as a practical matter, to state courts. Such an argument denies the realities of modern life and would create a chaotic patchwork of inconsistent laws throughout the country. Marriage is not just an activity or practice which is confined to the border of any one state. It is a status that is carried from state to state. Because of this, and because Americans conduct their financial and legal lives in a united country bound by interstate institutions, a national definition of marriage is necessary."
^{("The Importance of Protecting Marriage", Letter from Gov. Romney to U.S. Senators, 6/02/2006)}

Governor Romney: "A lot of people get confused that gay marriage is about treating gay people the same as treating heterosexual people, and that's not the issue involved here."

"This is about the development and nurturing of children. Marriage is primarily an institution to help develop children, and children's development, I believe, is greatly enhanced by access to a mom and a dad."

"I think every child deserves a mom and a dad, and that's why I'm so consistent and vehement in my view that we should have a federal amendment which defines marriage in that way."
^{(George Stephanopoulos, "Mitt Romney: The Complete Interview," ABC News This Week, 2/18/2007) • (Mitt TV Clip)}

Governor Romney: "I oppose discrimination against gay people. I am not anti-gay. I know there are some Republicans, or some people in the country who are looking for someone who is anti-gay and that's not me."
^{(Brendan Farrington, "Romney: I am not anti-gay," The Associated Press, 5/24/2007)}

When the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruling in the case of Goodridge v. Department of Public Health legalized same-sex marriage in Massachusetts, Gov. Romney identified and enforced a little-known 1913 state law that forbids nonresidents from marrying in Massachusetts if their marriage would not be recognized in their home state. This prevented gay couples living outside Massachusetts from flocking to MA to be married and then returning to their home states to demand the marriages be recognized, thus opening the door for nationwide same-sex marriage. Implementation of the 1913 law was contested in court by same-sex couples from outside MA, but the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court ruled in March, 2006 to uphold the application of the law.
^{(Jay Lindsay, "Mass. high court says nonresident gays cannot marry in state," The Associated Press, 3/30/2006)}

Gov. Romney provided active support for a citizen petition drive in 2005 that collected 170,000 signatures for a state constitutional amendment protecting marriage, breaking a 20-year-old record for the most certified signatures ever gathered in support of a proposed ballot question. He rallied citizens to place pressure on the Legislature for failing, through repeated delays, to fulfill their constitutional obligation to vote on placing the marriage amendment on the ballot. Gov. Romney filed suit in the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) asking the court to clarify the legislators’ duty to vote on the issue of the amendment, or place the amendment on the ballot if the Legislature failed to act. The SJC declared that legislators had a constitutional duty to vote on the petition in a ruling handed down on Dec. 27, 2006. The suit was successful in pressuring the Legislature to vote on the issue of the amendment. A vote was taken on January 2, 2007 and the measure passed. Through Governor Romney’s considerable efforts and leadership, a state constitutional amendment defining marriage to be between one man and one woman passed a critical hurdle to get it placed on the 2008 ballot where voters in Massachusetts would have the power to restore traditional marriage in their state.

Update: Democrat Governor Deval Patrick, a proponent of gay marriage, lobbied Massachusetts lawmakers to kill the proposed constitutional amendment. In a vote of the MA Legislature on June 14, 2007 the amendment received 45 votes, failing to get the required 50 votes necessary to place the amendment on the 2008 ballot. The measure needed 50 votes in two consecutive legislative sessions to advance to the ballot, and it had passed with 62 votes at the end of the last session in January. Commenting on the latest vote, former Gov. Mitt Romney said, "Today's vote by the State Legislature is a regrettable setback in our efforts to defend traditional marriage. Unfortunately, our elected representatives decided that the voice of the people did not need to be heard in this debate. It is now even more important that we pass a Constitutional amendment protecting traditional marriage. Marriage is an institution that goes to the heart of our society, and our leaders can no longer abdicate their responsibility."
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "No Gay Marriage Vote for Massachusetts," The Associated Press, 6/14/2007)}

Governor Mitt Romney issued the following statement on the court decision issued August 30, 2007 striking down Iowa's Defense of Marriage Act:

"The ruling in Iowa today is another example of an activist court and unelected judges trying to redefine marriage and disregard the will of the people as expressed through Iowa's Defense of Marriage Act. This once again highlights the need for a Federal Marriage Amendment to protect the traditional definition of marriage as between one man and one woman."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney On Iowa's Defense Of Marriage Act," Press Release, 8/30/2007)}

Mitt Romney does not favor action at the national level to sanction civil unions and would leave it to the several states to define the permissible contractual relationships between two people. Romney would not seek to impose, at the national level, a prohibition on contractual relationships between two people.
^{(George Stephanopoulos, "Mitt Romney: The Complete Interview," ABC News This Week, 2/18/2007)}

Governor Romney strongly defended the right of Catholic Charities in Massachusetts to deny placing adoptive children in the homes of gay couples; saying it was unjust to require a religious agency to violate the tenets of its faith in order to satisfy a special-interest group. Romney filed "An Act Protecting Religious Freedom" in the Legislature, a bill to exempt Catholic Charities of Boston and other religious groups from the state anti-discrimination law.
^{(Brooke Donald, "Romney files 'religious freedom' bill on church and gay adoption," The Associated Press, 3/15/2006)}

Mitt Romney served on the Boy Scouts of America’s National Executive Board from 1993 to 2002. Whereas Romney believes sexual orientation should not preclude joining the Boy Scouts, he supports the right of local Councils of the Boy Scouts of America to decide and enforce their policy regarding homosexuals in their organization and leadership.

Governor Romney responded to a question about the Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and gays in the military during an NRO interview with Kathryn Jean Lopez in December, 2006:

Lopez: And what about the 1994 letter to the Log Cabin Republicans where you indicated you would support the Federal Employment Non-Discrimination Act (ENDA) and seemed open to changing the "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy in the military? Are those your positions today?

Gov. Romney: "No. I don’t see the need for new or special legislation. My experience over the past several years as governor has convinced me that ENDA would be an overly broad law that would open a litigation floodgate and unfairly penalize employers at the hands of activist judges."

"As for military policy and the "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy, I trust the counsel of those in uniform who have set these policies over a dozen years ago. I agree with President Bush’s decision to maintain this policy and I would do the same."
^{(Kathryn Jean Lopez, "A Primary Factor," National Review Online, 12/14/2006)}

Immigration
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#immigration

Governor Romney proposes an Immigration Plan with the following features:

• Secure The Border. Governor Romney will follow through on the Congressional commitment to build a physical and technological fence along the southern border, and secure other points of entry throughout the country. He will also increase border control enforcement and resources.

— Governor Romney: “You’ve got to have a wall or fence or electronic surveillance. You have got to make sure we secure our border, that’s first.”
^{(Fox News’ “The O’Reilly Factor,” 9/19/2006)}

• Implement An Enforceable Employer Verification System. Issue a biometrically-enabled and tamperproof card to non-citizens and create a national database for non-citizens so employers can easily verify their legal status in this country.

• Hold Employers Accountable. Governor Romney will make it easier for employers to verify legal and work authorization status of non-citizens through a federal database. Employers will be held accountable if they hire illegal immigrants with stiffer fines and penalties.

• Reject Amnesty. No special path to citizenship or permanent residency for those here illegally. People in the country illegally should not get any benefit by being here and should go to the back of the line behind all those who have applied for citizenship. They should return to their home countries under a reasonable attrition program and be replaced in the work force with U.S. citizens and legal immigrants. Gov. Romney opposed each version of the McCain-Kennedy legislation as the wrong approach and a form of amnesty. Amnesty did not work 20 years ago, and it will not work today.

For the 12+ million illegal aliens in the country now, Romney favors immediate deportation of convicted criminal illegal aliens and deportation of illegal aliens who refuse to get off public welfare assistance. For the remaining illegal aliens already in the country, Romney could support offering a temporary work visa, with biometric identification data, to facilitate reasonable attrition in returning the illegal aliens to their home countries. The temporary work visa would be required to remain in the country and employed for a reasonable grace period in order for illegal immigrants to arrange their affairs before exiting the country, and the visa would not be renewable. The illegal aliens who decide to stay and apply for the temporary visa must return to their home country after the term of the temporary visa expires (for example, 6 months). They would be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship from their home country and would enter the process at the back of the line behind all other current applicants.

• End The Magnet Of "Sanctuary Cities." Cut back federal funding to cities that are “sanctuaries” for illegal immigrants and refuse to comply with federal law or aid federal law enforcement. Sanctuary cities tell those who are here illegally that the laws of this country do not matter and become magnets for illegal immigration.
^{(Read more in Romney Record: Governor Romney On Ending Sanctuary City Policies)}

• Oppose Any Special Benefits For Illegal Immigrants. Governor Romney opposes giving driver's licenses or in-state tuition to those here illegally. He believes states should not provide those types of incentives. As President, he will cut back federal funding to states that do so.

• Promote State And Local Partnerships With Federal Immigration Officials. Governor Romney believes more state and local authorities should work with the federal government to enforce immigration laws. This builds off of his experience in Massachusetts where he deputized the State Police to work with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and enforce federal immigration laws.

• Improve Interior Enforcement. Provide resources to enforce immigration laws throughout the nation, and crackdown on employers who continue to hire illegals with stiffer fines and penalties.

• Teach English In Our Schools. Governor Romney believes we must teach English in our classrooms because to be successful you have to speak the language of America.

• End Chain Migration. Governor Romney believes we should end the policy of chain migration that says if a child is born here to illegal immigrants then, by right, the entire family is brought in based upon that child's citizenship. As a nation we can limit family sponsorships while at the same time promote legitimate family reunification.

• Encourage Legal Immigration. Streamline the system to recruit and retain skilled workers and welcome the best and the brightest from around the world to our universities.

Governor Romney (on H1B visas): "I like H1B visas. I like the idea of the best and brightest in the world coming here. I’d rather have them come here permanently rather than come and go, but I believe our visa program is designed to help us solve gaps in our employment pool. Where there are individuals who have skills that we do not have in abundance here, I’d like to bring them here and contribute to our economy. Ultimately we’re in a competitive battle with the rest of the world; a battle where we need to stay the most powerful nation in the world. And the only way our nation stays ahead forever is with superior technology and innovation. And if we need additional folks who have skills that can contribute to our country then by all means lets welcome them in and if we see that our kids are not competing in certain areas lets help our kids understand what they need to become competitive.

"I would like to see us increase the number of people who receive an H1B visa and can provide skills and experience that we may not have. As to the exact number in my view that would follow a review of a number of things. Number 1: What’s the overall economy doing? What’s happening to the size of our workforce. Number 2: What’s happening to our own capacity in the jobs that are being requested. Number 3: What are the demands from our employers? How many additional folks do they need? You’d have to do an assessment of that on a regular basis, but my overall view is we need more H1B visas, not less."
^{(Michael Arrington, "Interview With Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney On Technology Issues," TechCrunch, 11/01/2007)}

Watch a video clip of Mitt Romney discussing his immigration plans during a townhall meeting in New Hampshire.

Governor Romney Says Cities That Do Not Enforce Federal Immigration Laws Should Not Receive Federal Funds. Governor Romney: "When I hear that there are cities that say 'Hey guess what? We're going to become sanctuary cities for illegal aliens. We're going to instruct our city workers that they're not going to be notifying the federal government of people who are here illegally' and then those same cities ask for millions, if not billions of dollars from the Federal Government. It's like wait a second, we're not going to send you all of the money that you want if you are not going to be willing to enforce and live by the laws of the government."
^{(WRKO's "Howie Carr Show," 8/03/2007)}

Governor Romney (on chain migration): "My view is that we should not have a policy in our immigration structure that says that if a child is born here to illegal immigrants then, by right, the entire family is brought in based upon that child’s citizenship. That does not require a change in law either constitutionally or through other means and can be adopted through policy."
^{(Teddy Davis, "Romney Eyeing End to Birthright Citizenship," ABC News, 7/22/2007)}

Governor Romney (on North American Union): "I think the idea has no merit whatsoever, and if I’m President we will not, in any way, release our sovereignty or diminish it; either by eliminating borders or checkpoints, or by building a superhighway, or entering into treaties like the Law of the Sea treaty that removes some of the most important elements of our sovereignty. This idea has no merit at all. The right way for America to become stronger is not to try and attach some other nation to us or get cheap labor from next door. It’s instead to strengthen our own nation, invest in technology, in productivity."
^{(Glenn Beck Headline News, "Mitt Romney Interview," CNN, 11/14/2007)}

Governor Romney strongly opposes the McCain-Kennedy approach to immigration reform or other amnesty measures offering benefits to those in the country illegally.

Governor Romney: "I strongly oppose today's bill going through the Senate. It is the wrong approach. Any legislation that allows illegal immigrants to stay in the country indefinitely, as the new 'Z-Visa' does, is a form of amnesty. That is unfair to the millions of people who have applied to legally immigrate to the U.S."

"Today's Senate agreement falls short of the actions needed to both solve our country's illegal immigration problem and also strengthen our legal immigration system. Border security and a reliable employment verification system must be our first priority."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney On The Senate Immigration Agreement," Press Release, 5/17/2007)}

Governor Romney: "McCain-Kennedy isn't the answer. As governor, I took a very different approach. I authorized our state police to enforce immigration laws. I vetoed a tuition break for illegals and said no to driver's licenses. McCain-Kennedy gives benefits to illegals that would cost taxpayers millions. And more importantly, amnesty didn't work 20 years ago, and it won't work today."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Remarks at 2007 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Washington, D.C., 3/02/2007)}

Governor Romney: "The immigration bill failed because the politicians in Washington are out of touch with the American people. The voice of the people is loud and clear - secure the border, enforce the law and no special deal for permanent residency or citizenship for illegals. America will always welcome legal immigration, but as a nation we also insist on the rule of law."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Romney On Today's Senate Immigration Vote," Press Release, 6/28/2007)}

Governor Romney: "I’m against an amnesty and against anything that provides an incentive for people to come here illegally."
^{(John J. Miller, "Matinee Mitt," National Review cover story, 6/20/2005)}

Governor Romney: "I don't think there should be a pathway to citizenship for people who are here illegally."
^{(Maggie O'Brien, "Romney: Reform immigration, allow students to stay," The Des Moines Register, 3/23/2007)}

Governor Romney: "Immigration has been an important part of our nation's success. The current system, however, puts up a concrete wall to the best and brightest, yet those without skill or education are able to walk across the border. We must reform the current immigration laws so we can secure our borders, implement a mandatory biometrically enabled, tamper proof documentation and employment verification system, and increase legal immigration into America."
^{(David Yepsen, Op-Ed, "So Far, Romney’s Been Most Impressive Republican," Des Moines Register, 7/11/2006)}

Governor Romney: "We need to make America more attractive for legal immigrants — for citizens — and less attractive for illegal immigrants. I want to see more immigration in our country, but more legal immigration and less illegal immigration."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, The Associated Press, 6/23/2006)}

Governor Romney opposed efforts to give driver's licenses to illegal aliens. "Those who are here illegally should not receive tacit support from our government that gives an indication of legitimacy," the governor said, echoing arguments that opponents have voiced in the Commonwealth and in other states considering similar license measures. "If they are here illegally, they should not get driver's licenses," he said.
^{(Scott S. Greenberger, "Romney Stand Dims Chances Of License For Undocumented," The Boston Globe, 10/28/2003)}

Governor Romney vetoed an outside section of the 2005 state budget that would have permitted illegal aliens to pay the same in-state tuition rate paid by Massachusetts citizens at state public colleges and universities.
^{(Office Of The Governor, "Romney Signs $22.402B Fiscal Year 2005 'No New Tax' Budget," Press Release, 6/25/2004)}

— Governor Romney: In-State Tuition For Illegal Immigrants "Would Be A Mistake" Conflicting With Federal Law. "Mr. Romney said he was not prepared to provide 'special benefits' to illegal immigrants in the state. 'Our desire is to help legal immigrants,' he said. 'I do not believe that, out of respect for the law, that we can provide special benefits to illegal immigrants. We have a responsibility to uphold the law, and providing special benefits to those who are here in contravention of the national law, in my view, would be a mistake.'"
^{(John J. Monahan, "Immigrant Tuition Bill Defeated," Telegram & Gazette, 1/12/2006)}

In June 2006, Governor Romney Announced That He Would Seek A 287g Agreement With The Federal Government. "Days after Attorney General Tom Reilly reaffirmed his promise not to hunt down companies that hire illegal immigrants, Gov. Mitt Romney has decided to take matters into his own hands. Romney, who is considering a run for president in 2008, has asked his legal counsel to explore the possibility of entering into an agreement with the federal government that would authorize state troopers to arrest illegal immigrants, said spokesman Eric Fehrnstrom yesterday."
(Rebecca Fater, "Romney: State Troopers Should Have Power To Arrest Illegal Immigrants," Lowell Sun, 6/22/2006) • (Yvonne Abraham and Scott Helman, "Troopers would arrest immigrants," The Boston Globe, 6/21/2006)

Romney signed a Memorandum Of Agreement with the federal government allowing Massachusetts State Troopers to investigate immigration status and enforce federal immigration laws. The agreement included authority to arrest illegal aliens encountered during the normal course of their duties.
(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Romney, ICE Sign Immigration Enforcement Pact," Press Release, 12/13/2006) • (Video: Maricopa County Sheriff Arpaio debates LULAC spokesman about MA pact with ICE)

In June 2002, Mitt Romney said “The approach of English Immersion is one that I support. … I would make English Immersion the educational norm for all non-native english speakers.”
^{(John McElhenny, “Mitt Romney Endorses ‘English Immersion’ Education Plan,” The Associated Press, 6/04/2002)}

Governor Romney fought efforts to weaken Massachusetts' English Immersion Law. "But yesterday, Romney press secretary Shawn Feddeman said the governor will fight all attempts to slow the implementation of English immersion, known on the ballot as Question 2. … He will veto anything that weakens or delays English immersion, Feddeman said."
^{(Anand Vaishnav, "Romney Firm On English Timetable," The Boston Globe, 1/24/2003)}

In 2003, Governor Romney Line-Item Vetoed A Provision That Would Have Created "A Major Loophole" In Massachusetts' English Immersion Law. "Specific vetoes include language that would have: ... Changed the English immersion ballot initiative to permit 'two-way' bilingual programs, creating a major loophole in the new law."
^{(Office Of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs No New Tax Budget In Time For New Fiscal Year," Press Release, 6/30/2003)}

Governor Romney increased funding by nearly 30% ($8 million) in Fiscal Year 2006 for English as a Second Language, adult literacy and adult secondary education for legal immigrants residing in Massachusetts. The increase enabled statewide adult basic education programs to accommodate approximately 4,000 more students each year.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Expands Adult Basic Education for Immigrants," Press Release, 1/28/2005)}

U.S. Congressman Tom Tancredo (R-CO): "While several of the candidates appear to be committed to our cause [immigration reform], there are others whose records as public servants are abysmal on this issue. They have been on the other side of the battle for years and encouraging and even inviting, in a way, illegal immigrants into the country. I fear that remaining in this race, when I know I cannot win, could contribute to the nomination of one of those candidates. We have done too much. We have come too far. The stakes are way too high for me to allow that to happen. And so today I’m doing two things that I believe are in the best interests of this cause, and that cause is, of course, a secure America. I am withdrawing from the race and I’m endorsing Governor Romney for president of the United States."
^{(Video: Rep. Tancredo describes in detail why he endorses Governor Mitt Romney for President)}

Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio was named as Honorary Chair for the Romney for President campaign in Arizona. Sheriff Arpaio, better known as "America’s Toughest Sheriff", has gained a nationwide reputation for his tough stance on crime, illegal immigration and border security in the nation's fourth largest county.

"I like him," Arpaio said of Mitt Romney. "He's a man of principle, of good character. He did a great job in Massachusetts and I feel he's going to make a great president."

"I'm sure the governor believes in my philosophy too," Arpaio said. "He sure would not be asking for my endorsement if he didn't believe in what I'm doing."
^{(Sara Bonisteel, "Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio Tells FOX News Why Mitt Romney Picked Him for Presidential Campaign," Fox News, 2/28/2007)}

Video: Sheriff Arpaio Explains Why He Endorses Mitt Romney For President, Fox News
Video: Neil Cavuto Interviews Sheriff Arpaio About Mitt Romney Endorsement, Fox News (McCain, Giuliani, Hunter, and Tancredo mentioned)

Government Spending and Taxes
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#spending

Governor Mitt Romney inherited a $3 billion budget deficit in Massachusetts upon taking office in 2003 and the state was losing thousands of jobs every month. Over the course of his administration, without raising taxes or increasing debt, Gov. Romney balanced the state budget each year working with a 85% majority Democrat Legislature. He erased the deficit by emphasizing cuts in wasteful spending and government jobs and enacting economic reforms to spur growth.

Massachusetts had a $1 billion budget surplus by 2005 and the state's rainy-day fund grew to $2 billion by the end of Gov. Romney's term.

Massachusetts added 57,600 payroll jobs from the time the recession ended in December 2003 until the end of Governor Romney's term. The unemployment rate in Massachusetts was averaging more than a full percentage point lower when he left office in 2007.
(Massachusetts Department Of Workforce Development, "Jobs In Massachusetts Up By 1,700 In December," Press Release, 1/18/2007) • (Mitt TV Clip)

In the four balanced budgets he signed into law, Governor Romney used the line-item veto or program reduction power to cut spending by nearly $1 Billion. Over the course of four budgets, Governor Romney made over 300 line-item reductions, 350 line-item eliminations and struck language 150 times. In total, Gov. Romney issued 844 vetoes during his administration. Read more about Governor Romney's Top Ten Line-Item Vetoes.
(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney signs no new tax budget in time for new fiscal year," Press Release, 6/30/2003) • (Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney signs $22.402b fiscal year 2005 'no new tax' budget," Press Release, 6/25/2004) • (Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Romney signs into law $23.8 billion budget for fiscal year '06," Press Release, 6/30/2005) • (Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Romney signs $25.2 billion fiscal year 2007 state budget," Press Release, 7/08/2006)

Club For Growth: Governor Romney "Imposed Some Much-Needed Fiscal Discipline On A Very Liberal Massachusetts Legislature." "[O]n balance, he imposed some much-needed fiscal discipline on a very liberal Massachusetts Legislature."
^{(The Club For Growth, "Mitt Romney's Record On Economic Issues," Press Release, 8/21/2007)}

Club For Growth: To Close The Budget Gap, Governor Romney Forced The Legislature To Pass "Tremendous Spending Cuts." "Governor Romney receives credit for actual spending in FY 2003, even though he entered office halfway into the fiscal year, because of the tremendous spending cuts he forced down the Legislature's throat in January of 2003. Facing a $650 million deficit he inherited from the previous administration, Romney convinced the unfriendly State Legislature to grant him unilateral power to make budget cuts and unveiled $343 million in cuts to cities, health care, and state agencies. This fiscal discipline continued in 2004, in which Romney continued to slash 'nearly every part of state government' to close a $3 billion deficit."
^{(The Club For Growth, "Mitt Romney's Record On Economic Issues," Press Release, 8/21/2007)}

Club For Growth: Governor Romney "Attempted To Cut Down On Government Spending By Streamlining Many Duplicative And Wasteful Elements On Beacon Hill." "To his credit, Romney attempted to cut down on government spending by streamlining many duplicative and wasteful elements of Beacon Hill. ... Governor Romney successfully consolidated the social service and public health bureaucracy and restructured the Metropolitan District Commission. Romney even eliminated half of the executive branch's press positions, saving $1.2 million."
^{(The Club For Growth, "Mitt Romney's Record On Economic Issues," Press Release, 8/21/2007)}

Fees Only Accounted For A Small Percent Of The Closure Of The Nearly $3 Billion Budget Gap. "Romney campaign spokesman Eric Fehrnstrom said some of the fees that kicked in during Romney's first year had been approved before he became governor. ... 'When Governor Romney took office, he faced a $3 billion deficit,' Fehrnstrom said. 'He balanced the budget primarily through spending cuts and reforms. Fee increases [$260 million] accounted for approximately 10 percent of the solution, and they were not broad-based by any means.'"
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "Romney Oversaw Millions In Fee Hikes As Massachusetts Governor," The Associated Press, 8/28/2007)}

Governor Romney: "Well, they call one a fee and one a tax for a reason. The reason is because with the fee, it is applied directly to people who get a particular service. It's not a service that you have to have, but a service that you'd like to have. And so we did not raise fees on things like car registration or driver's licenses because pretty much everybody has to have that. But some of our fees... for instance, there's a fee for putting a billboard announcing where a McDonalds or Burger King is on the interstate. Those fees haven't been raised in sometimes many, many years, and so we raised them in order to keep up with inflation or to keep up with the cost of providing the service. But I readily acknowledge that we have a $3 billion budget gap. Our fee increases accounted for about $260 million of additional revenue, and that was helpful for us. We didn't raise them except our first year, but it was a source of revenue, and it brought in line the fee that we charge for certain services. And some cases, the cost of providing it."
^{(Linda Douglass Q&A with Gov. Romney, "Romney On Iran, Bush's Leadership & More," National Journal On Air, 9/28/2007)}

Careful examination of the complete story of Mitt Romney’s record in managing the state budget of Massachusetts leads an honest reviewer to the conclusion that his term as Governor was a remarkable success story of fiscal conservatism in government.
^{(Scott S. Greenberger, "Romney often casts himself as budget hero," The Boston Globe, 10/24/2005)}

From 2003-2005 Massachusetts Led All New England States In Economic Growth. "Massachusetts' economic growth accelerated 2.9 percent last year, best in New England..."
^{(Robert Gavin, "Mass. Economy Grew 2.9% In '06, Best In New England," The Boston Globe, 6/08/2007)}

