2008 Election Game: Campaign Thread

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Evan Bayh Campaign Schedule: September 16th - 22nd

September 16th:
Campaign Rally - Terre Haute, Indiana
Meet and Greet - Vincennes, Indiana
Town Hall Meeting - Evansville, Indiana
Town Hall Meeting - Madisonville, Kentucky

September 17th: Accompanied by Blanche Lincoln
Meet and Greet - Carbondale, Illinois
Meet and Greet - Mt. Vernon, Illinois
Campaign Rally - Saint Louis, Missouri
Flies to Colorado

September 18th: Accompanied by Jim Matheson, Dave Freudenthal
Town Hall Meeting - Cheyanne, Wyoming
Meet and Greet - Fort Collins, Colorado
Campaign Rally - Boulder, Colorado
Appearance on The O'Reilly Factor

September 19th: Accompanied by Jim Batheson, Dave Freudenthal
Meet and Greet - Pueblo, Colorado
Meet and Greet - Santa Fe, New Mexico
Campaign Rally - Amarillo, New Mexico

September 20th: Accompanied by Dan Boren
Meet and Greet - Elk City, Oklahoma
Meet and Greet - Norman, Oklahoma
Campaign Rally - Tulsa, Oklahoma
Flies to Minnesota

September 21st:
Private Breakfast with Former Governor Jesse Ventura
Meet and Greet - Coon Rapid, Minnesota
Campaign Rally - Bloomington, Minnesota
Flies to Washington D.C.

September 22nd:
Appearance on Meet The Press
Private Fundraiser in Washington D.C.
Private Meeting with Blue Dog Democrats (Seeking Endorsements)

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Advertisement: Fighter

Michael Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, which will air for the next two weeks in the following states:

Announcer: Michael Bloomberg...successful businessman, dedicated Mayor. As Mayor, New York City has seen expanded economic growth, a balanced budget, and improved working conditions.

Bloomberg: I'm Michael Bloomberg, and I approve this message because I'm tired of the partisan games in Washington, and I know you are too. Join me, and together, let's unify America.

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We Need a New Direction - Susan Molinari

Since 2002, I have watched Mayor Mike Bloomberg serve New York City, and I have been nothing but impressed by the job he has done. He's worked with both sides to accomplish many of the goals he had going in, as well as many more. New York City still has a long way to go, but it is quite obvious that the city has gone through drastic improvements under Mike's leadership.

Having served with John McCain as a fellow Republican in Congress, I have great respect for the man. But when making this endorsement, I'm forgetting about party labels. I'm looking for a candidate who will shake up Washington D.C. and bring a new direction to it. Michael Bloomberg is running as an outsider - he isn't part of the D.C. establishment like Governor Dean and Senator McCain. It would be so refreshing to have a leader who isn't so concerned about the party politics, rather interested in the effort to rebuild this nation. I am proud to endorse Michael Bloomberg, and I encourage my fellow Republicans, as well as Independents and Democrats, to stand up to the establishment and do the same. I look forward to doing whatever I can to ensure New York votes Bloomberg this fall!

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Advertisement: Committed

Michael Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, which will air nationwide, with a specific concentration in states with high senior populations, specifically Florida.

Announcer: Howard Dean now claims that he supports Medicare. But what did he say about it when he was serving as Governor of Vermont?

Howard Dean Voiceover: "one of the worst federal programs ever and a living advertisement for why the government should never administer a national health care program."

Michael Bloomberg: As President, I will strongly support the continued existence of Medicare, not demonize it, and will fight to ensure it is properly funded.

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Ad: Too Extreme

Michael Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, bringing up past quotes from former Governor Howard Dean. It will air in all fifty states.

Howard Dean Voice-overs:

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Announcer: And when asked if Iraq was better off without Saddam Hussein, Howard Dean had this to say:

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Announcer: Even fellow Democrats agree on Howard Dean's divisiveness.

Barack Obama Voice-over:

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Announcer: Howard Dean - A divider, not a uniter.

Bloomberg: I'm Michael Bloomberg, and I approve this message.

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Lisa Endorses Mike!

Today, I announce my support for Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh.

