Flora Harvester - Complaint filed with Madison and Ridgeland PD's over campaign shenanigans - (HatTip sippydog at Y'all Politics) [Y'all has now removed the post.] - A complaint was reportedly filed with the Madison and Ridgeland Police Department’s Sunday evening following mischief related to the ongoing District 3 Republican runoff. The situation stems from a group of young men allegedly being paid by a Madison Alderman in conjunction with the Charlie Ross campaign to remove Gregg Harper signs. The Ross camp was accused of similar tactics in the last days leading up to the Republican primary for Lieutenant Governor against Phil Bryant last year. Margaret Collins, a Harper volunteer, said that she was talking with a friend in the parking lot of a Ridgeland shopping center on Saturday around 6:30pm when a carload of young men pulled up, jumped out and began hurriedly removing Gregg Harper signs from the area. “It was almost like a Chinese fire drill,” Collins said. “They were jerking (Harper) signs up.” Collins, who is a teacher, said she immediately “went into teacher mode” and began questioning them.
As we questioned them, they kept changing their story and giving excuses,” she said. “First, they said they worked for the City of Madison. When we reminded them that they were in Ridgeland, they then said they worked for the County.” Collins said that the youngest of the group wanted to cooperate and claimed he was “just trying to make some money.” “We asked them if they were being paid by the Charlie Ross campaign, and the young man said, ‘yes’,” said Collins. Collins said she had the boys open the back of their Red Nissan X-Terra. “The signs in the trunk were all Harper signs,” she said. She said the driver then called someone who claimed to be an Alderman from the City of Madison. “The Alderman said to leave the signs up but that they will be down by Monday,” Collins recalls. “Then when we demanded the signs in the trunk, the (driver) called him back to see if they could give them to us.” Collins said neither she nor her friend were able to get the name of the Alderman, but that they were able to get a tag number off the vehicle and grab about 20 signs before the young men began to be confrontational. “It appeared they were getting paid for each sign they collected,” she said. Collins says, “It’s a shame that volunteers spend their time working on a campaign, only to see this kind of thing happen.” “I think it is ridiculous that someone would do this kind of thing,” she said. Calls to both Madison and Ridgeland Police Departments for comment were not immediately returned.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Vote Tomorrow
Andy Taggart Blog - Tuesday's GOP Run-off: Third District
Alan Lange - Harper vs. Ross - This one could be really close in MS-03
WTOK - Harper Supporters Campaign In Meridian
WTOK - Charlie Ross Campaigns During Air Show
Clarion Ledger - Vet touts record, takes nothing for granted
Clarion Ledger - Underdog draws fervid support despite hurdles
WLBT - Profile of Third Congressional District Candidates
Commercial Dispatch - Rankin attorneys vying for congressional post
CQ Politics - Tuesday’s Mississippi House Race: Neck and Neck
AP - Miss. holds runoffs Tuesday in congressional primaries
Alan Lange - Harper vs. Ross - This one could be really close in MS-03
WTOK - Harper Supporters Campaign In Meridian
WTOK - Charlie Ross Campaigns During Air Show
Clarion Ledger - Vet touts record, takes nothing for granted
Clarion Ledger - Underdog draws fervid support despite hurdles
WLBT - Profile of Third Congressional District Candidates
Commercial Dispatch - Rankin attorneys vying for congressional post
CQ Politics - Tuesday’s Mississippi House Race: Neck and Neck
AP - Miss. holds runoffs Tuesday in congressional primaries
Yancey Endorses Harper
Lee Yancey, who now occupies the senate seat formerly held by Charlie Ross, has endorsed Gregg Harper.
Vote Tomorrow
Andy Taggart Blog - Tuesday's GOP Run-off: First District
Daily Journal - McCulloughs hit 1st District trail together
Daily Journal - Davis stresses link with average voter
Daily Journal - Outspoken Holland serious about helping
CQ Politics - Tuesday’s Mississippi House Race: Neck and Neck
Daily Journal - Confused about the process? Then you are paying attention
Daily Journal - Election Day coming Tuesday
Clarion Ledger - Endorsements
Commercial Dispatch - Southaven mayor and ex-Tupelo mayor battle in 1st District Republican runoff
Commercial Dispatch - Legislator and chancery clerk seeking nod from Democrats in congressional runoff
AP - Miss. holds runoffs Tuesday in congressional primaries
Daily Journal - McCulloughs hit 1st District trail together
Daily Journal - Davis stresses link with average voter
Daily Journal - Outspoken Holland serious about helping
CQ Politics - Tuesday’s Mississippi House Race: Neck and Neck
Daily Journal - Confused about the process? Then you are paying attention
Daily Journal - Election Day coming Tuesday
Clarion Ledger - Endorsements
Commercial Dispatch - Southaven mayor and ex-Tupelo mayor battle in 1st District Republican runoff
Commercial Dispatch - Legislator and chancery clerk seeking nod from Democrats in congressional runoff
AP - Miss. holds runoffs Tuesday in congressional primaries
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Ross BBQ
You're Invited!
Barbeque at Bass Pro Shop
with Republican Third Congressional District Candidate
Charlie Ross
Sunday, March 30th
4:30-6:30pm
Sportsman's Hall, Bass Pro Shop
100 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl, MS
This event is free and open to the public.
We hope to see you there!
If you're interested in joining Team Charlie, we've got plenty of opportunities to get involved. Contact Robert or TJ here at the campaign headquarters, (601) 362-7677.
Barbeque at Bass Pro Shop
with Republican Third Congressional District Candidate
Charlie Ross
Sunday, March 30th
4:30-6:30pm
Sportsman's Hall, Bass Pro Shop
100 Bass Pro Drive, Pearl, MS
This event is free and open to the public.
We hope to see you there!
If you're interested in joining Team Charlie, we've got plenty of opportunities to get involved. Contact Robert or TJ here at the campaign headquarters, (601) 362-7677.
5 days to go
AP - 2 simultaneous elections puzzle some Miss. voters - People go to the polls April 1 for the Democratic and Republican primary runoffs to set the ballot for the November general election. The winner in November will serve a two-year term in Washington, starting in January.
On April 22, there is a nonpartisan special election in the 1st District to fill the final few months of a U.S. House term that Republican Roger Wicker started in early 2007. Wicker left the House seat in December after Gov. Haley Barbour appointed him to fill a Senate seat left vacant by the early retirement of Republican Trent Lott.
In Monroe County, Circuit Clerk Judy Butler said Wednesday that many voters don't understand there are overlapping elections for the congressional seat. Adding to the mix in Monroe County, Aberdeen has its regularly scheduled municipal elections going on now - and some voters will have to drive to one precinct for the municipal elections and another for the congressional election. "We have major confusion here," Butler said.
Tuesday's congressional runoffs are follow-ups to the March 11 primary elections. None of the Republican or Democratic candidates received a majority in the primaries, forcing runoffs for both parties. If no candidate receives a majority of the vote in the special election, another runoff election would be held May 13 to decide that contest. Party affiliations are not listed on the special election ballot.
WREG - Campaign Heats Up in Mississippi's First Congressional District - Candidates like Southaven's Greg Davis are looking for people like Shannon Fulcher, who aren't regular voters. "Actually I hadn't voted in the last few years and I got out this time and voted in the primaries." said Fulcher.
It's true. Close local and national races have more of us paying attention, and telling the candidates what's important. "Well, people are concerned about the economy. Obviously the economy and the price of fuel." said candidate Glenn McCullough of Tupelo. Glenn McCullough Criss-crossed the district, from Alabama to Tennessee to Rev up Republicans wherever he could find them. "We believe that conservative Republicans will vote on Tuesday and we're optimistic they'll respond to our campaign." He said.
But with two conservative republicans in this race, it'll come down to who can win the most minds and get them to the voting booth. "The higher the numbers come out it'll be at least more representative congressman that you have versus a small few determine who does to Washington." said Candidate and Southaven Mayor Greg Davis.
Why are these candidates working extra hard to get voters' attention? First, runoffs almost never draw big numbers. But this year they have an extra big problem. Many Republicans crossed over to vote in the Democratic Presidential primary, and now they cannot cross back to vote in the runoff. But those who didn't vote can choose either party. "We figure we lost about 3-4 thousand votes here in DeSoto County alone, but there are some 20-thousand people who didn't come to the polls." said Davis.
So now the race is on, to get those thousands to make a choice. "Possibilities. Possibilities for the future. That's what our campaign's all about." Said McCullough. And these men say North Mississippi's future isn't something to take lightly. "Don't let your neighbor vote in your congressman. You go, take, again, 15 minutes. It's all it would take and cast the ballot regardless of what the weather may be doing that day." Davis explained. But is the motivation working? "I'm Definitely in the spirit." said Fulcher.
ChrisBrownForHouse - Election April 1.....April Fools Day??? 1st Congressional District - This is a friendly reminder of the run-off election coming up on April 1st. We need to get all our people to the polls to vote. Our country and our state have many obstacles to address and it will take strong Conservative leadership to guide us safely in the future. Now is not the time to show weakness to our enemies. We must be strong and stand up against those that seek to destroy us. Let us all join together to elect true Conservatives to office and not end up making April 1 live up to its name. I would encourage you to go to the polls on Tuesday April 1st and vote for Glenn McCullough Jr. for our next congressman. It is with prayerful consideration and many visits with Glenn that I ask for you to support him. He is a good Christian man that will stand up for the un-born. He will defend our rights and freedoms that we hold dear. He will fight illegal immigration. He will work to lower taxes. He will be a strong voice for Conservative causes in Washington. Again, Please go to the polls and vote Glenn McCullough Jr. for our next 1st District U.S. Congressman, you will be proud you did. www.glenn08.com
On April 22, there is a nonpartisan special election in the 1st District to fill the final few months of a U.S. House term that Republican Roger Wicker started in early 2007. Wicker left the House seat in December after Gov. Haley Barbour appointed him to fill a Senate seat left vacant by the early retirement of Republican Trent Lott.
In Monroe County, Circuit Clerk Judy Butler said Wednesday that many voters don't understand there are overlapping elections for the congressional seat. Adding to the mix in Monroe County, Aberdeen has its regularly scheduled municipal elections going on now - and some voters will have to drive to one precinct for the municipal elections and another for the congressional election. "We have major confusion here," Butler said.
Tuesday's congressional runoffs are follow-ups to the March 11 primary elections. None of the Republican or Democratic candidates received a majority in the primaries, forcing runoffs for both parties. If no candidate receives a majority of the vote in the special election, another runoff election would be held May 13 to decide that contest. Party affiliations are not listed on the special election ballot.
WREG - Campaign Heats Up in Mississippi's First Congressional District - Candidates like Southaven's Greg Davis are looking for people like Shannon Fulcher, who aren't regular voters. "Actually I hadn't voted in the last few years and I got out this time and voted in the primaries." said Fulcher.
It's true. Close local and national races have more of us paying attention, and telling the candidates what's important. "Well, people are concerned about the economy. Obviously the economy and the price of fuel." said candidate Glenn McCullough of Tupelo. Glenn McCullough Criss-crossed the district, from Alabama to Tennessee to Rev up Republicans wherever he could find them. "We believe that conservative Republicans will vote on Tuesday and we're optimistic they'll respond to our campaign." He said.
But with two conservative republicans in this race, it'll come down to who can win the most minds and get them to the voting booth. "The higher the numbers come out it'll be at least more representative congressman that you have versus a small few determine who does to Washington." said Candidate and Southaven Mayor Greg Davis.
Why are these candidates working extra hard to get voters' attention? First, runoffs almost never draw big numbers. But this year they have an extra big problem. Many Republicans crossed over to vote in the Democratic Presidential primary, and now they cannot cross back to vote in the runoff. But those who didn't vote can choose either party. "We figure we lost about 3-4 thousand votes here in DeSoto County alone, but there are some 20-thousand people who didn't come to the polls." said Davis.
So now the race is on, to get those thousands to make a choice. "Possibilities. Possibilities for the future. That's what our campaign's all about." Said McCullough. And these men say North Mississippi's future isn't something to take lightly. "Don't let your neighbor vote in your congressman. You go, take, again, 15 minutes. It's all it would take and cast the ballot regardless of what the weather may be doing that day." Davis explained. But is the motivation working? "I'm Definitely in the spirit." said Fulcher.
ChrisBrownForHouse - Election April 1.....April Fools Day??? 1st Congressional District - This is a friendly reminder of the run-off election coming up on April 1st. We need to get all our people to the polls to vote. Our country and our state have many obstacles to address and it will take strong Conservative leadership to guide us safely in the future. Now is not the time to show weakness to our enemies. We must be strong and stand up against those that seek to destroy us. Let us all join together to elect true Conservatives to office and not end up making April 1 live up to its name. I would encourage you to go to the polls on Tuesday April 1st and vote for Glenn McCullough Jr. for our next congressman. It is with prayerful consideration and many visits with Glenn that I ask for you to support him. He is a good Christian man that will stand up for the un-born. He will defend our rights and freedoms that we hold dear. He will fight illegal immigration. He will work to lower taxes. He will be a strong voice for Conservative causes in Washington. Again, Please go to the polls and vote Glenn McCullough Jr. for our next 1st District U.S. Congressman, you will be proud you did. www.glenn08.com
DJournal Profile: Holland
Daily Journal - Outspoken Holland serious about helping - After nearly 25 years in the Legislature, Holland has high name recognition not only in the north Mississippi district he hopes to serve in Congress, but also throughout the entire state. He is a large man with a large heart and, some would say, an even larger mouth. He is rowdy and candid, funny and shocking, passionate and impulsive. He's a politician, a family man, a business owner and a raconteur. It is said that you either love Holland or you hate him.
On a sunny morning last week in Houston and Aberdeen, Holland covered several city blocks to greet residents and ask for their support in Tuesday's runoff election. He didn't huff or puff, never sat for a break, and never once complained about the effort. In fact, Holland seemed to relish it.
The people Holland met seemed to enjoy the campaigning as much as the candidate. They hugged him, laughed with him, slapped him on the back and called him a "true Democrat."
It wasn't always so. Holland flirted heavily with the Republican party during and after his college days at Mississippi State University. He worked on the staff of the state GOP and spent more than one year as political director on Republican U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran's staff.
But Holland switched sides in 1983 to win the 16th District seat in the state House of Representatives. He also spent three years as an aide to the late Democratic U.S. Rep. Jamie Whitten. The Democratic party was a perfect fit, he said, even though he continues his friendships with old Republican pals like Gov. Haley Barbour.
"We have a macabre-kind of relationship today," Holland said. Barbour spokesman Pete Smith said he would "politely decline" to comment on the friendship.