During Governor Romney's Term, Massachusetts Per Capita Personal Income Grew By 14%, Outpacing Per Capita Personal Income Growth For The Entire United States. In 2003, Massachusetts per capita personal income was $39,442 and rose to $45,877 in 2006.
^{(U.S. Department Of Commerce, Bureau Of Economic Analysis, "State Annual Personal Income," www.bea.gov, Accessed: 7/29/2007)}

In 2005, Massachusetts Had A Per Capita Personal Income (PCPI) Of $43,501. This PCPI Ranked 3rd In The United States And Was 126 Percent Of The National Average, $34,471.
^{(U.S. Department Of Commerce, Bureau Of Economic Analysis, "State BEARFACTS 1995 – 2005: Massachusetts," www.bea.gov, Accessed: 7/29/2007)}

The Boston Globe: "Romney's Policies Are Credited With Improving The State's Competitiveness." "Nonetheless, Romney's policies are credited with improving the state's competitiveness. His administration promoted high-density development to increase housing production, got a fast-track permitting law enacted by the Legislature to help businesses expand, and revived an agency to help firms move to the state."
^{(Brian C. Mooney, Stephanie Ebbert and Scott Helman, "Ambitious Goals; Shifting Stances," The Boston Globe, 6/30/2007)}

— The Club For Growth: "As Massachusetts Governor, Mitt Romney's record on economic issues was generally good. He demonstrated a willingness to take on his Legislature and deserves credit for the many pro-growth measures he advocated and the modest reforms he was able to achieve."
^{(The Club For Growth, "Mitt Romney's Record On Economic Issues," Press Release, 8/21/2007)}

In Three Years, The Number Of Companies In The State's Development Pipeline Went From 13 To 288. "Under Ranch C. Kimball, who became Romney's secretary of economic development in 2004, the number of companies in the Massachusetts development pipeline jumped from 13 to 288 in three years."
^{(Brian C. Mooney, Stephanie Ebbert and Scott Helman, "Ambitious Goals; Shifting Stances," The Boston Globe, 6/30/2007)}

— The Boston Globe: "Last year, Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. chose an 89-acre site at the former Fort Devens over one in North Carolina for a $660 million complex that will create 550 jobs. The deal required a customized tax credit, a $34 million infrastructure bond, and an unusual show of teamwork by Romney and the Legislature."
^{(Brian C. Mooney, Stephanie Ebbert and Scott Helman, "Ambitious Goals; Shifting Stances," The Boston Globe, 6/30/2007)}

Gov. Romney sought to cut the state income tax from 5.3% to 5% in the annual budget he submitted in each of his last three years in office.
(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Amid Record Revenues, Romney and Healey Renew Call for Tax Cut," Press Release, 5/02/2006) • (Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Calls for Tax Cut as Revenues Come Flooding In," Press Release, 10/03/2005) • (Scott Greenberger, "Romney Seeks Mass. Income Tax Cut, Cites Economic Resurgence," The Boston Globe, 5/04/2004)

— Massachusetts Citizens For Limited Taxation Executive Director Barbara Anderson: "There was no one else out on the horizon and with the legislature almost entirely Democratic, we felt it was necessary to have a grown-up in the corner office. ... And we were right to back him. He's been a really good friend to the taxpayers."
^{(Shawn Macomber, "Mighty Mitt Romney," The American Spectator, March 2006)}

Romney Record On Cutting Taxes In Massachusetts

CAPITAL GAINS TAXES: Governor Romney was instrumental in passing a bill abolishing a retroactive capital gains tax in the state that would have forced nearly 50,000 taxpayers to pay an additional $250 million in state taxes and fees. In addition, the new law authorized tax refunds totaling between $225 million and $275 million over four years to an estimated 157,000 taxpayers who had already paid portions of the retroactive tax.
(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Bill Abolishing Retroactive Tax," Press Release, 12/08/2005) • Video: On Fighting for Lower Taxes (a MUST SEE, learn about the clever political tactic Gov. Romney employed to get citizens involved and on his side for tax relief)

INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT: Governor Romney Signed An Economic Stimulus Package Making The 3% Investment Tax Credit (ITC) Permanent.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Economic Stimulus, Supplemental Budget Bills," Press Release, 11/26/2003)}

BIOTECH MANUFACTURING JOBS TAX REBATE: Governor Romney Proposed And Enacted A Tax Rebate For Manufacturing Jobs Created In The Biotechnology, Life Sciences And Medical Device Fields.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Economic Stimulus, Supplemental Budget Bills," Press Release, 11/26/2003)}

2004 SALES TAX HOLIDAY: Governor Romney Enacted The State's First-Ever Sales Tax Holiday In 2004
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Promotes Tax-Free Shopping Day On Saturday," Press Release, 8/11/2004)}

2005 SALES TAX HOLIDAY: Governor Romney Enacted A Second Sales Tax Holiday
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney, Dimasi, Hart Promote Tax-Free Shopping Weekend," Press Release, 8/11/2005)}

PROPERTY TAX RELIEF: Governor Romney Proposed And Signed Legislation Providing Property Tax Relief To Senior Citizens, Enabling Them To Keep Their Homes.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Bill to Give Seniors Tax Relief," Press Release, 11/20/2005)}

VETERANS TAX RELIEF: Governor Romney Signed Legislation Providing Disabled Massachusetts Veterans With Extensive Tax Exemptions.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Expands Tax Benefits for Disabled Veterans," Press Release, 8/14/2006)}

COMMUTER TAX RELIEF: Governor Romney Signed Legislation Allowing Commuters To Deduct Transportation Costs From Their Income Taxes. The legislation allowed commuters who spend more than $150 a year on tolls or MBTA passes to deduct up to $750 a year in commuting expenses from their state income taxes. Joint filers could claim up to $1,500.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Romney Signs $25.2 Billion FY 2007 State Budget," Press Release, 7/08/2006)}

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT TAX CREDIT: Governor Romney Proposed And Enacted An Expansion Of The Research And Development Tax Credit
^{(Jay Fitzgerald, "Gov Nearly Halves Package; Rebellious Legislators Vow To Override Stimulus Vetoes," The Boston Herald, 11/27/2003)}

LOW-INCOME HOUSING TAX CREDIT: Governor Romney Extended The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit
^{(Jessica Fargen, "Romney Pegs Courthouses For Repair Money," The Patriot Ledger, 8/11/2004)}

PRESCRIPTION DRUGS TAX RELIEF: Governor Romney Ended The Prescription Drug Tax Which Fell Disproportionately On Seniors
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs No New Tax Budget In Time For New Fiscal Year," Press Release, 6/30/2003)}

HOME HEATING OIL DEDUCTION/ENERGY EFFICIENT CREDIT: Governor Romney Signed Legislation Giving Homeowners A Deduction Of Up To $800 For Home Heating Costs And Providing A One-Time Credit For Homeowners Who Purchase Energy Efficient Heating Products.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Legislation To Provide Energy Price Relief And Increase Conservation," Press Release, 11/22/2005)}

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT: Governor Romney Proposed And Enacted A Refundable Tax Credit To Promote Development At The Former Fort Devens U.S. Army Base.
^{(Stephen Heuser, "$660M Drug Plant, 550 Jobs For Mass.," The Boston Globe, 6/02/2006)}

FIRE SAFETY TAX DEDUCTION: Governor Romney Proposed And Enacted A Tax Deduction For Businesses Installing Automatic Sprinkler Systems To Enhance Fire Safety.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Into Law Landmark Fire Safety Legislation," Press Release, 8/17/2004)}

CONFORMITY TO FEDERAL INCOME TAX CODE: Under Governor Romney, Massachusetts Was Brought Into Conformity With The Federal Code, Providing Massachusetts Taxpayers With A Range Of Credits, Exemptions and Deductions Previously Unavailable To Them.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Urges Taxpayers To File For New Tax Breaks," Press Release, 1/24/2006)}

MEDICAL DEVICE TAX CREDIT: Governor Romney Enacted Legislation Providing A Tax Credit For User Fees Paid By Medical Device Manufacturers to The U.S. Food And Drug Administration.
(The General Court Of The Commonwealth Of Massachusetts, Chapter 123 Of The Acts Of 2006, "An Act Relative to Economic Investments in the Commonwealth to Promote Job Creation, Economic Stability, and Competitiveness in the Massachusetts Economy," 7/08/2006)

MOTION PICTURE TAX CREDIT: Governor Romney Signed Legislation Providing Tax Incentives For Movie And Television Production In Massachusetts.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "'Lights, Camera, Action!' In Massachusetts," Press Release, 11/23/2005)}

BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT TAX CREDIT EXTENTION: Governor Romney Signed Legislation Extending The Tax Credit For Brownfield Site Redevelopment
^{("Campaign Notes," The Berkshire Eagle, 7/08/2006)}

HISTORIC REHABILITATION TAX CREDIT: Under Governor Romney, The Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Was Created Which Provides A Tax Credit For The Renovation Of Historic Buildings
(The General Court Of The Commonwealth Of Massachusetts, Chapter 141 Of The Acts Of 2003, "An Act Relative To Investments In Emerging Technologies To Promote Job Creation, Economic Stability And Competitiveness In The Massachusetts Economy")

When Gov. Romney left office in 2007, there were 600 fewer government workers employed by the state of Massachusetts than at the beginning of his term.

Spending in the Governor's office dropped from $5.6 million in 2002 to $4.6 million in 2006.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Transfers Funds From Governor's Office to Pay Military Benefit," Press Release, 11/03/2006)}

Mitt Romney never took a paycheck for his time as Governor of Massachusetts.
^{("Romney passes up $135K governor salary," Boston Business Journal, 12/31/2002)}

Presidential Campaign Platform

— Cato Institute Tax Policy Studies Director Chris Edwards: "Romney's Plan Is Entirely A Supply-Side Tax Policy. ... Every Point Is Good For The Economy."
^{(Donald Lambro, Op-Ed, "Party Divide Wide On The Economy," The Washington Times, 10/07/2007)}

Governor Mitt Romney pledges, if elected President, to cap non-defense, discretionary federal spending at inflation minus 1 percent (CPI-1%). That would save $300 billion in ten years. Romney pledges to veto any federal budget that exceeds the cap.

Mitt Romney pledges to personally lead a top-to-bottom review of federal government programs, agencies, procurement and spending to eliminate waste, inefficiency and duplication. His administration will undertake an exhaustive review of each individual federal program with the goal to eliminate and consolidate programs that are no longer useful or are bureaucratic and unwieldy. Federal spending programs do not have a right to immortality, and should not enjoy automatic increases year after year.
^{(Romney For President, "The Romney Agenda: A Conservative Blueprint To Restrain Government Spending," Press Release, 11/15/2007)}

Governor Romney Believes The President Needs The Line-Item Veto Power. As Governor, he had line-item authority, and often used it to trim or eliminate individual appropriations. Giving the President this power would allow us to make tremendous strides in eliminating earmarks and cutting inefficient programs.

Governor Romney Proposes Giving The Executive Branch The Authority To Spend Up To 25% Less Than Congress Appropriates. Governor Romney believes the President has an important role to play in the budget process, but that Presidential authority has been unjustifiably curbed in recent decades. With the proliferation of earmarks and with Congress unwilling to make tough spending choices, it is clear we need to re-insert the President into the budget process. The amount of money Congress tells the President to spend should be a spending ceiling, not a final price tag.

Governor Romney Would Make The Bush Tax Cuts Permanent. Gov. Romney: "Which course is better for America? A European model of high taxes and regulations? Or, low taxes and free trade - the Ronald Reagan model? That's the choice the next President will make. Some are already fighting to implement a massive tax increase. Instead, we should make the tax cuts permanent." (Mitt TV Clip)

As President, Governor Romney Will Fight To Permanently Abolish The Death Tax.
^{(Read more in Policy Briefing: Abolishing The Death Tax)}

Governor Romney Proposes Lower Tax Rates For All Americans. Gov. Romney: "I'd like to see marginal rates cut across the board. I'll tell you, if marginal rate cuts were good enough for Ronald Reagan and Art Laffer and Milton Friedman, they're good enough for me. I want to see our marginal rates brought down in this country."
^{(Gov. Mitt Romney, Remarks To The Club For Growth, Washington, D.C., 10/17/2007)}

Tax Free Savings - Gov. Romney Would Eliminate Taxes On Savings And Investments For Families Making $200,000 Per Year Or Less. Gov. Romney: "It is time to make saving easy in America. I believe people should be allowed to earn interest, dividends and capital gains tax free and without restrictions on how or when their savings and investments are spent. This would help middle class families to be able to save and to invest - and spend their savings the American way: any way they want." (Mitt TV Clip) Governor Romney's Plan Will Allow Over 95% Of American Families To Save And Invest Tax-Free. Any taxpayer with Adjusted Gross Income of under $200,000 would pay a tax rate of absolutely 0% on all of the income they earn from their interest on savings, capital gains and dividends.

Prevent The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) From Hurting More American Families. At the very least, Congress must pass a patch to the AMT that will prevent this tax from affecting more and more families in America.

Gov. Romney Would Cut Corporate Tax Rates. Make America’s business environment competitive with the rest of the world to attract capital and encourage investment.

Make The Research And Development Tax Credit Permanent To Encourage Capital Investment And Innovation. Governor Romney believes that we must encourage companies to invest more in research and development to produce the innovations our companies need to win in the global economic competition.

Governor Romney Will Address The Issue Of Embedded Taxes On American Products. In the global economy, American products carry a very heavy load known as embedded taxes. It's estimated that our products face about a $100 billion disadvantage around the world. Because of a WTO ruling, taxes that are embedded in Americans products cannot be refunded to exporters. As President, Governor Romney will fight for a level playing field for American products around the world.

Governor Romney Will Work To Reform Entitlements. In a forthright and bipartisan manner, as President, Governor Romney will work with Congress to address the looming budget crisis caused by increasing entitlement spending.

Governor Romney Opposes Any Increase In Social Security Taxes. We can strengthen Social Security without resorting to higher Social Security taxes that will impact all Americans. Governor Romney will oppose any proposed increase in Social Security taxes.

Reining In Medicare Costs. To rein in Medicare costs, Governor Romney believes we need to fundamentally reform our health care system through conservative, free-market reforms. Meeting the Medicare challenge is going to require Republicans and Democrats becoming very serious about this issue and finding a bipartisan way to reform this entitlement program.

Promoting Innovation In Medicaid. States have very little flexibility under current law to enact innovative changes to Medicaid that help more of their citizens while containing costs. Governor Romney will encourage innovation by block-granting federal funds to states and removing the burdensome administrative requirements that prevent them from improving the program and containing costs.

Governor Romney Will Make Qualified Medical Expenses Tax Deductible. Governor Romney supports the full deductibility of qualified medical expenses, which will allow Americans to deduct the cost of their health insurance and out-of-pocket medical expenses, where accompanied by at least catastrophic insurance.

Governor Romney Has Proposed A Federal Home Schooling Tax Credit. As of 2003, there were nearly 1.1 million home schooled students in the United States. Governor Romney believes that parents who want to home school their kids should be able to do so. To help them, he will provide a tax credit to help defray the educational expenses of parents who home school their kids.

To Protect American Taxpayers, Governor Mitt Romney Calls On Congress To Re-Impose A Three-Fifths (60%) Supermajority Requirement To Raise Taxes.

Governor Mitt Romney signed Americans For Tax Reform's "Taxpayer Protection Pledge" affirming as part of the pledge that he will "oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates" and "oppose any net reduction or elimination of deductions and credits.” Gov. Romney signed on January 3, 2007 making him the first potential 2008 presidential candidate to sign the pledge.
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney Signs 'Taxpayer Protection Pledge'," Press Release, 1/04/2007)}

Gov. Romney included the following campaign platform items on taxes, regulatory relief, and national tort reform in an economic policy speech at the Detroit Economic Club on Feb. 7, 2007:

REFORM THE TAX CODE: "However, making the tax cuts permanent is only the first step. We also need reform of the tax code that moves towards a tax system that encourages growth, fairness, and simplicity."

REGULATORY RELIEF: Governor Romney Would Reinstitute A Regulatory Relief Board To Cut Back Regulations That Choke Off Growth. "Our regulatory burden is also overbearing. I'd re-institute a regulatory relief board to cut back the regulation weeds that choke off growth. One that deserves pruning is Sarbanes Oxley - it's driving away IPO's, depressing jobs, and requiring billions of unnecessary cost. Executives who violate the law should go to jail, but the entire economy shouldn't have pay an inordinate price for the sins of the few bad actors."

NATIONAL TORT REFORM: Governor Romney Believes America Needs National Tort Reform, Not Reform State-By-State. "Another burden on our economic future is our out-of-control tort system. Last year, U.S. corporations spent more money on tort claims than they did on R&D. If innovation is the key to our long term leadership, then some tort lawyers are cashing out our country's future. I spoke with one member of the plaintiff's bar the other day. He said that the tort lawyers are ok with state reform, but not national reform. You know what state level tort reform means - it means that as long as there is one lawsuit-friendly state, they can sue almost any major, deep-pocketed company in America. No thanks, America needs national tort reform." (Mitt TV Clip)

- Tort Costs Are Too High. According to a recent report, U.S. tort costs reached $260.8 billion in 2005, which translates to $880 per person. This is an amount greater than the Gross Domestic Product of all but 35 countries in the world. Frivolous lawsuits and outrageous damages awards create a "liability tax" or "tort tax," which are passed along to every consumer in the country.

- Governor Romney Believes We Should Limit Non-Economic Damages And Prevent Excessive Punitive Damages Award. Non-Economic damages are inherently speculative, and a reasonable statutory cap makes sense. Governor Romney also believes we need a statutory prohibition on outrageous punitive damage awards.

- Governor Romney Believes We Should Require More Disclosure In Contingency Fee Arrangements. More disclosure will help clients make informed decisions, and it will help end abusive lawsuits and extortionate settlement demands by plaintiffs' lawyers.

Governor Romney has stated he would not take a salary if elected President and would instead donate the money to charity.

At the 2007 Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington, D.C., Governor Romney talked about his plans to restrain government spending and eliminate waste and inefficiency (view the video clip). MUST SEE Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney has received the strong endorsement of U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint (R-SC) who is a leading figure in the Senate advocating reduced federal budget spending and smaller government. Sen. DeMint is a hero to fiscal conservatives and earned a rating of 100% from the ACU in 2006 with a lifetime rating of 98%.
Video: Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) describes why he believes Gov. Romney is the best choice for president, Fox News, 2/02/2007
Video: Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC) shares his thoughts on Mitt Romney

Romney received the endorsement of Rep. Tom Feeney (R-FL) who is a leading fiscal conservative in the U.S. House, head of the House Conservatives Fund and a key player in the Republican Study Committee. Rep. Feeney also serves on the Florida Steering Committee for Mitt Romney.
Video: Rep. Tom Feeney (R-FL) shares his thoughts on Mitt Romney

Campaign Finance Reform
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#cfr

Governor Mitt Romney is calling for the repeal of McCain-Feingold. Video: On the Need to Repeal McCain-Feingold

• Governor Romney will fight to restore the free speech rights of the American people.
• Governor Romney believes grassroots organizations and activism should be encouraged, not restricted.
• Governor Romney believes that there must be more transparency and disclosure in campaign finance.

The American people have the right to engage in the democratic process without burdensome and technical federal limitations

• Americans must be able to safely exercise First Amendment rights without a team of lawyers.

Governor Romney believes we should enact campaign finance reforms that are guided by three core principles:

• Promoting transparency and disclosure
• Protecting the First Amendment and the ability to criticize or endorse current officeholders and candidates
• Preserving grassroots activism.

Policy Briefing: Repealing McCain-Feingold, Press Release, 3/02/2007

Boston, MA, June 25, 2007 - Today, Governor Mitt Romney issued the following statement on the United States Supreme Court decision overturning a portion of the McCain-Feingold campaign finance law:

"Score one for free speech. Today the Supreme Court reaffirmed the First Amendment by rejecting a key feature of McCain-Feingold. The law trampled the basic right of the American people to participate in their democracy. It also purported to reduce the influence of money in politics, but we now know that influence is greater than ever. McCain-Feingold was a poorly-crafted bill. Today's decision restores, in part, to the American people a right critical to their freedom of political participation and expression."
^{(Romney for President, "Governor Mitt Romney Welcomes The Supreme Court Campaign Finance Ruling," Press Release, 6/25/2007)}

Governor Mitt Romney discusses Campaign Finance Reform with Dennis Prager

Public Education
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#education

"Under Governor Romney's leadership, Massachusetts' fourth and eighth grade students ranked first in reading and tied for first in mathematics.

In 2004, Governor Romney helped ensure more students received a higher education by establishing the John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Program to reward the highest performing Massachusetts high school graduates with a four-year, tuition-free scholarship to state universities or colleges. More than 14,000 Adams Scholarships were offered to members of the Class of 2006, and more than 16,000 students earned them in the Class of 2007."
^{(Mitt Romney Campaign Website | Learn About Mitt | Our Stories | Governor Romney's Record)}

Governor Romney strongly supported a successful ballot initiative that replaced the state's bilingual program with English immersion.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Vows to Protect English Immersion Law," Press Release, 5/01/2003)}

Governor Romney demonstrated his commitment to school-choice by vetoing a bill that would have canceled funding for Massachusetts' charter-school program. Despite a Legislature that was largely hostile to charter schools and school choice, Governor Romney increased the number of charter schools and the number of students attending them.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney to Veto Charter School Moratorium," Press Release, 6/23/2004)}

Governor Romney supported legislation that would bolster the amount of attention paid to math and science in Massachusetts high schools by adding 1,000 new math and science teachers, requiring math and science Advanced Placement classes, and providing laptop computers to all middle and high school students.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Files Comprehensive Education Reform Package," Press Release, 9/22/2005)}

Governor Romney Promoted Parental Involvement In Education. Because parents are crucial to a child's success in school, Governor Romney supported measures to empower parents to play a more active role in their kids' educations.

Governor Romney: "At some point, I think America -- and, importantly, the minority communities -- are going to say, 'it's time to split with our friends, the unions and the Democratic Party, and put our kids first here.' Unequal educational opportunity is the civil rights issue of our time."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Tulsa World, 3/07/2006)}

Governor Romney supports the federal No Child Left Behind Act's role in spotting failing schools, but wants "greater state flexibility in the student testing process."

Governor Romney: "We all want to be successful based on our rhetoric, not actual, measurable results, and I'm afraid that in the world marketplace, our kids are only going to be successful based on their performance, and that requires measurement. I think the president was right to insist on measurement. I think the measurements themselves have a long way to be perfected, and a lot of room for improvement."
^{(Associated Press, "Romney applauds student measurement in No Child Left Behind," The Boston Globe, 8/31/2006)}

Presidential Campaign Platform

Governor Romney Believes Our Education System Works Best When We Have More Local Control Of Our Schools. While there is a proper role for the federal government to play in education, it is not in telling parents, teachers, kids and local authorities what to teach or how to run their schools.

Governor Romney Will Promote School Choice. He believes that when parents and kids are free to choose their school, everyone benefits. That's because competition and choice in educational opportunities – whether it comes from private schools, charter schools, or home schooling – makes traditional public schools better and improves the quality of education for all of America's kids. Governor Romney believes that it is especially important that students in failing schools be able to exercise school choice so that they can get access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed.

Governor Romney Has Proposed A Federal Home Schooling Tax Credit. As of 2003, there were nearly 1.1 million home schooled students in the United States. Governor Romney believes that parents who want to home school their kids should be able to do so. To help them, he will provide a tax credit to help defray the educational expenses of parents who home school their kids.

Governor Romney Will Improve Upon And Enhance No Child Left Behind (NCLB). He believes that No Child Left Behind has played an important role in stressing the role of accountability and high standards in improving our schools. Governor Romney will improve NCLB by giving states that meet or exceed testing requirements additional flexibility in measuring student performance. He will also improve the law by focusing more attention on individual student progress, rather than the overall progress of schools.

Governor Romney Will Honor Teaching As The Profession It Truly Is. He believes that good teachers should be rewarded for their hard work and dedication to the important cause of educating our children. He will support performance-based pay and other initiatives that encourage our best teachers to teach in our highest-need schools. As governor of Massachusetts, Romney proposed a plan to provide $68 million per year in performance-based bonuses for 25,000 qualifying teachers in the state.

Governor Romney Will Ensure Our Kids Get The Education They Need To Excel In The Jobs Of The New Economy. He will focus our efforts in fields like math and science, while promoting innovative approaches such as charter schools and public-private partnerships. Governor Romney will ensure that the workers of the future have the intellectual capital and skills they need to compete in the new global marketplace.

Read more in The Romney Agenda: Excellence In Education

Crime and Ethics
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#crime

Presidential Campaign Platform

Policy Briefing: Protecting Our Children, July 19, 2007

Governor Romney Will Propose A "One-Strike, You're Ours" Law For Those Convicted Of Preying On Children Using The Internet. As President, Governor Romney will propose new, tougher federal penalties for first-time offenders who use the Internet to sexually assault children, including stiff mandatory jail time to be followed by lifetime tracking by Global Positioning Satellite (GPS). This will represent a "One-Strike, You're Ours" law for child predators.

Governor Romney Will Enforce Our Nation's Obscenity Laws. As President, Governor Romney will require the Department of Justice to enforce our existing federal obscenity laws and ensure that we prosecute producers and distributors of the worst-of-the-worst obscene materials. Even though the interstate trafficking of obscenity is illegal, federal obscenity laws have not been adequately enforced. To protect our children, we need to enforce our current laws.