I'm not endorsing them because I find John McCain and George Pataki to be flawed. Both are excellent men, and if they are elected, I'm sure they will make a fine administration. But I think America needs better than fine. America needs better than what we have seen for the past few decades.

Serving Alaska has been a blessing, and while serving, I have remained committed to putting Alaskans, not Republican leaders, first. Washington D.C. has become engrossed in partisan, party politics, and quite frankly, I have had enough! For a long time, many Americans have complained about how Washington D.C. works, and many of us have felt it to be too corrupt and full of establishment politicians. We feel they have lost touch with us, and instead are only focused on special interests and party leaders.

This election provides us, the silent majority, an excellent opportunity to stand up and say no. We have never had a better opportunity to stand up against the establishment, and we would be fools to pass up this opportunity after complaining for so many years. So if you, like me, are tired of how things are going, do something about it, and join me in electing real leaders - Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh.

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If the debate is just a set of questions (not a commentary), I think it should go ahead and begin tomorrow. Then allow until Thursday for both the debate and this turn to finish.

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Schedule: September 23th - 29th

Mayor Bloomberg sets an aggressive schedule for the week

September 23rd: Accompanied by Congresswoman Molinari and Mayor Amicone of Yonkers
Meet and Greet - Brentwood, New York
Meet and Greet - Hicksville, New York
Meet and Greet - Bayside, New York
Campaign Rally - Queens, New York
Appearance on The View

Michael Bloomberg sits down with the ladies on The View

I'm very excited about the upcoming debate. I see it as an excellent opportunity for myself, along with Mr. Nader, to show the American people that they have more options this year than the traditional two-party race. Our internal polls have us tied or leading in quite a few states - I think it's very realistic to say we have an excellent shot at winning the popular vote and a good chance at winning the electoral college, though I do expect that to be an uphill climb.

Americans are tired of the way things are doing - as I travel across this nation and meet with folks, I see that this attitude isn't shared just by certain races, incomes, or religions. My campaign is all about providing the American people with an opportunity - to show them that things don't have to continue down this partisan path our leaders in D.C. have taken us down. It's time to unite America, and that's exactly what I intend to do.

September 24th: Accompanied by Colin Powell and Tim Cahill
Meet and Greet - New Haven, Connecticut
Campaign Rally - Hartford, Connecticut
Campaign Rally - Springfield, Massachusetts
Appearance on Hannity

September 25th: Accompanied by Colin Powell
Meet and Greet - Keene, New Hampshire
Town Hall Meeting - Nashua, New Hampshire
Campaign Rally - Manchester, New Hampshire
Town Hall Meeting - Concord, New Hampshire
Flies to Minnesota

September 26th: Accompanied by Oprah Winfrey
Campaign Rally - Bloomington, Minnesota
Meet and Greet - Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Campaign Rally - Madison, Wisconsin
Appearance on The Rachel Maddow Show

September 27th: Accompanied by Oprah Winfrey
Meet and Greet - Grand Rapids, Michigan
Speech at Michigan State University - Lansing, Michigan
Meet and Greet - Farmington Hills, Michigan
Campaign Rally - Detroit, Michigan
Flies to California

September 28th: Accompanied by Mayor Gavin Newsom
Campaign Rally - San Francisco, California
Meet and Greet - Santa Cruz, California
Meet and Greet - Salinas, California
Town Hall Meeting - Bakersfield, California

September 29th: Accompanied by Mayor Gavin Newsom, former Mayor James Hahn, and Cindy Crawford
Meet and Greet - North Valley, California
Campaign Rally - Los Angelas, California
Campaign Rally - Long Beach, California
Appearance on KTLA 6 - Los Angelas, California

September 30th: Accompanied by Cindy Crawford
Meet and Greet - Riverside, California
Opening of New Campaign Office - Irvine, California
Meet and Greet - Poway, California
Campaign Rally - San Diego, California

Michael Bloomberg Opens a New Office in Irvine, California

Good afternoon!

The polls are tightening! Each day, our campaign continues to gain momentum, and I know that we will continue this campaign all the way to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue! California plays a crucial role in getting us there, hence why our campaign is investing so much time and resources into this state. I know that on election night, California will surprise the nation by voting for the Bloomberg/Bayh ticket!