While in the House, Holland worked his way up through the ranks, befriending Democrats and Republicans alike to carve a niche for himself and, finally, become one of the Legislature's senior members. Today, Holland chairs the House's Public Health and Human Services Committee and sits on eight others, including the powerful Appropriations Committee.
The 52-year-old jokes that younger colleagues call him "Papa Bear," because he often takes them under his wing when they enter Jackson politics. One of them, Holland said, was Greg Davis. Davis, a Republican vying for the same congressional seat in this election, came to the House in 1991 as an Independent. Holland said he was one of the Legislature's rising stars. When contacted later about Holland's comments, Davis chuckled, adding, "He said that?"
While serving in the Legislature, Holland grew a successful business as an undertaker and funeral home operator. Today, he owns Holland-Harris Funeral Directors in Tupelo and Okolona and is vice president of Seven Oaks Funeral Home in Water Valley. The profession introduced him - and endeared him - to a number of the region's people.
Holland offered this experience in response: "When my oldest daughter was 16, I caught her in the pool one night with a boy. I was so mad. I grabbed the young man and slammed him against the brick wall and straightened him out. He's a doctor now, and he still calls me every year and thanks me for making a man out of him."
Replace the hormonal teenager in that story with a broken health care system, stingy Republicans or a litany of other political peeves, and you have a good idea of how Holland the statesman operates.
Case in point: While outside the courthouse that day, a woman came running down the steps calling Holland's name. It was Donna Schomburg with C.O.P.E.S., a dropout prevention program sponsored by the Exchange Club of Houston. She complained that a lack of public transportation and Medicaid registration in Houlka prevented her clients from seeking health care for themselves and their children. Outraged, Holland immediately phoned various agencies to get Schomburg help.
"He got a representative of Medicaid to call me who is going to try to rectify the situation and get a representative out to the clinic there," Schomburg told the Daily Journal several days later. "And Mr. Holland is investigating the transportation situation right now. He was very helpful. He could have said, well, call your congressman."
And, incidentally, that's what Holland wants to become. His main motivation: helping more people like Schomburg. "I would like nothing more than to have an office and a staff to help people and to give people a ray of hope," Holland said. "I've been advocating every second of my life for the least, the last, and the most vulnerable - poor folks, just like me."
On a sunny morning last week in Houston and Aberdeen, Holland covered several city blocks to greet residents and ask for their support in Tuesday's runoff election. He didn't huff or puff, never sat for a break, and never once complained about the effort. In fact, Holland seemed to relish it.
The people Holland met seemed to enjoy the campaigning as much as the candidate. They hugged him, laughed with him, slapped him on the back and called him a "true Democrat."
It wasn't always so. Holland flirted heavily with the Republican party during and after his college days at Mississippi State University. He worked on the staff of the state GOP and spent more than one year as political director on Republican U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran's staff.
But Holland switched sides in 1983 to win the 16th District seat in the state House of Representatives. He also spent three years as an aide to the late Democratic U.S. Rep. Jamie Whitten. The Democratic party was a perfect fit, he said, even though he continues his friendships with old Republican pals like Gov. Haley Barbour.
"We have a macabre-kind of relationship today," Holland said. Barbour spokesman Pete Smith said he would "politely decline" to comment on the friendship.
While in the House, Holland worked his way up through the ranks, befriending Democrats and Republicans alike to carve a niche for himself and, finally, become one of the Legislature's senior members. Today, Holland chairs the House's Public Health and Human Services Committee and sits on eight others, including the powerful Appropriations Committee.
The 52-year-old jokes that younger colleagues call him "Papa Bear," because he often takes them under his wing when they enter Jackson politics. One of them, Holland said, was Greg Davis. Davis, a Republican vying for the same congressional seat in this election, came to the House in 1991 as an Independent. Holland said he was one of the Legislature's rising stars. When contacted later about Holland's comments, Davis chuckled, adding, "He said that?"
While serving in the Legislature, Holland grew a successful business as an undertaker and funeral home operator. Today, he owns Holland-Harris Funeral Directors in Tupelo and Okolona and is vice president of Seven Oaks Funeral Home in Water Valley. The profession introduced him - and endeared him - to a number of the region's people.
Holland offered this experience in response: "When my oldest daughter was 16, I caught her in the pool one night with a boy. I was so mad. I grabbed the young man and slammed him against the brick wall and straightened him out. He's a doctor now, and he still calls me every year and thanks me for making a man out of him."
Replace the hormonal teenager in that story with a broken health care system, stingy Republicans or a litany of other political peeves, and you have a good idea of how Holland the statesman operates.
Case in point: While outside the courthouse that day, a woman came running down the steps calling Holland's name. It was Donna Schomburg with C.O.P.E.S., a dropout prevention program sponsored by the Exchange Club of Houston. She complained that a lack of public transportation and Medicaid registration in Houlka prevented her clients from seeking health care for themselves and their children. Outraged, Holland immediately phoned various agencies to get Schomburg help.
"He got a representative of Medicaid to call me who is going to try to rectify the situation and get a representative out to the clinic there," Schomburg told the Daily Journal several days later. "And Mr. Holland is investigating the transportation situation right now. He was very helpful. He could have said, well, call your congressman."
And, incidentally, that's what Holland wants to become. His main motivation: helping more people like Schomburg. "I would like nothing more than to have an office and a staff to help people and to give people a ray of hope," Holland said. "I've been advocating every second of my life for the least, the last, and the most vulnerable - poor folks, just like me."
5 days and counting
Madison County Journal - Ross, Harper meet in runoff Tuesday
WTOK - Ross Speaks to Kiwanis Club
Scott County Times - GOP Runoff Tuesday
Scott County Times - Candidates See Importance Of Scott County
WTOK - Congressional Candidates Meet Voters
WTOK - Ross Speaks to Kiwanis Club
Scott County Times - GOP Runoff Tuesday
Scott County Times - Candidates See Importance Of Scott County
WTOK - Congressional Candidates Meet Voters
Madison Journal: Harper for Congress
Madison County Journal - EDITORIAL/Gregg Harper for Congress - Tuesday's Republican run-off election between Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross in the Third District will more than likely give the victor a straight ticket to Washington. The race between Harper and Ross is expected to be a horse race.
Either man would represent the district well. Ross has paid his dues in the halls of the state capitol as an experienced and knowledgeable legislator. He knows the mechanics of lawmaking.
Harper has paid his dues in the trenches of the Rankin County Republican Party and has developed a loyal grass roots following traversing the district in a bus once owned by Garth Brooks, which, frankly, has been one of the more interesting aspects of an otherwise dull campaign.
Ross could have no finer endorsement than Aaron Rice, the boyish Iraq war veteran who lost his left leg below the knee in a land mine attack in 2005. What a great American!
But a few key factors stand out about Harper which make him the most logical choice in this otherwise flip-of-the-coin race.
Harper is a fiscal conservative who wants to put an end to the wasteful Washington spending. He believes in a financially strong America. He has been an advocate of the Second Amendment and is quick to tell you he is a lifelong member of the NRA. Harper has also spoken out against illegal immigration, as did most every other Republican candidate. He is a strong advocate of public schools, educating his own children in them. Harper is personable and we believe will be more accessible, but he'll need to surround himself with good people knowledgeable about important issues like transportation, education and economic development.
Vote Gregg Harper for Congress on Tuesday.
Either man would represent the district well. Ross has paid his dues in the halls of the state capitol as an experienced and knowledgeable legislator. He knows the mechanics of lawmaking.
Harper has paid his dues in the trenches of the Rankin County Republican Party and has developed a loyal grass roots following traversing the district in a bus once owned by Garth Brooks, which, frankly, has been one of the more interesting aspects of an otherwise dull campaign.
Ross could have no finer endorsement than Aaron Rice, the boyish Iraq war veteran who lost his left leg below the knee in a land mine attack in 2005. What a great American!
But a few key factors stand out about Harper which make him the most logical choice in this otherwise flip-of-the-coin race.
Harper is a fiscal conservative who wants to put an end to the wasteful Washington spending. He believes in a financially strong America. He has been an advocate of the Second Amendment and is quick to tell you he is a lifelong member of the NRA. Harper has also spoken out against illegal immigration, as did most every other Republican candidate. He is a strong advocate of public schools, educating his own children in them. Harper is personable and we believe will be more accessible, but he'll need to surround himself with good people knowledgeable about important issues like transportation, education and economic development.
Vote Gregg Harper for Congress on Tuesday.
Friedeman for Harper; Letters for Ross
Matt Friedeman: Gregg Harper - Gregg Harper goes into every conversation he is a part of wanting to make the other participant feel good; at the least, show them tremendous respect. He has done this across a lifetime. Buy Charlie a copy of "How to Win Friends and Influence People." Gregg knows how to run a campaign without making other people foaming at the mouth mad. Charlie doesn't. Gregg says that he is a Christian and actually comes off as one when you meet him. Gregg has influenced enough people across a lot of years in grassroots politics to build up tremendous word of mouth on his behalf and great energy from people that volunteer for him. Gregg does things for you without asking anything in return. But you want to give something back when you have a chance. Having served people in the political realm like that person-to-person people are personally excited about Gregg's candidacy. Many are highly motivated to get out and vote for him on a day few will be getting out and voting for anyone. Now, I actually like Charlie Ross. If elected - and frankly, he could be - he would make a great congressman. He would hit the ground running. But if he doesn't, and I don't think at this point he will, these are the reasons why. Here's voting for Gregg Harper who has substitute hosted The Matt Friedeman Show for years. Fine Christian, socially and economically conservative, savvy personally, lots of friends that love the Harpers.
Scott County Times - Letter To The Editor - Dear Editor, 2008 is a critical election year for Mississippi, especially for conservative voters. April 1 is the runoff election for congressional seats. In November, we will also be electing the next president and our U.S. senators. Therefore, we here in the Third District cannot afford to send a congressman to Washington who has no legislative experience whatsoever. We will need a strong leader who is not afraid to stand up for us. Charlie Ross is that candidate. Charlie has always been a strong advocate for conservative Republican values and spent his time in the state senate working hard with Gov. Barbour and other Republican leaders to protect us and to help Mississippi grow its economy. Charlie is a strong Christian who is an Elder in his Presbyterian Church in Rankin County. He’s a family man and a veteran. Charlie loves Mississippi and wants to continue to serve us. If you voted in the March 11 GOP Primary, I would ask that you go to the polls on April 1 and vote for Charlie Ross n the only candidate with legislative experience. He will represent us with Christian dignity and conservative values. Thanks for your consideration, Judith Lewis, Morton
Clarion Ledger - Letter To The Editor - Ross' experience to benefit 3rd District constituents - The person we send to Washington to represent the 3rd Congressional District will be confronted with monumental decisions involving the economy, immigration, the military and cultural upheavals that threaten the character of our nation. We are fortunate to have a candidate who has the legislative background, experience and moral courage to meet these challenges. Charlie Ross is that candidate! As a veteran, he understands the military! As a legislator and a student of economics, he understands taxes budgets and the need for fiscal restraints! He has authored bills in the Mississippi Senate that have opened doors for new jobs throughout the state! As a problem-solver, he has practical ideas to offer regarding the illegal immigration crisis! On a personal level, Ross is a dedicated Christian, an elder and teacher in his church, a devoted husband to Sharon, and father of three sons: Andy, David and Steven. My descriptive terms for this outstanding public servant include: sincere, straight-talker, good listener, bright, intense, common-sensical, conservative, and competent! Ross as a representative from the 3rd Congressional District of Mississippi will serve the state and the nation with distinction! John D. McEachin, M.D., Meridian
Scott County Times - Letter To The Editor - Dear Editor, 2008 is a critical election year for Mississippi, especially for conservative voters. April 1 is the runoff election for congressional seats. In November, we will also be electing the next president and our U.S. senators. Therefore, we here in the Third District cannot afford to send a congressman to Washington who has no legislative experience whatsoever. We will need a strong leader who is not afraid to stand up for us. Charlie Ross is that candidate. Charlie has always been a strong advocate for conservative Republican values and spent his time in the state senate working hard with Gov. Barbour and other Republican leaders to protect us and to help Mississippi grow its economy. Charlie is a strong Christian who is an Elder in his Presbyterian Church in Rankin County. He’s a family man and a veteran. Charlie loves Mississippi and wants to continue to serve us. If you voted in the March 11 GOP Primary, I would ask that you go to the polls on April 1 and vote for Charlie Ross n the only candidate with legislative experience. He will represent us with Christian dignity and conservative values. Thanks for your consideration, Judith Lewis, Morton
Clarion Ledger - Letter To The Editor - Ross' experience to benefit 3rd District constituents - The person we send to Washington to represent the 3rd Congressional District will be confronted with monumental decisions involving the economy, immigration, the military and cultural upheavals that threaten the character of our nation. We are fortunate to have a candidate who has the legislative background, experience and moral courage to meet these challenges. Charlie Ross is that candidate! As a veteran, he understands the military! As a legislator and a student of economics, he understands taxes budgets and the need for fiscal restraints! He has authored bills in the Mississippi Senate that have opened doors for new jobs throughout the state! As a problem-solver, he has practical ideas to offer regarding the illegal immigration crisis! On a personal level, Ross is a dedicated Christian, an elder and teacher in his church, a devoted husband to Sharon, and father of three sons: Andy, David and Steven. My descriptive terms for this outstanding public servant include: sincere, straight-talker, good listener, bright, intense, common-sensical, conservative, and competent! Ross as a representative from the 3rd Congressional District of Mississippi will serve the state and the nation with distinction! John D. McEachin, M.D., Meridian
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Cochran Supports McCullough
DeSoto Times - Cochran throws support to McCullough - U.S. Senator Thad Cochran, the state's senior U.S. Senator, is supporting former Tupelo Mayor Glenn L. McCullough, Jr. in the First U.S. Congressional District race. Cochran, the state's senior U.S. Senator, is supporting McCullough through a $5,000 contribution announced Monday.
"I was thrilled to get Senator Cochran's phone call offering his support and I am very humbled by it, " McCullough said. "Senator Cochran is our state's most powerful voice in Washington and all Mississippians respect and admire him. His confidence means a lot to me."
The contribution was made from Cochran's Leadership PAC, the Senate Victory Fund. The contribution will be noted in the campaign's required Federal Election Commission (FEC) filing.
McCullough said he and Cochran have worked together on projects for 15 years, first as a member of Governor Kirk Fordice's administration and then as Mayor of Tupelo and Chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority. McCullough was appointed to the latter position by President Bush on Sen. Cochran's recommendation.