Governor Romney Will Punish And Fine Retailers For Selling Excessively Violent And Sexually Explicit Video Games To Minors. While the current system of voluntary self-regulation of video games has improved, we still need to do more to protect our children. There must be strong punishments and fines for retailers that sell violent and sexually explicit video games to minors.

Policy Briefing: Guarding Our Children On Their Computers, July 26, 2007

In Iowa, Governor Mitt Romney Announced A New Initiative To Prevent Pornography From Reaching Children On Their Computers. Children accessing pornography online is a major problem but one easily solved through determined action. As President, Governor Romney will work with computer and software companies to ensure that every home computer has effective software to filter out unwanted pornography.

Governor Romney Will Work To Ensure Every Parent Has Access To Software Filters That Guard Their Children From Online Pornography. Numerous software programs exist that prevent unsolicited content from popping up on Internet browsers and filter websites a child may visit. With one in three youths reporting unwanted exposure to sexual material, the challenge is getting these tools into the hands of parents. To that effect, Governor Romney also will work with computer and software companies to make sure all new computers have optional parental control software filters that are ready and easy to use during setup. Governor Romney will also promote and increase awareness of available parental control filtering products for existing computers.

Responsible Parents Are The First Line Of Defense In Guarding Our Children From Online Pornography. The most important work being done in America today is the work being done by responsible parents inside the four walls of the American home. We need to inform them and give them the tools they need to protect their children, especially while their children use the Internet to communicate with those outside the home.

The Romney Record: Higher Ethical Standards In Washington, November 9, 2007

Governor Romney Proposes New Ethics Law To Strip Pensions From Those Who Violate The Public Trust. "Saying it's time to clean up the ethics in Washington, Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney today said he is proposing to strip pension benefits of any elected official or federal government employee who is convicted of a felony for violating the public trust."
^{(Rod Boshart, "Romney: Time To Shore Up Ethics," Cedar Rapids Gazette, 8/02/2007)}

Governor Romney Will Prohibit Family Members Of Cabinet And Senior Staff Members From Lobbying The Executive Branch. GOVERNOR ROMNEY: "Presidents lead by example. And so, if I'm elected President, one of my first acts will be to issue an Executive Order prohibiting the immediate family of my Cabinet and Senior Staff from lobbying the Executive Branch. The standard for high ethical conduct has to be set at the top."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Remarks At The Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference, Mackinac, MI, 9/22/2007)}

Record Of Being Tough On Crime And Bringing Higher Ethical Standards To Government

The Boston Globe: Governor Romney's Administration "Virtually Scandal Free And Restrained In The Exercise Of Patronage." "Romney's obsession with maintaining a pure image annoyed many Beacon Hill regulars, but it produced an administration that was virtually scandal free and restrained in the exercise of patronage."
^{(Brian Mooney, "Taking Office, Remaining An Outsider," The Boston Globe, 6/29/2007)}

In January 2003, Governor Romney Issued An Executive Order Requiring Those Applying For Executive Branch Positions To Identify Family Members Working In State Government. "Romney also issued an Executive Order putting in place so-called 'sunshine provisions' requiring new employees to identify family members working in state government. The 'sunshine provisions' in Romney's Executive Order require individuals applying for positions within the Executive Branch to disclose in writing the names of all immediate family members as well as people related to immediate family members by marriage who serve as employees or elected officials of the Commonwealth. The information will be available to the public upon request."
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Names Professional Human Resources Director," Press Release, 1/09/2003)}

Governor Romney Abolished The Chief Secretary Position, Which In The Past, Had Been Charged With Placing Political Supporters In Jobs Throughout Government. "Governor Mitt Romney today announced the appointment of Ruth N. Bramson as Director of Human Resources. ... The move follows the abolition of the position of Chief Secretary. Previously, the chief secretary was the individual in charge of placing political supporters in jobs throughout state government."
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Names Professional Human Resources Director," Press Release, 1/09/2003)}

During the four years Romney was in office, 100 requests for commutations and 172 requests for pardons were filed in the state. All were denied by Governor Romney. "Governor Romney's view is that it would take a compelling set of circumstances to set aside the punishment and guilt resulting from a criminal trial," said Romney aide Eric Fehrnstrom, who added he was not familiar with Circosta's case. "The power to pardon should only be used in extraordinary circumstances."
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "Gov. Romney Held Fast Against Pardons," Associated Press, 6/12/2007)}

Governor Romney: "One of the awesome powers granted by the Constitution to the executive is the power to pardon. I believe the power to pardon should be used in only the most narrow of circumstances, when the facts of a particular case are so compelling that the punishment and guilt should be set aside. In the recent past, pardon power has been used much more broadly. Bill Clinton abused this power to forgive criminal offenses that in my view were not deserving of clemency. Just as I did as Governor, I pledge as President to have a clear set of written, published guidelines setting out under what conditions pardons and commutations will be considered. Victims and their families will have an opportunity to be heard. Justice is not served when pardons and commutations are granted in an arbitrary or capricious manner."
^{(Gov. Mitt Romney, Statement, 12/31/2007)}

Compare that to the record of Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee who granted 1,033 pardons and commutations in his 10 1/2 years in office, more than twice the number granted by his three predecessors combined. Huckabee issued more commutations and pardons than all of the six neighboring states combined, states having a population nearly 20 times that of Arkansas. Huckabee's commutations included a dozen murderers, nine of whom have since skipped parole and whose locations are currently unknown.
(Andrew DeMillo, "Huckabee pardons under scrutiny," The Associated Press, 12/10/2007) • (Garrick Feldman, "Arkansas clemencies outpace other states," The Arkansas Leader, 8/11/2004)

Governor Romney proposed and signed “Melanie’s Law,” a tough new drunk driving law that stiffened penalties on drunk drivers and closed legal loopholes that allowed repeat offenders to get behind the wheel.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Celebrates the Passage of Melanie's Bill," Press Release, 10/28/2005)}

"Governor Romney has been a consistent supporter and advocate of the death penalty for convicted killers. In 2003, he put together a Council on Capital Punishment, a high-level panel made up of some of the world’s foremost experts on the subject."
^{(Tim Cruz, "Criminals, Beware — The Romney Massachusetts record," National Review Online, 11/26/2007)}

In 2005, Governor Romney filed a bill enabling Massachusetts prosecutors to seek the death penalty in cases of first-degree murders that were committed as an act of political terrorism, assassination of law enforcement officials, or multiple killings. Massachusetts is one of only 12 states that do not have a capital punishment sentencing option.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Relying on Science, Romney Files Death Penalty Bill," Press Release, 4/28/2005)}

— Governor Mitt Romney: "Our citizens deserve the protection that a death penalty statute affords them, and a carefully constructed, properly administered capital punishment law is the appropriate and just response to terrorism and other unthinkable crimes. Let’s give our judges and juries the tools to ensure that justice is done."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, "Death Penalty Testimony Before Joint Committee on the Judiciary," 7/14/2005)}

Governor Romney Worked To Prevent Methamphetamine Abuse From Becoming A Problem In Massachusetts. His legislation included treatment for addicts, tougher penalties for dealers, and toughened sentencing for Meth manufacturers.
(Erik Arvidson, "Romney Acts To Boost Meth Penalties," The [Pittsfield, MA] Berkshire Eagle, 8/15/2005) • (Julie Mehegan, "State Tackles Drug Abuse," The [Pittsfield, MA] Berkshire Eagle, 5/16/2005)

Governor Romney signed a section of a supplemental spending bill to publish the state’s most dangerous sex offenders photos and addresses on the Internet. Romney also signed the section requiring incarcerated offenders to register with the Sex Offender Registry Board (SORB) 48 hours prior to their release from prison or else be denied release.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Sex Offender Changes Into Law," Press Release, 11/24/2003)}

Governor Romney signed "Ally's Law" in 2004 which broadened the state's definition of sexually dangerous crimes to make it easier for prosecutors to file civil petitions to keep the worst sexual predators off of the street after their criminal sentences were concluded. The legislation was named for Alexandra N. Zapp, who was murdered by a repeat sex offender in a Bridgewater rest area off Route 24 in 2002.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Governor Mitt Romney Signs ‘Ally Zapp’ Bill Into Law," Press Release, 4/07/2004)}

Governor Romney signed legislation that entered Massachusetts into the Interstate Compact for Adult Offender Supervision, a national system that monitors the movement of the estimated five million convicted criminals nationwide who have been released on probation or parole. The legislation closed a gap in the law to help authorities more accurately monitor those with criminal histories.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Bill to Track Released Criminals," Press Release, 10/27/2005)}

Tim Cruz, District Attorney for Plymouth County, Massachusetts: "To address the growing murder rate in the City of Boston — what Governor Romney termed an “epidemic” and a “serious crisis” — he offered to have State Police troopers assist Boston police officers with patrol duties. He provided an immediate influx of $700,000 in state aid to faith-based and community groups working to solve this problem by diverting young people away from activities that lead to violence, particularly gang membership. Governor Romney also stepped up efforts to crack down on gang violence throughout the commonwealth. He approved anti-gang measures for the City of Somerville in 2004, established an $11 million statewide gang prevention program in 2005, unwrapped $1.5 million in state anti-gang funds for Boston and Springfield in 2004, and also tackled the issue of witness intimidation to provide protection for those who possess critical information in gang-related cases."
^{(Tim Cruz, "Criminals, Beware — The Romney Massachusetts record," National Review Online, 11/26/2007)}

Governor Romney took aim at gang violence and witness intimidation by signing into law a measure that enables prosecutors to seek punishment for those who attempt to interfere with cases by intimidating potential witnesses. The legislation established a witness protection program in the state for the first time. The law also made it a crime to circulate grand jury testimony with the intent to impede criminal proceedings or deter witnesses from testifying.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Bill to Crack Down On Gang Violence," Press Release, 3/30/2006)}

Governor Mitt Romney signed legislation requiring all convicted felons to provide DNA samples to the state’s database. The law will create a greatly expanded database to help law enforcement officers compare crime scene evidence against DNA samples for known offenders.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Law to Expand State DNA Database," Press Release, 11/12/2003)}

"Under Governor Romney’s leadership, the total number of State Police grew by nearly 200 Troopers from 2,333 members to 2,524 — the highest in the agency’s history. He also doubled the size of the State Crime Lab."
^{(Tim Cruz, "Criminals, Beware — The Romney Massachusetts record," National Review Online, 11/26/2007)}

Gov. Romney proposed and signed the "McNamara Bill," a law extending death benefits to the families of volunteer and part-time public safety officers who die in the line of duty.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Approves Death Benefit for McNamara Family," Press Release, 11/08/2005)}

Governor Romney signed into law a measure that allowed law enforcement officials to use stun guns. The measure brought Massachusetts in line with nearly every other state in the nation and ensured police professionals had the most effective tools available to them to protect the public’s safety.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Approves Electronic Weapons for Law Enforcement," Press Release, 7/15/2004)}

Incidence of Violent Crime in Massachusetts
Before and After Romney Administration

Year	Population	Murder	Rape	Robbery	Assault	Total Cases	Rate per 100,000 inhabitants
2002	6,427,801	173	1,777	7,169	22,018	31,137	484.4
2006	6,437,193	186	1,742	8,047	18,800	28,775	447.0
Percent Change		+7.5%	-2.0%	+12.2%	-14.6%	-7.6%	-7.7%

FBI Uniform Crime Reports: Crime in the United States, "Table 5, by State, 2002," Accessed 11/26/2007
FBI Uniform Crime Reports: Crime in the United States, "Table 5, by State, 2006," Accessed 11/26/2007

Incidence of Property Crime in Massachusetts
Before and After Romney Administration

Year	Population	Burglary	Larceny-theft	Auto Theft	Total Cases	Rate per 100,000 inhabitants
2002	6,427,801	33,243	107,922	26,588	167,753	2,609.8
2006	6,437,193	35,181	100,771	17,961	153,913	2,391.0
Percent Change		+5.8%	-6.6%	-32.4%	-8.3%	-8.4%

FBI Uniform Crime Reports: Crime in the United States, "Table 5, by State, 2002," Accessed 11/26/2007
FBI Uniform Crime Reports: Crime in the United States, "Table 5, by State, 2006," Accessed 11/26/2007

Health Care
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#healthcare

Governor Romney's Plan To Improve America's Health Care System (click for details)

Governor Mitt Romney Proposes A Bold Plan To Improve The American Health Care System By Putting Conservative, Market-Based Principles To Work. Governor Romney's health care reform plan is a comprehensive solution to America's health care ills that expands access to affordable, portable, quality, private health insurance. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all, government-run system, Governor Romney's plan recognizes the importance of the role of the states in leading reform and the need for innovation in dealing with rising health care costs and the problem of the uninsured.

• Governor Romney's Plan Facilitates The Growth Of The Private Health Insurance Market. Governor Romney believes that by expanding and deregulating the private health insurance market, we can decrease costs and ensure that more Americans have access to affordable, portable, quality, private health insurance.

• Governor Romney Will Preserve The Features Of The American Health Care System That Make It The Envy Of The World. Rather than deconstructing the system we have today or replacing it with a government-run system that squelches innovation, Governor Romney will "do no harm" by leaving in place the elements of the system that work well while targeting change in the parts of the system that do not.

Click Here To View Governor Romney's PowerPoint Presentation (wealth of information on topic of health care)

The Romney Vision: Health Care Reform Goals

• First, Instituting Reforms That Make Private Health Insurance Affordable. More Americans need access to quality, private health insurance.

• Second, Providing Access To Quality Health Insurance For Every American.

• Third, Enhancing The Portability Of Private Health Insurance.

• Finally, Slowing The Rate Of Inflation In Health Care Spending.

Linking Goals With Action Steps: The Federalist Approach

Governor Romney's Approach To Health Care Reform Is One That Values The States As Laboratories Of Innovation And Beacons Of Creativity.

The Romney Plan: Six Action Steps

• Step 1: Establish Federal Incentives To Deregulate And Reform State Health Insurance Markets So Market Forces Can Work.

• Step 2: Redirect Federal Spending On "Free Care" To Help The Low-Income Uninsured Purchase Private Insurance.

• Step 3: Institute Health Savings Account (HSA) Enhancements And The Full Deductibility Of Qualified Medical Expenses.

• Step 4: Promote Innovation In Medicaid.

• Step 5: Implement Medical Liability Reform.

• Step 6: Bring Market Dynamics And Modern Technology To Health Care.

HILLARYCARE 2.0 VS. MARKET-BASED HEALTH CARE REFORM (click for details)

Governor Romney Says "HillaryCare 2.0" Is "The Wrong Direction" For America, Press Conference outside St. Vincent's Hospital in New York City, 9/17/2007

Gov. Mitt Romney: "HillaryCare continues to be bad medicine. Hillary Clinton fundamentally believes in Washington. She doesn't believe in the American people. ... In her plan, we have government insurance, instead of private insurance. ... In her plan, it's crafted by Washington. It should be crafted by the states. ... I think she takes her inspiration from European bureaucracies and instead we should take our inspiration from the American people. ... In her plan, we have government Washington managed health care. Instead, we should rely on the private markets to guide health care. And in her plan, you see increased taxes. The burden should not be raised on the American people. ... She fundamentally does not believe in markets and does not believe in states."

Gov. Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "Where HillaryCare Goes Wrong", The Wall Street Journal, 9/20/2007

"Some of the details have changed, but at the heart of Sen. Hillary Clinton's new health-care proposal are the same flaws that sunk her first version. They flow from her distrust of markets, from her distaste for profit-motivated private enterprise, and from her consequent faith that Washington knows best.

...

"As governor of Massachusetts, I led the fight for reforms that used free markets and innovation, rather than big-government control, to lower health-care costs and cover the uninsured. I recently proposed a federalist reform plan that will use these principles to improve America's health-care system.

"Sen. Clinton has a very different view about the changes we need to make. Her plan has several weaknesses and should be distinguished from the reforms I led in Massachusetts and the reform plan I have proposed. So let's take a closer look at what her new proposal would really do:

"Raise taxes. The new plan is slated to cost $110 billion a year. And to pay for the new entitlement – a tax hike. That in turn will slow down the economy and make the cost of her system grow even higher. By contrast, both the reforms I led in Massachusetts and the federalist reform plan I recently proposed do not raise taxes or increase spending.

...

"Expand government insurance. People who don't obtain insurance through their employer are invited to buy a government-run, Medicare-like plan or enroll in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP). And so, more Americans will end up in government-run insurance. It's the gentle slope to a single payer, socialized medicine model. My plan in Massachusetts instead allowed the uninsured to choose a private insurance product from one of the many private insurance companies.

"Impose a national model on everyone. Sen. Clinton fundamentally distrusts state governments. But the states are closer to the people, and more responsive to them. They are also the laboratories of democracy – the best ideas can come from 50 states each doing their best work. The senator's plan is a one-size-fits-all approach. It ignores significant differences between people and the needs of the 50 different states. Federalism is the right approach. The national reforms I have proposed give states financial flexibility to craft their own program to cover the uninsured, a program tailored to the specific needs of their citizens.

"Significantly increase the role of the federal government at the expense of free markets. For example, Sen. Clinton proposes the creation of an entirely new government-run Medicare-like program for the uninsured. Inevitably, lobbyists will go to town adding coverage mandates, setting rates and re-shaping plans to fit the wants of their clients. The better path is the market path. Let the multitude of private companies compete for the consumer's dollar – the quality and the cost will be much better than what government could ever cobble together.

"Leave the mandate problem unsolved. Before you can impose a mandate on employers or individuals to purchase insurance, you need to reform state health insurance markets. Otherwise, policies can be so beefed-up with state mandated coverage and regulation that they are simply unaffordable. Then a mandate is unfair.

"Moreover, her employer mandate doesn't solve the problem of the uninsured – that's why I vetoed a similar measure when I was governor of Massachusetts. I chose an individual mandate only after we had done our best to reform state insurance regulations – lowering premiums by as much as 50%.

"Let's be clear here: My plan in Massachusetts worked very differently than Sen. Clinton's plan would."

...

"I like the plan I put forward in Massachusetts. But even so, I wouldn't do what Sen. Clinton does – impose my way on every other state. Other states may borrow from what we did. Some will surely improve on it. But let's keep faith in federalism, in private markets and in individual responsibility. ...

Record of Health Care Reform in Massachusetts

"Massachusetts in 2002 was spending an enormous amount of public money on health care--and yet leaving almost one 10th of its population uncovered. Romney became more and more interested in this problem and demanded a detailed survey of the uninsured population."

"The big surprise revealed by Romney's investigation: The uninsured were not as poor as everybody had assumed they were. A majority of them could have bought health insurance if they wanted to--they chose not to buy, because they regarded health insurance as a bad deal. It cost too much--especially for the self-employed, for whom health insurance is not tax deductible. It covered too much. And everybody knew that even if you did not buy it, hospitals would care for you all the same."
^{(David Frum, "Could This Man Be the Next U.S. President?," FrontPageMag.com, 1/10/2007)}

Under federal law, nearly all hospitals are required to provide a certain level of treatment to all patients who visit their emergency rooms, regardless of those patients’ ability to pay (Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act of 1986, 42 USC 1395dd et seq.). Governor Romney sought a way to prevent the free-rider problem; those who take advantage of emergency services and then skip out on the charges, leaving taxpayers to cover the bill. In a very real sense, we already have “universal health care” in the U.S., but many are not paying their share of the cost for the services they receive.

Governor Romney secured the enactment of a market-based, private sector health care reform plan supported by the Heritage Foundation, America’s premier conservative think tank.

The Massachusetts health care reform law enacted by Governor Romney is not socialized medicine. It is not a single-payer system involving government takeover and control of medical care in the state. It is not HillaryCare 2.0 which would force all the states to comply with a single plan, expand government insurance and controls, and require huge tax increases.

The Massachusetts plan instead stresses personal responsibility in paying for private health insurance, selected from a large number of available insurance plans, while providing subsidies to low-income residents without requiring new taxes.

The key element of Gov. Romney’s health care reform law in Massachusetts is a new, statewide “Connector,” a private, state-chartered clearinghouse where workers in businesses with 50 or fewer employees -- and any other individual seeking insurance -- can purchase coverage. A small business simply designates the Connector as its group health insurance plan, and its workers can then choose from the menu of health plans the Connector offers.

Workers can switch plans annually, at standard rates, and keep coverage as they move from job to job, with both employer and worker premiums paid on a pre-tax basis. The reform law exploits a loophole in federal law that enables the self-employed to buy insurance with pre-tax dollars, just like employees. HMOs are permitted to offer HSA-qualified, high-deductible plans which are more affordable. Insurance plans in the Connector are permitted to contract with health care providers offering the best value, and it permits insurers to offer lower cost plans to individuals between ages 19 and 26.

After receiving bids from 10 carriers, for the first plan year, six different carriers are now offering 42 plan options through the Connector for the unsubsidized population. Nationally, 80 percent of companies offering health benefits provide workers a choice of one plan—take it or leave it. Outside of federal workers in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, Massachusetts citizens getting health insurance through the Connector are among the only group of Americans who can shop in a competitive health insurance market with such a broad range of health care choices.

Gov. Romney’s reform law redirected state and federal Medicaid dollars to provide lower-income individuals with a subsidy (essentially a voucher) to help them purchase private health insurance. The health care reform law mandates that all individuals buy an insurance policy; no more free riding at hospital emergency rooms. Regulatory changes in the health care reform plan permit residents to satisfy the mandate simply by purchasing catastrophic coverage through a high-deductible health plan or a Health Savings Account (HSA). These changes made the mandate less of a burden than it otherwise would have been.

The Democrat-controlled Legislature of Massachusetts degraded the original proposal from Gov. Romney by adding an employer fee mandate, and by adding fines for individuals who refuse to buy health care coverage. Governor Romney did not propose a health insurance individual mandate.

What Gov. Romney proposed was that those who still insisted on going without coverage in a reformed system demonstrate proof of their willingness and ability to pay their own bills by posting a $10,000 interest-bearing bond or establishing an escrow account. The Massachusetts Legislature replaced those provisions with a requirement that individuals buy health insurance or be fined—essentially an individual "play or pay" requirement.

Furthermore, the Legislature expanded Medicaid coverage to a larger base of children in low-income families and restored funding for public health programs which were not part of Gov. Romney’s original proposal. The Legislature rejected Governor Romney's proposal to permit high-deductible, low benefit health plans.

Governor Romney vetoed eight sections of the health care legislation, including the employer fee mandate. He also vetoed provisions providing dental benefits to poor residents on the Medicaid program, and providing health coverage to senior and disabled legal immigrants not eligible for federal Medicaid.

The Legislature overrode all of the eight vetoes.

The news was very encouraging from the first round of competitive bids for “Commonwealth Choice” non-subsidized insurance policies. Initial reports that the average policy premium was $380 were proven to be misleading and false.

"Premiums as low at $153 (Neighborhood Health Plan premiums, with prescription drugs, outside Eastern MA — below $100 when treated as non-taxable income) reduce significantly the legitimate affordability worries that greeted the $380 number. In fact, the $380 number was artificial — an average that included some ridiculously high estimates by carriers that had no desire to play in this market."
^{(John McDonough, "The Bids Are In, II: So What Does This All Mean?," Health Care For All, 3/03/2007)}

The plans with the lowest monthly premiums, and annual deductibles ranging up to $2000, are substantially less costly than the original estimate for post-reform coverage which was projected to be in the range of $190-$250 at the time the Massachusetts Legislature debated the health care reform plan. Prior to the reforms, typical health care coverage cost $335 with a $5000 annual deductible and no prescription drug coverage (37 year old living in Boston).

Conservatives Comment About Gov. Romney's Health Care Plan for Massachusetts

The Heritage Foundation: "In reality, those who want to create a consumer-based health system and deregulate health insurance should view Romney's plan as one of the most promising strategies out there."
^{(Edmund F. Haislmaier, "Mitt's Fit," The Heritage Foundation, 1/28/2007)}

The Club For Growth: "Governor Romney Deserves Credit For Proposing A Plan That Encourages Individually-Owned Health Insurance..." "Given these limitations, Governor Romney deserves credit for proposing (and to a lesser extent, enacting) a plan that encourages individually-owned health insurance and circumvents some of the inequities carved into the federal tax code."
^{(The Club For Growth, "Mitt Romney's Record On Economic Issues," Press Release, 8/21/2007)}

Massachusetts Citizens For Limited Taxation: "Romney's plan also got a thumbs up from an unlikely source yesterday – Barbara Anderson, head of Citizens for Limited Taxation, a group that often looks with deep suspicion on government mandates and programs. … The tax activist said that Romney is proposing universal insurance, not universal health care – which Anderson said society effectively already has, as almost no one is denied care even if they can't pay for it. 'Let's just face that reality and deal with it,' Anderson said, adding that covering more people will reduce costs to taxpayers."
^{(Jay Fitzgerald, "Romney Wins Health-Y Reviews," Boston Herald, 6/23/2005)}

Conservative Ethan Allen Institute: "John McClaughry of the Ethan Allen Institute spoke about personal responsibility in health insurance. He praised the Massachusetts plan because it deals with the uninsured by sending them out into the market, thus reinforcing personal responsibility. Each individual has to decide his own risk level and can purchase insurance to meet his own needs."
^{("The Massachusetts Health Plan: A Model For The States?," AEI Newsletter, 2/01/2007)}

Then-Republican National Committee Chairman Ken Mehlman: "[Mehlman] singled out an effort by outgoing Gov. Mitt Romney, another 2008 prospect, to expand health-care coverage to all Massachusetts residents. 'That is the kind of innovation we need at the state level, and in Washington,' Mehlman said."
^{(Shailagh Murray, "GOP Must Correct Its Mistakes, Mehlman Says," The Washington Post, 12/01/2006)}

Investor's Business Daily: "Health Care: Massachusetts lawmakers have passed a universal-coverage bill. Republican Gov. Mitt Romney plans to sign it. Has Romney flipped? Not at all. He has won a victory for market-based reform."
^{(Editorial, "Blue-State Surprise," Investor's Business Daily, 4/06/2006)}

Gov. Romney discussed the Massachusetts health care reform law with Neil Cavuto on Fox News on April 12, 2006.