I'm proud to have the endorsement of strong executives around this nation, from Mayor Nutter in Philadelphia, to Mayor Newsom in San Fransisco, and former Mayor Hahn right up the road in Los Angelas, who was on the campaign trail with us yesterday. All of these folks understand something that few in Washington seem to get - in order to get things done and move this country back on the right track, we need to start listening to the people. We need to ignore the party bosses and special interests and work across party lines to get the job done. I don't have a party - I don't have a side. As President, I will act in the best interests of the American people, and with that, will work with both sides to find solutions to get this country moving again. Thank you, and God Bless!

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(Let me go on the record to say that unless where a rebuttal is allowed, I think it would be very improper for other candidates to get to personally respond to earlier posts, as it punishes those who respond first (we should be rewarded, not punished, for posting earlier))

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First off, I would like to thank both you, Jim, and Ole Miss' for agreeing to host this debate. And I want to thank you, the American people, for tuning in tonight to hear this very important discussion of our nation's future. We're at a critical time in our nation, and this election will affect our nation for generations to come.

The current administration has us going down the wrong path, both at home and abroad. In order to improve our economic situation, we first should seek to improve the way the government operates. The economic policies of the Bush administration has completely wiped out the surplus created by President Clinton and has added trillions of dollars to our nations debt. As your President, I will work with both Republicans and Democrats to both cut spending and raise taxes on our highest income earners.

Solving the economic issues facing our country requires cooperation, and that is something both Republicans and Democrats have received a failing grade on. Serving as Mayor, I worked with both Republicans and Democrats to turn a five billion dollar deficit into a four billion dollar surplus, which was then used to give a tax rebate to all homeowners in our city. I'm tired of the reckless policies implemented by both Republicans and Democrats in Washington, and as President, I will put an end to it.

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Well, I would respond by saying that those charges are simply incorrect. Our campaign has the momentum right now, and each week, we are getting closer and closer to Senator McCain and Governor Dean. We are also leading in several states, a feat that hasn't been accomplished by a third party candidate since 1968. I am in this race because I'm tired of the direction our leaders in Washington are taking us, and I know that with real reform and real leadership, we can turn things around. Each day, more and more Americans are saying "no" to the status quo and joining our team.

I believe our campaign has a very realistic chance of not only winning the popular vote, but also reaching the required number of electoral votes to win the Presidency. With your support, we can do the unthinkable, say no to the establishment, and send a third-party candidate to the White House!

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Our leaders in Washington have failed us on the issue of health care, primarily due to the fact that special interest groups, who have funded many of their campaigns, have dictated their policy-making. When I'm President, special interests groups will not have a vote or a say on my administration's decisions. Take the tobacco industry - one billion people will die due to tobacco this century, yet nothing will be done on this critical issue due to the billions of dollars they pour into campaigns. The entire way Washington works is just wrong - our government should act in accordance of what is best for the people, not what is best for their campaigns.

Fixing the health care system requires the courage and leadership we only dream of our elected officials having. It's a daunting task, but if we can finally get both sides working together, I think we can start fixing this issue. Medicare has to achieve reform - the architects of Medicare never envisioned it to be what it is today. That being said, as President, I will protect all Medicare funding and ensure that each senior has the right to the best health care in the world. I believe in establishing a federal health care system that, one day, can get every individual insured. It is crucial that we force the insurance companies to no longer deny those with pre-existing conditions, and individuals should also be able to stay on their parents plan until at least the age of twenty-five. One piece of reform alone will not solve this critical issue, but with the right policies and the right leaders there to implement then, progress can be made.

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Well, all of us certainly contrast from one another in terms of political beliefs. I believe both Republicans and Democrats have the right solutions and have a very moderate past, which contrasts from others in the race. But more importantly, I think my past and my goals as President is what draws the greatest contrast. I am not a career politician - I spent almost three decade in the private sector, which I believe gives me a unique perspective on how the economy works. I'm an Independent - throughout my administration, I've ignored the special interests and party bosses and have acted in the best interests of the people of New York City. As a result, our economy is expanding and our city is in the best financial shape it has been in for many years. This is the type of leadership we need in Washington D.C., my friends. This election gives you, the people, an opportunity to stand up to party leaders and elect someone to the White House who will represent your best interests.