In 1978, Thad Cochran was elected to the United States Senate becoming the first Republican in over 100 years to win a statewide election in Mississippi. Since 1978, he has been re-elected every six years, most recently in 2002 with 85 percent of the vote. Cochran currently serves on the Agriculture, Appropriations and Rules committees.
In April of 2006, Time Magazine named Senator Cochran one of "America's 10 Best Senators," calling him the "Quiet Persuader" to describe the "courtly manner in which he gets important things accomplished for the State of Mississippi and the nation."
McCullough led all candidates in the March 11 primary and now seeks the 50 percent plus one majority needed to earn the Republican nomination on April 1. He faces Southaven Mayor Greg Davis in the April 1 run-off. McCullough also received the endorsement of the third-place finisher in the March 11 primary, Dr. Randy Russell of Oxford.
Davis has received the support of former U.S. Sen. Trent Lott. Lott's resignation in December set off a chain reaction in Mississippi politics. Former U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker was tapped to take Lott' s seat, making his old House seat vacant.
"I was thrilled to get Senator Cochran's phone call offering his support and I am very humbled by it, " McCullough said. "Senator Cochran is our state's most powerful voice in Washington and all Mississippians respect and admire him. His confidence means a lot to me."
The contribution was made from Cochran's Leadership PAC, the Senate Victory Fund. The contribution will be noted in the campaign's required Federal Election Commission (FEC) filing.
McCullough said he and Cochran have worked together on projects for 15 years, first as a member of Governor Kirk Fordice's administration and then as Mayor of Tupelo and Chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority. McCullough was appointed to the latter position by President Bush on Sen. Cochran's recommendation.
In 1978, Thad Cochran was elected to the United States Senate becoming the first Republican in over 100 years to win a statewide election in Mississippi. Since 1978, he has been re-elected every six years, most recently in 2002 with 85 percent of the vote. Cochran currently serves on the Agriculture, Appropriations and Rules committees.
In April of 2006, Time Magazine named Senator Cochran one of "America's 10 Best Senators," calling him the "Quiet Persuader" to describe the "courtly manner in which he gets important things accomplished for the State of Mississippi and the nation."
McCullough led all candidates in the March 11 primary and now seeks the 50 percent plus one majority needed to earn the Republican nomination on April 1. He faces Southaven Mayor Greg Davis in the April 1 run-off. McCullough also received the endorsement of the third-place finisher in the March 11 primary, Dr. Randy Russell of Oxford.
Davis has received the support of former U.S. Sen. Trent Lott. Lott's resignation in December set off a chain reaction in Mississippi politics. Former U.S. Rep. Roger Wicker was tapped to take Lott' s seat, making his old House seat vacant.
DJournal Profile: Childers
Daily Journal - Childers: 'I've lived the challenges' - (This is the first in a series profiling the candidates in Tuesday's Democratic and Republican runoffs for the 1st District U.S. House seat. TODAY: Travis Childers - THURSDAY: Steve Holland -
FRIDAY: Greg Davis - SATURDAY: Glenn McCullough Jr.)
Childers was 16 years old when on Christmas day 1974 his father committed suicide. It left the family in shock - mostly because no one had expected it from the handsome and talented auto mechanic who seemed to have everything in life. Looking back, Childers said it's clear his father suffered from depression. But no one talked about the mental illness back then, not the way they do today. So, the family struggled to understand why its patriarch wanted to die, leaving behind a wife, son and 9-year-old daughter.
"I've lived the challenges facing north Mississippi," Childers said while on the campaign trail Monday. "And I believe one person can make a difference. If you don't believe that, you shouldn't be in public service."
A Democratic candidate for U.S. House of Representatives 1st District seat, Childers spent the afternoon greeting supporters in his hometown of Booneville, where he also serves as Prentiss County's chancery clerk.
He faces Democratic challenger Steve Holland, a man he called "larger than life," in the April 1 runoff after both men garnered a majority of the vote in the March 11 primaries. Childers was the front-runner in that election, having won about 10,000 more votes than Holland.
"Prentiss County gave me 87 percent of the vote in the primaries," Childers told one of his supporters at Anderson Elementary School, "and I don't want you all to think I take it for granted. I need you to come back out and vote again."
"I'm running for Congress," he told students lined up for recess.
"What's Congress?" one boy asked.
"It's in Washington," said Childers.
Since qualifying for the election in January, Childers has kept a grueling schedule of campaigning while still working as chancery clerk and helping his wife, Tami, run the family's two businesses - Landmark Nursing Center and Landmark Community. The first is an 80-bed skilled-care facility; the second is an independent-living home with an on-site staff. He also owns Travis Childers Realty, but leaves the day-to-day operations to an associate.
But he didn't realize his lifelong dream until 1991, when he narrowly won a countywide election to become chancery clerk.
"Many, many, many, many years ago, I knew I wanted to run for chancery clerk," Childers said. "I never wanted to be sheriff, never wanted to be mayor, never wanted to be circuit clerk." A strange obsession for a child, perhaps, but Childers explained that former Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Gene Gray was a family friend and a positive influence on him.
The old building that used to house Booneville High School faced the wrecking ball unless someone bought and renovated it. Childers, it turned out, was that someone.
He and his family converted the 70-year-old structure into an independent living community for seniors. Then they partnered with Joey and Tracie Langston to build a new 80-bed nursing home next door. The Childers bought out the Langstons' business interest in 2002, becoming the sole proprietors years before Joey Langston pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bribe a judge in one of the most sensational scandals in state history.
FRIDAY: Greg Davis - SATURDAY: Glenn McCullough Jr.)
Childers was 16 years old when on Christmas day 1974 his father committed suicide. It left the family in shock - mostly because no one had expected it from the handsome and talented auto mechanic who seemed to have everything in life. Looking back, Childers said it's clear his father suffered from depression. But no one talked about the mental illness back then, not the way they do today. So, the family struggled to understand why its patriarch wanted to die, leaving behind a wife, son and 9-year-old daughter.
"I've lived the challenges facing north Mississippi," Childers said while on the campaign trail Monday. "And I believe one person can make a difference. If you don't believe that, you shouldn't be in public service."
A Democratic candidate for U.S. House of Representatives 1st District seat, Childers spent the afternoon greeting supporters in his hometown of Booneville, where he also serves as Prentiss County's chancery clerk.
He faces Democratic challenger Steve Holland, a man he called "larger than life," in the April 1 runoff after both men garnered a majority of the vote in the March 11 primaries. Childers was the front-runner in that election, having won about 10,000 more votes than Holland.
"Prentiss County gave me 87 percent of the vote in the primaries," Childers told one of his supporters at Anderson Elementary School, "and I don't want you all to think I take it for granted. I need you to come back out and vote again."
"I'm running for Congress," he told students lined up for recess.
"What's Congress?" one boy asked.
"It's in Washington," said Childers.
Since qualifying for the election in January, Childers has kept a grueling schedule of campaigning while still working as chancery clerk and helping his wife, Tami, run the family's two businesses - Landmark Nursing Center and Landmark Community. The first is an 80-bed skilled-care facility; the second is an independent-living home with an on-site staff. He also owns Travis Childers Realty, but leaves the day-to-day operations to an associate.
But he didn't realize his lifelong dream until 1991, when he narrowly won a countywide election to become chancery clerk.
"Many, many, many, many years ago, I knew I wanted to run for chancery clerk," Childers said. "I never wanted to be sheriff, never wanted to be mayor, never wanted to be circuit clerk." A strange obsession for a child, perhaps, but Childers explained that former Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Gene Gray was a family friend and a positive influence on him.
The old building that used to house Booneville High School faced the wrecking ball unless someone bought and renovated it. Childers, it turned out, was that someone.
He and his family converted the 70-year-old structure into an independent living community for seniors. Then they partnered with Joey and Tracie Langston to build a new 80-bed nursing home next door. The Childers bought out the Langstons' business interest in 2002, becoming the sole proprietors years before Joey Langston pleaded guilty to conspiracy to bribe a judge in one of the most sensational scandals in state history.
Six days to go
Clarion Ledger - Sid Salter - 2008 congressional races present important, difficult choices - Democrats will choose between Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Travis Childers of Booneville and longtime state Rep. Steve Holland of Plantersville. Childers, a political newcomer outside his home county, showed surprising strength in leading the Democratic ticket in the first primary. In the Democratic second primary, Childers will face Holland - the outspoken, sometimes controversial legislator who has openly battled Gov. Haley Barbour on issues like Medicaid and education funding. Legislative experience and name recognition should be on Holland's side, but unfortunately not all Holland's name recognition has been beneficial to him. On the Republican side, Southaven Mayor Greg Davis faces former TVA chairman and former Tupelo mayor Glenn McCullough in the second primary. McCullough led the ticket in the first primary. The Davis-McCullough showdown has taken on a strange twist in that Cochran has endorsed the candidacy of McCullough while former U.S. Sen. Trent Lott has thrown his support to Davis. Cochran and Lott didn't see eye-to-eye on a number of issues - some policy, most politics - while they served together in Congress. Seems McCullough fell from favor with Lott when he refused to endorse a Lott-backed TVA initiative that McCullough found to be dubious.
Davis has DeSoto County numbers on his side, but McCullough showed surprising strength in the district's rural counties.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - Update on Congressional Finances - Greg Davis -- $222,662.99; Glenn McCullough -- $177,034.01; As for the Democratic runoff in the First Congressional District, at least if you believe the FEC reports, both candidates are virtually out of money. Travis Childers, who led the field, reported $9,456.21 cash on hand at the March 12 close of the pre-runoff report and has disclosed $2,000 in contributions since then. As for Steve Holland, his pre-runoff FEC report shows a NEGATIVE cash balance of $93,061.70 as of March 12. Since these FEC reports are supposed to be filed using the cash basis of accounting, instead of the accrual basis, I am at a loss to explain a negative cash balance. In any event, since that report, he has reported receiving only $10,300 in contributions.
Davis has DeSoto County numbers on his side, but McCullough showed surprising strength in the district's rural counties.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - Update on Congressional Finances - Greg Davis -- $222,662.99; Glenn McCullough -- $177,034.01; As for the Democratic runoff in the First Congressional District, at least if you believe the FEC reports, both candidates are virtually out of money. Travis Childers, who led the field, reported $9,456.21 cash on hand at the March 12 close of the pre-runoff report and has disclosed $2,000 in contributions since then. As for Steve Holland, his pre-runoff FEC report shows a NEGATIVE cash balance of $93,061.70 as of March 12. Since these FEC reports are supposed to be filed using the cash basis of accounting, instead of the accrual basis, I am at a loss to explain a negative cash balance. In any event, since that report, he has reported receiving only $10,300 in contributions.
Six days and counting
Clarion Ledger - Sid Salter - 2008 congressional races present important, difficult choices - Over in the 3rd District, Democrat Joel Gill of Pickens has sewn up the Democratic nomination and will be a serious candidate in November. But the makeup of the district still leaves the Republican nominee in the driver's seat and the GOP second primary features a tight, tough race between first primary front-runner former state Sen. Charlie Ross of Brandon and longtime former Rankin County GOP chairman and Pearl attorney Gregg Harper. Ross, an experienced legislator with the pedigree of the U.S. Air Force Academy and Harvard Law School, has run a solid campaign and avoided most of the mistakes that plagued his failed 2007 GOP lieutenant governor's bid. Harper used an effective ground game, particularly in Rankin County and smaller counties on the east side of the district, to surprise the prognosticators in the first primary. Lott's backing Harper, while Ross has the backing of the influential Club for Growth. But Harper's support among evangelical voters may be the deciding factor - that and his relentless, thorough ground game.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - Update on Congressional Finances - Gregg Harper -- $139,161.25; Charlie Ross -- $241,612.20
ClarionLedger.com - Leah Rupp - On the road again... - I'm on the road with Republican 3rd Congressional candidate Gregg Harper. We're heading to Brookhaven, Natchez then back up to Meadville. Natalie (my colleague at the Capitol) was out with Charlie Ross — Harper's opponent in the run off April 1 — earlier this week. Which one do you like? And why? Or perhaps you like Democrat Joel Gill of Pickens? What are each candidates strengths and weaknesses (in your opinion)? Your favorite reporter has to write a profile this weekend.
Meridian Star - Congressional candidates meet voters - All three candidates currently running for the 3rd Congressional District seat were in Meridian Tuesday to speak, answer questions, and mingle with voters at a Young Professionals of Meridian forum at the Hilton Garden Inn on Highway 11/80. The candidates appeared before about 120 voters at the YPM function, each giving a five minute speech about themselves and answering three questions from YPM members about health care, the war in Iraq, and the economy.
Charlie Ross said, "This race is not so much about Charlie Ross or Gregg or Joel. It's about you. What type of legislator do you want in the 3rd district?" Ross spoke of his record as a state legislator, and compared himself to the late former congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, saying that they both served 10 years in the state legislature, were both veterans, and that he hoped to follow in Montgomery's footsteps. "I believe in public service," he said. "I believe in being accessible, and I will have a fully staffed office in Meridian."
Harper talked about education in his introduction. "To be in the fight, you need to be in the system," he said. "That's why our kids are in public schools," adding that he felt many parents of public school children would agree that "No Child Left Behind needs some work," saying that it was a problem for both students and teachers. He then moved on the subject of illegal immigration, saying, "I'm sick of...tax dollars going to pay benefits to illegals," and that much of the illegal immigration problem could be solved by securing the borders and enforcing the current immigration laws.
Ross also spoke about immigration, saying that the first step in solving the problem with illegal immigration is securing the border. "We can secure a border, and we need to secure our southern border just like we secured our northern border against the Soviets," Ross said.
Gill made his first public appearance in Meridian at Tuesday's YPM function. He opened by apologizing for not being present at the debate held in Meridian last month, saying," I had given my word that I would chair the RKF convention in Omaha," even before deciding to run for the congressional seat. He then joked about the number of candidates who had been in the Republican primary, saying, "I'm proud to say of the three of us here I was able to garner the greatest vote total and I hope to do that again in November." Gill, a town alderman from Pickens who is in the livestock business, talked of the damage that he feels big box stores and free trade agreements have done to American workers, saying, "The physical toll on individuals is devastating," and that free trade agreements put both foreigners as well as Americans out of work, contributing to illegal immigration. Gill also proposed using the minimum wage to determine a person's tax deduction, so that an individual who made minimum wage would pay no taxes, while one that made a dollar over minimum wage would pay taxes on that one dollar, and so forth. He said he wants income tax rates to be determined by congressional spending because, "if you know that congressional spending is what's going to control your tax rate, then you'll be a lot more involved."