In a December, 2006 interview for Human Events, Gov. Romney was asked about the health care initiative in Massachusetts and its suitability for the nation:

Question: One of the other things you accomplished as governor was a health care plan for Massachusetts, which has been both lauded and criticized by some libertarians and conservatives. Is this something you would consider proposing for the federal government as well?

Romney's response: "My current thinking on that is that the states as laboratories really play a very useful role for the nation. There are some aspects of what we proposed and put in our health plan that actually could be helpful for the entire nation and may well figure into national legislation. But there are others that really are peculiar to the state of Massachusetts, and I’d like to see how they work in Massachusetts, and frankly to see what other states do. Because I wouldn’t be surprised if some other states came up with ideas, borrowing from our own experience, that could be better than ours."

"I don’t think we’re ready as a nation to adopt a Massachusetts plan for the entire nation. I’d like to learn more from other states, perhaps take some things that we found and get them under way right away. For instance, all the mandates we put on insurance—that just makes insurance more expensive than it ought to be. There’s a need also to allow people to own their own insurance policy rather than having a company decide which insurance you get. There are features in our plan that I think could be helpful, but time’s going to tell, because we want to hear what other states have to say."
^{(Robert B. Bluey, "Q&A: Mitt Romney Discusses Iraq War, Reagan's Influence and Gay Marriage, Human Events, 12/28/2006)}

Some Facts About Health Care Reform In Massachusetts Answering Common Criticisms

FACT: The Massachusetts Health Care Plan Is Working:

Nearly Half Of The State's Uninsured Have Gotten Insurance Under The Massachusetts Health Care Plan. "The law appears to be working. As of Nov. 1, the date for the most recent statistics, more than 200,000 formerly uninsured people had gotten insurance, roughly half of the state's target."
^{(Glen Johnson, "Rivals Chide Romney On Health Care Plan," The Associated Press, 11/15/2007)}

- Since Implementation, Nearly 300,000 Massachusetts Residents Have Become Insured. "Since the implementation of Massachusetts' landmark Healthcare Reform began in June 2006, an estimated 290,000 residents of the Commonwealth have become newly insured. As of January 1, 2008, we estimate that this number will surpass 300,000 – a truly historic achievement."
^{(Massachusetts Commonwealth Connector, http://www.mahealthconnector.org, Accessed 1/25/2008)}

Uninsured Massachusetts Residents Can Obtain Health Care Insurance For As Little As $175 A Month. "The average uninsured Massachusetts residents could obtain health care coverage for as little as $175 a month under the state's insurance law, Gov. Deval Patrick announced Saturday as he released the results of negotiations with the state's health insurers."
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "Patrick: Residents Can Get Health Insurance For $175 A Month," The Associated Press, 3/03/2007)}

"If Purchased On A Pre-Tax Basis, The Lowest Cost Plans Drop To $109 A Month For Someone Earning $50,000 A Year."
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "Patrick: Residents Can Get Health Insurance For $175 A Month," The Associated Press, 3/03/2007)}

The Minimum Plan Includes Prescription Drug Coverage And Basic Medical Care Services. "The minimum plan detailed by Patrick would cover the average uninsured Massachusetts resident, who is typically around 37-years-old. It includes prescription drug coverage and covers basic medical care, such as emergency room visits and outpatient medical care."
^{(Steve LeBlanc, "Patrick: Residents Can Get Health Insurance For $175 A Month," The Associated Press, 3/03/2007)}

FACT: The Massachusetts Health Care Plan Required "No New Tax Monies":

The Massachusetts Plan Redirects Existing Funds To Help Lower-Income Citizens Obtain Private Insurance – No New Taxes. "The big question we faced, however, was where the money for the subsidy would come from. We didn't want higher taxes; but we did have about $1 billion already in the system through a long-established uninsured-care fund that partially reimburses hospitals for free care. The fund is raised through an annual assessment on insurance providers and hospitals, plus contributions from the state and federal governments."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "Health Care For Everyone?," The Wall Street Journal, 4/11/2006)}

- The Heritage Foundation: "The Subsidies Require No New Tax Monies." "The subsidies require no new tax monies. Federal and state funds currently subsidizing hospitals for treating the uninsured will simply be redirected into buying coverage for the low-income uninsured."
^{(Edmund F. Haislmaier, "Massachusetts Health Reform: What The Doctor Ordered," The Heritage Foundation, 5/06/2006)}

FACT: Governor Romney Vetoed A Fee On Businesses:

Governor Romney Vetoed A $295 Fee Included In The Health Care Plan By Democrats In The State Legislature. "Many of the law's core elements, including the requirement that all people in the state get insurance, were in Romney's original proposal in 2005. The Democratic legislature added many of its own ideas to the final law, including a $295 fee per employee for businesses who do not offer health insurance to their workers. Romney vetoed that provision but was overridden by the legislature."
^{(Perry Bacon Jr., "Romney Plays Down Role In Health Law," The Washington Post, 4/13/2007)}

- Governor Romney: "My Democratic counterparts have added an annual $295 per-person fee charged to employers that do not contribute toward insurance premiums for any of their employees. The fee is unnecessary and probably counterproductive, and so I will take corrective action."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Op-Ed, "Health Care For Everyone?," The Wall Street Journal, 4/11/2006)}

FACT: The Massachusetts Health Plan Benefits Package Was Developed By The Connector Authority – An Independent Body Separate From The Governor's Office. Unfortunately, Under State Law And Court Precedent, If The State Is Funding Health Care Benefits It Cannot Refuse To Provide Abortion Coverage:

The Commonwealth Care Package Is Designed And Administered By The Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority. "The Connector administers two separate programs; Commonwealth Care and Commonwealth Choice. Commonwealth Care offers subsidized insurance to people whose annual incomes are up to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level."
^{(Commonwealth Connector Official Website, "About Us," Accessed 2/05/2007)}

- The Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority Is An Independent Public Authority And Their Decisions Were Made Separate Of The Romney Administration. "The Commonwealth Health Insurance Connector Authority is an independent public authority created to implement significant portions of the new landmark health care reform legislation. The Connector assists qualified Massachusetts adult residents with the purchase of affordable health care coverage if they don't already have it."
^{(Commonwealth Connector Official Website, "About Us," Accessed 2/05/2007)}

In 1981, The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Ruled That The State Constitution Required Payment For Abortion Services For Medicaid-Eligible Women.
^{(Moe v. Secretary of Admin & Finance, 1981)}

- According To The Decision, When A State Subsidizes Medical Care, It Cannot Infringe On "The Exercise Of A Fundamental Right" Which The Court Interpreted As Access To Medically Necessary Abortion Services.
^{(Moe v. Secretary of Admin & Finance, 1981)}

- In 1997, The Supreme Judicial Court Reaffirmed Its Position That A State-Subsidized Plan Must Offer "Medically Necessary Abortions."
^{(Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts, Inc. v. Attorney General, 1997)}

Talking Points For Governor Romney’s Health Care Reform in Massachusetts
(Edited from list prepared by Brady Alder, UltiMitt.org, 9/26/2007 • Source: Edmund F. Haislmaier, "The Massachusetts Health Reform: Assessing Its Significance and Progress," The Heritage Foundation, 6/28/2007)

• Romney’s team innovated the consumer-centered approach which is the key to being able to have competition in the marketplace.

• The consumer-centered approach lets people direct how health care is funded

• With consumers making the purchasing decisions, as opposed to Government, we get better results at better prices

• It’s a similar concept to school vouchers. If parents could direct the funding of education, efficient schools would thrive, while inefficient ones would have to improve or go under.

• Romney did not propose a health insurance mandate. What he proposed was that those who still insisted on going without coverage in a reformed system demonstrate proof of their willingness and ability to pay their own bills by posting a bond or establishing an escrow account.

• Current programs have no transparency and prop up inefficient programs. Today the cost to America’s citizens is over $40 billion annually.

• Our current system relies on publicly funded subsidies for its survival and is allowed to overcharge private patients, regardless of the cost structures or the quality of care provided.

• Our current system uses emergency room care to treat the uninsured instead of lower-cost, better alternatives such as preventative care.

• Massachusetts citizens have 42 plans to choose from instead of the 1 plan 80 percent of Americans have through their employers.

• Pre-reform, the lowest premium for a typical uninsured 37-year-old in Boston was $335 per month with a $5,000 annual deductible. Now, the same individual can get health coverage for $184 per month ($118 pre-tax) with a $2,000 deductible. Most can get a health plan worth twice the value at half the price.

• The number of uninsured in Massachusetts has been reduced by nearly half.

Environmental and Energy Policy
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#environmental

"We must become independent from foreign sources of oil. This will mean a combination of efforts related to conservation and efficiency measures, developing alternative sources of energy like biodiesel, ethanol, nuclear, and coal gasification, and finding more domestic sources of oil such as in ANWR or the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS)."
^{(Mitt Romney Campaign Website | Issue Watch | Energy)}

Gov. Romney would review how government invests our research dollars. He believes the United States must invest more research dollars in power generation, fuel technology and materials science.
^{(Romney for President, "Policy Briefing: Supporting Clean Coal Technologies," Press Release, 3/08/2007)}

Governor Romney: "We're using too much oil. We have an answer. We can use alternative sources of energy -- biodiesel, ethanol, nuclear power -- and we can drill for more oil here. We can be more energy independent and we can be far more efficient in the use of that energy."
^{(Waterloo Courier, 9/29/2006)}

Presidential Campaign Platform

Making Energy Independence A Top Administration Priority. Because energy independence is crucial to our economy and national security, Governor Romney will make it a top administration priority to become energy independent.

Expanding Investment In Research, Development, And Demonstration Projects. This investment will encourage the commercialization of alternative energy.

Increasing Domestic Production, Including Renewable Sources, Biodiesel, Solar And Wind. Governor Romney will pursue our domestic sources of energy, drawing from our broad and diverse base of options, including opening ANWR.

Increasing Focus On Energy Security. Governor Romney will shift federal priorities to emphasize issues of energy security, particularly at the Department of Energy.

Promoting Nuclear Technology. Governor Romney will accelerate the construction of new nuclear power plants in order to ensure that nuclear power continues to be a part of a robust, cleaner and more reliable energy mix.

Fuel Efficiency: Governor Romney Would Evaluate Reforms To CAFE Standards To Develop A Better Way To Get Higher Fleet Mileage Without Market Distortions "What does this mean for Detroit? Well, it means that the automotive fleet will have to become more fuel efficient. CAFE improved mileage initially, but the consumer has gotten around it over the last couple of decades. CAFE has some real problems. It distorts the market. It penalizes the domestic automakers. It can ignore technical realities. So before I would change the CAFE standards, I want to sit down with every major knowledgeable party and evaluate each of the alternatives. A good number have been proposed; let's decide which is the best course by looking at the data and analysis, rather than by playing to the TV cameras. Let's not forget that a far more fuel efficient fleet must be part of our energy future. The issue is which is the least distorting way to achieve it."
^{(Governor Mitt Romney, Remarks To Detroit Economic Club, 2/07/2007)}

Read more at Ending Our Dependence On Foreign Oil: THE ROMNEY Plan and view the video Ask Mitt Anything: National Energy Policy

Governor Mitt Romney on the Current Environmental Debate
Friday, Feb 23, 2007

Boston, MA – Today, Governor Mitt Romney issued the following statement on the current environmental debate. Saying that South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford was right on this issue, he continued:

"Unfortunately, some in the Republican Party are embracing the radical environmental ideas of the liberal left. As governor, I found that thoughtful environmentalism need not be anti-growth and anti-jobs. But Kyoto-style sweeping mandates, imposed unilaterally in the United States, would kill jobs, depress growth and shift manufacturing to the dirtiest developing nations."

"Republicans should never abandon pro-growth conservative principles in an effort to embrace the ideas of Al Gore. Instead of sweeping mandates, we must use America's power of innovation to develop alternative sources of energy and new technologies that use energy more efficiently."

Governor Romney opposed mandatory, Kyoto-like “global warming” regulations in Massachusetts, opting instead for voluntary, pro-growth measures to increase energy efficiency of businesses, reduce carbon emissions and improve the environment with the Massachusetts Climate Protection Plan.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Unveils Climate Protection Plan for Massachusetts," Press Release, 5/06/2004)}

"Unlike the Kyoto Protocol, Romney's plan focuses on voluntary initiatives, restricting any mandatory requirements to only a few large industries and the state itself. The plan includes no enforcement mechanism for requiring attainment of the goals.

... "Some of the most economically punitive measures activist groups frequently propose to reach such goals, such as energy taxes and emission caps, are absent from the plan. It is thus unlikely the state will suffer the economic consequences of capping carbon dioxide emissions. Research has found those costs could reach $6,300 per household by raising the price of goods and destroying jobs.

... "In addition to rejecting more stringent proposals, Romney made a special effort to convey that he personally had doubts about alarmist global warming theory, going so far as to attach a letter to the plan's final version suggesting he remains unconvinced that man-made greenhouse gases are an environmental problem.

"Romney said he was unsure whether climate change is occurring and whether human activity is causing it," reported the May 7 Environment & Energy Daily.

"Romney characterized his support of the plan as an 'insurance policy' focusing on voluntary initiatives in the private sector and mandatory reductions primarily directed at state agencies themselves.

"If climate change is happening, the actions we take will help," Romney wrote. "If climate change is largely caused by human action, this will really help. If we learn decades from now that climate change isn't happening, these actions will still help our economy, our quality of life, and the quality of our environment.
^{(James M. Taylor, "Massachusetts Gov. Romney Unveils Climate Protection Plan," The Heartland Institute, 7/01/2004)}

In 2005, Governor Romney pulled Massachusetts out of a compact of Northeastern states requiring a reduction in power plant emissions of carbon dioxide because it would have caused continued economic decline in the state.
^{(Robert Novak, "Romney gains by shunning CO2 caps," Chicago Sun-Times, 1/02/2006)}

Gov. Romney signed energy legislation to soften the impact of high home heating costs on low income residents. The law also enabled income-eligible taxpayers to apply for income tax deductions for home heating costs and provided incentives for individuals and businesses to undertake upgrades that promote energy efficiency.
^{(Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Signs Legislation to Provide Energy Price Relief and Increase Conservation," Press Release, 11/22/2005)}

Highly Successful Business Career, Harvard MBA and Law Degree
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#resume

"Prior to his Olympic service, Mitt Romney enjoyed a successful career helping businesses grow and improve their operations. From 1978 to 1984, Mr. Romney was a Vice President at Bain & Company, Inc., a leading management consulting firm. In 1984, Romney founded Bain Capital, one of the nation's most successful venture capital and investment companies. Bain Capital helped guide hundreds of companies on a successful course, including Staples, Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Domino's Pizza, Sealy, Brookstone, and The Sports Authority. He was asked to return to Bain & Company as CEO several years later in order to lead a financial restructuring of the organization. Today, Bain & Company employs more than 2,000 people in 25 offices worldwide."
^{(Mitt Romney Campaign Website | Learn About Mitt | Mitt's Biography)}

Twenty years after its inception, Bain Capital currently manages $50 billion in assets, and holds positions in major companies including Toys R Us, Burger King and Unisource.

"During the 14 years Romney headed Bain Capital, the firm’s average annual internal rate of return on realized investments was a staggering 113 percent. At that growth rate, a hypothetical $1,000 investment would grow to $39.6 million before fees. Few, if any, venture capital firms have ever matched Bain Capital’s performance under Mitt Romney."
^{(Matthew Rees, "Mister PowerPoint Goes to Washington," The American, 12/01/2006)}

"The House that Mitt built" by David Snow, Private Equity International, September, 2007. This investigative report is a MUST READ to better appreciate Mitt Romney's outstanding leadership style and skills during his years working in the private sector.

Description
Mitt Romney, the talented and charismatic former head of Bain Capital, is running for president of the United States. Those who worked with him during his private-sector years in the 1980s and 1990s describe a consulting superstar who succeeded in private equity while presiding, pater familias-like [Latin for "father of the family"], over a team of notably aggressive and ambitious investment professionals. David Snow examines Romney’s legacy at Bain Capital and the leadership characteristics of a man who may be the next American president.

"Governor Romney received his B.A., with Highest Honors, from Brigham Young University in 1971 [Editor's Note: Romney was BYU graduating class valedictorian with a 3.97 GPA]. In 1975, he was awarded an MBA from Harvard Business School, where he was named a Baker Scholar, and a Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Harvard Law School."
^{(Mitt Romney Campaign Website | Learn About Mitt | Mitt's Biography)}

The top academic honor at Harvard Business School is the Baker Scholar designation (High Distinction), given to the top 5% of the graduating MBA class. Mitt Romney studied under a dual MBA/JD degree program at Harvard and graduated with honors in just four years with both degrees. The MBA degree and JD degree program at Harvard normally require two and three years, respectively. Out of Mitt Romney's 800 business school classmates and 550 law school classmates, only 15 earned degrees through the dual program.

Endorsements
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#endorsements

Editors of National Review Endorse Romney For President:

… "Romney is an intelligent, articulate, and accomplished former businessman and governor. At a time when voters yearn for competence and have soured on Washington because too often the Bush administration has not demonstrated it, Romney offers proven executive skill. He has demonstrated it in everything he has done in his professional life, and his tightly organized, disciplined campaign is no exception. He himself has shown impressive focus and energy.

… "We believe that Romney is a natural ally of social conservatives. He speaks often about the toll of fatherlessness in this country. He may not have thought deeply about the political dimensions of social issues until, as governor, he was confronted with the cutting edge of social liberalism. No other Republican governor had to deal with both human cloning and court-imposed same-sex marriage. He was on the right side of both issues, and those battles seem to have made him see the stakes of a broad range of public-policy issues more clearly. He will work to put abortion on a path to extinction. Whatever the process by which he got to where he is on marriage, judges, and life, we’re glad he is now on our side — and we trust him to stay there.

… "As he argued in his College Station speech, his faith informs his values, which he has demonstrated in both the private and public sectors. In none of these cases have any specific doctrines of his church affected the quality of his leadership. Romney is an exemplary family man and a patriot whose character matches the high office to which he aspires.

"More than the other primary candidates, Romney has President Bush’s virtues and avoids his flaws. His moral positions, and his instincts on taxes and foreign policy, are the same. But he is less inclined to federal activism, less tolerant of overspending, better able to defend conservative positions in debate, and more likely to demand performance from his subordinates. A winning combination, by our lights. In this most fluid and unpredictable Republican field, we vote for Mitt Romney." (the entire editorial is a Must Read)

Judge Robert Bork, Leading Conservative Jurist, Nominated By President Reagan To The Position Of Associate Justice Of The U.S. Supreme Court:

"Throughout my career, I have had the honor of serving under several Presidents and am proud to make today's endorsement. No other candidate will do more to advance the conservative judicial movement than Governor Mitt Romney. He knows firsthand how the judicial branch can profoundly affect the future course of a state and a nation. I greatly admired his leadership in Massachusetts in the way that he responded to the activist court's ruling legalizing same-sex 'marriage.' His leadership on the issue has served as a model to the nation on how to respect all of our citizens while respecting the rule of law at the same time."

"Our next President may be called upon to make more than one Supreme Court nomination, and Governor Romney is committed to nominating judges who take their oath of office seriously and respect the rule of law in our nation. I also support Governor Romney because of his character, his integrity and his stands on the major issues facing the United States."
(Listen to a Romney for President radio ad featuring Judge Robert Bork: "Important Times")

Dr. John Willke, a Founder of the Pro-Life Movement Nationally and Internationally, Served for 10 Years as President of The National Right To Life Committee and Helped Found the Organization:
"Unlike other candidates who only speak to the importance of confronting the major social issues of the day, Governor Romney has a record of action in defending life. Every decision he made as Governor was on the side of life. I know he will be the strong pro-life President we need in the White House. Governor Romney is the only candidate who can lead our pro-life and pro-family conservative movement to victory in 2008."

Dr. Walid Phares, world renowned expert on Jihadism, prominent Terrorism Analyst and author:
"The two leading contenders on the Republican side, McCain and Romney, both recognize that there is an enemy, are committed to defeat it, but identify it in different intensities. Senator McCain says it is “Radical Islam,” and pledges to increase the current level of involvement. On Iraq, the former Navy Pilot says he will continue to fight till there are no more enemies to fight. To me that is a trenches battlefield: We’ll pound them till they have no more trenches. Governor Romney says the enemy is Global Jihadism, and it has more than the one battlefield of Iraq. And because the Jihadists are in control of regimes, interests and omnipresent in the region and worldwide, the US counter strategies cannot and should not be limited to “entrenchment” but to counter attacks, preemptive moves and putting allies forces on the existing and new battlefields. ...so far Governor Romney has readied himself better in the realm of strategizing the defeat [of] this enemy. ... In short, if elected, Romney will try to destroy the mother ship, McCain will supply the trenches, Clinton will pull the troops back to the barracks and Obama will visit the foes’ bunkers. ... Hence, as is, I have recommended Governor Romney for the Republican Primaries as first among equals while considering Senator McCain as a genuine leader. If Romney is selected I believe America may have a chance to try new strategies. If his contender is selected, we will have four or eight more years of the past seven years." (read more in "The Candidate Who Can See the Enemy, Can Defeat It")

Retired Major General James "Spider" Marks, U.S. Army:
"Governor Romney has been outspoken in his commitment to our men and women in the military. Our troops need more support from Washington and Governor Romney will ensure that they have the resources they need to defend this country. I am proud to be joining Governor Romney's campaign. On national security issues, the Governor has distinguished himself as a true leader ready to invest in our national defense."

Paul Weyrich, Chairman and CEO of the Free Congress Research and Education Foundation, current National Chairman of Coalitions for America, founder and past director of the American Legislative Exchange Council, the founding president of the Heritage Foundation, and co-founder of the Moral Majority with the late Jerry Falwell:
"As he travels across the country, Governor Romney has outlined a blueprint to build a stronger America rooted in our common conservative principles. With a clear conservative vision to move America forward, he will strengthen our economy, our military and our families. More importantly, he already has an exceptional record of putting conservative values to work. Because of his experience, vision and values, I am proud to support Governor Romney."

David A. Keene, Chairman of the American Conservative Union:
"In recent months, Governor Romney has emerged as the single candidate most worthy of conservative support. That's why I'm endorsing him and intend to spend as much time as possible in the weeks ahead convincing my fellow conservatives that if we are serious about electing a conservative president in 2008, it's time to unite behind his candidacy."
^{(Audio Clip From Laura Ingraham Show On 11/29/2007: David Keene On His Endorsement Of Governor Mitt Romney)}

Robin Hoffman, Former Florida Right To Life President:
"As we face unprecedented domestic and global challenges, it has never been more critical to elect a viable conservative Republican nominee that can bring together social conservatives, fiscal conservatives and defense conservatives. Governor Romney is the one candidate that can unite all these elements of our party to lead us to victory in November."

Wendy Long, Chief Counsel, Judicial Confirmation Network, former clerk of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas:
“Our country faces a new generation of challenges, which has presented our courts with a new generation of legal issues. As Governor of Massachusetts, Mitt Romney witnessed firsthand the impact our courts can have when facing these new challenges. I believe that he, better than any other candidate for President, understands the need for our courts to respect democracy and the will of the people. I believe that he, better than any other candidate for President, would nominate judges and justices of the highest caliber, who would be faithful to the text, history, and principles of our Constitution. I look forward to working with the Governor.”

U.S. Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), National Co-Chair of Romney for President Campaign:
"I believe that he is exactly the leader America needs to secure our future. Americans are tired of the same old ideas that keep coming out of Washington. They are hungry for a leader who will draw on America’s strength. I would like Governor Romney to know that key Republicans like you want him to run for President."
(Ivy J. Sellers, "Jim DeMint's Letter Endorsing Mitt Romney," Human Events, 1/09/2007) • (Listen to a Romney for President radio ad featuring Sen. DeMint: "Stop Spending")

Former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum (R-PA):
"In a few short days, Republicans from across this country will decide more than their party's nominee. They will decide the very future of our party and the conservative coalition that Ronald Reagan built. Conservatives can no longer afford to stand on the sidelines in this election, and Governor Romney is the candidate who will stand up for the conservative principles that we hold dear. Governor Romney has a deep understanding of the important issues confronting our country today, and he is the clear conservative candidate that can go into the general election with a united Republican party."

U.S. Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH), National Co-Chair of Romney for President Campaign:
"I am proud to stand alongside Governor Romney as he campaigns to build a stronger America. For months, the people of New Hampshire have had the opportunity to meet Governor Romney all over the state and listen to his ideas for bringing change to Washington. Mitt Romney embodies New Hampshire's values – values that stress government living within its means, lower taxes, a stronger military and stronger families. Governor Romney is the strong leader we need to lead America forward. He has the experience, vision and values needed to be our next President."
^{(Mitt TV Clip: Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) Endorses Gov. Romney)}

U.S. Senator Thad Cochran (R-MS):
"It is an honor to join Governor Romney and his campaign for our nation's highest office. At this moment our nation faces unprecedented challenges, and Governor Romney has the experience, vision and values needed to strengthen our country for future generations. Governor Romney is a man of outstanding judgment and strong character. I look forward to working with him and helping to implement his conservative vision when he is elected our next President."