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We have to have a leader who will bring both sides together in Washington D.C. Our nation is facing big issues, and we need cooperation and compromise to solve them. Statements made by Governor Dean during his time as DNC Chair are concerning to me, statements in which he referred to Republicans as idiots among other derogatory names. He later tried to backtrack on saying he hated Republicans by saying he was only referring to the leadership, but I find that just as alarming, as those are the individuals he would have to be working with if elected President!

As soon as I'm elected President, I plan on sitting down with individuals in both parties who are interested in real reform and understand the need to work together. We need a President who is a unifier, not a divider. I have a record of doing just that as Mayor of New York City, and as an Independent, I will do whatever it takes to get both sides to work together. While we have the opportunity to elect an Independent problem-solver to the White House, we'll still have many partisan Republicans and Democrats in Washington, so it is crucial that we get them to understand the importance of compromise as well.

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To the millions of Americans who took things into their own hands and helped get me on the ballot, let me assure you that tonight is only the beginning. Our campaign is gaining momentum, and for the next month, we will be going full steam ahead to make sure that you get a voice in your government and that you get your country back!

Can we win? Of course we can win, because this is your country. The only question remaining is who do you want in the White House. I urge the American people to stop letting the party bosses to tell you who to vote for, and don't listen to the press who tells you that you'd be throwing your vote away by voting for me - use your head and make your own informed decision, without any of the biases.

I encourage the voters to look at each candidate's record - which candidates have been part of the problem, and which candidates have contributed to the divisive nature that has been created in Washington D.C. Which candidate has worked across lines to take a city from financial uncertainty to financial stability?

I'm running in this race for the future generations - I want you to have the American dream. I'm doing this because I love America, and I love the American spirit. Thank you all, God Bless, and I ask for your vote this November.

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OOC: The other three candidates are all going to be at an advantage over myself as they'll be able to compare their responses to mine. Imagine how beneficial it'd be to be in a debate where you know exactly what others have said. Despite having my own RL distractions, I posted my responses as soon as possible, and despite my efforts, this game is going to be delayed waiting for everyone else to respond. I think that deserves a little bit of a boost. Maybe NHI will decide that there should be consequences for waiting around for others to post their response and he'll grade the debate tonight or tomorrow, as was planned.

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Statement from the Bloomberg Campaign

Who was the winner in last nights debate? America.

Forty-eight percent of Americans believed one of the third-party candidates performed the best in the debate. What's even better is that twenty-seven percent of Americans believed Michael Bloomberg won the debate, a greater percentage than any other candidate. Our campaign declares victory, and the momentum continues to build behind our campaign.

Make no mistake - this is a serious campaign, and we have a serious shot at victory this November. Our campaign looks forward to continue meeting voters across this great nation and spreading our message that with the right leadership and bi-partisanship, this nation can head back in the right direction!

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Schedule: October 1st-6th

October 1st: Accompanied by Oprah Winfrey and Susan G Komen Founder/Chief of Protocal Nancy Brinker
Campaign Rally - Oak Lawn, Illinois
Town Hall Meeting - Naperville, Illinois
Meet and Greet - Rockford, Illinois
Strategy Meeting - Rockford, Illinois

Susan G. Komen Founder Nancy Brinker Endorses Bloomberg

Good afternoon! It's great to be here in Oak Lawn today!

My friendship with Mayor Bloomberg goes way back. For years, Mike has been an advocate and supporter of the Susan G. Komen Foundation, and as Mayor, public health has been one of his highest commitments. But that's not the main reason why I am endorsing Mike. I'm endorsing Mike because when I watched him as Mayor and as a businessman, I see a guy who is ready to make the tough decisions needed to turn this country around.

Special interests control Washington D.C. - they are the reason so little has been accomplished there. Michael Bloomberg has ignored special interests as mayor, rather focusing on the needs of his constituents. His opponents may attack him for being rich and successful, but I admire his ambition in building a company from the ground up. Look at his record, and look at his plan. This is a man who's has a strong desire to compromise with both sides to get this country back on track. He isn't a career politician, and he isn't tied to the party bosses and establishment. That's just the kind of leader we need!