Ross touted his experience, mentioning laws he had written in that area, speaking of a tort reform law when talking of economic development, and "Jessica's law" when speaking of sexual predators. Of economic development in Lauderdale County, Ross said, "Meridian is prime for a new industry ... I fully support the new interchange...If you build it they will come." Ross also said that the cost of health care could be reduced by health insurance related tax deductions directly to individuals rather than doing so through their workplace, and that the economy could be strengthened by making the Bush tax cuts permanent.
Harper said that one way to address the health care problem was to reduce costs by slackening government regulations on hospitals. Of the war in Iraq Harper said, "I think the Republicans did a lousy job of articulating why we're in Iraq...It's about the war against fundamentalist Islamic terrorism," closing his Iraq comments with strong words, "Every time we get bombed then we ought to drop a hard bomb on Iran and Syria where all this garbage is coming from."
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash - Update on Congressional Finances - Gregg Harper -- $139,161.25; Charlie Ross -- $241,612.20
ClarionLedger.com - Leah Rupp - On the road again... - I'm on the road with Republican 3rd Congressional candidate Gregg Harper. We're heading to Brookhaven, Natchez then back up to Meadville. Natalie (my colleague at the Capitol) was out with Charlie Ross — Harper's opponent in the run off April 1 — earlier this week. Which one do you like? And why? Or perhaps you like Democrat Joel Gill of Pickens? What are each candidates strengths and weaknesses (in your opinion)? Your favorite reporter has to write a profile this weekend.
Meridian Star - Congressional candidates meet voters - All three candidates currently running for the 3rd Congressional District seat were in Meridian Tuesday to speak, answer questions, and mingle with voters at a Young Professionals of Meridian forum at the Hilton Garden Inn on Highway 11/80. The candidates appeared before about 120 voters at the YPM function, each giving a five minute speech about themselves and answering three questions from YPM members about health care, the war in Iraq, and the economy.
Charlie Ross said, "This race is not so much about Charlie Ross or Gregg or Joel. It's about you. What type of legislator do you want in the 3rd district?" Ross spoke of his record as a state legislator, and compared himself to the late former congressman G.V. "Sonny" Montgomery, saying that they both served 10 years in the state legislature, were both veterans, and that he hoped to follow in Montgomery's footsteps. "I believe in public service," he said. "I believe in being accessible, and I will have a fully staffed office in Meridian."
Harper talked about education in his introduction. "To be in the fight, you need to be in the system," he said. "That's why our kids are in public schools," adding that he felt many parents of public school children would agree that "No Child Left Behind needs some work," saying that it was a problem for both students and teachers. He then moved on the subject of illegal immigration, saying, "I'm sick of...tax dollars going to pay benefits to illegals," and that much of the illegal immigration problem could be solved by securing the borders and enforcing the current immigration laws.
Ross also spoke about immigration, saying that the first step in solving the problem with illegal immigration is securing the border. "We can secure a border, and we need to secure our southern border just like we secured our northern border against the Soviets," Ross said.
Gill made his first public appearance in Meridian at Tuesday's YPM function. He opened by apologizing for not being present at the debate held in Meridian last month, saying," I had given my word that I would chair the RKF convention in Omaha," even before deciding to run for the congressional seat. He then joked about the number of candidates who had been in the Republican primary, saying, "I'm proud to say of the three of us here I was able to garner the greatest vote total and I hope to do that again in November." Gill, a town alderman from Pickens who is in the livestock business, talked of the damage that he feels big box stores and free trade agreements have done to American workers, saying, "The physical toll on individuals is devastating," and that free trade agreements put both foreigners as well as Americans out of work, contributing to illegal immigration. Gill also proposed using the minimum wage to determine a person's tax deduction, so that an individual who made minimum wage would pay no taxes, while one that made a dollar over minimum wage would pay taxes on that one dollar, and so forth. He said he wants income tax rates to be determined by congressional spending because, "if you know that congressional spending is what's going to control your tax rate, then you'll be a lot more involved."
Ross touted his experience, mentioning laws he had written in that area, speaking of a tort reform law when talking of economic development, and "Jessica's law" when speaking of sexual predators. Of economic development in Lauderdale County, Ross said, "Meridian is prime for a new industry ... I fully support the new interchange...If you build it they will come." Ross also said that the cost of health care could be reduced by health insurance related tax deductions directly to individuals rather than doing so through their workplace, and that the economy could be strengthened by making the Bush tax cuts permanent.
Harper said that one way to address the health care problem was to reduce costs by slackening government regulations on hospitals. Of the war in Iraq Harper said, "I think the Republicans did a lousy job of articulating why we're in Iraq...It's about the war against fundamentalist Islamic terrorism," closing his Iraq comments with strong words, "Every time we get bombed then we ought to drop a hard bomb on Iran and Syria where all this garbage is coming from."
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Cochran for McCullough
Daily Journal - Cochran supports McCullough, donates $5,000 - U.S. Sen. Thad Cochran's support of 1st District congressional candidate Glenn McCullough Jr. came Monday, along with a $5,000 contribution from Cochran's leadership PAC, the McCullough campaign announced. Republicans McCullough and Southaven Mayor Greg Davis square off in the runoff election April 1, along with Democrats Travis Childers of Booneville and Steve Holland of Plantersville. The primary nominees will face off with two independents in the Nov. 4 general election. "I was thrilled to get Senator Cochran's phone call offering his support and I am very humbled by it," McCullough said in a news release. "Senator Cochran is our state's most powerful voice in Washington and all Mississippians respect and admire him. His confidence means a lot to me." The Davis campaign said it respects the two men's longstanding personal relationship but cited McCullough's "lavish spending" as TVA chairman as "something Mississippi taxpayers would want from someone representing them in Congress." McCullough said Cochran has seen his work up close for 15 years, first as a member of Gov. Fordice's administration and since then as mayor of Tupelo and chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority. McCullough was appointed to TVA by President Clinton and to its leadership by President Bush on Cochran's recommendation. Last week, former Sen. Trent Lott endorsed Davis for the 1st District post with a donation through his PAC.
Monday, March 24, 2008
DeSoto Vote
Commercial Appeal - 'Every vote counts' to Davis - Southaven Mayor Greg Davis captured nearly 71 percent of DeSoto County's Republican vote in the March 11 primary for the state's 1st District House seat, but that didn't stop him from canvassing his home county hard on the first day of spring last week. "Every vote counts," Davis, who actually got 70.9 percent, said at the Forever Young Seniors monthly luncheon in Southaven, where he was the guest speaker. "We're hitting all areas of the district, no matter how many votes came out of the primary."
Davis, 42, knows it's important to not take any vote for granted in what is likely an uphill battle to defeat former Tupelo mayor and Tennessee Valley Authority chairman Glenn McCullough, 53, in an April 1 runoff for the Republican nomination. Despite Davis' commanding DeSoto County lead over McCullough and a third Republican candidate in the primary, Davis finished second districtwide on March 11. He finished with about 37 percent of the vote, compared to about 39 percent for McCullough. Further complicating things for Davis is the fact that the third candidate in the primary, Dr. Randy Russell of Oxford, has thrown his support to McCullough. Russell received about 24 percent of the vote.
McCullough has positioned himself as the "true conservative" candidate, a strategy that seemed to hit home and help him gain momentum in the sprawling district that covers much of northeast Mississippi. "Glenn's campaign has the momentum because of his values and his stance on taxes," Brad Davis, McCullough's campaign manager and no relation to Greg Davis, said in a statement.
Greg Davis said he isn't deterred, however, because he's confident in the voters and their ability to decide for themselves. That's why, over the past two weeks, Davis has put 4,000 miles on his Pontiac. In one day, he went to four events, crisscrossing DeSoto County. He also debated McCullough in Aberdeen on Thursday night, and he rallied 100 volunteers in Corinth in Alcorn County Friday before attending an Ole Miss baseball game in Oxford on Saturday night. "I've been to all the counties in the district," Davis said.
Another factor that could work to Davis' disadvantage was the large crossover vote in the primary, in which many DeSoto County voters who might have supported his candidacy chose to vote in the Democratic primary instead so that they could vote in the hotly contested presidential race between Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. The problem for Davis is that those who crossed over cannot now cross back to support him in the runoff. That's a fact that many potential voters told Davis they did not realize when they voted Democratic. "The crossover voting is a huge issue," Davis acknowledged, but he said he's not disillusioned by it. Instead, Davis told the more than 100 seniors gathered at the Tennis Center that his campaign is now after those who didn't vote at all in the primary. He estimated that some 20,000 voters in the county didn't turn out.
Davis also received a boost last week from Trent Lott, the former senator whose December retirement announcement set in motion the moves that opened up the House seat. Lott endorsed Davis by donating $8,000 to his campaign. "Over the course of the 18 years I have served in public office, I had the distinct privilege of working alongside Sen. Lott on many projects important to our District," Davis said, "and his support of my campaign is a sign of good things to come."
Davis, 42, knows it's important to not take any vote for granted in what is likely an uphill battle to defeat former Tupelo mayor and Tennessee Valley Authority chairman Glenn McCullough, 53, in an April 1 runoff for the Republican nomination. Despite Davis' commanding DeSoto County lead over McCullough and a third Republican candidate in the primary, Davis finished second districtwide on March 11. He finished with about 37 percent of the vote, compared to about 39 percent for McCullough. Further complicating things for Davis is the fact that the third candidate in the primary, Dr. Randy Russell of Oxford, has thrown his support to McCullough. Russell received about 24 percent of the vote.
McCullough has positioned himself as the "true conservative" candidate, a strategy that seemed to hit home and help him gain momentum in the sprawling district that covers much of northeast Mississippi. "Glenn's campaign has the momentum because of his values and his stance on taxes," Brad Davis, McCullough's campaign manager and no relation to Greg Davis, said in a statement.
Greg Davis said he isn't deterred, however, because he's confident in the voters and their ability to decide for themselves. That's why, over the past two weeks, Davis has put 4,000 miles on his Pontiac. In one day, he went to four events, crisscrossing DeSoto County. He also debated McCullough in Aberdeen on Thursday night, and he rallied 100 volunteers in Corinth in Alcorn County Friday before attending an Ole Miss baseball game in Oxford on Saturday night. "I've been to all the counties in the district," Davis said.
Another factor that could work to Davis' disadvantage was the large crossover vote in the primary, in which many DeSoto County voters who might have supported his candidacy chose to vote in the Democratic primary instead so that they could vote in the hotly contested presidential race between Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. The problem for Davis is that those who crossed over cannot now cross back to support him in the runoff. That's a fact that many potential voters told Davis they did not realize when they voted Democratic. "The crossover voting is a huge issue," Davis acknowledged, but he said he's not disillusioned by it. Instead, Davis told the more than 100 seniors gathered at the Tennis Center that his campaign is now after those who didn't vote at all in the primary. He estimated that some 20,000 voters in the county didn't turn out.
Davis also received a boost last week from Trent Lott, the former senator whose December retirement announcement set in motion the moves that opened up the House seat. Lott endorsed Davis by donating $8,000 to his campaign. "Over the course of the 18 years I have served in public office, I had the distinct privilege of working alongside Sen. Lott on many projects important to our District," Davis said, "and his support of my campaign is a sign of good things to come."
Red v Blue on Harper
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Gregg Harper & Mississippi Values - Congressional candidate Gregg Harper has a new TV ad, in which he tells voters he "is running to ensure that our conservative Mississippi values have a voice in Washington." Harper then goes on to observe that "Washington has gotten off track" and that "now, more than ever, Washington needs a good dose of old fashion Mississippi values." One has to only wonder why candidates run ads like this. I guess they think voters are too dumb to ask questions like: (1) Does Harper not think Thad Cochran and Roger Wicker represent Mississippi values in Washington? or (2) Does Harper think Chip Pickering was not good enough in the values department and, as a result, allowed Washington to get off track? or (3) What values would Harper bring to Washington that President Bush does not already practice? One reason I think turnout in the Republican primary was so dismal was that none of the major candidates offered voters anything remotely exciting or different or challenging. Just the same old slogans their pollsters and media consultants tell them to say.
ClarionLedger.com - Nash hits Gregg Harper: Harper's stock skyrockets with Republicans - Memo to my friend Jere Nash: Please write some more unfavorable posts about my Mississippi College classmate Gregg Harper and his campaign for Congress. Every time you take a shot at Gregg, his stock goes higher among Republican voters. But the primary is only a little over a week away now, so please write something else bad about him soon...
ClarionLedger.com - Nash hits Gregg Harper: Harper's stock skyrockets with Republicans - Memo to my friend Jere Nash: Please write some more unfavorable posts about my Mississippi College classmate Gregg Harper and his campaign for Congress. Every time you take a shot at Gregg, his stock goes higher among Republican voters. But the primary is only a little over a week away now, so please write something else bad about him soon...
The Money Race
Clarion Ledger - Congressional race spending mounting - Republican and former Tupelo Mayor Glenn McCullough Jr. holds the fundraising lead. McCullough raised nearly $470,000 from Jan. 1 to March 12, according to the latest filings with the Federal Election Commission. He spent about half of his campaign cash to pay OnMessage Inc., a GOP political consulting firm in Alexandria, Va., for advertising and other campaign services. The firm also has provided campaign commercials for Mississippi's Sen. Thad Cochran and former Lt. Gov. Amy Tuck, both Republicans. McCullough's campaign also spent $3,500 to survey likely Republican runoff voters in his race against Southaven Mayor Greg Davis. The runoff was scheduled because none of the 1st District candidates won at least 51 percent of the vote in Mississippi's March 11 primary. McCullough campaign manager Brad Davis said the survey, conducted March 12-13, showed McCullough leading Greg Davis 45 percent to 38 percent.
But earlier polls conducted by the Davis campaign showed the Southaven mayor with a lead, said campaign spokesman Ted Prill. He would not discuss results of a more recent poll conducted by the campaign. "Let's just say it's going to be a very competitive race," Prill said. Greg Davis' campaign raised nearly $390,000 in the period ending March 12. Since then, his campaign has been given $8,000 from Lott's campaign. Under federal law, Lott is required to donate his leftover campaign funds to candidates or charities. Davis also has loaned his campaign $30,000. The campaign spent more than $135,000 to broadcast television ads.
Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Travis Childers raised nearly $206,000, but about $100,000 of that was a personal loan to his campaign. Childers' Democratic rival, state Rep. Steve Holland of Plantersville, raised $158,322 but spent more than that, leaving his campaign more than $90,000 in debt on March 12.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Congressional Campaign Finance Update - Republican candidates in the runoffs for the First and Third Congressional District slots have filed their pre-runoff reports with the FEC (which covered financial activity through March 12) and have since filed 48-hour reports to disclose major contributions received since March 12. If we add all of the 48-hour contributions disclosed by the candidates to the cash-on-hand balances they disclosed on their March 12 pre-primary report, we get a pretty good idea of how much money the candidates have to spend in this runoff election. Here's how the money stacks up:
Greg Davis -- $146,562.99
Glenn McCullough -- $122,434.01
Gregg Harper -- $131,861.25
Charlie Ross -- $186,612.20
By and large, the candidates are relatively evenly matched in the money game. Ross is ahead in his race because he contributed $55,000 of his own money to the cause. And the Trent Lott endorsement has apparently helped Greg Davis raise some extra money.
But earlier polls conducted by the Davis campaign showed the Southaven mayor with a lead, said campaign spokesman Ted Prill. He would not discuss results of a more recent poll conducted by the campaign. "Let's just say it's going to be a very competitive race," Prill said. Greg Davis' campaign raised nearly $390,000 in the period ending March 12. Since then, his campaign has been given $8,000 from Lott's campaign. Under federal law, Lott is required to donate his leftover campaign funds to candidates or charities. Davis also has loaned his campaign $30,000. The campaign spent more than $135,000 to broadcast television ads.
Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Travis Childers raised nearly $206,000, but about $100,000 of that was a personal loan to his campaign. Childers' Democratic rival, state Rep. Steve Holland of Plantersville, raised $158,322 but spent more than that, leaving his campaign more than $90,000 in debt on March 12.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Congressional Campaign Finance Update - Republican candidates in the runoffs for the First and Third Congressional District slots have filed their pre-runoff reports with the FEC (which covered financial activity through March 12) and have since filed 48-hour reports to disclose major contributions received since March 12. If we add all of the 48-hour contributions disclosed by the candidates to the cash-on-hand balances they disclosed on their March 12 pre-primary report, we get a pretty good idea of how much money the candidates have to spend in this runoff election. Here's how the money stacks up:
Greg Davis -- $146,562.99
Glenn McCullough -- $122,434.01
Gregg Harper -- $131,861.25
Charlie Ross -- $186,612.20
By and large, the candidates are relatively evenly matched in the money game. Ross is ahead in his race because he contributed $55,000 of his own money to the cause. And the Trent Lott endorsement has apparently helped Greg Davis raise some extra money.
Finances
Clarion Ledger - Congressional race spending mounting - Former state Sen. Charlie Ross holds the fund-raising edge. Ross has raised more than $680,000 in his race against Gregg Harper, a prosecutor in Brandon and Richland. Former Sen. Trent Lott contributed $4,000 this week to Harper's campaign. Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant also donated $1,000. Bryant defeated Ross last year in the lieutenant governor's race. Harper supplemented the contributions of the high-profile Mississippi Republicans by loaning his campaign $20,000.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Congressional Campaign Finance Update - Republican candidates in the runoffs for the First and Third Congressional District slots have filed their pre-runoff reports with the FEC (which covered financial activity through March 12) and have since filed 48-hour reports to disclose major contributions received since March 12. If we add all of the 48-hour contributions disclosed by the candidates to the cash-on-hand balances they disclosed on their March 12 pre-primary report, we get a pretty good idea of how much money the candidates have to spend in this runoff election. Here's how the money stacks up:
Greg Davis -- $146,562.99
Glenn McCullough -- $122,434.01
Gregg Harper -- $131,861.25
Charlie Ross -- $186,612.20
By and large, the candidates are relatively evenly matched in the money game. Ross is ahead in his race because he contributed $55,000 of his own money to the cause. And the Trent Lott endorsement has apparently helped Greg Davis raise some extra money.
ClarionLedger.com - Jere Nash Blog - Congressional Campaign Finance Update - Republican candidates in the runoffs for the First and Third Congressional District slots have filed their pre-runoff reports with the FEC (which covered financial activity through March 12) and have since filed 48-hour reports to disclose major contributions received since March 12. If we add all of the 48-hour contributions disclosed by the candidates to the cash-on-hand balances they disclosed on their March 12 pre-primary report, we get a pretty good idea of how much money the candidates have to spend in this runoff election. Here's how the money stacks up:
Greg Davis -- $146,562.99
Glenn McCullough -- $122,434.01
Gregg Harper -- $131,861.25
Charlie Ross -- $186,612.20
By and large, the candidates are relatively evenly matched in the money game. Ross is ahead in his race because he contributed $55,000 of his own money to the cause. And the Trent Lott endorsement has apparently helped Greg Davis raise some extra money.
Ross, Harper in Meridian
Meridian Star - Hitting the campaign trail: Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross - Harper, an attorney, is particularly proud of his grassroots ground campaign in which friends, family, and other volunteers have been going door-to-door with him all around the district. "Sidney has worked harder than I have," he said of his wife's door-to-door campaigning. His daughter, Maggie, and his son, Livingston, also have participated in the door-to-door effort, and Livingston, who suffers from a developmental disorder known as Fragile X Syndrome appeared in a T.V. ad with his father. "Livingston has enjoyed the celebrity status," Harper said. Harper feels confident about his campaign, saying, "We do believe that many of the supporters of other candidates have gotten on board with us financially and by volunteering. The momentum has been building since March 11. We're raising sufficient funds to be able to do more than we were able to do in the primary, and we have one of the best volunteer grassroots campaigns that I've ever seen. And you don't create that in three weeks." Harper has been canvassing the entire district, but has not forgotten about Lauderdale County. In a recent rally at Union Station, he said that the race "is going to be won or lost in Lauderdale County," and that residents are, "going to think we live in Meridian by April 1."
Ross hasn't forgotten about Lauderdale County either, appearing shortly after the primary to announce endorsements by former opponents Bill Marcy and Greg Hatcher, both Meridian residents. Also present at that event was Gil Carmichael, a long-time Republican leader in Mississippi. He appeared in Meridian again shortly afterwards to open a new office here, saying "I will be your congressman, I will maintain an office in Meridian." The comment prompted Harper to mention at his event that "I was the first candidate to open up an office in Meridian." Both Harper and Ross have attracted sizable crowds at their events. Ross, a veteran and a state senator, has put a strong emphasis on military in his Lauderdale County campaigning, promising over and over again, "I will keep a flying mission at the Air National Guard in Meridian," and repeatedly referring to his veteran status. Ross also has pointed extensively to his experience in the state senate as a qualifying factor in his bid for the congressional seat.
Want to meet the candidates of the Third Congressional District – Democrat Joel Gill and Republicans Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — and hear what they have to say about the issues? The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" on Tuesday beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. For more information, e-mail ypmeridian@gmail.com, or call (601) 938-0087.
WTOK - "On The Record" Features Congressional Candidates - The Republican runoff for the Third District Congressional race is just over a week away and both candidates have been spending a lot of time in East Mississippi. One candidate has actually said that the election will be won in Lauderdale County. The candidates appeared this weekend on "On the Record' with Newscenter Eleven's John Johnson. Here is what the candidates had to say.
"East Mississippi is an important part of what happens in Mississippi and I "believe this election will be won or lost right here in Lauderdale County, which is why I think it's so important to be here," said Gregg Harper.
"East Mississippi is such an important part of the district. I'm conservative and will be straight forward and accessible. I said early on that I will have an office in Meridian so people can talk to a live human being rather than over the phone. I'm committed to making Mississippi and the third district better," said Charlie Ross.
WTOK - Harper, Ross to Debate on WTOK - Both Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross arrived at WTOK's downtown Meridian studio for a taping of "On the Record" ready to explain why they are the best choice for the Republican nomination for Congress.
"One of the things missing in politics is real focus on the issues," said Ross, referring to the limitations of 30-second sound bites. "I think it's important for the system and important for the public."
"I think people get a better glimpse. It's so hard to really know who a candidate is in a 30 second commercial," said Harper. "We feel we have done it the best we can, but it's much better to let people hear more of what you have to say."
Harper said it's that he can work well with others, while Ross says it's his experience that sets him apart.
Meridian Star - Congressional hopefuls to make Meridian stop - Both GOP hopefuls for the Third Congressional district — Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — will face off one week from today in a runoff election in the Republican primary. Today, both candidates, along with Democrat Joel Gill, will be in Meridian — an area they consider critical to the election — to meet with local voters. The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" today beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. "I'm anxiously looking forward to it," Gill said of the event. "This will actually be my first chance to meet the voters in Meridian, and I'm looking forward to their questions." Ross said he was excited about the platform. "It is an opportunity to meet a large number of young professionals in a large place in Meridian," he said. "Meridian is critical in this election."
Ross hasn't forgotten about Lauderdale County either, appearing shortly after the primary to announce endorsements by former opponents Bill Marcy and Greg Hatcher, both Meridian residents. Also present at that event was Gil Carmichael, a long-time Republican leader in Mississippi. He appeared in Meridian again shortly afterwards to open a new office here, saying "I will be your congressman, I will maintain an office in Meridian." The comment prompted Harper to mention at his event that "I was the first candidate to open up an office in Meridian." Both Harper and Ross have attracted sizable crowds at their events. Ross, a veteran and a state senator, has put a strong emphasis on military in his Lauderdale County campaigning, promising over and over again, "I will keep a flying mission at the Air National Guard in Meridian," and repeatedly referring to his veteran status. Ross also has pointed extensively to his experience in the state senate as a qualifying factor in his bid for the congressional seat.
Want to meet the candidates of the Third Congressional District – Democrat Joel Gill and Republicans Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — and hear what they have to say about the issues? The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" on Tuesday beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. For more information, e-mail ypmeridian@gmail.com, or call (601) 938-0087.
WTOK - "On The Record" Features Congressional Candidates - The Republican runoff for the Third District Congressional race is just over a week away and both candidates have been spending a lot of time in East Mississippi. One candidate has actually said that the election will be won in Lauderdale County. The candidates appeared this weekend on "On the Record' with Newscenter Eleven's John Johnson. Here is what the candidates had to say.
"East Mississippi is an important part of what happens in Mississippi and I "believe this election will be won or lost right here in Lauderdale County, which is why I think it's so important to be here," said Gregg Harper.
"East Mississippi is such an important part of the district. I'm conservative and will be straight forward and accessible. I said early on that I will have an office in Meridian so people can talk to a live human being rather than over the phone. I'm committed to making Mississippi and the third district better," said Charlie Ross.
WTOK - Harper, Ross to Debate on WTOK - Both Gregg Harper and Charlie Ross arrived at WTOK's downtown Meridian studio for a taping of "On the Record" ready to explain why they are the best choice for the Republican nomination for Congress.
"One of the things missing in politics is real focus on the issues," said Ross, referring to the limitations of 30-second sound bites. "I think it's important for the system and important for the public."
"I think people get a better glimpse. It's so hard to really know who a candidate is in a 30 second commercial," said Harper. "We feel we have done it the best we can, but it's much better to let people hear more of what you have to say."
Harper said it's that he can work well with others, while Ross says it's his experience that sets him apart.
Meridian Star - Congressional hopefuls to make Meridian stop - Both GOP hopefuls for the Third Congressional district — Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper — will face off one week from today in a runoff election in the Republican primary. Today, both candidates, along with Democrat Joel Gill, will be in Meridian — an area they consider critical to the election — to meet with local voters. The Young Professionals of Meridian will host "Meet the Candidates" today beginning at 5:15 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn, 109 U.S. Highway 11 & 80. The event is free and open to the public. There will be light appetizers and a cash bar. Each candidate will speak and answer questions; they will also mingle with the crowd. The event will last until about 7 p.m. "I'm anxiously looking forward to it," Gill said of the event. "This will actually be my first chance to meet the voters in Meridian, and I'm looking forward to their questions." Ross said he was excited about the platform. "It is an opportunity to meet a large number of young professionals in a large place in Meridian," he said. "Meridian is critical in this election."
Friday, March 21, 2008
McCullough, Davis Debate
Daily Journal - GOP candidates Davis, McCullough face off in debate - Republican congressional candidates Greg Davis and Glenn McCullough Jr. debated for more than an hour at the Elkin Theater here Thursday night in front of a crowd of roughly 50 people. The candidates, who are vying for the party's nomination in the April 1 runoff election, each answered nine questions posed by the event's three panelists: Craig Ford of WTVA, Steve Rodgers of WCBI, and Chris Brown of the Monroe County Republican Committee. Phil Hardwick with the Stennis Institute of Government moderated the debate, which it co-sponsored with the county's GOP committee.
Both candidates shared similar views on issues like abortion, the war in Iraq, gun ownership and Republican presidential candidate John McCain - they're anti-abortion, in support of the war, pro-gun ownership and favor McCain for president. But Davis, the mayor of Southaven, and McCullough, former mayor of Tupelo, differed on other matters. And the panelists grilled each of them on some hot-button topics in the campaign.
What follows are excerpts from the debate.
Q: Why did property taxes and the mayor's salary increase during Davis' time as mayor of Southaven?
A:Davis - The tax increase went up by a vote of 72 percent of the voters, who decided to eliminate the city's sanitation fee from the utility bill and shift it to property taxes. As for the salary, the board of aldermen determined the pay raise.
Q:What specifically would you cut from the federal budget to better control spending?
A:McCullough - Those decisions are never easy. But I would look at how a social program affects the family ... or a small or large business owner. I think you've got to take the budget line item by line item and make hard decisions. One of the shortcomings of our Republican party is that we've been fiscally, financially irresponsible these past few years.
A:Davis - How about the $2 million to study yoga that was put in the defense bill? Or the $2 million to study paint shields to prevent microbiological organisms from getting in paint? Or the $278,000 for a Lincoln Airport Commission that has no airport? Enough is enough. Quit wasting our tax dollars and let the federal government be what it's supposed to be.
Q:Former Sen. Trent Lott supported McCullough's appointment to the Tennessee Valley Authority board and later criticized his performance. Why?
A:- McCullough - I voted to bring online the first nuclear reactor in this country during my tenure. TVA invested $1.7 billion on my watch to make sure we had affordable, reliable electricity in the air and make sure the air was cleaner, removing emissions up to 70 percent while I was there. I helped bring careers to the people of the 1st Congressional district, helped implement the first-in-the-world megasite certification process ... . For almost six years at TVA, there was only one rate change while other utilities around us were raising rates every year. I'm proud of my performance.
A:Davis - I wouldn't begin to speculate why Sen. Lott does what he does, but I do appreciate his support. I don't think the fact that I ran as an independent the last time made any difference in Lott's support. (The McCullough camp in the past has accused Davis of not being a true Republican because he ran as an independent when he first ran for the legislature in the early '90s). Both of us (Davis and McCullough) have signed a form to run as independents in this special election, just as I did when I ran as an independent for the first time for the Legislature.