U.S. Congressman Tom Tancredo (R-CO):
"While several of the candidates appear to be committed to our cause [immigration reform], there are others whose records as public servants are abysmal on this issue. They have been on the other side of the battle for years and encouraging and even inviting, in a way, illegal immigrants into the country. I fear that remaining in this race, when I know I cannot win, could contribute to the nomination of one of those candidates. We have done too much. We have come too far. The stakes are way too high for me to allow that to happen. And so today I’m doing two things that I believe are in the best interests of this cause, and that cause is, of course, a secure America. I am withdrawing from the race and I’m endorsing Governor Romney for president of the United States."
^{(Video: Rep. Tancredo describes in detail why he endorses Governor Mitt Romney for President)}

Kris Kobach, Noted Immigration Expert, Professor Of Law And Head Of The Kansas Republican Party, Litigated A Number Of High-Profile Immigration Lawsuits Including Representing The City Of Hazleton, Pennsylvania:
"Of all the Republican presidential candidates, Governor Romney has outlined the clearest vision for how we are going to end illegal immigration in this country. More importantly, he has the record to back up his words. When he was Governor, he vetoed a bill that would have rewarded illegal aliens with in-state tuition rates, and he also increased cooperation between state and federal law enforcement. In one of our country's most liberal states, he stood up for the enforcement of immigration laws. He will do the same as President."

Bay Buchanan, most recently headed Congressman Tom Tancredo's (R-CO) presidential campaign, currently serves as President of The American Cause:
"I am proud to be supporting Governor Romney. Throughout this campaign, he has distinguished himself as the one Republican presidential candidate who not only speaks to the challenges confronting the American people, but can also win. He will secure the border, strengthen the economy and ensure that America remains strong. I believe that with Governor Romney's vision, values and experience, our nation will be stronger for future generations."

Sheriff Joe Arpaio - Maricopa County, Arizona:
“I like him,” Arpaio said of Mitt Romney. “He’s a man of principle, of good character. He did a great job in Massachusetts and I feel he’s going to make a great president.” “I’m sure the governor believes in my philosophy too,” Arpaio said. “He sure would not be asking for my endorsement if he didn’t believe in what I’m doing.”
^{(Sara Bonisteel, "Arizona Sheriff Joe Arpaio Tells FOX News Why Mitt Romney Picked Him for Presidential Campaign," Fox News, 2/28/2007)}

U.S. Congressman Phil Gingrey (R-GA):
"We are a nation of immigrants, but we also have an obligation to protect our national security, economic wealth and citizens. With an estimated 12 million illegal immigrants now residing in the United States — and hundreds of thousands of more arriving every year — Americans are sick of political rhetoric and thirty second sound bites. We are looking for someone with a record and reputation to solve this situation, and I emphatically believe Mitt Romney is our man." (read more)

Rush Limbaugh, nationally syndicated conservative radio-talk-show host and author:
"Now, I think now, based on the way the campaign has shaken out, that there probably is a candidate on our side who does embody all three legs of the conservative stool, and that's Romney. The three stools or the three legs of the stool are national security/foreign policy, the social conservatives, and the fiscal conservatives. ... I think right now Romney probably — as the campaign has coalesced and as the campaign has progressing on down the highway — I think the one candidate of the three still out there on our side matter (and actually it's just two, because Huckabee doesn't, in terms of a chance to win) in saying who more closely embodies all three legs of this conservative stool, you'd have to say that it's Mitt Romney. There's actually no choice in the matter. It certainly isn't Senator McCain."
^{("Rush Limbaugh Radio Show," 2/04/2008)}

Ann Coulter, conservative columnist and author:
"...My thinking was that Romney would be our nominee because he is manifestly the best candidate. ... The candidate Republicans should be clamoring for is the one liberals are feverishly denouncing. That is Mitt Romney by a landslide." (read more)

Sean Hannity, nationally syndicated conservative radio-talk-show host, Fox News political commentator, and author:
"I'll tell you right now, and I've not announced this, but I will be voting for Mitt Romney in this campaign. It's the first time I've stated it publicly. I'll state it now."
^{("Sean Hannity Radio Show," 1/31/2008)}

Mark Levin, nationally syndicated conservative radio-talk-show host, political and legal commentator and author, constitutional lawyer and former senior Reagan Justice Department official:
"The only one left standing who can honestly be said to share most of our conservative principles is Mitt Romney. ... If conservatives don’t unite behind Romney at this stage, and become vocal in their support for him, then they will get McCain as their Republican nominee and probably a Democrat president. And in either case, we will have a deeply flawed president." (read more)

Laura Ingraham, nationally syndicated conservative radio-talk-show host, author, and former clerk for U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas:
"February 12th is the big [Washington] D.C. primary. I'm pulling the lever for Mitt Romney. No doubt about it, no hesitation."
^{("The Laura Ingraham Radio Show," 2/01/2008)}

Lars Larson, conservative radio-talk-show host on NewsRadio 750 KXL in Portland, Oregon and nationally syndicated show on Westwood One:
"It's time for the GOP to pick a real Republican standard bearer. I've been keeping my powder dry on this question for months till I had the chance to talk to all of the potential nominees. I've done that now, and I'm left with only one conclusion. Governor Mitt Romney is the best choice for 2008."
^{("The Lars Larson Show," 2/01/2008)}

Craig Sandler, former Director of General Operations of the National Rifle Association and former Nashua Police Chief:
"Throughout his career in both the public and private sectors, Mitt Romney has demonstrated exceptional leadership ability, integrity, and commitment to principle. As a New Hampshire resident, former law enforcement officer, and avid sportsman, I am supporting Governor Romney because he is the candidate who will protect our Constitutional rights and strengthen our nation."

Liz Cheney, former U.S. State Department Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs, formerly National Campaign Co-Chair for the Fred Thompson presidential campaign:
"I am proud to support Governor Romney. Throughout this campaign, he has distinguished himself as a leader who can guide our country with a clear vision for overcoming the threats we face today. Dedicated to the success of our missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, Governor Romney is the only candidate who has outlined a comprehensive strategy for defeating the global Jihadist threat. I look forward to working with Governor Romney, because he is the leader our country needs."

Dr. Bob Jones III, Chancellor of Christian fundamentalist Bob Jones University in Greenville, SC:
"This is all about beating Hillary [Clinton]. And I just believe that this man has the credentials both personally and ideologically in terms of his view about what American government should be to best represent the rank and file of conservative Americans. As a Christian I am completely opposed to the doctrines of Mormonism, but I’m not voting for a preacher. I’m voting for a president. It boils down to who can best represent conservative American beliefs, not religious beliefs."

Dr. Robert R. Taylor, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Bob Jones University:
"We’re not electing a pastor — we’re electing a president."

Dr. Wayne Grudem, professor of Theology at Phoenix Seminary, a former president of the Evangelical Theological Society, and a hugely influential thinker in Christian academia:
"As an evangelical professor of Bible and theology, I have decided to support Mitt Romney for President (even though he is a Mormon) for two old-fashioned reasons: First, he is the best-qualified candidate, and second, he holds moral and political values consistent with those in the Bible." (read more)

Dr. Robert Wolgemuth, former Chairman of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association and best-selling author:
"Governor Romney has demonstrated that he is the one candidate in both parties who can represent the three pillars of the Reagan coalition — a strong military, a strong economy and stronger families. Most importantly, he has laid out a vision for strengthening American families through championing a Federal Marriage Amendment and defending the sanctity of human life. Governor Romney has the experience, vision and personal values to lead our county as we face ongoing and new domestic and global challenges, and I am proud to support his candidacy."

Mark DeMoss, president of The DeMoss Group, a public relations firm for evangelical Christian groups and causes:
"After spending months researching his life and his record, and hours with him (and his wife and staff) in his home, his office and on the road, I am convinced his values practically mirror my own—values about the sanctity of life, the sacredness of marriage, the importance of the family, character and integrity, free enterprise and smaller government. But more than one candidate shares my values..." (read more)

Rev. Lou Sheldon, head of the Traditional Values Coalition:
“When I give my support for a candidate, I am giving the green light, if he wins, all the way down the line in terms of so many moral and social issues...My thinking is that Mitt Romney is a person with the experience and with the Jude[o-]Christian moral values,” Sheldon told CBN’s David Brody, adding that he’d “been around Mormons long enough to know that when they pray in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ they are sincere about that-- that he is the Lord and the redeemer and the one that they have to be answerable to." (1, 2, 3)

Other religious-right activists on Romney’s committee include Jay Sekulow of Pat Robertson’s American Center for Law and Justice, Gary Marx of the Judicial Confirmation Network, prominent anti-abortion and Constitutional attorney James Bopp, Jr., Christian Coalition board member Drew McKissic, Jay Sekulow’s son Jordan, anti-immigration writer James Edwards, and leaders or activists associated with the Alliance Defense Fund, Iowa Christian Alliance (formerly the Christian Coalition of Iowa), Heartbeat International, Legacy Law Foundation, and Citizens for Traditional Values.

Jay Sekulow, Chief Counsel, American Center for Law and Justice, Constitutional Attorney and Supreme Court Advocate:
"Governor Romney has a strong record of defending traditional values and supporting the faith community. He is the one candidate who has spoken to the importance of promoting stronger families. In Washington, he will stand alongside those defending our most important values."
^{(View important comments from Jay Sekulow in this video: Voices from the Values Voter Summit)}

James Bopp, Jr., General Counsel, National Right To Life Committee and James Madison Center For Free Speech, Constitutional Attorney and Supreme Court Advocate, Prominent Advocate For Pro-Life Issues and Campaign Finance and Election Law:
"I believe that Governor Romney is the best qualified person for President. He is a fiscal and social conservative, he has impressive administrative experience in the private, non-profit and public sectors, and he is a proven and successful politician."
^{(View important comments from James Bopp, Jr. in this video: Voices from the Values Voter Summit)}

Professor Mary Ann Glendon, Learned Hand Professor of Law at Harvard, Appointed by President George W. Bush to be U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See:
"In the aftermath of the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court's decision redefining marriage, I had the opportunity to work with Governor Romney and see him in action. He knows the importance of defending principles of judicial restraint. I was proud to work with him then and am proud to work with him now as he pursues our nation's highest office." [Editor's Note: Professor Glendon served as Co-Chair of the Advisory Committee On The Constitution And The Courts for the Romney campaign before being appointed U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican]

Professor Douglas Kmiec, Holds The Endowed Chair In Constitutional Law At Pepperdine University Law School, former constitutional legal counsel to President Ronald Reagan:
"More than any other candidate, Governor Romney understands the importance of nominating 'honest constructionists' — that is, judges with a genuine appreciation for the text, structure, and history of the Constitution and the laws as enacted. There have been far too many examples of late where the public has been given reason to believe that those charged with dispassionately interpreting the law have relied on partisanship instead. It is as wrong to politicize the Courts as it is for the Courts to play politics. For this reason, Governor Romney strongly supported the nominations of Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Samuel Alito, and he will appoint federal judges and justices in the same mold. With Governor Romney as President, I am confident that we will have a judiciary that will respect our Constitution and not legislate from the bench."

Camille Solberg, past President of the Wisconsin Coalition for Traditional Marriage:
"Governor Romney has a strong record on the issues that matter most to social conservative voters. Facing unprecedented challenges to some of our most basic values, he acted to promote a culture of life, defend traditional marriage and strengthen the family. His is a record of action and a platform social conservatives can and are supporting. I am honored to be a part of his team."

Ambassador Thomas Melady, former U.S. Ambassador to the Vatican from 1989 to 1993:
"In Governor Mitt Romney, I have found a candidate who represents the family values that are so important to me. His appreciation for the value of a strong family is clearly exhibited in his vision for America. He understands that every decision he would face, affects the American family. I look forward to working to help Mitt bring his family friendly change to Washington."

U.S. Congresswoman Kay Granger (R-TX), Highest Ranking Republican Woman In The U.S. House Of Representatives:
“Governor Romney is a proven leader and natural problem solver. He has demonstrated the ability to turn problems into successes. As Americans, we need his leadership in Washington. He is the only candidate to demonstrate that he has a strategy to make America stronger by returning to our core conservative principles that have made this country so great. I am proud to join his campaign.”

U.S. Congressman Pete Hoekstra (R-MI), top Republican on the U.S. House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence:
"Governor Romney understands that a President must focus on both current and emerging threats to our nation and that an agile and aggressive intelligence community provides America's first line of defense against those threats."

U.S. Congressman Lamar Smith (R-TX), Ranking Republican Member of the House Judiciary Committee:
"Governor Romney is the only candidate in this race who has the ability to take Washington apart and put it back together, so that it works better for the American people. I am happy to endorse his candidacy for President. He understands the importance of getting America back to conservative principles and common sense leadership. Governor Romney is the right choice for Americans who want to see change in Washington."

U.S. Congressman Connie Mack (R-FL):
"Governor Romney is a proven problem solver with an unparalleled record of success in both the public and private sectors. Governor Romney is a mainstream conservative leader who will be a champion of hope and opportunity for every American, a catalyst for conservative change in Washington, and a staunch defender of our freedom, security and prosperity. I’m pleased to offer Governor Romney my endorsement and look forward to working hard to help elect him the next President of the United States."

U.S. Congressman Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA):
"Our country is facing great challenges. Among the most ominous is illegal immigration, which has been permitted to spin out of control for the last decade and a half. The safety of our country and the prosperity of our people are at great risk because of the magnitude of this problem. Mitt Romney is the candidate I trust most to take the steps necessary to secure our borders and protect the American people. Governor Romney can also be expected to provide strong economic leadership because he is the only candidate with private sector experience and a successful track record of creating jobs and managing a major corporation. I'm confident in Governor Romney's character and commitment to the principles at the heart of the Republican party. I cannot say that about the other candidates vying for the Republican nomination. Mitt Romney is the best candidate available for our party's nomination, and I'm going to vote for and support him. I encourage my fellow conservatives to do the same."

U.S. Congressman Vernon Ehlers (R-MI), former research physicist, member of the Science and Technology Committee:
"When I evaluate candidates, I look first for integrity, competence, and a good, common sense philosophy of governance. Mitt Romney scores astoundingly high on all points. Governor Romney is a candidate with an innovative vision for America. In the course of his impressive career, he has earned a solid reputation for successfully solving enormous problems that others thought couldn't be solved. With Governor Romney in the White House, we will have the strongest possible leader to enhance America's competitiveness through science, technology, engineering and education. I proudly endorse his campaign."

Missouri Governor Matt Blunt, National Co-Chair of Romney for President Campaign:
“Mitt Romney's strong conservative principles are right for America. He is a strong leader and a proven problem solver - in private business, the Olympics, and as Governor. Governor Romney lives the American values that we cherish. I believe he has a great vision for the future of the United States.”

Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman:
“In his campaign for the presidency, Mitt Romney has outlined the clearest vision to move our country forward. With exceptional leadership experience and outstanding values, Governor Romney is the only candidate who can bring true conservative change to Washington. I am proud to be a part of his team and look forward to joining him as he travels across this country discussing his strategy to build a stronger America.”

Rhode Island Governor Don Carcieri:
“Governor Romney has a strong record of results for the people of Massachusetts. In his four years as chief executive, he erased a deficit and provided health care without raising taxes. Our country faces a new generation of challenges that requires a leader ready to call upon the strength of the American people. With the leadership experience he brings from the private and public sectors, Governor Romney is just that leader.”

Former Governor of Colorado Bill Owens:
"Well, I think he's one of the brightest people I've ever seen in public office. He's a businessman, he's a manager. He understands markets, he understands the private sector. He is a conservative, he wants to cut taxes. You know, he's a Republican who was elected in Massachusetts, which has about 12% of its voters who are Republican. He was able to win that election, and we saw what he did at the Olympics."

Former Governor of Massachusetts William F. Weld:
"This is a real record of achievement that Romney is running on across the country. I am proud to endorse his candidacy for president of the United States." Read Governor Weld's endorsement in an editorial published 12/14/2007 in the Boston Globe, "Romney is the kind of leader we need"

Former Governor of Nevada Kenny Guinn:
see video

Virginia Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling:
“Mitt Romney also has the right vision for the future of our country. We can trust him to keep America safe at home by defeating the Jihadists abroad; and keep America strong by reigning in government spending, keeping taxes low, protecting the values we believe in, and confronting head on the new generation of challenges currently facing our nation.”

Former Lt. Governor of Michigan Connie Binsfeld:
"Governor Romney is the leader our country needs. He is committed to strengthening our economy and adding jobs to the workforce, critical issues for the people of Michigan. Additionally, Governor Romney has a proven record on the issues facing our nation. He'll keep taxes low, cut government spending, and reform health care. With Governor Romney, Americans know they have an exceptional leader with a proven record of results."

Former Lt. Governor of Florida Toni Jennings:
"I have been very fortunate to get to know Mitt Romney and his wife, Ann, on a personal level. Mitt and Ann live their private lives in exactly the same way they live their public lives – with compassion, honesty, faithfulness, and an optimistic and hopeful belief in the strength of the American people. I look forward to telling Floridians about Romney, and why they should believe in him – because I know that Mitt Romney is the strong conservative leader right for the job." (read more)

John Peyton, Mayor Of Jacksonville, Florida:
"In Massachusetts, Governor Romney applied conservative principles and successful private sector practices to grow the economy and restrain state spending. As President, Governor Romney will bring this same strong and innovative leadership to the White House as America faces new global and domestic challenges."

Deon Long, Statewide Chair of Romney for President Florida African American Steering Committee:
"Governor Romney is the only candidate that is presenting substantive policies and reforms to address the problems Americans face today. With a record of innovative leadership, it is clear that he is uniquely qualified to provide the leadership we need to expand access to affordable health care, keep our taxes low, raise the bar on education and keep our country safe."

State Senator Kevin Coughlin (R-OH):
"Our nation needs a leader like Governor Romney, a candidate with a proven record of accomplishment and success at governing using conservative principles. I am confident he can build a stronger America by reforming health care, improving education, restoring fiscal responsibility, and keeping our nation's military strong. I look forward to joining Governor Romney as he discusses his ideas to bring change to Washington with Ohians."

State House Representative Shannon Jones (R-OH):
"Governor Romney is a dedicated leader who understands the needs of everyday Americans. Like many Ohioians, he believes we need to bring conservative change to Washington by reducing government spending, keeping taxes low, and governing with the highest ethical standards. Unlike any other candidate, Governor Romney has laid out a comprehensive strategy to prevent a nuclear Iran. He understands that the best ally for peace is a strong America and he is the best choice to keep us safe from the threat of terrorist sponsored regimes."

Ambassador Sichan Siv, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Economic and Social Council:
"Unprecedented challenges from abroad and at home are too great to leave to an inexperienced executive. We need someone ready to provide steadfast and innovative leadership. Throughout his career, Governor Romney has proven his ability to take on difficult situations, analyze all variables, and find the right solution. I am excited to work with him."

California’s oldest, largest and most conservative Republican volunteer organization, the California Republican Assembly, endorsed Mitt Romney for President on November 11, 2007 with an overwhelming 148-73 vote during the group’s annual convention held in Sacramento. The Board of Directors for the Young Republican Federation of California also voted to endorse the Romney campaign.

View a list of U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives endorsing Gov. Romney (46 as of 2/05/2008, the most for any GOP candidate) compiled by TheHill.com

Photographs
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#photos

Governor Mitt Romney, the Chief Executive...

...and Grandpa Mitt (the grandkids call him ‘Papa’)

Strong pro-family values! Mitt and his wife, Ann, have been happily married for 40 years.

Mitt and Ann Romney have five sons (Tagg, Matt, Josh, Ben and Craig), five daughters-in-law (Jen, Laurie, Jen, Ande and Mary) and eleven grandchildren (latest born 11/21/2007) with three more on the way.

Casual Mitt...

MySpace Profile...

Facebook Profile...

View many more of Mitt Romney's Photos at Flickr

Miscellaneous Videos
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#videos

Debates

Fifteenth Republican Debate from Ronald Reagan Library in California, January 30, 2008 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Fifteenth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: We Need Conservative Policies
Gov. Romney: Setting The Record Straight
Gov. Romney: Straight Talk On Iraq (Romney Responds To McCain's Lies)
Gov. Romney: Protecting The Environment & The Economy
Gov. Romney: Supporting The Bush Tax Cuts
Gov. Romney on Russia
Gov. Romney on the Leadership to Change Washington
Gov. Romney on Ronald Reagan

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Luntz Focus Group: Romney Beats McCain
Luntz Focus Group Member: I'm Going To Support Romney
Voters Say Romney Right On Iraq
CNN's Undecided Voters: Governor Romney's Night
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Second Reagan Library Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2

Fourteenth Republican Debate in Boca Raton, Florida, January 24, 2008 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Fourteenth GOP Debate Highlights
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

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Joe Scarborough: "Mitt Romney Absolutely Dominated"
Pat Buchanan: "His Performance Was Flawless"
Fineman: Democrats Fear Romney
24 Jan 08 MSNBC: Post-Debate Analysis
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Boca Raton, FL GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2, Vol 3

Thirteenth Republican Debate in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, January 10, 2008 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Thirteenth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Strengthening The Economy
Gov. Romney: Knowing How America Works
Gov. Romney: A Comprehensive Iran Strategy
Gov. Romney: Advancing Moderate Voices In The Muslim World
Gov. Romney: Bringing Change To Washington
Gov. Romney: No Special Pathway

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Myrtle Beach, SC GOP Debate • Vol 1

Twelfth Republican Debate in Manchester, New Hampshire, January 6, 2008 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Twelfth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: A Pro-Growth Tax Agenda
Gov. Romney: I Have Actually Cut Spending
Gov. Romney: We Need A President Who Knows The Economy
Gov. Romney: We Need Change In Washington
Gov. Romney: Executive Leadership
Gov. Romney: We Need Executive Experience
Gov. Romney: Reform The Immigration System
Gov. Romney: Running to Change Washington

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Luntz Focus Group: Romney Wins Debate
Luntz Focus Group: Romney Can Beat Obama
Frank Luntz: Romney Hit A Home Run Tonight (focus group dial results)
Luntz Focus Group: Extended Comments From Focus Group On All Debate Participants
Fox News: Post-Debate Analysis
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Manchester, NH GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2, Vol 3, Vol 4, Vol 5

Eleventh Republican Debate in Manchester, New Hampshire, January 5, 2008 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Eleventh GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Keeping America Safe
Gov. Romney: Supporting Moderate Voices
Gov. Romney: Keeping America Strong
Gov. Romney: Success In Healthcare
Gov. Romney: Market Can Work In Healthcare
Gov. Romney: Reforming Our Immigration System
Gov. Romney: I've Lived Change
Gov. Romney: More Than Rhetoric On Energy Independence

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Manchester, NH GOP Debate • Vol 1
What They're Really Saying About Sen. McCain's Personal Attacks
"Candidate of Change" Remark Nets McCain Low Marks (focus group dial results)
Fox News' Brit Hume On The Debate
Gov. Romney Defends Family Values and viewers approve (focus group dial results)
Gov. Romney Speaks Of Next Phase In War On Terror and viewers approve (focus group dial results)

Tenth Republican Debate in Johnston, Iowa, December 12, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Tenth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Pro-Growth Economic Policies
Gov. Romney: We Need To Cut Spending
Gov. Romney: We Need To Cut Taxes
Gov. Romney: A Vision For Strengthening The Economy
Gov. Romney: Pro-Economy & Pro-Environment
Gov. Romney: Excellence In Education
Gov. Romney: Meeting The Education Challenge
Gov. Romney: A Strong First Year
Gov. Romney: Change Begins With Iowa
Gov. Romney: All Parts Of The Conservative Coalition
Gov. Romney: A Resolution To Defeat The Democrats

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

GOP Voters Focus Group: Romney Won Overwhelmingly
Luntz: Gov. Romney Looked Presidential
Luntz Meter: Romney A "Home Run" On Education
Comstock On Gov. Romney's Debate Performance
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Des Moines, IA GOP Debate • Vol 1

Ninth Republican Debate in Miami, Florida, Univision Audience, December 9, 2007

Gov. Romney's Ninth GOP Debate Highlights
Debate Summary with transcript of Gov. Romney's responses in English

Eighth Republican Debate in St. Petersburg, Florida, CNN/YouTube, November 28, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Eighth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Sanctuary State of Mind
Gov. Romney: It's The Tax Payers Money
Gov. Romney: Cutting Washington Spending
Gov. Romney: First To Sign Tax Pledge
Gov. Romney: Important To Support Farmers
Gov. Romney: Proud To Be Pro-Life
Gov. Romney: We Need To Strengthen Families
Gov. Romney: Building A Stronger America

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Luntz On Romney/Giuliani & Immigration
Rudy vs. Mitt — The exchange on illegal immigration that Mitt Romney won decisively according to Luntz focus group
Bill Bennett on Gov. Romney's Debate Performance
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The St. Petersburg, FL GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2, Vol 3

Seventh Republican Debate in Orlando, Florida, October 21, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Seventh GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Maintaining The Conservative Coalition
Gov. Romney: Doing What It Takes To Secure America
Gov. Romney: Defending Marriage
Gov. Romney: Not Going Hillary's Way On Health Care
Gov. Romney: Proud Of What We Did In Massachusetts Health Care
Gov. Romney: Hillary Not Prepared To Lead
Gov. Romney: We Can Solve The Big Problems
Gov. Romney: A Strong America In The World

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Luntz: Romney Sledgehammers Clinton
Gov. Romney Talks To Sean Hannity Post Debate
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Orlando, FL GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2