October 2nd: Accompanied by Oprah Winfrey
Campaign Rally - Madison, Wisconsin
Meet and Greet - Wausau, Wisconsin
Meet and Greet - Duluth, Minnesota
Town Hall Meeting - Grand Rapids, Minnesota
Flies to Nevada

October 3rd: Accompanied by Jim Matheson
Campaign Rally - Las Vegas, Nevada
Meet and Greet - Riverside, California
Meet and Greet - San Pedro, California
Campaign Rally - Los Angelas, California

Michael Bloomberg speaks at a rally in LA

As Mayor, businesses expanded in New York City. Our unemployment fell, and we did this also while cutting spending and balancing the budget. While we were having this success in New York City, what were President Bush and Senator McCain up to in Washington D.C.? They were putting our country in trillions of dollars in debt and drudging on in an unpopular war. The policies of Bush-McCain have hurt this country economically, and we simply can't afford four more years of this.

Washington D.C. has a spending problem, and both sides are equally responsible for it. Now, I've been attacked in the race as being an elitist rich guy. You know what, I'll admit it - I am rich. I've been very fortunate in my life to have made smart business decisions to get me where I am today. It's not something I'm ashamed of, and I stand by it. What I also stand by is my record as Mayor and my plan as President, a plan that isn't for elitists, but a plan that requires our nation's wealthiest to pay their fair share, end the reckless spending domestically and abroad, and creating a stimulus to boost our economy. This isn't an elitist plan - it's a plan that will get this country working again!

October 4th: Accompanied by Gavin Newsom
Town Hall Meeting - San Jose, California
Meet and Greet - Fremont, California
Meet and Greet - Sunnyvale, California
Campaign Rally - San Francisco, California
Flies to Florida

October 5th: Accompanied by Congressman Canady (R) and Blanche Lincoln
Meeting with Jewish Leaders - Miami, Florida
Campaign Rally - Hollywood, Florida
Meet and Greet - Davie, Florida
Town Hall Meeting - Fort Lauderdale, Florida

October 6th: Accompanied by Congressman Canady (R) and Blanche Lincoln
Meet and Greet - Boca Raton, Florida
Meet and Greet - West Palm Beach, Florida
Meet and Greet - Jupiter, Florida
Town Hall Meeting - Fort Pierce, Florida

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Ad: Wrong Decision

Michael Bloomberg has released the following campaign ad, which will begin airing immediately and will run in all fifty states (OOC: I think I have the liberty to do this, considering the obvious financial advantage Bloomberg has).

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Rally: Hollywood, Florida

Thank you all! It's great to be here in Florida - the weather is certainly provides a break for a New Yorker.

I'm running for President because I'm tired of the partisanship and political games being played in Washington D.C. This isn't the fault of one side or the other - both are responsible for the mess created there. Howard Dean and John McCain are part of the problem in Washington D.C., and we're not going to change anything if we keep sending the same type of leadership back there.

Governor Dean has continued to run a negative and divisive campaign, trying to convince voters why Senator McCain and I would be bad Presidents, rather than convincing you why he would be a good President. This should come as a surprise to no one, as Governor Dean has a longstanding record of creating divisions rather than solutions. Earlier this week, he stooped to an even lower level, attempting to paint me as a "spineless opportunist" and spreading even more lies, such as trying to claim I'll cut important programs that would send us into a depression...true signs of a desperate campaign.

It's a true shame that when a politician comes forth who, like most Americans, believe both sides have the answers and is ready to apply both conservative and liberal policies to our nation, they are labeled as spineless for not taking a specific side. Well, here's my message to Governor Dean: I'm on a side, and it's the side of the American people. Party labels mean little to me - both McCain and Dean are trying to attack me for being both a Republican and a Democrat in the past. The truth is, both sides are part of the problem. I've realized that, Americans have realized that, and it will show on Election Day when Americans ditch the status quo and elect a bi-partisan Independent to the White House! As Mayor, I worked with Republicans and Democrats to cut waste and create a fair tax system, and as a result we created a large surplus and made drastic improvements to the NYC economy. That same time of leadership, the ability to work with others, not tear them down, is what we need in Washington D.C., and that's the type of leader I will be!