Q:How would you have voted for the bill against earmarks?
A:Davis - All earmarks should be stopped until we get control of spending. Before earmarks came back, we'd need to make sure there would be an economic return on investment.
A:McCullough - I'm firmly against wasteful government spending. I'm not in Congress or the Senate, and I'm not sure how Cochran or Wicker voted.
Both candidates shared similar views on issues like abortion, the war in Iraq, gun ownership and Republican presidential candidate John McCain - they're anti-abortion, in support of the war, pro-gun ownership and favor McCain for president. But Davis, the mayor of Southaven, and McCullough, former mayor of Tupelo, differed on other matters. And the panelists grilled each of them on some hot-button topics in the campaign.
What follows are excerpts from the debate.
Q: Why did property taxes and the mayor's salary increase during Davis' time as mayor of Southaven?
A:Davis - The tax increase went up by a vote of 72 percent of the voters, who decided to eliminate the city's sanitation fee from the utility bill and shift it to property taxes. As for the salary, the board of aldermen determined the pay raise.
Q:What specifically would you cut from the federal budget to better control spending?
A:McCullough - Those decisions are never easy. But I would look at how a social program affects the family ... or a small or large business owner. I think you've got to take the budget line item by line item and make hard decisions. One of the shortcomings of our Republican party is that we've been fiscally, financially irresponsible these past few years.
A:Davis - How about the $2 million to study yoga that was put in the defense bill? Or the $2 million to study paint shields to prevent microbiological organisms from getting in paint? Or the $278,000 for a Lincoln Airport Commission that has no airport? Enough is enough. Quit wasting our tax dollars and let the federal government be what it's supposed to be.
Q:Former Sen. Trent Lott supported McCullough's appointment to the Tennessee Valley Authority board and later criticized his performance. Why?
A:- McCullough - I voted to bring online the first nuclear reactor in this country during my tenure. TVA invested $1.7 billion on my watch to make sure we had affordable, reliable electricity in the air and make sure the air was cleaner, removing emissions up to 70 percent while I was there. I helped bring careers to the people of the 1st Congressional district, helped implement the first-in-the-world megasite certification process ... . For almost six years at TVA, there was only one rate change while other utilities around us were raising rates every year. I'm proud of my performance.
A:Davis - I wouldn't begin to speculate why Sen. Lott does what he does, but I do appreciate his support. I don't think the fact that I ran as an independent the last time made any difference in Lott's support. (The McCullough camp in the past has accused Davis of not being a true Republican because he ran as an independent when he first ran for the legislature in the early '90s). Both of us (Davis and McCullough) have signed a form to run as independents in this special election, just as I did when I ran as an independent for the first time for the Legislature.
Q:How would you have voted for the bill against earmarks?
A:Davis - All earmarks should be stopped until we get control of spending. Before earmarks came back, we'd need to make sure there would be an economic return on investment.
A:McCullough - I'm firmly against wasteful government spending. I'm not in Congress or the Senate, and I'm not sure how Cochran or Wicker voted.
Harper in Meridian
WTOK - Harper Makes Meridian Stop - A Third district congressional candidate Gregg Harper campaigned in Meridian Thursday. Harper and some of his supporters spoke at a news conference at Union Station. Harper said Meridian will be his home away from home during the days leading up to an Apr. 1 run-off with Charlie Ross. The two got the most votes in a field of seven candidates in the Mar. 11 primary. "A great local support here. I can't tell you how much it meant not only to win my home county of Rankin County but to win Lauderdale County and lead the ticket over here was just an incredible blessing for us," said Harper. "And we thank everyone for that." Harper said he has picked up support another republican candidate who did not make the run-off, David Landrum. Both Harper and Ross will be the guests for WTOK's public affairs program, On the Record, Sunday, Mar. 23 at 5:30 p.m.
Meridian Star - Harper rallies supporters in Meridian - Gregg Harper, who is vying with Charlie Ross in a run-off for the 3rd Congressional District Republican nomination, visited Meridian yesterday, making a stop at Union Station to speak to friends and supporters and have some prominent members of the community speak on his behalf. Those who endorsed Harper included: Meridian clothier Harry Mayer, who said of Harper, "he'll always do the right thing,"; former Lauderdale County board of supervisors candidate Greg Mangum, who called Harper "religious" and "a true conservative"; and Pastor Carl White, who said that Harper is "as consistent as the sunrise. What you see is what you get." Additionally, Harper announced that his campaign had received a $1,000 contribution from Lieutenant Governor Phil Bryant, who defeated Charlie Ross in the Lt. Governor's race last year. Harper promised in his speech to protect Lauderdale County's military facilities, spoke of his faith and of his friends and families contributions to his campaign, and said of the campaign, "You're going to think that we live in Meridian by April 1, because I do believe this election is going to be won or lost in Lauderdale County." After his speech, Harper made an additional comment, "I was the first candidate to open an office in Meridian," presumably in response to Ross' new office on Front Street. Harper's office is located on 22nd avenue.
Meridian Star - Harper rallies supporters in Meridian - Gregg Harper, who is vying with Charlie Ross in a run-off for the 3rd Congressional District Republican nomination, visited Meridian yesterday, making a stop at Union Station to speak to friends and supporters and have some prominent members of the community speak on his behalf. Those who endorsed Harper included: Meridian clothier Harry Mayer, who said of Harper, "he'll always do the right thing,"; former Lauderdale County board of supervisors candidate Greg Mangum, who called Harper "religious" and "a true conservative"; and Pastor Carl White, who said that Harper is "as consistent as the sunrise. What you see is what you get." Additionally, Harper announced that his campaign had received a $1,000 contribution from Lieutenant Governor Phil Bryant, who defeated Charlie Ross in the Lt. Governor's race last year. Harper promised in his speech to protect Lauderdale County's military facilities, spoke of his faith and of his friends and families contributions to his campaign, and said of the campaign, "You're going to think that we live in Meridian by April 1, because I do believe this election is going to be won or lost in Lauderdale County." After his speech, Harper made an additional comment, "I was the first candidate to open an office in Meridian," presumably in response to Ross' new office on Front Street. Harper's office is located on 22nd avenue.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Landrum Endorses Harper
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Over the past 5 months, I have campaigned throughout the entire 3rd Congressional District and spent time with some wonderful people. I have also had the opportunity to campaign with all the candidates who initially ran in the Republican Primary.
Throughout the Primary, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the character and motivation of each candidate. Now that we did not make it to the runoff, I believe I should let you know what I have seen on the campaign trail.
Throughout the debates, forums, and joint appearances, one of my opponents stood out of the crowd. This candidate has the convictions, passion, and the heart to serve the people of the 3rd District, which I think is vital for our next Congressman. This candidate has run a clean campaign and has refused to participate in the typical mudslinging or personal attacks used by other campaigns - either through television commercials or through word of mouth. I respect this candidate as a man of faith with a servant's heart.
That is why, in the Republican Runoff on April 1st, I am going to be supporting Gregg Harper for Congress and I humbly ask for your consideration to do the same. I have talked with Gregg about the issues that matter to me, and I feel confident he will address these issues as our next Congressman.
If you would like to help Gregg by volunteering for his campaign, donating to his campaign, or if you would just like more information, you can visit his website at www.greggharperforcongress.com or you can call his office at (601) 420.2211.
Again, thank you for your support during our campaign.
Sincerely,
David Landrum
Over the past 5 months, I have campaigned throughout the entire 3rd Congressional District and spent time with some wonderful people. I have also had the opportunity to campaign with all the candidates who initially ran in the Republican Primary.
Throughout the Primary, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the character and motivation of each candidate. Now that we did not make it to the runoff, I believe I should let you know what I have seen on the campaign trail.
Throughout the debates, forums, and joint appearances, one of my opponents stood out of the crowd. This candidate has the convictions, passion, and the heart to serve the people of the 3rd District, which I think is vital for our next Congressman. This candidate has run a clean campaign and has refused to participate in the typical mudslinging or personal attacks used by other campaigns - either through television commercials or through word of mouth. I respect this candidate as a man of faith with a servant's heart.
That is why, in the Republican Runoff on April 1st, I am going to be supporting Gregg Harper for Congress and I humbly ask for your consideration to do the same. I have talked with Gregg about the issues that matter to me, and I feel confident he will address these issues as our next Congressman.
If you would like to help Gregg by volunteering for his campaign, donating to his campaign, or if you would just like more information, you can visit his website at www.greggharperforcongress.com or you can call his office at (601) 420.2211.
Again, thank you for your support during our campaign.
Sincerely,
David Landrum
Ledger Letters
Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Consider Gregg Harper as 'our voice' in Washington - It is my pleasure to commend to the voters of the 3rd Congressional District an outstanding candidate for Congress. Gregg Harper is a man of intelligence and integrity. He is dedicated to his family, to his church, to his profession, and to this great country. Gregg and I share concerns about the moral, ethical, cultural, fiscal and security-related problems of our nation. I believe that he is committed to taking a stand for our conservative principles and to being an eloquent voice, a tireless worker, and a consistent voter in Congress. I hope readers will consider this outstanding citizen as our voice in Washington. - Roy J. Fountain, Forest
Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Ross will best represent all residents of 3rd District - Charlie Ross is the best candidate for the 3rd Congressional District. Charlie is seeking to replace Chip Pickering, who is not seeking re-election. I urge readers to take a look at Charlie for this seat. He is a graduate of the Air Force Academy and a veteran, having flown with the Mississippi Air National Guard in Operation Desert Storm. Charlie is also a graduate of Harvard Law School and has served in the Mississippi legislature. Readers will find that he is for all the same good, conservative government that we identify with. Charlie is anti-illegal immigration and will fight to strengthen our military. His office will also be an advocate for military retirees' and veterans' issues. I would urge all who live in the 3rd District to vote for Charlie Ross. - Jim Whittington, Laurel
Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - We need Charlie Ross in 3rd Congressional District - I truly love my country and always take great pride in researching and selecting the best candidate to represent me, my children and my state in Washington. I have absolutely no doubt that Charlie Ross is the only candidate capable and prepared to serve us in the 3rd Congressional District seat being vacated by Chip Pickering. The runoff election is April 1, and citizens must go vote! Every single vote is important and each reader's vote for Ross will ensure that we send a true public servant to Congress. Ross' unequaled experience includes 11 years in the Mississippi Legislature, where he chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee, authored tort reform, Jessica's Law, Megan's Law and helped balance the state budget. I am secure in knowing that Charlie will promote strong national defense and strengthening the military. As an Air Force Academy graduate, he has served our country as a military veteran, a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and as Mississippi Air National Guard, Desert Storm active-duty pilot. Other crucial issues that are important to Ross are bringing jobs to Mississippi, lower taxes, economic growth, protecting our 2nd Amendment rights, securing our borders, making our cities safe and working as an advocate for veterans' affairs. The facts are crystal clear - Ross is the only candidate who actually has the experience to accomplish any of these goals. His extraordinary wife, Sharon, is a tremendous asset to Charlie. Please vote for Charlie Ross - the man we need in our U.S. Congress! - Jena Thompson, Meridian
Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - Ross will best represent all residents of 3rd District - Charlie Ross is the best candidate for the 3rd Congressional District. Charlie is seeking to replace Chip Pickering, who is not seeking re-election. I urge readers to take a look at Charlie for this seat. He is a graduate of the Air Force Academy and a veteran, having flown with the Mississippi Air National Guard in Operation Desert Storm. Charlie is also a graduate of Harvard Law School and has served in the Mississippi legislature. Readers will find that he is for all the same good, conservative government that we identify with. Charlie is anti-illegal immigration and will fight to strengthen our military. His office will also be an advocate for military retirees' and veterans' issues. I would urge all who live in the 3rd District to vote for Charlie Ross. - Jim Whittington, Laurel
Clarion Ledger - Letter to the Editor - We need Charlie Ross in 3rd Congressional District - I truly love my country and always take great pride in researching and selecting the best candidate to represent me, my children and my state in Washington. I have absolutely no doubt that Charlie Ross is the only candidate capable and prepared to serve us in the 3rd Congressional District seat being vacated by Chip Pickering. The runoff election is April 1, and citizens must go vote! Every single vote is important and each reader's vote for Ross will ensure that we send a true public servant to Congress. Ross' unequaled experience includes 11 years in the Mississippi Legislature, where he chaired the Senate Judiciary Committee, authored tort reform, Jessica's Law, Megan's Law and helped balance the state budget. I am secure in knowing that Charlie will promote strong national defense and strengthening the military. As an Air Force Academy graduate, he has served our country as a military veteran, a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and as Mississippi Air National Guard, Desert Storm active-duty pilot. Other crucial issues that are important to Ross are bringing jobs to Mississippi, lower taxes, economic growth, protecting our 2nd Amendment rights, securing our borders, making our cities safe and working as an advocate for veterans' affairs. The facts are crystal clear - Ross is the only candidate who actually has the experience to accomplish any of these goals. His extraordinary wife, Sharon, is a tremendous asset to Charlie. Please vote for Charlie Ross - the man we need in our U.S. Congress! - Jena Thompson, Meridian
48 Hour Reports
Lott for Davis
Roll Call - Lott Backs Davis in Mississippi GOP Runoff - Former Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.) — who remains one of the most influential figures in Magnolia State politics — has lent his support to Southaven Mayor Greg Davis in the tightly contested 1st district Republican runoff. The Davis campaign on Wednesday released a letter of support from the former Senate Majority Leader reporting $8,000 in contributions from Lott.
Lott’s support of Davis in the runoff is particularly interesting because back in 2001 Lott was a key voice of support for McCullough when the former Tupelo mayor earned a presidential appointment to serve as chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority. But according to published reports, Lott soured on McCullough by the time his term as TVA chairman expired in 2005 and the Senator publicly opposed his renomination that year. Lott said at the time that he believed the TVA’s board had not done enough to address the agency’s then-$25 billion debt during McCullough’s time on the board and told the Chattanooga Times Free Press, “I’d rather that he not stay on the board.” In his letter of support to Davis, Lott said: “I am extremely proud to participate in your campaign through these contributions as I know you will work to preserve and defend the principles we both share.” Davis said he was “honored and humbled” by Lott’s support.