Sixth Republican Debate in Dearborn, Michigan, October 9, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Sixth GOP Debate Highlights
Gov. Romney: Optimistic About America
Gov. Romney: Debates Like "Law & Order"
Gov. Romney: On Unions And The Economy
Gov. Romney: Bringing Market Dynamics To Health Care
Gov. Romney: A Record That Can Beat Hillary
Gov. Romney: America Can Compete And Win
Gov. Romney: On Free Trade
Gov. Romney: Comparing Fiscal Records
Gov. Romney: On Michigan's Economy

Post-Debate Interviews and Analysis

Governor Romney On Government Spending
Governor Romney On The Line-Item Veto
Gov. Romney Talks Taxes On NBC's "Today"
Gov. Romney On His Iran Strategy
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Dearborn, MI GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2, Vol 3
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

Fifth Republican Debate in Durham, New Hampshire, September 5, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Highlights of the Fifth GOP Debate
Governor Romney: Important To Campaign In Iowa And New Hampshire
Governor Romney: We Must Enforce Our Immigration Laws
Governor Romney: Ending Illegal Immigration Magnets
Governor Romney: Using Intel To Fight The War On Terror
Governor Romney: A Record Of Cutting Taxes
Governor Romney: On Iran

What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Durham, NH GOP Debate
Governor Romney Interviewed By Hannity & Colmes After The Debate
Laura Ingraham: Gov. Romney Will Keep The Country Safe
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

Fourth Republican Debate in Des Moines, Iowa, August 5, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Fourth GOP Debate Highlights
Governor Romney: Strong Military, Strong Economy, Strong Family
Governor Romney: My Biggest Mistake
Governor Romney: The President Has Kept Us Safe
Governor Romney: Fix It First
Governor Romney: Helping Moderate Muslim States Defeat Extremism
Governor Romney: Winning The War Against Radical Jihad
Governor Romney: Personal Responsibility In Health Care
Governor Romney: We Need A Surge Of Support
Governor Romney On Senator Obama: "From Jane Fonda To Doctor Strangelove"
Governor Romney Answers Sen. Brownback's False Accusations

Halperin: Romney Gets An A
Luntz: Reaction To Romney On Taxes "Very Favorable" (debate focus group dial test results)
Romney Catches Iowans In His Mitt (debate focus group dial test results)
What They're Really Saying About Governor Mitt Romney At The Des Moines, Iowa GOP Debate • Vol 1, Vol 2
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

Third Republican Debate in Manchester, New Hampshire, June 5, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Third GOP Presidential Debate Highlights
CNN "Raw Politics": Post-Debate Interview
Luntz: Romney The Winner

Romney: The Three-Legged Stool
Romney: Conservative Principles in Health Care
Romney: Reforming our Immigration System
Romney: A Strong America in the World
Romney: Investing in Energy Independence
Romney: Enforcing Our Immigration Laws
Romney: Standing Strong for Values
Romney: Proud of his Faith and Values
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

Second Republican Presidential Candidates Debate in Columbia, South Carolina, May 15, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Sign Up America & the Second GOP Debate
Governor Romney: I Won't Project Failure in Iraq
Governor Romney: Benchmarks for Washington
Governor Romney: Showing Strong Conservative Leadership
Governor Romney: Securing The Border
Governor Romney: Protecting America
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

First Republican Presidential Candidates Debate, held at Reagan Presidential Library, May 3, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's First GOP Presidential Debate Highlights
Post-Debate Analysis

Governor Romney On The War In Iraq
Governor Romney On Osama bin Laden
Governor Romney On Optimism For America
Governor Romney: Proudly Pro-Life
Governor Romney On America's Faith
Governor Romney's Pro-Life Agenda
Governor Romney On Stem Cell Research
Governor Romney: Free Market Health Care
Governor Romney Making Savings Tax Free
Governor Romney On Strengthening The American Family
Governor Romney: "You have got to be kidding!"
Transcript of debate questions and answers by Gov. Romney

Campaign Speeches and Promos

At CPAC, Governor Romney suspends his campaign • At the 2008 Conservative Political Action Conference in Washington D.C., Governor Romney speaks about conservative principles, and why he's suspending his campaign for President of the United States. (February 7, 2008)

Governor Romney on the "Super Tuesday" Primaries • As supporters gathered in Boston to await the Super Tuesday results, Gov. Romney addresses his supporters. (February 5, 2008)

Ann Romney on the "Super Tuesday" Primaries • Addressing supporters in Boston on Super Tuesday night, Ann talks about the experience of the campaign. (February 5, 2008)

Governor Romney on the Florida Primary • Governor Romney addresses supporters in Florida after finishing strong in the state's primary election. (January 29, 2008)

Governor Romney Celebrates Victory in Nevada • At a rally in Jacksonville, Florida, Gov. Romney celebrates word from Nevada of his overwhelming caucus victory there. (January 19, 2008)

Victory In Michigan! • Gov. Romney addresses supporters after his victory in the Michigan Primary on January 15, 2008

Governor Romney Addresses Michigan Business Leaders • On the eve of the Michigan Primary, Gov. Romney speaks to the Detroit Economic Club about critical issues for the national economy.

Governor Romney on the New Hampshire Primary • After finishing a strong second in New Hampshire, Governor Romney rallies supporters for the road ahead

Governor Romney to New Hampshire: "Washington Is Broken" • Speaking to voters in Derry, New Hampshire, Gov. Romney discusses the need for change...and what to do about it. (January 5, 2008)

Gov. Romney on the Iowa Caucuses • Following the results of the caucus, Gov. Romney talks about his showing in the caucus.

Path To Victory: The Romney Campaign in 2007 • A look back at the highlights of the campaign year; stories of hard work and inspiration that have built the campaign's success.

Governor Romney's "Faith In America" Address • Major address delivered at the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station, Texas, on December 6, 2007. Governor Romney shares his views on religious liberty, the role religious tolerance has played in our nation's progress and how the Governor's faith would inform his presidency. Must See, One For The History Books!

Governor Romney Addresses Values Voter Summit • Speaking to the Family Research Council's Values Voter Summit on 10/19/2007, Gov. Romney proposes a 12-point conservative plan to strengthen America's families. Must See Mitt TV!

Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference • Speaking to the Republican Leadership Conference in Mackinac Island, Michigan on 09/22/2007, Governor Romney calls on the Republican Party to once again become the party of change in Washington: "It's time for Republicans to start acting like Republicans. We have to remember who we are: We are not Big Government Republicans. We are not Washington Republicans. We are Change Washington Republicans. Change Begins With Us." Must See Mitt TV!

Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks to the NRA • Gov. Romney addressed the National Rifle Association in a videotaped message at the NRA's "Celebration of American Values" in Washington, D.C. on 9/21/07. Gov. Romney discusses his position and record in support of the Second Amendment and his intent to oppose McCain-Feingold legislation, liberal judicial activism and tort claims being used to erode our 2nd Amendment rights. Must See Mitt TV!

Governor Romney Speaks to Iowa Straw Poll Attendees • Gov. Romney's remarks to Iowa Republicans, August 11, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

24 Hours On the Trail, Part 1 • One family...99 counties...and a Winnebago. Part 1 of a documentary chronicling Mitt Romney's drive to the Ames Straw Poll Must See Mitt TV!

24 Hours On the Trail, Part 2 • One family...99 counties...and a Winnebago. Part 2 of a documentary chronicling Mitt Romney's drive to the Ames Straw Poll Must See Mitt TV!

"Ask Mitt Anything" Town Hall with Gov. Mitt Romney in West Des Moines, Iowa on May 30, 2007 Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney's Commencement Address at Regent University, May 5, 2007 • An exceptionally eloquent admonition to the new graduates from Gov. Romney to live in the deeper waters of life "where it's about others – spouse, family, friends, faith, community, country. In the deep waters, there are challenging ideas, opposing opinions, protracted battles of consequence." [High Bandwidth] [Low Bandwidth] Introduction by Pat Robertson and Gov. Romney's address begin at 27:30 into the video. Use the video player slider bar to fast forward. Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney - An Introduction • Complete video segment introducing Gov. Mitt Romney and Ann Romney (10:00) Must See Mitt TV!

This is the story... • An introduction to Governor Mitt Romney (wonderful production suitable for the Republican National Convention)

CPAC 2007: Gov. Romney's Remarks • Gov. Romney addresses the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) in Washington DC on March 2, 2007 prior to winning the CPAC presidential straw poll. Must See Mitt TV!

On Innovation and Transformation of Government • Mitt Romney shares his perspective as a CEO from the private sector observing the inherent problems of government in Washington DC, plus a fascinating insight into what motivates Mitt to seek the Presidency and his optimistic outlook. Must See Mitt TV!

Congressional Support for Governor Romney • Gov. Romney enjoys a remarkable level of support in Congress for his candidacy. Listen as Senators and Congressmen explain why they support his candidacy

Gov. Romney’s Complete Presidential Announcement • Governor Mitt Romney officially announces his candidacy for President of the United States on February 13, 2007 in Dearborn, Michigan

Campaign Ads

Mitt Romney for President: "Unplugged" • The first TV spot for the Romney campaign first aired Feb 21, 2007 in Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina, Michigan and Florida (0:30) The campaign ad later aired nationally on Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and CNBC

Mitt Romney for President: "I Like Vetoes" • The second TV spot for the Romney campaign first aired Apr 4, 2007 in Iowa and New Hampshire (0:30) The campaign ad later aired nationally on Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and CNBC

Mitt Romney for President: "Now Is The Time" • The third TV spot for the Romney campaign first aired May 9, 2007 in Iowa and New Hampshire and on national cable networks Fox News, CNN, MSNBC, and CNBC (0:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Secure Borders" • The fourth TV spot for the Romney campaign first aired May 18, 2007 in Iowa and New Hampshire. The ad highlights Governor Romney's support for reforming our immigration system by strengthening our borders and implementing an employment verification system. The remarks were made at an "Ask Mitt Anything" forum on April 3 in Derry, New Hampshire. (:60) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Tested, Proven" • The fifth TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing on May 23, 2007 in Iowa, New Hampshire and as part of the national cable rotation (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Work Like Crazy" • The sixth TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing on June 20, 2007 in Iowa and New Hampshire (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Ann On Family" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on July 12, 2007 in which Ann Romney talks about her devotion to her family and what it was like raising five sons (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Ocean" • The seventh TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing on July 16, 2007 in Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. A shortened, 30-second version of the ad also began airing on the same day. In the ad, Governor Romney discusses his belief that we need to look at the culture that surrounds America's children and clean up "the ocean in which our children now swim." Governor Romney believes that our country's strength is dependent upon the strength of the American family and the promise of our children. (:60) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Secure Borders" (audio only) • A Romney campaign radio ad that began airing on August 1, 2007 (:60)

Mitt Romney for President: "Secure Borders" • The eighth TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing on August 1, 2007. A slightly modified version of the ad ("Secure Borders" #2) began airing again on October 24, 2007 (:30)

Mitt Romney for President: "Change Begins" • The ninth TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on August 8, 2007 featuring Governor Romney talking directly to the people of Iowa about the need to attend the Republican Straw Poll in Ames and register their support for his message of conservative change in Washington (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Thanks Iowa" • The tenth TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on August 15, 2007 following Gov. Romney's victory in the Republican Straw Poll in Ames (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Exceptional" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on August 21, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's plan to cut back federal funds from cities that adopt sanctuary policies and ignore federal immigration laws. (:60) In conjunction with the release of the new radio ad, Romney for President also launched an online ad campaign on his opposition to sanctuary policies. Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Leadership" • The 11^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on August 30, 2007 and then moved to major media markets in South Carolina (Greenville, Charleston, Columbia and Myrtle Beach) in early September for an extended run. The ad highlights Governor Romney's leadership in turning around the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, numerous companies and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. With his proven experience running businesses and institutions, Governor Romney will bring his energy to changing Washington. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Energy" • The 12^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on September 5, 2007 and later throughout South Carolina and Florida. The ad highlights Governor Romney's leadership in turning around numerous companies, the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Traditional" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa on September 18, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's record of defending traditional marriage in Massachusetts and now, in Iowa. Governor Romney is the only major candidate who supports defending traditional marriage by passing the Federal Marriage Amendment. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Change Begins With Us" • The 13^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on September 19, 2007. The ad features Governor Romney talking directly about his belief that change in Washington begins with his fellow Republicans putting their house in order. The Republican Party needs to return to its core conservative principles on issues like fiscal responsibility, ending illegal immigration and upholding ethical standards. By returning to these principles and bringing conservative change to Washington, Republicans and Governor Romney can build a stronger America. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Khatami" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa and South Carolina on September 24, 2007 and later in Florida. The ad highlights Governor Romney's opposition to former Iranian President Mohammad Khatami's 2006 visit to Harvard University. Calling the visit on the eve of the fifth anniversary of 9/11 a "disgrace," Governor Romney refused to provide Khatami with a State Police escort. Today, Governor Romney has called on the United Nations and Columbia University to take similar action and revoke any invitation for current Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to speak at their respective institutions. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Ready For Action" • Romney for President announced that Ryan Whitaker's video, "Ready for Action" is the winner of the "Team Mitt: Create Your Own Ad!" contest. The contest is an unprecedented initiative that empowers supporters to create the campaign's newest television advertisement by remixing or "mashing up" a large variety of the campaign's photos, videos and audio clips, as well as their own multimedia content. Whitaker, a 23 year-old college student from Provo, Utah, will become the first amateur ever to have his work used as an official television advertisement for a presidential campaign. The ad will air once a day for a week in five Iowa and New Hampshire media markets, beginning Wednesday, October 3, 2007. (:60) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Tax Pledge" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in New Hampshire on October 5, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's pledge to oppose any attempt to raise taxes on the American people. Governor Romney is the only major candidate for President to have signed the "Taxpayer Protection Pledge." He has also proposed a bold agenda to decrease taxes on the American people. He will permanently eliminate the death tax, roll back tax rates across the board and make savings tax free for middle class Americans. For lower taxes and smaller government, change begins with Republicans. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Stop Spending" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in South Carolina on October 11, 2007. The ad features U.S. Senator Jim DeMint (R-SC), a leading voice for fiscal discipline, addressing the need for leadership that will change Washington and "end the earmark favor factory." That leadership can only come from Governor Mitt Romney who has a record of fiscal leadership from outside of Washington. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Jihad" #2 • The 15^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on October 17, 2007. An earlier version of the ad ("Jihad") began airing on October 12, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's belief that we must strengthen our intelligence services and our military to confront "this century's nightmare, Jihadism." Governor Romney has outlined a strong blueprint for strengthening our capabilities to defeat this threat. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Not Fair" #2 • The 16^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on October 16, 2007. A different version of the ad ("Not Fair" #1) also began airing on the same day. The ad highlights Governor Romney's commitment to lower taxes for all Americans. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Our Home" • The 17^th video spot for the Romney campaign and the first to be used in an innovative Web advertisement on user-generated online video sites; the first presidential campaign to use this new form of video advertising. The ad also began airing on TV in Iowa on October 19, 2007. The ad features Ann Romney talking about raising five sons and her devotion to her family. Governor Romney believes that the most important work being done in America today is the work going on within the four walls of the American home. As President, Governor Romney will act to strengthen the American family and clean up the culture that surrounds our children. (:30) Web/TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Business World" • The 18^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in South Carolina on October 25, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney addressing his plans to curb wasteful government spending in Washington. With an exceptional record of turning around businesses, the 2002 Winter Olympics and the state of Massachusetts, Governor Romney has the experience necessary to turn around our nation's capital. Change in Washington begins when Republicans are fiscally responsible with taxpayer money. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Mi Padre" (My Father) (audio only) • A campaign radio ad in Spanish that began airing in South Florida on October 26, 2007. The ad features Craig Romney introducing his father to voters and discussing Governor Romney's exceptional record of success in the public and private sectors. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release with English Translation

Mitt Romney for President: "Experience Matters" • The 19^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on November 2, 2007. The ad launched anew and began airing in Michigan on December 12, 2007. The ad began airing in California on February 1, 2008. The ad highlights Governor Romney's belief that our nation's leader must have the experience "to run the largest enterprise in the world." Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) does not have that experience and our nation cannot afford a leader who needs on-the-job training. Governor Romney has led businesses, the 2002 Winter Olympics and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. In each case, he brought change and turned around institutions. As President, he will do the same for our government. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Change Immigration" • The 20^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire and Iowa on November 9, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's plan to reform our immigration system by securing the border, cutting back on funding for cities that ignore federal immigration laws and opposing amnesty. Governor Romney has a record of enforcing our immigration laws. He deputized the State Police to enforce federal immigration law, opposed driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, and vetoed in-state tuition for illegal immigrants. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "American Family" • The 21^st TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on November 19, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney and Ann Romney talking with other parents about our country's future and the importance of strengthening families in America. As President, Governor Romney will stand alongside parents by lowering tax burdens, ensuring a strong defense and strengthening laws that protect our children. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "New Leadership" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in New Hampshire on November 21, 2007. The ad highlights Senator Judd Gregg (R-NH) discussing his belief that Governor Mitt Romney has the experience needed to lead America today. Governor Romney has led and turned around businesses, the 2002 Winter Olympics and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. As President, he will do the same for our government with the help of leaders like Senator Gregg. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Stronger Economy" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa on November 22, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's call to cut spending in Washington and lower taxes on the American people. Governor Romney has a record of fiscal leadership in Massachusetts and he was the first presidential candidate to sign the "Taxpayer Protection Pledge" to oppose any effort to increase taxes. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Take Charge" • The 22^nd TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on November 26, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's record of enforcing our immigration laws and opposing efforts to increase the benefits for illegal immigration. As President, Governor Romney will work to secure our border, reform our immigration system and fight sanctuary policies. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Historic Choice" • The 23^rd TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa and New Hampshire on November 27, 2007. The ad highlights the challenges confronting our country and the importance of electing a leader who has the experience, vision and values to move America forward. It was the campaign's featured video aired at the CNN/YouTube GOP debate in St. Petersburg, FL on 11/28/2007. (:30)

Mitt Romney for President: "Confianza" [English: trust] (audio only) • A Spanish-language campaign radio ad that began airing in South Florida on December 7, 2007. The ad highlights the many undertakings Governor Romney has been trusted to lead and his record of success in both the private and public sectors. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release with English Translation

Mitt Romney for President: "Not Politically Correct" • The 24^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on December 7, 2007. The ad highlights Governor Romney's record of fighting for conservative principles in the bluest of blue states. When it was not politically correct, Governor Romney stood up for life, required English in the classroom and fought for marriage as between a man and a woman. Governor Romney believes that we can strengthen America by bringing pro-family, conservative change to Washington. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Choice: The Record" • The 25^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on December 11, 2007. The ad highlights the very important choice voters will have to make when it comes to confronting illegal immigration. While Governors Romney and Huckabee both believe in protecting life and traditional marriage, they have very different records on enforcing our immigration laws. In Massachusetts, Governor Romney stood up and vetoed in-state tuition for illegal immigrants and opposed driver's licenses for illegal immigrants. In Arkansas, Governor Huckabee supported in-state tuition breaks and taxpayer-funded scholarships for illegal immigrants. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Choice: Judgment" • The 26^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on December 18, 2007. The ad highlights the very important choice voters will have to make when it comes to fighting crime in the United States. While Governors Romney and Huckabee both believe in protecting life and traditional marriage, they have very different crime records. In Massachusetts, Governor Romney fought for tougher penalties to combat methamphetamines and respected juries' decisions by not pardoning a single criminal. In Arkansas, Governor Huckabee granted 1,033 pardons and commutations, including 12 convicted murderers. This was more clemencies than the previous three governors combined. Governor Huckabee also reduced penalties for manufacturing methamphetamines. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Strong Values" • The 27^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing on December 18, 2007. The ad highlights the strong values of Governor Romney in standing up consistently for the sanctity of life while governor of Massachusetts, defending traditional marriage between one man and one woman, and advocating strengthening American families by insisting marriage must come before children because every child deserves a mother and a father. (:30)

Mitt Romney for President: "Searched" • The 28^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on December 19, 2007. In the ad, Robert Gay, a former business partner of Governor Romney, recounts the story of his daughter who disappeared in New York City in the summer of 1996. When no one could find her, Governor Romney and his colleagues stepped forward and closed down their company in Boston, Bain Capital. Together, they headed to New York City to aid the search. Spreading out across the city, they set up command centers, combed through neighborhoods, passed out fliers and drew media attention to the case. Through their efforts, Robert Gay was reunited with his daughter. This ad is their story. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "It's Personal To Me" • The 29^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Michigan on December 21, 2007. In the ad, Governor Romney talks about his agenda to strengthen Michigan. Born and raised in Michigan, Governor Romney is proud of his roots in the state and believes it is "inexcusable that Michigan is undergoing a one-state recession." To strengthen the economy, Governor Romney believes we must, in part, invest in technology, open markets and keep taxes down. After a successful private sector career, Governor Romney is the only candidate who understands the business world and how the economy works. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Future" • The 30^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on December 28, 2007. The ad highlights the choice Republicans will have to make when it comes to strengthening our country. Senator McCain opposed strengthening our economy through lower taxes. He has pushed legislation allowing every illegal immigrant to stay in the United States. Governor Romney took a different course. He cut taxes and spending in Massachusetts. He has consistently opposed amnesty for illegal immigrants. On election day, Republicans will have a choice between two very different records and visions for our future. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Ready" • The 31^st TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on December 28, 2007. The ad highlights the very important choice voters will have to make when it comes to electing a candidate ready to make tough decisions. In Arkansas, Governor Mike Huckabee increased state spending, backed in-state tuition benefits for illegal immigrants and granted over 1,000 pardons and commutations. Governor Huckabee's attacks on the Bush administration's foreign policy has been called "ludicrous." In Massachusetts, Governor Romney took a different course. He held spending down and granted zero pardons. There is a clear difference in leadership. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Important Times" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Iowa on December 28, 2007. The ad features Judge Robert Bork discussing why he is supporting Governor Mitt Romney for President of the United States. As President, Governor Romney will provide the strong leadership our country needs and he will appoint judges who interpret the law, not legislate from the bench. That is why Judge Bork is supporting Governor Romney. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Permanently" • The 32^nd TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on December 29, 2007. The ad highlights the critical choice Americans will have to make when it comes to confronting the growing problem of illegal immigration. On this issue, the records are very clear. In the United States Congress, Senator John McCain championed a bill to let every illegal immigrant stay in America permanently. In Massachusetts, Governor Romney opposed driver's licenses for illegal immigrants, vetoed in-state tuition breaks for illegal immigrants and authorized state law enforcement to enforce immigration laws. On enforcing our immigration laws, there's a big difference between Senator McCain and Governor Romney. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Everywhere" • The 33^rd TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Iowa on December 31, 2007. The ad features Governor Romney talking with the American people about the challenges confronting our country and the need to change Washington. With an exceptional record of turning around businesses and institutions, Governor Romney is the one candidate prepared to meet today's challenges. Together, he believes we can grow the economy, stop illegal immigration, defend life and preserve our traditional values. With his experience, vision and values, Governor Romney will make Washington work again and build a brighter future for America. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Vote For Tomorrow" • The 34^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on January 1, 2008. The ad highlights Governor Romney directly addressing the American people about his belief that this election is not about America's past but America's future. In the next ten years, our country will see great progress and change. Governor Romney is the only presidential candidate who can unleash the great promise and innovation of our nation. The future begins now and Governor Romney is asking for the vote. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Asian Tiger" • The 35^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Michigan on January 1, 2008. The ad features Governor Romney discussing the challenge that the United States faces from the growing Chinese economy, and the need to make sure America remains the world's economic superpower. To strengthen our economy, Governor Romney will lower the tax burden, invest in research and innovation, and enhance America's global competitiveness. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Full-Spectrum Conservative" • The 36^th video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web ad on January 1, 2008. The ad highlights Governor Romney's conservative platform to build a stronger America. Unlike Senator John McCain (R-AZ), Governor Romney supports the President's tax cuts, opposes the McCain-Feingold bill that limited free speech and opposes any amnesty immigration plans. As the National Review wrote, Governor Romney is "a full-spectrum conservative." (:30) Web Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Roundhouse Kick" • The 37^th video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web ad on January 2, 2008. Governor Mike Huckabee and Chuck Norris may be campaigning together but they don't see eye to eye on fighting crime. Norris believes in giving a presidential pardon to "no one, ever." Governor Huckabee granted 1,033 pardons and commutations, including 12 convicted murderers. The Texas Ranger can subdue criminals with just his icy stare. Now only if he could convince Governor Huckabee it was wrong to grant more clemencies than the previous three governors combined. (:30) Web Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Remember" • The 38^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on January 3, 2008. The ad highlights the people of New Hampshire discussing the issues that are important to them — lowering tax burdens, securing our borders and changing Washington. While rightly honored as a true patriot, Senator McCain has opposed tax relief, supported amnesty and is too much of a Washington insider to change Washington. On the issues important to New Hampshire Republicans, Senator McCain has taken the wrong approach. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Twists" • The 39^th video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web ad on January 4, 2008. In 2000, Senator John McCain personally attacked George Bush's integrity by comparing him to President Clinton. Today, Senator McCain is once again personally attacking his opponent, but this time it's Governor Romney. The truth is that Senator McCain voted against the Bush tax cuts and supported last year's amnesty bill. That's straight talk for being in Washington too long and that's leadership our country cannot afford. (:30) Web Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Growth And Prosperity" • The 40^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in New Hampshire on January 5, 2008. The ad highlights Governor Romney's call to build a stronger America with a stronger economy, stronger military and stronger families. Governor Romney believes that only through strength can America remain the world's super power. This election is about the future and Governor Romney is committed to bringing conservative change to Washington so we can confront the challenges our nation confronts today. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Tomorrow" • The 41^st TV spot for the Romney campaign that aired in New Hampshire on January 7, 2008. In the two-minute message, Governor Romney speaks directly to the people of New Hampshire about the need for conservative change in Washington if we are to confront a new generation of challenges. For decades, Washington has promised action on issues like energy independence, health care reform and border security, but the American people have only heard more talk. We need new ideas in Washington. Throughout his career, Governor Romney has been confronted with seemingly impossible challenges and always met them. He turned around businesses. He saved the 2002 Winter Olympics and he solved Massachusetts' fiscal crisis. He's the only candidate who has brought change in the real world. If the people of New Hampshire want to change Washington, Governor Romney is asking for their vote. (2:00) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "New Hampshire Primary" • The 42^nd video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web ad on January 7, 2008. This Tuesday, January 8th, 2008, Vote in the New Hampshire Primary. Vote for Leadership, Vote for Change, Vote Mitt Romney for a Stronger America (:44)