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Ad: Forward

The Bloomberg/Bayh campaign has released the following radio ad, which will concentrate on the following states:

Bloomberg: I'm Michael Bloomberg, and I'm running for President to change the way Washington works. Washington is run by special interest groups and career politicians, folks who are more concerned about serving their party than their constituents.

I want to change that - as Mayor, I ditched the special interest groups, putting my constituents first. We changed things for the better, and as President, I will put my country and her constituents first. Together, united, we can move America forward.

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Reporter: Mayor Bloomberg, what is your take on the recent comments by Senator Murray that Howard Dean is "the sexiest man alive" and talking about him covered in chocolate frosting?
Bloomberg: Disturbing...while I certainly don't want to see Dean and Murray elected, I suppose it would make for a very interesting four years...

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Schedule: October 7th - 13th

October 7th: Accompanied by Dave Freudenthal and Jim Matheson
Meet and Greet - Fort Collins, Colorado
Campaign Rally - Cheyenne, Wyoming
Town Hall Meeting - Laramie, Wyoming
Appearance on Live with Regis and Kelly

Mayor Bloomberg fires up a crowd in Cheyenne, Wyoming

Thank you all for being here today! It's great to be here today in the beautiful state with Wyoming with your incredible Governor, Dave Freudenthal.

Dave and I have our differences, but one thing special we have in common is our desire to compromise and work with individuals of all ideologies to create better opportunities for our constituents. Here in Wyoming, Dave has worked with Republican majorities to balance the budget, lower the unemployment rate, and bring great improvements to the education system here in Wyoming. The sense of compromise and working together that we've see here in Wyoming should be a model for the rest of our nation, and as President, it's exactly the kind of leadership I hope to bring.

I'm not a Republican, nor am I a Democrat. I think both sides have contributed to the mess we are in, largely due to the special interests that have taken over our nation. As President, I will seek to end their presence in Washington by banning them from the chamber. They certainly won't have any sort of impact on my decisions as President - I will only be looking out for the interests of our nation and her people.

October 8th: Accompanied by Jim Matheson
Meet and Greet - Sunrise Manor, Nevada
Meet and Greet - Summerlin, Nevada
Campaign Rally - Las Vegas, Nevada
Town Hall Meeting - Enterprise, Nevada

Mayor Bloomberg speaks at a rally in Las Vegas, Nevada

Senator McCain is absolutely right - America is in decline, both at home and abroad, and it's largely due to the failed economic policies of Bush and McCain. I supported President Bush's decision to invade Iraq, and I supported the President four years ago. But a string of poor decisions by the President has altered my opinion of him, and I now firmly believe that America is worse off due to the policies of Bush. A new direction is needed, and from what I've seen, what Senator McCain is proposing would essentially be a continuation of failed policies.

I'm ready to put America back to work. It's time to wind down the unpopular war in Iraq, and use those resources to start improving ourselves here at home, whether it be through achieving health care for all, making college education more affordable and investing in our failing schools, or by fixing the many bridges and roads in this country in need of repair. We have a lot to do, and it needs to be done in a short amount of time. That's why it is essential that we have leaders in Washington who are ready to fight for you - as long as we let special interest groups dominate the debate, little will get accomplished. As President, I'll kick out the special interests, ignore the party bosses, and seek to implement policies with only our nation's best interests in mind.

October 9th: Accompanied by Cindy Crawford, Gavin Newsom, and Ross Perot
Meet and Greet - Victorville, California
Campaign Rally - Riverside, California
Meet and Greet - Vista, California
Campaign Rally - San Diego, California
Teleconference with Alaska for Bloomberg Team
Flies to Pennsylvania

Mayor Bloomberg greets voters in Vista, California

I look forward to seeing California vote Independent in one month! We have a great team here, a great group of volunteers. The momentum is behind us, not just here, but across the nation. We won the first debate, and our next Vice President, Evan Bayh, is going to win the next debate!