Lott’s support of Davis in the runoff is particularly interesting because back in 2001 Lott was a key voice of support for McCullough when the former Tupelo mayor earned a presidential appointment to serve as chairman of the Tennessee Valley Authority. But according to published reports, Lott soured on McCullough by the time his term as TVA chairman expired in 2005 and the Senator publicly opposed his renomination that year. Lott said at the time that he believed the TVA’s board had not done enough to address the agency’s then-$25 billion debt during McCullough’s time on the board and told the Chattanooga Times Free Press, “I’d rather that he not stay on the board.” In his letter of support to Davis, Lott said: “I am extremely proud to participate in your campaign through these contributions as I know you will work to preserve and defend the principles we both share.” Davis said he was “honored and humbled” by Lott’s support.
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Pro Harper Letter
Scott County Times - Letter to the Editor - Harper Will Uphold Conservative Principles - It is my pleasure to recommend to the voters of the third district an outstanding candidate for Congress. Gregg Harper is a man of intelligence and integrity. He is dedicated to his family, to his church, to his profession and to this great country. Gregg and I share concerns about the moral, ethical, cultural, fiscal and security-related problems of our nation. I believe that he is committed to taking a stand for our conservative principles and to being an eloquent voice, a tireless worker and a consistent voter in Congress. I hope you will consider this outstanding citizen as our voice in Washington. - Roy J. Fountain, Forest
Ross Opens Meridian HQ
WTOK - Ross Opens Campaign Headquarters - Former Mississippi state senator, Charlie Ross, opened his campaign headquarters in Meridian Tuesday. It's located at 2118 Front Street, near Jean's Restaurant. Ross says it's important that he have a major presence in Meridian during the run-up to the runoff. "This is a statement to the people of east Mississippi of how important I view Meridian and Lauderdale County and all of east Mississippi," said Ross. "I want to also say I'll have an office here in Meridian if I'm fortunate enough to be elected congressman." Ross' competitor in that race, Gregg Harper, also has a campaign headquarters in Meridian at the corner of 8th Street and 22nd Avenue, which he opened several weeks ago. The primary is Apr. 1.
Salter Blog: Harper Mo
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - Harper's momentum growing? - A $500 per person/couple fundraiser for 3rd District congressional candidate Gregg Harper of Pearl will get underway this afternoon in downtown Jackson at the Electric Building. With Harper now facing first primary frontrunner and former Rankin County legislator Charlie Ross in the GOP second primary, it's likely that Harper's support from fans of Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant — and possibly from Bryant himself — will begin to manifest itself in the runoff showdown with Ross. Ross angered Bryant during their 2007 Republican primary tilt over what Bryant considered negative ads attacking Bryant. At any rate, there was no love lost between Bryant and Ross after that campaign despite Ross making an endorsement of Bryant in his general election race with former Democratic state Rep. Jamie Franks of Mooreville.
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - 3rd District runoff: What to look for in the next 12 days... - In the 3rd Congressional District runoff election, first primary frontrunner Charlie Ross faces the dubious task of trying to hold his lead with reduced turnout and to pick up the support of his vanquished opponents. He faces that task with Republicans loyal to Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant now actively working against him — still stinging from the Bryant-Ross GOP primary in 2007. Many of David Landrum's supporters blame Ross, rightly or wrongly, for their candidate's problems in the first primary.Bryant attended Harper's Tuesday night $500 a person reception in downtown Jackson at the Electric Building.On the up side, Ross has the support of the Club For Growth. On the down side, CFG has a reputation for negative campaigning. Going negative is a highly risky strategy for Ross on several levels. While Ross will pick up the tort reform crowd in the runoff from other candidates, his appeal to other groups is limited.Gregg Harper will get the vast majority of evangelical Republican support. Supporters of David Landrum are far more likely to gravitate to Harper than to Ross. Harper has the superior ground game in Rankin County and as he showed in the first primary, in the rural areas of the district. Lauderdale County is vital in this matchup for Ross. A lower turnout is likely to favor Harper, who knows how to get his folks to the polls.Advantage? I think Harper is well-positioned to win this GOP runoff. He kept his campaign clean, worked his ground game and raised just enough money to stay on television. As evidenced by last night's reception, Harper's finding it easier to raise money in the second primary.
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - 3rd District runoff: What to look for in the next 12 days... - In the 3rd Congressional District runoff election, first primary frontrunner Charlie Ross faces the dubious task of trying to hold his lead with reduced turnout and to pick up the support of his vanquished opponents. He faces that task with Republicans loyal to Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant now actively working against him — still stinging from the Bryant-Ross GOP primary in 2007. Many of David Landrum's supporters blame Ross, rightly or wrongly, for their candidate's problems in the first primary.Bryant attended Harper's Tuesday night $500 a person reception in downtown Jackson at the Electric Building.On the up side, Ross has the support of the Club For Growth. On the down side, CFG has a reputation for negative campaigning. Going negative is a highly risky strategy for Ross on several levels. While Ross will pick up the tort reform crowd in the runoff from other candidates, his appeal to other groups is limited.Gregg Harper will get the vast majority of evangelical Republican support. Supporters of David Landrum are far more likely to gravitate to Harper than to Ross. Harper has the superior ground game in Rankin County and as he showed in the first primary, in the rural areas of the district. Lauderdale County is vital in this matchup for Ross. A lower turnout is likely to favor Harper, who knows how to get his folks to the polls.Advantage? I think Harper is well-positioned to win this GOP runoff. He kept his campaign clean, worked his ground game and raised just enough money to stay on television. As evidenced by last night's reception, Harper's finding it easier to raise money in the second primary.
Hot Air = 6.3
The Hill - ‘3 a.m.’ ad unconvincing - Mississippi primary runoff candidate Glenn McCullough’s (R) ad animating the U.S. Capitol building as a balloon full of “hot air” got a 6.3 from GOPers. McCullough, a former Tupelo mayor, faces Southaven Mayor Greg Davis on April 1. The winner will run for Sen. Roger Wicker’s (R-Miss.) former House seat.
Turnbow on Polls: McCullough, Childers
Turnbow.net - New Poll in local Congressional race - A friend last night passed along some new poll numbers in the special election for Roger Wickers congressional seat in northeast mississippi in a few weeks. The results are kind of surprising.....Glen McCullough now has a 45-38 lead over Greg Davis. On the democrat side, Prentiss County Court Clerk Travis Childers has pulled ahead of State Rep Steve Holland by a 51-41 margin. The dems are getting very excited about Childers chances according to what I heard. But I dont know about the GOP poll though. Desoto County is Greg Davis's base and it has exploded in growth in recent years. According to the Commercial Appeal yesterday, its population hit the 150,000 mark this month. That and McCulloughs problems with the TVA should bode well for Davis come election day in two weeks.
New Ross Spot: Veteran
Aaron Rice, an Iraq War Veteran, discusses the need for Charlie Ross, a Desert Storm Veteran, in Congress.
For more on the Marine in the spot, here is a speech he gave at the MRAP kickoff celebration for International Truck and Engine Co. in Westpoint, Mississippi. International began producing Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles for the United States Marine Corps in June of 2007.
For more on the Marine in the spot, here is a speech he gave at the MRAP kickoff celebration for International Truck and Engine Co. in Westpoint, Mississippi. International began producing Mine Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles for the United States Marine Corps in June of 2007.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
From The Blogs
RightOfMississippi - Charlie Ross is the best candidate to represent the Third District - This blog has been reletively silent about the third district congressional race but now that the runoff is upon us we have a pretty obvious choice here between a tested and competent State Senator in Charlie Ross and a relatively unexperienced former county GOP chairman in Gregg Harper. While we don’t have a problem with Harper personally we find that he is most likely only in this situation not on his own merit but because of the implosion of the David Landrum Campaign. Ross has been through 2 tough primary battles in the last year, he is a known quantity and while not flashy he will be a solid and reliable replacement for outgoing Rep. Chip Pickering and a steady advocate for Mississippi in the complicated and intricate world of Washington D.C. politics. This blog wholeheartedly endorses Senator Charlie Ross in the April 1st runoff election. All the best Charlie, -ROM
TheStarBlog - Vote for anybody you want - Someone asked me today, "If you voted for someone in the primary, doesn't that mean you have to vote for them in November, too?" I want to let as many people as I possibly can know that the answer to that question is a big fat NO. Nope, not even, no, no, no. You are fully entitled to change your mind about a candidate between the primary and the general election, and in a general election you are also fully entitled to vote for candidates in as many different parties as you want. However, you cannot vote in the April 1st run-off between Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper if you voted on a Democratic ballot in the March 11th primary. This is because the run-off, which is between two Republicans, is an actually an extension of the primary. If you didn't vote at all on March 11th, you can still vote on April 1st. If you live in Lauderdale County and have questions about your eligibility to vote, call the circuit clerk's office at 601-482-9731. If you would like to learn more about the candidates, you can find info on all of them at www.votesmart.org. Check tomorrow's Star for a detailed story on who can and can't vote on April Fool's day. - Jennifer Jacob, Staff Writer jjacob@themeridianstar.com (UPDATE: Meridian Star - Voter Info: Who can vote April 1)
TheStarBlog - Vote for anybody you want - Someone asked me today, "If you voted for someone in the primary, doesn't that mean you have to vote for them in November, too?" I want to let as many people as I possibly can know that the answer to that question is a big fat NO. Nope, not even, no, no, no. You are fully entitled to change your mind about a candidate between the primary and the general election, and in a general election you are also fully entitled to vote for candidates in as many different parties as you want. However, you cannot vote in the April 1st run-off between Charlie Ross and Gregg Harper if you voted on a Democratic ballot in the March 11th primary. This is because the run-off, which is between two Republicans, is an actually an extension of the primary. If you didn't vote at all on March 11th, you can still vote on April 1st. If you live in Lauderdale County and have questions about your eligibility to vote, call the circuit clerk's office at 601-482-9731. If you would like to learn more about the candidates, you can find info on all of them at www.votesmart.org. Check tomorrow's Star for a detailed story on who can and can't vote on April Fool's day. - Jennifer Jacob, Staff Writer jjacob@themeridianstar.com (UPDATE: Meridian Star - Voter Info: Who can vote April 1)
Roll Call: McCullough Leading
Roll Call - New Poll Shows McCullough Leading in Mississippi Runoff - With two weeks to go in Mississippi’s 1st district Republican primary runoff, a new poll released this week by Glenn McCullough’s campaign showed the former Tupelo mayor with a 7-point lead over Southaven Mayor Greg Davis.
The On Message Inc. survey of 400 likely voters showed McCullough with 45 percent and Davis with 38 percent. It had a 4.9-point margin of error. The poll was conducted on the two days following the primary election on March 11 in which McCullough earned 39 percent and Davis took 37 percent.
The On Message polling memo appeared to confirm the come-from-behind nature of McCullough’s primary campaign.
In late February, a Public Opinion Strategies poll conducted for Davis’ campaign gave Davis an 18-point lead. The On Message memo noted that McCullough’s own campaign had the former Tupelo mayor down by 23 points in a Feb. 12 poll.
But McCullough came on strong by rallying his Tupelo base — which also was now-Sen. Roger Wicker’s (R) base during his seven House terms — and in the rural areas of Northern Mississippi. In the primary he beat Davis in 18 of 24 counties in the district. He also outraised Davis over the last 10 days of the campaign, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
The On Message polling memo said that “the only path to victory that remains for Greg Davis is to pursue a high-risk strategy of negative messaging. ... With his vote share decreasing, we fully expect Davis to remain negative throughout the runoff election.”
The On Message Inc. survey of 400 likely voters showed McCullough with 45 percent and Davis with 38 percent. It had a 4.9-point margin of error. The poll was conducted on the two days following the primary election on March 11 in which McCullough earned 39 percent and Davis took 37 percent.
The On Message polling memo appeared to confirm the come-from-behind nature of McCullough’s primary campaign.
In late February, a Public Opinion Strategies poll conducted for Davis’ campaign gave Davis an 18-point lead. The On Message memo noted that McCullough’s own campaign had the former Tupelo mayor down by 23 points in a Feb. 12 poll.
But McCullough came on strong by rallying his Tupelo base — which also was now-Sen. Roger Wicker’s (R) base during his seven House terms — and in the rural areas of Northern Mississippi. In the primary he beat Davis in 18 of 24 counties in the district. He also outraised Davis over the last 10 days of the campaign, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
The On Message polling memo said that “the only path to victory that remains for Greg Davis is to pursue a high-risk strategy of negative messaging. ... With his vote share decreasing, we fully expect Davis to remain negative throughout the runoff election.”
Salter: McCullough leads Davis / Debate Confirmed
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - New poll data: McCullough leads Davis 45 percent to 38 percent - Former Tupelo mayor and former TVA chairman Glenn McCullough has opened a seven percent lead on Southaven Mayor Greg Davis in the 1st Congressional District Republican second primary, according to a poll released by OnMessage, Inc. The poll shows both candidates with around 13 to 14 percent "unfavorable" ratings with McCullough's "favorable" ratings about 3 percent higher that Davis. The pollsters tell McCullough that the Davis campaign "has stagnated and is losing ground. Historically, candidates that lose momentum this rapidly always garner an even smaller percentage of the vote in the runoff election. This is exactly the scenario Davis now faces." In addition, the pollsters say that McCullough has climbed 23 percent in the last month on the "ballot test" to 48 percent. The OnMessage survey was conducted March 12 and 13, 2008. All interviews were conducted via telephone. The survey consists of 400 voters screened for likely participation in the April 1 Republican runoff election. Interviews were stratified by county to reflect turnout in the March 11 Republican primary. The margin of error for this study is +/- 4.9%.
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - 1st Congressional District GOP debates confirmed March 20 and March 27 - Lydia Quarles at the MSU Stennis Institute of Government has confirmed that 1st Congressional District GOP candidates Greg Davis and Glenn McCullough will debate March 20 in Aberdeen and March 27 in Senatobia. Thursday 20th: Debate in Aberdeen at Elkins Theatre on Commerce Street. GOP only. Doors open 6:30 for "meet and greet" with debate beginning at 7-ish. Debate will be between 60 and 75 minutes. 3 minute opening statements, questions directed to 1 candidate who has 2 minutes to answer, other candidate then given 2 minutes for rebuttal/response. Ending with 3 minute closings. There will be space available in the lobby of the Elkins for candidates to distribute materials. Thursday 27th: Debate in Senatobia on campus of Northwest MS CC. Same time frame and protocol.