Mitt Romney for President: "Michigan Values" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that began airing in Michigan on January 10, 2008. The ad features Congressman Pete Hoekstra (R-MI) and his wife, Diane Hoekstra, discussing why their family is proud to support Governor Romney. Having grown up in Michigan, Governor Romney's values are Michigan's values. As President, Governor Romney will work with Michigan leaders like Congressman Hoekstra to protect our traditional family values, strengthen our economy and change Washington. Michigan is personal for Governor Romney, and as President, he will work to ensure that Michigan and all of America is strong. (:60) Radio Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Pride Of America" • The 43^rd TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Michigan on January 12, 2008. The ad features Governor Romney discussing the need to change Washington and invest in unleashing the power of Michigan. Governor Romney grew up in Michigan and knows Michigan's potential. For him, Michigan is personal, and he will work to end the state's one-state recession. Governor Romney is asking the people of Michigan to vote for building a better future for their state and our nation. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "In Michigan, Vote For Change" • The 44^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Michigan on January 14, 2008. Michigan Voters, Tuesday January 15th, Vote for Leadership, Vote for Change, Vote Mitt Romney for a Stronger America (:39)

Mitt Romney for President: "Chairs" • The 45^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Florida on January 17, 2008. The ad features Governor Romney addressing the need for change in a Washington that is fundamentally broken. For decades, Washington has promised action on issues like health care reform, reducing the middle class burden and securing our borders. Yet, the American people are still waiting for action. As President, Governor Romney will take Washington apart and put it back together. At this critical time in our nation's history, we cannot afford to send the same people back to Washington just to sit in different chairs. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Momentum" • The 46^th video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web Ad on January 18, 2008. One Candidate, 2 Golds. One Candidate, 2 Silvers. One Candidate, With Over 400,000 Votes. One Candidate, With The Nationwide Support Needed To Take It All The Way To The White House. South Carolina, Nevada, Florida, Help Make Mitt Romney Our Next President. Washington Is Broken. Mitt Romney And You Can Fix It. (1:15)

Mitt Romney for President: "Mi Padre" (My Father) • The 47^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in South Florida on January 21, 2008. The Spanish-language ad features Craig Romney introducing his father to voters and discussing Governor Mitt Romney's exceptional record of success in the public and private sectors. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release with English Translation

Mitt Romney for President: "Conservative Change" • The 48^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Florida on January 22, 2008. The ad features Governor Romney addressing the need for conservative change in Washington, especially when our economy is slowing. With the experience of having worked in business and the vision for strengthening our economy, Governor Romney is ready to take action today. He has proposed a conservative strategy to cut individual taxes, reduce the tax burden on businesses, make America more globally competitive and help guide homeowners through this housing crisis. With our economy facing challenge, we need a leader with Governor Romney's experience and plan to strengthen America. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Winning Combination" • The 49^th TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Florida on January 24, 2008. In this campaign, Governor Romney is the only "full-spectrum conservative" that has the experience, vision and values we need when confronting the challenges our nation faces today. On the economy, his message is "stronger." Governor Romney is "at his best in crisis mode." In this election, he has "the credentials to run the country." In this campaign, newspapers and magazines agree that Governor Romney has the "winning combination." (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Waltz" • The 50^th video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web Ad on January 24, 2008. John McCain...on taxes. First he says..."I've always been for tax cuts." Then he says..."Although I voted against the first tax cuts." What was that? John McCain. Always for Tax Cuts...except when he's against them.

Mitt Romney for President: "Economía" (Economy) • The 51^st TV spot for the Romney campaign that began airing in Florida on January 25, 2008. The Spanish-language ad focuses on the current economic environment and how Governor Mitt Romney's leadership and business experience are what America needs to face these new economic challenges. (:30) TV Ad Script and Press Release with English Translation

Mitt Romney for President: "Democrats' Favorite Republican" • The 52^nd video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web Ad on January 25, 2008. The ad highlights Senator John McCain's (R-AZ) positions that are more in line with The New York Times than conservatives. More often than not, Senator McCain has found himself to be the only Republican who could find himself the running mate of Senators Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and even John Kerry. (1:10) Web Ad Script and Press Release

Mitt Romney for President: "Mitt Asks For Your Vote" • A series of video messages for voters in states with a primary or caucus on Super Tuesday (February 5, 2008) North Dakota, West Virginia, Alaska, California, Montana, Minnesota

Mitt Romney for President: "Falls Short" (audio only) • A campaign radio ad that aired nationally during each hour of the Rush Limbaugh Radio Show on February 4, 2008. The ad is a collection of comments from conservative sources describing John McCain's troubling record on taxes and illegal immigration where he departed from conservative principles and the values of the Republican Party. (1:00)

Mitt Romney for President: "Very Close" • The 53^rd video spot for the Romney campaign launched as a Web Ad on February 4, 2008. In 2008, the Republican Party needs a nominee who can debate Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-NY) on the important issues confronting our nation today. "Very Close" highlights how Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) and Sen. Clinton actually agree on more issues than not. We need "a full-spectrum conservative" like Governor Mitt Romney who can provide a clear conservative contrast with Sen. Clinton. (:30) Web Ad Script and Press Release

Interviews

Library of Video Clips from Key Interviews

Governor Romney on NBC's Meet The Press with Tim Russert, aired December 16, 2007 (with transcript)

Sean Hits the Campaign Trail in New Hampshire with Mitt & Ann Romney (with transcript) • Interview aired October 29, 2007 on Hannity & Colmes on Fox News. Links to the video of the interview are one page down on the left-hand side of the transcript, see "Watch interview" and "Watch Part 2" Must See Mitt TV!

PajamasMedia Washington Editor Richard Miniter interviews Gov. Romney in Okoboji, Iowa, July 20, 2007 • Gov. Romney talks about his commitment to victory in Iraq, putting pressure on the Iranian regime, his plan to keep Gitmo open, cutting spending and taxes, and immigration policy. Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney Wants To Re-Tool Washington (with transcript) • Interview of Gov. Romney, Ann Romney and the five Romney sons by Mike Wallace on CBS 60 Minutes. Aired Sunday, May 13, 2007. Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney Talks with Sean and Alan (with transcript) • Interview aired May 7, 2007 on Hannity & Colmes on Fox News. Links to the video of the interview are one page down on the left-hand side of the transcript, see "Watch Interview and Watch Part 2" (Ann Romney appears in Part 2) Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney Goes 'On the Record' (with transcript) • 'On the Record' with host Greta Van Susteren interview with Mitt and Ann Romney aired April 23, 2007 on Fox News. Links to the video of the interview are one page down on the left-hand side of the transcript, see "Watch the interview: Part 1&2" Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt Romney Talks with Sean Hannity (with transcript) • Interview aired April 4, 2007 on Hannity & Colmes on Fox News. Links to the video of the interview are one page down on the left-hand side of the transcript, see "Watch the interview: Part 1&2" Must See Mitt TV!

CNN "Larry King Live": Governor Mitt Romney • March 15, 2007 (Update: video has been archived, transcript)

^{• YouTube clips of CNN Larry King Live Interview •}
Gov. Romney on America's New Challenges
Gov. Romney Discusses Iraq on Larry King Live

CNN "Larry King Live": Mitt & Ann Romney • March 15, 2007 (transcript)

Interview of Governor Mitt Romney by Brian Lamb on C-SPAN Q&A, March 19, 2006 • A fascinating interview covering a wide range of topics in Romney's private and public life (transcript and video). Must See Mitt TV!

Fun Stuff

At the Lake with the Romneys • Fun video clips filmed by a friend who followed the Romney family around during a rare vacation day for Mitt at home last summer in Wolfeboro, NH at Lake Winnipesaukee. Must See Mitt TV!

Sledding At The Romneys • Great winter time fun in the snow with the Romney family at Park City, Utah (duct taped gloves?) Must See Mitt TV!

Pre-Debate Warmup: Turkey Bowl • Mitt and his five sons play a game of flag football held as a family tradition on Thanksgiving Day. In 2007, the game was postponed and moved south to St. Petersburg, FL where they all gathered the day of the CNN/YouTube GOP debate on 11/28/2007.

"Mad Money"'s Cramer on his Job Interview with Mitt Romney • Jim Cramer recalls his job interview for Bain & Company with Mitt Romney. Mitt's interview was so rigorous he intimidated Cramer and set his destiny for Goldman Sachs! Cramer claims Mitt Romney is the "Best Businessman In North America" because of his rigor, acumen, and ability. Must See Mitt TV!

Ann Romney, Christmas 2006 • Ann Romney takes viewers inside a remarkable family gathering, in late 2006, that led to Gov. Romney's final decision to run. Must See Mitt TV!

Gov. Romney on The Tonight Show • Fun highlights of Mitt Romney's appearance on The Tonight Show with host Jay Leno aired on May 2, 2007. Must See Mitt TV!

Imus takes on Mitt...or vice versa! • A delightfully humorous exchange between Imus and Mitt followed by excellent remarks from Mitt about Iraq, states rights, and gay marriage. Must See Mitt TV!

Mitt and Ann: How They Met • The story of how Mitt and Ann met and fell in love, as told to "On The Record"'s Greta Van Susteren on Fox News Channel aired April 23, 2007

Resources
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#resources

Recommended Websites and Blogs for Mitt Romney

AnnRomney.com (Visitors to AnnRomney.com will get an insider's perspective into Ann's time on the campaign trail, the Romney family and Ann's causes. Ann Romney's website has been featured on CNN.)
Article VI Blog (very informative blog run by John Schroeder, an Evangelical, and Lowell C. Brown, a Mormon, providing discourses on the Constitution, religion and public office dealing directly with issues arising from the Romney candidacy and his religious convictions)
Campaign Tracker (scheduled campaign events and candidate appearances)
Delegate Count (current delegate count for Republican nomination compiled by CNN)
Elect Romney in 2008 (current and aggressively pro-Romney with excellent commentary)
The Encyclopedia Mittanica (encyclopedia says it all, a comprehensive knowledgebase for Romney facts)
Evangelicals For Mitt (current with excellent, scholarly commentary from this key constituent group)
Five Brothers: The Romney Campaign Blog (The five Romney sons will be taking turns posting messages, sharing personal videos and photos they take on the campaign trail, updating readers on campaign stories and giving readers an insider's view to what's going on in the family. Don't miss this post. Mitt and Ann Romney also post messages. The Five Brothers blog has been featured on CNN.)
The Mitt Report (best single source for breaking news about the candidates, styled after the Drudge Report)
MittRomney.com (Official Romney for President 2008 Website)
My Man Mitt (current, unique content and enthusiasm for Mitt abound here)
Press Releases at MittRomney.com
Romney Experience (in his informative blog, attorney Ryan Bell strives to answer the question "What does Romney’s religious experience mean for his judgment, character, policy positions and leadership style?")
UltiMitt.org (favored destination for Romney grassroots activists in the blog forums and a good source for breaking news)

Video Media and Photographs

Mitt Romney Channel at YouTube • Library of dozens of video segments on a variety of topics
Mitt TV • Video library at Romney for President 2008 website
Ann TV • Video library at AnnRomney.com website
Photo Gallery at Romney for President 2008 website
Mitt Romney's Photos at Flickr

Mitt Romney for President 2008 Campaign Merchandise

Romney Shop - Official Campaign Merchandise (Buttons, Bumper Stickers, Signage, T-Shirts, Mugs, Tote Bags, Kids Stuff, and Apparel)
Romney Eagle Bumper Sticker or Car Magnet (Most Popular)

Mitt Romney for President 2008 Merchandise from CafePress

Speech Transcripts

Feb 07, 2008 Governor Mitt Romney Addresses CPAC 2008
Jan 14, 2008 Governor Romney's Detroit Economic Club Address
Dec 06, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's "Faith In America" Address (Must Read, One For The History Books)
Oct 19, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Address to the Family Research Council's Values Voter Summit
Sep 22, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference
July 07, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The Young Republican National Convention
June 15, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The National Right To Life Convention Forum
May 10, 2007 Governor Romney's Remarks At The Massachusetts Citizens For Life Mother's Day Pioneer Valley Dinner
Apr 26, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks at Yeshiva University
Apr 18, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks at the Frontiers Of Freedom Ronald Reagan Gala
Apr 10, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks at the George Bush Presidential Library Center
Mar 09, 2007 Governor Romney's Remarks at the Miami-Dade Lincoln Day Dinner
Mar 02, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At CPAC
Feb 13, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Announcement Speech
Feb 07, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The Detroit Economic Club
Jan 23, 2007 Governor Mitt Romney's Remarks At The Seventh Annual Herzliya Conference

Religion

Mitt and his faith: Remembering when candidate Romney was Bishop Romney (highly recommended reading)
Are Mormons Christians? by Michael Otterson, director of media relations for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Political Neutrality Policy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons)
LDS Church Holds First Online News Conference • October 2, 2007 - Religion writers from around the United States called in or e-mailed questions to Church representatives in the Church's first online news conference.
LDS Church Launches Public Affairs YouTube Channel
Christianity Today Interviews Governor Romney • Governor Romney talked with CT associate editor Collin Hansen about doctrinal differences and common values
A Mormon president? The LDS difference by Laurie F. Maffly-Kipp (highly recommended reading) • An insightful and factual treatment of Mormon doctrine and how it relates to politics written by a professor of American religious history at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.
Enough is Enough! • An excellent Op-Ed about Mormons from the perspective of a non-Mormon published in The Signal, Santa Clarita, CA on November 24, 2000
Is Mormonism A Cult? Part I, Part II

Books

A Mormon in the White House?: 10 Things Every American Should Know about Mitt Romney (Hardcover) by Hugh Hewitt

Description
A Mormon in the White House? is the first book on Mitt Romney, his unusual faith story, and his viability as a Republican presidential nominee. Inside are exclusive interviews with the governor, his family, and closest associates, mixed with candid conversations with some of the country's shrewdest political observers and Christian leaders. Radio host and blogger Hugh Hewitt sets out to explain Romney, his faith, and the importance of that debate in a headline-making and election-shaping opening shot in the campaign before the campaign.

Book Quote
"There is a steep and very slippery slope in front of the passionate anti-Mormon who takes that passion and funnels it into anti-Romney activism because of the theological concerns. Such activists are building a weapon of political war that will be used against them, and those who they might approve for office based on theological soundness in this and future cycles... If the various and disparate camps within what the Left lazily and condescendingly calls the 'religious right' join with the secular agenda journalists of Left... in mocking Romney's sincere religous belief, they can expect the same arguments to be turned against them in even greater force than they have already encountered."

Mitt Romney: The Man, His Values and His Vision (Paperback) by Lisa Ray Turner and Kimberly Field

Description
There aren't too many people who have earned simultaneous Juris Doctor and MBA degrees from Harvard. Mitt Romney is one of them. But he has always liked the toughest challenges. He first made a name for himself as the brilliant turnaround miracle worker from Bain Capital. And he's the one who turned the debt-ridden, scandal-plagued 2002 Olympics into a marvelous success.

Now he is campaigning to be our next president. He is a staunch advocate of free market economics and a devoted husband and father who believes in traditional values. Can he win? Will voters give him the chance to apply his management proficiency to our federal government?

Authors Lisa Ray Turner and Kimberly Field examine Mitt Romney as a man of incredible ability and driving energy. They examine his history, his policies, his alleged flip-flopping, and particularly the controversy surrounding his religion. As a team, they offer a unique perspective on this last issue: Lisa is LDS (Mormon), and Kim is an evangelical Christian. You ll find their insights fascinating.

From the Publisher
Lisa Ray Turner is an award-winning author who has also written many magazine articles for national publications. She teaches writing at Lighthouse Writers in Denver, and humanities at the University of Phoenix. Kimberly Field is an author and has a master's degree in Journalism. Their most recent joint work was "The Denver Mint: 100 Years of Gangsters, Gold, and Ghosts."

Turnaround: Crisis, Leadership, and the Olympic Games (Hardcover) by Mitt Romney

From Publishers Weekly
It's not well remembered, but the planned 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics were scandal-ridden and in complete disarray until Romney took over as CEO in early 1999. In this management primer, he makes his rescue job seem very simple: he came in, displayed a positive attitude and hired competent, committed people, and the result was a successful Olympics that few had thought possible. That same attitude is displayed throughout this book, as Romney is quick to credit those around him for the games' success. He's thorough as he details how he revamped the budget, kept costs down and marketed the games to sponsors. His self-deprecating honesty is refreshing and appealing. As he writes after emphasizing the importance of selling the games: "I know there are people out there who love to sell, but it is far from my favorite thing." He's also honest about his criticism of the Salt Lake City leaders who were tainted by their efforts to buy votes from International Olympic Committee members to get the city the games. The same traits that make Romney, the former governor of Massachusetts, an unobtrusive leader don't always serve the book; some readers will want to see more sparks fly. But those looking for a training manual in how to run a high-profile organization will be rewarded.
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Book Description
Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney gives you the inside story on how he rescued the Salt Lake City Olympics--and how his own brand of leadership makes him one of the Republican Party's most compelling new stars.

Online Polls (send suggestions for polls to be listed here to Unmarked Package)
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#polls

2008 GOP Bloggers Straw Poll Ballot (monthly)
PajamasMedia Presidential Straw Poll (weekly)

Human Interest Stories
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#humaninterest

A Day in the Life of Mitt • An account of Mitt’s busy day on the presidential campaign trail filled with press interviews, meetings and speeches, but starting with an early morning jog and some hard labor with son Matt as they help Matt's friend remove the large stump of a tree destroyed by the wild fires in California. The one word that best describes Mitt Romney is ... Energetic. No local media were present as the men worked to remove the stump, but Matt’s friend, surprised to see Governor Romney show up in his yard, wrote an account of the morning’s activites and included it in an email to friends that has since surfaced.

• Romney to the Rescue • NewsMax Magazine April, 2007 cover story about Governor Mitt Romney by Ronald Kessler. This comprehensive look at the life and career of Mitt Romney begins with an enthralling and touching story about the effort and leadership Romney provided in a search to find the missing 14-year-old daughter of his business partner. Be sure to see the touching video titled "Searched" that the grateful father of the missing girl wanted to make for the Romney campaign. More details of the search for the girl are included in a Press Release for the video.

• Have sons, will rescue: Democrats throw water on hero (Republican) Governor Mitt Romney • Boston Herald newspaper account of Mitt Romney and two of his sons, Josh and Craig, rescuing a family of six and their dog from drowning in Lake Winnipesaukee, NH when the family's boat sank on July 5, 2003. The reactions to the heroic act and sour grapes statements by Massachusetts Democrat politicians are priceless.

• "Everyone in the congregation was similarly serving, not just accepting assignments to help, but seeking opportunities to help. We gave often, and received often. For example, a short time later our family had out-grown our small home, so we found a larger one and put the word out that we would appreciate any help in loading and unloading our rented moving truck. Among those who showed up that morning was Mitt Romney, now the governor of Massachusetts, who had just completed his unsuccessful campaign for the U.S. Senate in Massachusetts. Mitt had a broken collarbone, but for two hours traipsed between our home and the truck, carrying out whatever he could manage with his one good arm. That spirit is just in the air in the Mormon Church, week after week, year after year. The strong help the weak, and the weak help the strong, and nobody thinks about who is weak and who is strong. It creates an extraordinary spirit of mutual love, because as we work to help others who are in need, our love and respect for those we help intensifies."
^{(Clayton M. Christensen, "Why I Belong, and Why I Believe," Professor, Harvard Business School)}

• During the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics, SLOC President Mitt Romney came upon a traffic jam while traveling between venues that snarled the streets of Snowbasin just before the men's downhill began. A shuttle bus without proper accreditation had created a line-up of 75 buses. Drivers tried to get into the Mountain Green park-and-ride lot causing more congestion after they had already been told it was full. Suddenly, Romney jumped out of the SUV and began directing the cars himself from the Mountain Green lot to the South Weber lot for about a half hour in the cold weather until the traffic jam was cleared. Romney later intervened with law enforcement authorities to get the bus moving.
^{(Norma Wagner and Lisa Riley Roche, "Monday morning commutes and Oly traffic run smoothly," Deseret News, 2/11/2002)}

• "Mitt had hired me as a young associate at Bain & Co. in 1978, and we worked together occasionally between then and 1983, when we laid the foundations for the creation of Bain Capital. For six months, we traipsed around the United States, Europe and Latin America, seeking investors to back our plan, getting plenty of "no, thank yous" along the way. One potential investor was concerned that we would spend lavishly on fancy offices and needless expenses. I could tell that this bothered Mitt, because he is very careful about spending. Finally, I told the gentleman: "You need to understand how frugal Mitt is. When he and Ann go to the movies, they pop their own popcorn in advance. Mitt figures the home-popped Orville Redenbacher costs him only 62 cents, which is a whole lot cheaper than $4.50 for the big tub at the movie counter."
^{(T. Coleman Andrews, co-founded Bain Capital with Romney in 1984, "Memories of Mitt," New Hampshire Union Leader, 2/21/2007)}

• “When he took over the Salt Lake City Olympic Games, he immediately cut out the lavish meals and travel boondoggles. ‘We’re going to have pizza and it’s a dollar a slice,’ he announced. He charged executives 25 cents for a soda and had meals served on paper plates. Romney himself worked without a salary. The message got through: the organization went from deep in the red into the black by the close of the Games.”
^{(Jonathan Darman and Evan Thomas, "Mitt Romney: Too Good To Be True?," Newsweek, 2/26/2007)}

• During his service as CEO of the Salt Lake Organizing Committee, Mitt Romney personally contributed $1 million to the Salt Lake Winter Olympics and donated his three years of salary ($922,980 total) and his $476,000 severance pay to charity.

• Governor Romney never took the $135,000 annual salary for his time as Governor of Massachusetts and has said he would not take a salary if elected President and would instead donate the money to charity.

• The Tyler Charitable Foundation, a joint family trust of Mitt and Ann Romney, has donated more than $2.9 million to more than 40 health care groups, schools, and other charitable organizations since 1999.

• Why I Think You Should Vote For My Dad • An editorial by Tagg Romney, Mitt Romney's eldest son. Tagg recalls an unforgettable event in July, 1986 when his father taught him valuable lessons about being wise with money and not letting anything stand in his way as they worked together to recover a lost boat anchor from the bottom of Buzzard's Bay on Cape Cod.

• Mitt Talks About Ann • Mitt delivers a wonderfully touching tribute to the love of his life in a speech at the Operations Kids tribute to Ann Romney in November 2006

• Excerpt of C-SPAN Q&A interview with host Brian Lamb on March 19, 2006. Mitt recalls the terrible events of June 16, 1968 and a report of his death that was greatly exaggerated.

BRIAN LAMB: One place that I found that you almost died.

MITT ROMNEY: Well, that’s true. When I was in France, I was driving a car that included the leader of our church in France, and a wonderful gentleman and his wife, and three people in the backseat.

And we were coming up a hill and around a corner going -- an area I knew well near Bordeaux, driving very slowly and carefully. And a drunk driver was passing a truck around a corner and suddenly as we rose above the hill and around the corner, there was a car in front of us going about 70 miles an hour.

It hit us head-on and I was knocked unconscious. The person sitting next to me was killed. Another individual was very seriously injured. But on my passport, because I was unconscious and removed from the vehicle with the Jaws of Life, the police, as they were sorting out the different individuals, the different injured folks, they took my passport and wrote on it, ”he is dead,” in French of course, il est mort.

And that word actually made it through the diplomatic channels to the United States embassy and it showed up in the news media in the United States that the governor’s son, Mitt Romney, had been killed in a tragic accident in France.

As it turned out, the rumors of my death were premature. And my parents were very pleased, as was my then-girlfriend very pleased that I was still among the living.

LAMB: And your then-girlfriend was Ann, your current wife.

ROMNEY: That’s right.

LAMB: And what -- how did she find out that you were still alive?

ROMNEY: Well, Ann and I have a long history together. We started dating just before her 16th birthday, had been going steady ever since. When I went off to France it was a difficult time for us to be away from each other for two-and-a-half years.

But when the report came to my dad first, he saw it, I think, in the media, he called Ann and said, there’s a report in the media that Mitt has been involved in a tragic accident, but we don’t believe it.

It’s interesting. He just didn’t believe it. And he called his friend Sargent Shriver, who was then the ambassador from the United States to France, and said, Sarge, there’s a report here that Mitt has been killed in an accident near Bordeaux, could you find out about it?

And apparently Sargent Shriver tracked it down, found me in the hospital where I was still unconscious and reported to my dad that I was alive and scrawny and the same kid he has always known.