Evan and I have real solutions for this nation. It involves idea's from both parties. Now, Howard Dean calls me spineless for having such a position, but then again, look at his divisive record as DNC Chairman and it should come as a surprise to no one that he chastises someone with a bi-partisan record and positions. Senator Murray, like Governor Dean, is just spreading attacks that may sound good on soundbites, but simply aren't true. We won't be a continuation of the last eight years, not in the slightest. A Bloomberg-Bayh administration will seek to create fair tax rates, understanding that the rich can pay a little more, as well as bring a close to the Iraq war and cutting all of the wasteful, pork spending in Washington. In doing so, we're not only going to balance the budget, but we're going to be able to invest more in creating a better opportunity for Americans with better jobs and an improved education system.

October 10th: Accompanied by Mayor Michael Nutter and Oprah Winfrey
Meet and Greet - Wallingford, Pennsylvania
Meet and Greet - Allentown, Pennslyvania
Campaign Rally - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Town Hall Meeting - Paterson, New York

Oprah speaks at a rally in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Good afternoon!

I've spent time over the past few weeks campaigning on behalf of Mayor Bloomberg, and let me just emphasize how excited I am to end this error and elect real leadership to the White House next month!

Like many here in Philadelphia and across the Northeast, I am a proud liberal, but before anything, I am an American. I ran for President on the belief that we have a government that isn't working for us, rather, for itself. We have politicians who don't care too much about representing their constituents, but are rather focused on the interest groups and party bosses. I sought to bring change within the Democratic party, though ultimately, our efforts fell short. I chose not to endorse Governor Dean because his divisive nature is one of the main issues wrong with our country. We need leaders who are not only ready to represent the people, but are also ready to cooperate and work together. I endorsed Mayor Bloomberg because not only does he have the best record of the candidates in terms of bi-partisanship, but because he has shown himself to be a true leader, putting the people's interests ahead of his own.

My friends, we need Mayor Bloomberg and Senator Bayh to be our President and Vice President. They may not be the leaders some of us originally wanted, but they are the leaders we need. Thank you, and God Bless!

October 11th:Accompanied by Lowell Weicker and Angus King
Meet and Greet - Stamford, Connecticut
Town Hall Meeting - Bridgeport, Connecticut
Campaign Rally - New Haven, Connecticut
Meeting with Small Business Owners - Hamden, Connecticut
Appearance on Hannity

Mayor Bloomberg gives a stirring speech in New Haven, Connecticut

New Haven - in a few weeks, you will have tremendous power. You will have the ability to create change in our nation. We have the power and the ability to fundamentally build and grow America in a positive way for the next four years, rather that continue down the decline we're currently going through. We have the ability to build on a progressive and positive economic platform that will invest our resources here at home to put Americans to work, boosting our economy through empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs across this great country.

Throughout America, citizens are frustrated by Republicans and Democrats who parrot old ideas, yet when they get into power, little is actually done. This upcoming election is about much more than who will be our President, it is about choices and choosing the future of America. The path we are currently on, and some of the paths offered to us in this election, will continue to lead us down a dark path.

I am running for President, not for the title or the prestige, but because I have a truly unique vision for this country, a vision rarely seen in presidential races, and this vision can be achieved with the right leadership and a unified country. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can move this country forward. God Bless you all!

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I have great respect for Senator McCain, and I still think he has a real chance at becoming our next President. But here in Connecticut, the race is between Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Dean. We simply cannot afford four more years of a divisive government with Dean in control - I urge the good people of Connecticut, and other Americans, to cast their vote for Mike Bloomberg.
- Former Governor Lowell Weicker endorsing Bloomberg

October 12th: Accompanied by Angus King, Lincoln Chaffee, and Tim Cahill
Meet and Greet - Norwich, Connecticut
Campaign Rally - Providence, Rhode Island
Meet and Greet - Worcester, Massachusetts
Town Hall Meeting - Newton, Massachusetts

Chaffee speech in another post - ran out of characters!

October 13th: Accompanied by Angus King and former Governor Steve Merrill
Meet and Greet - Lowell, Massachusetts
Town Hall Meeting - Nashua, New Hampshire
Campaign Rally - Manchester, New Hampshire
Town Hall Meeting - Concord, New Hampshire
Appearance on Anderson Cooper 360

Former Governor Steve Merrill addresses a crowd in Manchester, New Hampshire

My friends, we have a real opportunity this election. For as long as I can remember, Americans have been generally unfavorable to the two-party system, believing that both sides contribute to our nation's problems and that Washington D.C. is too partisan. And you're right - Washington has gotten too political, too partisan.