ClarionLedger.com - Sid Salter Blog - 1st Congressional District GOP debates confirmed March 20 and March 27 - Lydia Quarles at the MSU Stennis Institute of Government has confirmed that 1st Congressional District GOP candidates Greg Davis and Glenn McCullough will debate March 20 in Aberdeen and March 27 in Senatobia. Thursday 20th: Debate in Aberdeen at Elkins Theatre on Commerce Street. GOP only. Doors open 6:30 for "meet and greet" with debate beginning at 7-ish. Debate will be between 60 and 75 minutes. 3 minute opening statements, questions directed to 1 candidate who has 2 minutes to answer, other candidate then given 2 minutes for rebuttal/response. Ending with 3 minute closings. There will be space available in the lobby of the Elkins for candidates to distribute materials. Thursday 27th: Debate in Senatobia on campus of Northwest MS CC. Same time frame and protocol.
Debate?
The Monroe County Republican Party is working on a debate for all four candidates: one segment with Republicans and one segment with Democrats. The proposed date is Thursday March 20, 2008 at the Elkin Theatre in downtown Aberdeen. The Stennis Institute of Government at Mississippi State has agreed to help with this event as the moderator. HatTip: ChrisBrownForHouse
Ross Puts In $55,000
Charlie Ross has self-contributed $55,000 to his campaign for the run off in two weeks.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Coleman, Neely endorse Holland
Calhoun City Alderman Marshall Coleman and Tupelo Attorney Brian Neely endorsed Steve Holland. HatTip: CottonMouth - Holland Picks Up Endorsements From #3 and #4 Finishers
Roll Call: Runoffs Loom
Roll Call - Magnolia State Runoffs Loom - Don’t expect as much excitement out of Mississippi’s 1st and 3rd district general elections as there has been in the primaries. Unofficial results gave former Tupelo Mayor Glenn McCullough (R) 39 percent and Southhaven Mayor Greg Davis (R) 37 percent.
While a Public Opinion Strategies poll conducted in late February for Davis’ campaign gave Davis an 18-point lead, McCullough appeared to come on strong in the last two weeks. Not only was he able to rally his Tupelo base — which was also Wicker’s base during his seven House terms — but Tuesday’s vote showed that he beat Davis in 18 of 24 counties in the district. He also outraised Davis over the last 10 days of the campaign, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
But the real surprise of the 1st district race was the third candidate, ophthalmologist Randy Russell (R), who picked up 24 percent of the vote despite being picked by many state insiders to finish in the single digits. Russell’s unexpectedly strong showing was funded in large part by the $145,000 of his own money. By Wednesday afternoon, media reports indicated that Russell was preparing to throw his support behind McCullough in the runoff. The move would be another blow to Davis’ campaign, though far from a knockout punch.
According to county results posted in the Clarion Ledger newspaper, Davis had a strong showing in DeSoto County, the district’s largest GOP stronghold. More than half of Davis’ 16,161 votes came from DeSoto, while McCullough was only able to pick up 1,856 in the county and Russell took 1,656 there. And by all accounts, the DeSoto turnout was lower than expected. If Davis can energize his DeSoto base, and pick up the voters in the county that went to Russell, he will put himself in a very good position in the runoff despite Russell’s support of McCullough.
The Democratic primary in the 1st district also ended in a runoff between Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Travis Childers, who took 42 percent, and state Rep. Steve Holland, who took 31 percent. Both would face an uphill challenge in a general election in a district that President Bush carried with 62 percent in his 2004 reelection campaign. But state Democrats were encouraged by the fact that more than twice as many people voted in the Democratic primary than in the Republican contest. Indeed, Childers’ nearly 40,000 votes was close to the total number of votes that were cast in the Republican primary.
While a Public Opinion Strategies poll conducted in late February for Davis’ campaign gave Davis an 18-point lead, McCullough appeared to come on strong in the last two weeks. Not only was he able to rally his Tupelo base — which was also Wicker’s base during his seven House terms — but Tuesday’s vote showed that he beat Davis in 18 of 24 counties in the district. He also outraised Davis over the last 10 days of the campaign, according to Federal Election Commission reports.
But the real surprise of the 1st district race was the third candidate, ophthalmologist Randy Russell (R), who picked up 24 percent of the vote despite being picked by many state insiders to finish in the single digits. Russell’s unexpectedly strong showing was funded in large part by the $145,000 of his own money. By Wednesday afternoon, media reports indicated that Russell was preparing to throw his support behind McCullough in the runoff. The move would be another blow to Davis’ campaign, though far from a knockout punch.
According to county results posted in the Clarion Ledger newspaper, Davis had a strong showing in DeSoto County, the district’s largest GOP stronghold. More than half of Davis’ 16,161 votes came from DeSoto, while McCullough was only able to pick up 1,856 in the county and Russell took 1,656 there. And by all accounts, the DeSoto turnout was lower than expected. If Davis can energize his DeSoto base, and pick up the voters in the county that went to Russell, he will put himself in a very good position in the runoff despite Russell’s support of McCullough.
The Democratic primary in the 1st district also ended in a runoff between Prentiss County Chancery Clerk Travis Childers, who took 42 percent, and state Rep. Steve Holland, who took 31 percent. Both would face an uphill challenge in a general election in a district that President Bush carried with 62 percent in his 2004 reelection campaign. But state Democrats were encouraged by the fact that more than twice as many people voted in the Democratic primary than in the Republican contest. Indeed, Childers’ nearly 40,000 votes was close to the total number of votes that were cast in the Republican primary.
Roll Call: Runoffs Loom
Roll Call - Magnolia State Runoffs Loom - In the central Mississippi 3rd district, where Rep. Chip Pickering (R) is retiring at the end of this Congress, Pickens Alderman Joel Gill (D) will face the winner of the April 1 Republican runoff between state Sen. Charlie Ross and former Ranking County Republican Chairman Gregg Harper. In the crowded race, Ross, who was no doubt helped by the name recognition he built during a failed 2007 campaign for lieutenant governor, took 33 percent of the vote on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Harper edged out wealthy businessman David Landrum by about 1,800 votes to make the runoff with 28 percent.
Two weeks ago Landrum seemed to be a sure bet to make the runoff based on his strong media presence in the district that was funded by $545,000 of his own money. But a controversy, first stirred up by former Pickering aide John Rounsaville — who took just 10 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s primary — over whether Landrum voted in past state elections, took its toll on the businessman. The controversy turned into a firestorm. Late last week, Landrum lashed out at Rounsaville and Ross in a television spot that insinuated the two were involved in “dirty” campaign tactics.
Of the four top contenders in the race, Harper turned out to be the only candidate to avoid being caught up in the mudslinging that developed and his strong grassroots campaign allowed him to slip, somewhat under the radar, into the runoff.
In a head to head matchup with Ross, Harper won’t be under the radar any longer. But Harper does have a few things going for him in the runoff. First, by being able to avoid the Landrum voting record firestorm he might earn the endorsement of Landrum in the runoff. A spokesman for Landrum said Wednesday that any endorsement decision by Landrum wouldn’t be coming until next week at the earliest. Harper’s other asset is that he outperformed Ross in the district’s largest Republican stronghold, Rankin County, where both hail from. Harper took 38 percent of the vote in Rankin while Ross took 34 percent, according to the Clarion Ledger’s unofficial numbers.
Ross appears likely to continue to campaign on a message of experience, pointing to his 11 years in the Mississippi state legislature. “We’re going to try to continue to get our conservative message out,” said Ross communications director Kell Smith. “We did receive the most votes Tuesday. ... It’s always good to have more votes than the other guy.”
Two weeks ago Landrum seemed to be a sure bet to make the runoff based on his strong media presence in the district that was funded by $545,000 of his own money. But a controversy, first stirred up by former Pickering aide John Rounsaville — who took just 10 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s primary — over whether Landrum voted in past state elections, took its toll on the businessman. The controversy turned into a firestorm. Late last week, Landrum lashed out at Rounsaville and Ross in a television spot that insinuated the two were involved in “dirty” campaign tactics.
Of the four top contenders in the race, Harper turned out to be the only candidate to avoid being caught up in the mudslinging that developed and his strong grassroots campaign allowed him to slip, somewhat under the radar, into the runoff.
In a head to head matchup with Ross, Harper won’t be under the radar any longer. But Harper does have a few things going for him in the runoff. First, by being able to avoid the Landrum voting record firestorm he might earn the endorsement of Landrum in the runoff. A spokesman for Landrum said Wednesday that any endorsement decision by Landrum wouldn’t be coming until next week at the earliest. Harper’s other asset is that he outperformed Ross in the district’s largest Republican stronghold, Rankin County, where both hail from. Harper took 38 percent of the vote in Rankin while Ross took 34 percent, according to the Clarion Ledger’s unofficial numbers.
Ross appears likely to continue to campaign on a message of experience, pointing to his 11 years in the Mississippi state legislature. “We’re going to try to continue to get our conservative message out,” said Ross communications director Kell Smith. “We did receive the most votes Tuesday. ... It’s always good to have more votes than the other guy.”
Saturday, March 15, 2008
$2,119,435
Totals raised by the top four candidates before the primary election (includes contributions later refunded).
David Landrum $1,045,244
($485,000 of this was self-contributed)
Charlie Ross $593,946
(He has filed $14,600 in addition to that since the election)
Gregg Harper $246,865
(Includes a $20,000 self-contribution 6 days before the election)
John Rounsaville $233,380
The total raised by the top four candidates for the primary: $2,119,435
David Landrum $1,045,244
($485,000 of this was self-contributed)
Charlie Ross $593,946
(He has filed $14,600 in addition to that since the election)
Gregg Harper $246,865
(Includes a $20,000 self-contribution 6 days before the election)
John Rounsaville $233,380
The total raised by the top four candidates for the primary: $2,119,435
Marcy, Hatcher Endorse Ross
WTOK - Ross Gets Candidate Endorsements - Former state senator Charlie Ross Friday picked up the endorsements of Meridianites, Bill Marcy and Greg Hatcher. Those two men both ran against him in the primary, but were not among the top two in votes. They endorsed Ross during a news conference outside the Lauderdale County Courthouse. "They're conservatives like I am. They believe in the same pro-life, pro-second amendment, pro-jobs, pro-national defense agenda," said Ross. "I'm especially proud, because there were two candidates in this race from east Mississippi, specifically Meridian, and both of them have chosen to endorse me."
Meridian Star - More endorsements for Charlie Ross - Now that Greg Hatcher and Bill Marcy, the two Republican Meridianites who ran for the U.S. House in the 3rd Congressional District primary March 11, are out of the running for that seat, they have both given their endorsements to former opponent Charlie Ross. Ross will face Jackson area attorney Gregg Harper in an April 1 run-off election for the seat, which will be vacated by Chip Pickering at the end of term. Hatcher said at a press conference Friday that he chose to endorse Ross because of "the depth of knowledge and service he has given Mississippi." Marcy said he gave his endorsement because he feels Ross "comes with a mass amount of experience... He's done a lot of wonderful things for the state and Meridian.
The Gregg Harper campaign released the following statement in regard to Ross' endorsements: "Endorsements are certainly one of many aspects important to Gregg Harper's campaign. Next Thursday, March 20, we will also be announcing several significant endorsements for our campaign at a news conference in Meridian."
TheStarBlog notes that Gil Carmichael is also on board with Charlie Ross.
Meridian Star - More endorsements for Charlie Ross - Now that Greg Hatcher and Bill Marcy, the two Republican Meridianites who ran for the U.S. House in the 3rd Congressional District primary March 11, are out of the running for that seat, they have both given their endorsements to former opponent Charlie Ross. Ross will face Jackson area attorney Gregg Harper in an April 1 run-off election for the seat, which will be vacated by Chip Pickering at the end of term. Hatcher said at a press conference Friday that he chose to endorse Ross because of "the depth of knowledge and service he has given Mississippi." Marcy said he gave his endorsement because he feels Ross "comes with a mass amount of experience... He's done a lot of wonderful things for the state and Meridian.
The Gregg Harper campaign released the following statement in regard to Ross' endorsements: "Endorsements are certainly one of many aspects important to Gregg Harper's campaign. Next Thursday, March 20, we will also be announcing several significant endorsements for our campaign at a news conference in Meridian."
TheStarBlog notes that Gil Carmichael is also on board with Charlie Ross.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
DeSoto Crossover
Commercial Appeal - Crossover voting in Tuesday's primary elections figured prominently in the races for the 1st District congressional seat -- in both parties. Undoubtedly, that was a factor in DeSoto County. "It cost us several hundred votes, yes," said Chris Wilson, chairman of the DeSoto County Republican Party Executive Committee, who was working hard for the Davis campaign.
Samuel Williams, DeSoto County chairman for the Democratic Party, said the crossovers "gave us a bunch of votes. It could have been several thousand. "I believe we got more Democratic Party votes (Tuesday) than for any race here I can remember, certainly more than for any primary."
With the runoff just three weeks away, Davis, 42, and McCullough, 53, were both back on the campaign trail Wednesday. "We're out knocking on doors and making phone calls and thanking all the folks for their support," Davis said.
Meanwhile, Russell, 54, was preparing to endorse McCullough in the runoff race. Today, at a press conference at the Hampton Inn in Oxford, Russell said he plans to announce his support for McCullough. "Glenn shares our same political philosophy," Russell said. Davis responded, "Dr. Russell has the right to support whoever he wants. I just think the voters of the 1st District are smart enough to make up their own minds."
Crossover voting may have occurred in other counties of the district, but no county would have had the number of crossover votes that DeSoto had. Impact? Davis was getting a steady 70 percent of the vote in the Republican Party primary in DeSoto County. If 3,000 Republicans crossed over, the likely loss to Davis in the county would have been about 2,100 votes -- enough to put him ahead of McCullough, but not enough to avoid a runoff.
Samuel Williams, DeSoto County chairman for the Democratic Party, said the crossovers "gave us a bunch of votes. It could have been several thousand. "I believe we got more Democratic Party votes (Tuesday) than for any race here I can remember, certainly more than for any primary."
With the runoff just three weeks away, Davis, 42, and McCullough, 53, were both back on the campaign trail Wednesday. "We're out knocking on doors and making phone calls and thanking all the folks for their support," Davis said.
Meanwhile, Russell, 54, was preparing to endorse McCullough in the runoff race. Today, at a press conference at the Hampton Inn in Oxford, Russell said he plans to announce his support for McCullough. "Glenn shares our same political philosophy," Russell said. Davis responded, "Dr. Russell has the right to support whoever he wants. I just think the voters of the 1st District are smart enough to make up their own minds."
Crossover voting may have occurred in other counties of the district, but no county would have had the number of crossover votes that DeSoto had. Impact? Davis was getting a steady 70 percent of the vote in the Republican Party primary in DeSoto County. If 3,000 Republicans crossed over, the likely loss to Davis in the county would have been about 2,100 votes -- enough to put him ahead of McCullough, but not enough to avoid a runoff.
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