More details: Michael Paulson, "Survivors recall tragic car crash in France with Romney at the wheel," The Boston Globe, 6/24/2007

• The Making of Mitt Romney, The Boston Globe, Seven Part Series

Part 1 - The Son • Privilege, tragedy, and a young leader By Neil Swidey and Michael Paulson
Part 2 - The Missionary • Centered in faith, a family emerges By Michael Kranish and Michael Paulson
Part 3 - The Businessman • Reaping profit in study, sweat By Robert Gavin and Sacha Pfeiffer
Part 4 - The Family Man • Raising sons; rising expectations By Neil Swidey and Stephanie Ebbert
Part 5 - The Olympian • In Games, a showcase for future races By Bob Hohler

Romney extraordinary leader By Fraser Bullock (the story of Mitt Romney's management of the Salt Lake Olympics that the Boston Globe won't print as told by a close associate on the SLOC)

Part 6 - The Governor • Taking office, remaining an outsider By Brian Mooney
Part 7 - The Candidate • Ambitious goals; shifting stances By Brian C. Mooney, Stephanie Ebbert, and Scott Helman

• Romney jokes about hunting flap • Displaying a self-deprecating sense of humor reminiscent of Ronald Reagan, Mitt makes light of his hunting experience and displays his trophy kill to Texans at a Reagan Day GOP fund-raiser in Dallas. (story and picture)

• FAST FACTS ABOUT ... WILLARD MITT ROMNEY

BORN: March 12, 1947, in Detroit, Michigan. Named for his father's best friend, J. Willard Marriott, founder of the hotel chain, and Milton "Mitt" Romney, his father's first cousin, a football quarterback for the Chicago Bears from 1925-29.

PARENTS: Former three-term Michigan Governor, Housing and Urban Development Secretary, American Motors chairman, and 1968 presidential candidate George W. Romney and 1970 U.S. Senate candidate Lenore Romney. George Romney passed away in July, 1995 at age 88 and Lenore passed away in July, 1998 at age 89.

SIBLINGS: Two sisters (Lynn and Jane) and one brother (G. Scott). Mitt is the youngest child.

EDUCATION: Brigham Young University, B.A. 1971; Harvard University, MBA, JD, 1975

PROFESSIONAL CAREER:

1975-77 Boston Consulting Group
1978-84 Vice president, Bain & Company
1984-90 Founder, Bain Capital
1990-92 CEO, Bain & Company
1992-99 CEO, Bain Capital
1999-2002 CEO, Salt Lake Organizing Committee for 2002 Winter Olympics

POLITICAL CAREER: Governor of Massachusetts from Jan 2, 2003 to Jan 4, 2007

FAMILY: Wife, Ann (Married Ann Davies, March 21, 1969); five sons, Tagg, Matt, Josh, Ben, and Craig (oldest to youngest)

FAVORITE BOOK: The Bible (favorite verse John 3:16)

FAVORITE NOVELS: "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," by Mark Twain; "Battlefield Earth," by L. Ron Hubbard

LAST BOOK READ (reported 11/14/2007, Romney is a voracious reader): "A Thousand Splendid Suns," by Khaled Hosseini

FAVORITE TV SHOWS: "Seinfeld," "The Office," "My Name Is Earl"

ALL-TIME FAVORITE MOVIE: "O Brother, Where Art Thou?"

FAVORITE PRESIDENTS: George Washington, John Adams, Abraham Lincoln, Dwight Eisenhower, Ronald Reagan and Teddy Roosevelt

USUAL CAMPAIGN LUNCH: Quiznos or Subway turkey on wheat and lots of water

USUAL DINNER: Pasta or chicken; again, lots of water

WHEN NO ONE'S LOOKING: Decaffeinated vanilla Coke

EXERCISE: Runs four or five times a week, from 2 to 5 miles

BIRTHDAY PRESENT FROM HIS SONS ON 60^th BIRTHDAY: 1962 Rambler American automobile

• Favorite Things (from interviews with the Associated Press)

Alternative Job Choices: Auto company chief executive
Favorite Food To Cook: Hot dog
Favorite TV Reality Show: American Idol
"Sleeping-in" Time: 7 a.m.
Desert Island Necessity: My wife, Ann
Favorite Fitness Activity: Jogging
Worst Habit: Fidgeting
Hidden Talent: Singing
Last Music Purchase: Selection of Roy Orbison songs from iTunes
Cars You Drive: 2005 Ford Mustang convertible
Home Task That Needs Tending: Clean the gutters
Last Work Of Fiction Read: "Term Limits" by Vince Flynn
Pets At Home: Family recently lost Marley, a Weimaraner
Best And Worst At School: A to F. Fortunately, I got more A's than F's
Home Memory: Family Bible that Dad and I used to take oath of office as governor

Rebuttals
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#rebuttals

Rebut the Charges of MassResistance, et al
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#MassResistance

David French is a Harvard Law School graduate and a leading constitutional attorney with the non-profit Alliance Defense Fund (ADF). The ADF is a legal defense and advocacy group for religious freedom founded in 1994 by the leaders of more than 35 ministries, including Dr. James Dobson and the late Dr. D. James Kennedy. ADF directly litigates carefully chosen, strategic cases to protect the freedom of religion, guard the sanctity of human life, and preserve marriage and traditional family values. The ADF is a major force opposing liberal activist groups such as the ACLU. David is a Captain in the Judge Advocate General’s Corps of the United States Army Reserve. Captain French was deployed to Iraq in late October, 2007.

David French co-founded EvangelicalsForMitt.org, an independent website dedicated to spreading awareness about Governor Mitt Romney among Christian conservatives. David and his wife, Nancy, have two children and live in Columbia, Tenn. where they attend Zion Presbyterian Church, a congregation of the Presbyterian Church in America.

Articles authored by David French are an excellent source of scholarly, factual, and well-sourced opinion and information about Mitt Romney and his record as Governor of Massachusetts. David has written several articles to rebut and expose anti-Romney critics, most notably the seriously flawed material produced by MassResistance headed by Brian Camenker and other individuals of his ilk.

The following articles by David French are highly recommended reading to rebut MassResistance, et al:

Mitt Romney: The Real Truth

This is David French's rebuttal to the 28-page document circulated by MassResistance called "The Mitt Romney Deception" which is a collection of old statements, half-truths, and completely false or misreported stories. If you have been spammed by an anti-Romney troll with "The Mitt Romney Deception", this should be your very next article to read.

Mitt Romney "Chose" Gay Marriage?

This is David French's scholarly rebuttal to the bizarre and silly assertion from MassResistance, et al, that Mitt Romney "instituted" same-sex marriage because, these critics contend, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) did not actually mandate same-sex marriage in the Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health ruling. Read this article to dispel this ridiculous assertion resulting from an incorrect reading of the SJC's decision. David French, a leading constitutional attorney, clearly explains the correct reading of the decision; a reading that is the accepted interpretation of the Goodridge decision and a reading which has never been successfully challenged in any court action since the Goodridge case.

In fact, most of the anti-Romney critics in the same-sex marriage issue base their criticism and arguments on: 1) an illogical reading of the Goodridge decision, and/or 2) incomplete knowledge of the legal powers granted to the office of Governor in Massachusetts as compared to other states in the U.S. (see opinions of attorneys Jay Sekulow and David French)

Airing the Dirty Laundry

This is a superb article by David French answering those who claim Gov. Romney is not a "real" conservative, or who tell lies to paint Romney as a liberal, because he did not oppose same-sex marriage through unconstitutional (and failed) tactics. It puts a mirror up to the ugly faces of zealot trolls on conservative forums who hold themselves up as sole, legitimate judges of a candidate's conservative credentials and willfully deceive others with outrageous hyperbole presented as fact. David compares the actions of former Alabama Supreme Court justice Roy Moore when he refused to comply with a court ruling ordering the removal of a Ten Commandments monument from the Alabama state courthouse against the actions of Gov. Mitt Romney in the issue of same-sex marriage in Massachusetts and the eventual outcomes achieved by the two men. This is a MUST READ.

Constitutional lawyer Jay Sekulow thoroughly and completely debunked the claim of MassResistance and Brian Camenker that Governor Romney prevented the Boy Scouts from serving in the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Olympics because of their stand on homosexual scoutmasters. Sekulow Addresses False Boy Scout Allegation, 12/11/2006

MassResistance Watch is a blog managed by gay activists who monitor the activities of MassResistance. They describe their mission as the following:

"This blog is akin to KlanWatch. We are watching the Hate groups in Massachusetts, namely the MassResistance "blog" and Article8.org. While they are the rightest of the right and mainly a fringe group, their hate speech should not go unnoticed."

MassResistance Watch is also vehemently anti-Romney which begs the question, if MassResistance's allegations of a pro-gay agenda were true about Mitt Romney why are gay activists some of Romney's harshest critics?

Information About Brian Camenker, President of MassResistance
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#camenker

Read a posting by Dean Barnett, a Republican who ran for State Representative in Massachusetts' 12^th Middlesex district in 1992 and a former friend of Brian Camenker. It's a revealing perspective on Camenker and the fringe nature of MassResistance.

Me and Brian Camenker

Press Release - Research Briefing: Meet The Real Brian Camenker, Jan 12, 2007

Today, The Associated Press Profiled Brian Camenker And His Attacks On Governor Romney:

Brian Camenker Is A "Conservative Gadfly" Who Has Focused On Attacking Governor Romney And His Strong Record On Conservative Issues. "Republican presidential hopeful Mitt Romney's political record is relatively brief – four years as Massachusetts governor and a failed campaign for the U.S. Senate. That's enough, however, for Brian Camenker, a conservative gadfly and longtime thorn in Romney's side, to write a 28-page report that portrays Romney as sympathetic to gay rights and sexual behavior that clashes with his burnished image as a defender of traditional values." (Steve LeBlanc, "Romney's Record On Gay Rights, Social Issues In Cross-Hairs," The Associated Press, 1/12/2007)

- Brian Camenker Is The President Of MassResistance. (Ryan Lizza, "Urine Trouble," The New Republic, 12/25/2006)

Camenker Is Not A Credible Voice And Pushes An Extreme Ideology:

The Boston Globe Noted That Camenker Is "Often Lampooned By The Local And National Media." (Matt Viser, "Interviews no laughing matter for local notables," The Boston Globe, 11/10/2005)

During An Interview On Comedy Central's "The Daily Show," Camenker Was Mocked For His Extreme Ideological Views. (Matt Viser, "Interviews no laughing matter for local notables," The Boston Globe, 11/10/2005)

- Click Below To View The Video Of Brian Camenker On Comedy Central's "The Daily Show":

Mass. Hysteria (This is a MUST SEE)

Video Cut from Mass. Hysteria:

The interviewer sarcastically prods Brian Camenker to link a ridiculous variety of societal ills to gay marriage, "So the quality of life has decreased, homelessness has gone up, crime rates, air quality?"

Brian Camenker responds in earnest, "I mean, let me put it this way. I could sit here and I could probably...you know...find some way of connecting the dots to gay marriage to all of these if I had enough time and I did some research."

Camenker Admits He Used To Be "A Social Liberal." "For much of my life I thought of myself as a social liberal. I voted for John Anderson for president and Michael Dukakis for governor." (Brian Camenker, "How A Good Jewish Boy Joined The 'Religious Right'," The Jewish Advocate, 12/25/1996)

Camenker Has A Record Of Attacking Prominent Republicans:

In 2001, Camenker Attempted To Derail President Bush's Nomination Of Massachusetts Governor Paul Cellucci To Be Ambassador To Canada. "Brian Camenker, president of the Waltham-based Parents' Rights Coalition, privately met in Washington Thursday with about a dozen Republican staff members on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, which would evaluate [Gov. Paul] Cellucci's nomination. Camenker said they were 'shocked' to hear about homosexual teachings in Massachusetts but nervous about how President Bush would receive criticism about Cellucci, who is not only his choice for ambassador but a longtime family friend." (Tina Cassidy, "Cellucci Foe Takes Case To US Senate," The Boston Globe, 3/3/2001)

The Boston Herald Praised The Cellucci Nomination And Called On Camenker To Stop His Attacks. "And surely between now and Cellucci's confirmation hearings someone will tell the increasingly shrill Brian Camenker of the Parents Rights Coalition to simply go to his room. ? But you can't reason with zealots and Camenker is a zealot. Cellucci is a good choice for the post." (Editorial, "Bush Chooses Well For Ottawa Embassy," Boston Herald, 2/14/2001)

Rebut the Notion that Gov. Romney's Inaction Allowed Same-Sex Marriage to Become Law in Massachusetts
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#DOM

IssueSource.org is a website co-produced by MassINC and The State House News Service and is a project of MassINC's Civic Renewal Initiative. It is a non-partisan, not-for-profit, free public service.

IssueSource.org has a remarkably detailed chronological journal of the legal actions and legislative events in Massachusetts regarding same-sex marriage following the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court (SJC) ruling in Goodridge v. Dept. of Public Health on Nov. 18, 2003 (Issue: Gay Marriage: Prior to May 17, 2004). The journal records in great detail the actions taken by people both for and against the same-sex marriage court ruling up to the date the ruling became law on May 17, 2004 making same-sex marriage legal in Massachusetts.

The journal is a very long read with several examples where Governor Romney opposed the ruling and attempted to delay the implementation with statements and directives; actions that were openly defied by others at times. However, focus on the events after March 29, 2004 when the constitutional convention in Massachusetts approved an amendment to ban gay marriage. Note the legal action Gov. Romney initiated immediately after March 29, 2004 to prevent the SJC's Goodridge ruling from becoming law on May 17, 2004. More importantly, note that Gov. Romney's efforts were thwarted because the Democrat Attorney General Tom Reilly and Senate President Robert Travaglini refused to cooperate and blocked the required legislative action.

Excerpts from the journal of events are presented below:

"On Mar. 29, the Legislature, meeting in constitutional convention, approved the constitutional amendment to ban gay marriage and provide for civil unions. The measure must still be approved a second time, during the 2005-06 session of the Legislature, in order to be placed on the November 2006 ballot for ratification by voters.

----- snip -----

"Immediately after the vote, Romney called on AG Reilly to go before the SJC to halt the start of gay marriages on May 17, but Reilly quickly responded that he would not seek the delay, arguing that the SJC's two rulings, in November and February, had made it clear that the court would tolerate nothing less than marriage for same-sex couples. A week earlier, on Mar. 22, Travaglini told the State House News Service that any attempt by Romney to halt the issuance of same-sex marriage licenses on the SJC's ordered timetable would probably fail. "It is my understanding that no matter what legislative action we take, we cannot affect the issuance of licenses come the 17th of May. If the governor believes that he has the capacity or the authority to stop the issuance of licenses, then that’s a personal political decision that he can make; I don’t necessarily agree."

----- snip -----

Office of Gov. Mitt Romney, "Romney Files Emergency Bill to Seek Goodridge Decision Stay," Press Release, 4/15/2004

"Romney announced April 15 that he would seek emergency legislation to allow him to appoint a special counsel to ask the Supreme Judicial Court for a 2 1/2 year delay of its gay marriage ruling set to take effect May 17. Romney's plan was to bypass AG Reilly--who refused to name a special counsel in March--and name his own special counsel, retired SJC Justice Joseph Nolan. Romney said the legislation would allow him to "protect the integrity of the Constitutional process" and return the decision on gay marriage to voters. "We believe the people have the right to have their position heard and that as the governor, I should have right to have my position heard. Look, people that don’t have any income are entitled to representation. Everyone in the Commonwealth is entitled to representation. But somehow as governor of the Commonwealth, it’s deemed that I can’t represent my view before the courts--I think that’s a mistake," said Romney.

"State House News Service reported April 22 that Romney's special counsel bill was "languishing" on Beacon Hill. The main obstacle was the Senate, which failed to admit the bill in its last two sessions. Senate President Robert Travaglini dismissed the legislation when it was announced and said the governor was only trying to push his "political agenda." If the bill was not admitted, then there would not be a joint committee public hearing on it.

"Romney said April 21 that he would not file a supportive brief or otherwise get involved in a petition brought by the Catholic Action League of Massachusetts. The League was attempting to persuade the Supreme Judicial Court to delay the start of gay marriages until November 2006, when voters could vote on the issue. Romney said he preferred to make the case for delay himself. On April 23, Romney renewed his call for the Legislature to grant him the authority to appoint a special counsel so he could launch his own effort to persuade the court to delay gay marriages from taking effect May 17. "I call on both branches of the Legislature, particularly the Senate. . .to give me the opportunity to preserve the choice of the definition of marriage to the citizens and make sure that the hard work the Legislature went through to pass this amendment to allow the citizens to have a voice is worth something," Romney told reporters at a press conference.

Rebut the Notion that Mitt Romney Ran as a Liberal in the 1994 Senate Race Against Ted Kennedy
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#mittnolib

Some critics of Mitt Romney claim he ran as a liberal in his 1994 campaign against Ted Kennedy for the U.S. Senate. They charge that only within the last few years has Romney attempted to build his conservative credentials in preparation for his run for the Republican nomination for U.S. President in 2008.

However, literature from the Romney campaign in 1994 reveals the truth about Romney's conservative positions on the issues in the Senate race. One campaign flyer unearthed from the 1994 race lists a side-by-side comparison of positions held by Romney and Kennedy for 24 election issues. Images of the front and back of the flyer are available on the Web. A closeup of the flyer with the candidate comparison on the issues is shown below:

In the 1994 Senate race, Mitt Romney held the solid conservative position for 23 of the 24 issues listed; the only exception being the pledge to maintain the status quo in Massachusetts regarding a woman's right to choose. A pro-choice position in Massachusetts in 1994 was a socially moderate stance accommodating the large majority opinion of voters in the state. In hindsight, it was wrong for a conservative to accommodate a pro-choice, status quo public policy despite his liberal constituency.

Romney freely admits now that he was wrong about the government's role in protecting the life of the unborn and has changed his position on this issue to a pro-life stance as public policy consistent with long-held pro-life beliefs in his private life. However, it's understandable how a first-time candidate in 1994, and former businessman, running a crusade for fiscal conservatism with solid conservative positions on crime, welfare, the economy, foreign policy, school choice, health care, and congressional reform might accept the status quo on a social issue respecting the liberal constituency he would represent.

Note that even way back in 1994, Mitt Romney favored tougher measures to stop illegal immigration long before it was the hot issue it is today. Romney has consistently opposed illegal immigration and demonstrated this by his actions while governor opposing special privileges for illegal aliens and taking steps to enforce federal immigration laws.

Mitt Romney received the endorsement of an anti-abortion group, Massachusetts Citizens For Life, in his Republican primary race for the 1994 Senate election.
^{(Ed Hayward, "Anti-abortion group endorses Romney bid," Boston Herald, 9/08/1994)}

James Bopp, Jr., a leading constitutional attorney and pro-life advocate, wrote:

"Romney’s conversion was less abrupt than is often portrayed. In his 1994 Senate run, Romney was endorsed by Massachusetts Citizens for Life and kept their endorsement, even though he declared himself to be pro-choice, because he supported parental-consent laws, opposed taxpayer-funded abortion and mandatory abortion coverage under a national health insurance plan, and was against the Freedom of Choice Act, which would have codified Roe v. Wade by federal statute. In 1994, NARAL’s Kate Michelman pronounced him a phony pro-choicer. "Mitt Romney, stop pretending," she demanded. "We need honesty in our public life, not your campaign of deception to conceal your anti-choice views," she said. Some conservative Boston newspaper columnists view it similarly. As Jeff Jacoby of the Boston Globe put it: "Romney’s very public migration rightward over the last few years is . . . intended not to hide his real views but to liberate them. In 1994, Romney struck me as an extraordinarily bright, talented, and decent man — and a political neophyte who fell for the canard that the only way a conservative could win in Massachusetts was by passing for liberal."

"In 2001, Romney said, in a letter to the Salt Lake Tribune, that he believes that "abortion is the wrong choice, but under the law it is a choice people have." And in the 2002 governor’s race, Romney made clear that "on a personal basis, I don’t favor abortion," that he opposed lowering the age at which minors could obtain abortions without parental consent to 16, and that he supported a ban on partial-birth abortions, but that, as governor, he would "protect the right of a woman to choose under the law of the country and the laws of the commonwealth." As one Boston commentator observed, Romney’s "abortion statements sound as much like someone trying to wrestle with the issue as someone trying to weasel his way out of it."
(James Bopp Jr., "The Best Choice Is Also a Good Choice - Why social conservatives should support Mitt Romney for president," National Review Online, 2/21/2007)

In an ironic twist from Romney's conservative critics today, in 1994 it was an abortion rights group, Mass Choice, who accused Romney of exaggerating his pro-choice views. "He is not pro-choice," said Joyce Cunha, executive director of Mass Choice. "He's trying to have it both ways. He's anti-choice at heart. Massachusetts voters deserve to know the truth."
^{(Andrew Miga, "Abortion-rights group rips Romney," Boston Herald, 9/10/1994)}

The Boston Globe reported in 1994 that Mitt Romney, in his role in private life as a Mormon lay leader, "counseled Mormon women not to have abortions except in cases of rape, incest, or where the mother’s life was at risk." Romney confirmed this again in a recent interview by Kathryn Jean Lopez for National Review (Kathryn Jean Lopez, "A Primary Factor," National Review Online, 12/14/2006). Mitt Romney was a Ward Bishop, or lay pastor, for three years (1982-1985) at his church in Belmont, Massachusetts, and a Stake President for nine years, overseeing about a dozen Boston-area churches in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. A Ward is comparable to a Catholic Parish and a Stake is comparable to a Diocese. Romney's church work was voluntary – Mormon congregations have no paid clergy – but the time commitment was intense.

Mitt Romney's positions on the issues in the 1994 Senate race make it abundantly clear that Romney was never a liberal or anything approaching that label. His fiscal policies, positions on crime, the U.S. military, and stances on domestic issues of school choice, welfare and health care firmly fixed his political ideology in the category of conservative in 1994. Romney's strong conservative stances on issues today are consistent with his long-held core conservative values in many more areas than his critics would have us believe.

Rebut the Notion that Mitt Romney Inherited His Wealth
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#RomneyWealth

Mitt Romney gave his entire inheritance to charity that he received upon his father's death in 1995. He didn’t pursue a career in any industry with which his father or family had connections, and he moved to Massachusetts from his home state of Michigan where his father's influence could have been a ticket for a free ride.

Some may consider his education a product of privilege. He managed to get a wonderful education at BYU (class valedictorian) and Harvard, graduating with honors from Harvard with both an MBA (Baker Scholar) and Juris Doctorate, cum laude, in only four years. Plenty of people graduate from Harvard with one of those degrees, yet don't become the most successful venture capitalist and one of the most brilliant executive managers in the country during the last 50 years.

An excerpt from a C-SPAN Q&A interview follows:

Brian Lamb: By the way, why did your father not give you any of his inheritance?

Mitt Romney: Well, he didn’t have as much as I think some people anticipated. And I did get a check from my dad when he passed away. I shouldn’t say a check, but I did inherit some funds from my dad.

But I turned and gave that away to charity. In this case I gave it to a school which Brigham Young University established in his honor, the George W. Romney School of Public Management.

And as an institute of public management, it helps young people learn about government and about serving in public service. And that’s where his inheritance ended up.

Lamb: Did he have a philosophy that he didn’t want to pass on a lot of money to his kids?

Romney: Well, I don’t think he had as much as some people might have imagined. And he spent his money on things he cared about. He was a real champion of volunteerism.

So he funded volunteer efforts and worked to support the things he cared about. My kids got some money from my mom and dad. They are happy that they were able to receive some funds. That helped them in their education and getting started in life. But in my case, I figured we had enough of our own.
^{(Brian Lamb, "Gov. Mitt Romney," C-SPAN Q&A, 3/19/2006)}

Mitt Romney's father, George Romney, did not play a part in the creation of Bain Capital, the company founded by Mitt Romney and two other partners where he made his fortune:

"Bain Capital LLC is a Boston, Massachusetts-based private equity firm founded in 1984 by Mitt Romney, the former Governor of Massachusetts, and two other partners from the consulting firm Bain & Company: T. Coleman Andrews III and Eric Kriss. Bain Capital was originally conceived as a combined equity start-up and leveraged buyout fund, an innovative strategy at the time."

"The original $37 million fund was raised entirely from private individuals in mid-1984, led by Ricardo Poma, a Salvadorean businessman. One of the fund's first start-up investments was Staples, Inc., the $15 billion office supply retailer. The funding enabled Staples to expand from one store in 1986 to nearly 1,700 in 2006. Bain Capital founded, acquired or invested in hundreds of companies including Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Brookstone, Domino's Pizza, Sealy, Guitar Center and The Sports Authority."

"In addition to the three founding partners, the early Bain Capital team included Fraser Bullock, Robert F. White, Joshua Bekenstein, Adam Kirsch and Geoffrey S. Rehnert. Bullock joined Romney as the Chief Operating Officer for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games when Romney left Bain in 2001 to lead the Salt Lake City Winter Olympics."

"Twenty years after its inception, Bain Capital currently manages $50 billion in assets, and holds positions in major companies including Toys R Us, Burger King and Unisource."

During his service as CEO of the Salt Lake Organizing Committee, Mitt Romney personally contributed $1 million to the Salt Lake Winter Olympics and donated his three years of salary ($922,980 total) and his $476,000 severance pay to charity. Gov. Romney never took the $135,000 annual salary for his time as Governor of Massachusetts and has said he would not take a salary if elected President and would instead donate the money to charity. The Tyler Charitable Foundation, a joint family trust of Mitt and Ann Romney, has donated more than $2.9 million to more than 40 health care groups, schools, and other charitable organizations since 1999.

Mitt Romney Ping List
http://www.freerepublic.com/~unmarkedpackage/#ping

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