This election, we finally have a real opportunity to kick out the D.C. establishment and elect a third-party candidate. I think we've moved past the concern that it would be wasting a vote, a concern I used to hold, which originally kept me from endorsing Michael Bloomberg. But this is certainly a three-way race right now, and with the way the momentum is swinging, I wouldn't be surprised to see the Mayor leading nationally before long.

New Hampshire - please join me in saying no to the establishment and yes to real leaders. Join me next month. Let's put New Hampshire's four electoral votes in the Bloomberg column!

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Official Statement from Michael Bloomberg

I am very proud of Senator Bayh's debate performance last night, and for the second straight debate, we declare victory. With each passing day, more and more Americans are becoming fed up with the two-party state in Washington. Americans are tired of the divisiveness and partisan politics, and are ready for leadership who answer to them, not special interest groups and party bosses.

Evan Bayh and I represent that type of leadership, and with the momentum clearly behind our campaign, are excited at the prospect of leading this nation in a new, positive direction. It's time that we believe again in America.

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Lincoln Chaffee Endorses Bloomberg!

The former Senator joined Mayor Bloomberg at a rally in Providence

For multiple elections, Rhode Island has been ignored by the major party candidates. 2008 saw a change to that - Michael Bloomberg has invested time, energy, and resources into winning this state, and it's nice to see our state isn't being ignored as usual.

Several months ago, Mayor Bloomberg was polling in the teens, with little chance of winning. Yet, determined and fighting hard, he climbed his way up, and now, the American people have a real opportunity to say no to the two-party system. It's this type of determination and hard work that Mike has shown his whole life, and it's exactly what we need in the White House right now!

Bono Mack Endorses Bloomberg!

Congresswoman Bono Mack endorses Bloomberg

I have great admiration for Senator McCain and Governor Pataki. But right now, particularly in California, we need to do whatever it takes to keep Governor Dean out of the White House, and I think our best bet is a vote for Michael Bloomberg. He's the one thing keeping Governor Dean from taking our fifty-five electoral votes. Without us, Dean's chances of reaching the necessary electoral votes is nearly impossible.

I found it somewhat surprising to see several Republicans endorsing Governor Dean this week. Governor Dean has spent years demonizing Republicans, making petty, immature attacks. He even went as far as to say he hated Republicans. Nearly one-third of Americans identify themselves as Republicans - how can we expect Governor Dean to represent us when he's made such hateful attacks on us?

Quite frankly, I'm disgusted by Governor Dean's record as DNC, and I think others should be as well. We need a President who can unite us, not bring further division. That's why I support Mayor Bloomberg and Senator Bayh, and I urge my fellow Republicans, as well as Independents and Democrats who are ready for real change, to do the same.

Bloomberg shines on Hannity

Hannity: Mayor Bloomberg, what would you say the state of the race is right now?
Bloomberg: Well, as each day progresses, I'm growing more and more optimistic. We're drawing large crowds, we have a great grassroots campaign going. Endorsements are flowing in, and both Senator Bayh and myself have held our own in the debates. I think we stand a real chance at winning.
Hannity: There will be a foreign policy debate coming up, and no doubt, your opponents may criticize your lack of experience. How do you plan to rebuttal?
Bloomberg: Sean, I know that when it comes to foreign policy, Senator McCain has more experience than any of the other candidates. However, I think you have to look at the policies behind the candidates, and that's where you see errors in the candidates. I originally supported the Iraq war, but it has continued on with little progress being made, yet both President Bush and Senator McCain continue to vigorously support it. I don't, and as President, I will end the Iraq War.

We have to ask ourselves: Are we safer now than we were eight years ago? I don't think the War on Terror has been overly successful, and I think we live in a much more dangerous world than we used to. America's image across the world has declined - as President, I hope to restore it. I'm proud to have the endorsement of former Secretary of State Colin Powell, and if elected, I plan to use his advice, along with my Vice President and others, to steer our nation's foreign policy back in a positive direction.
Hannity: What will your campaign's strategy be going forward?
Bloomberg: We still have a lot of states on the radar, from Wyoming to Delaware. We're not going to focus on a state or two, but continue our national strategy. We have support coming from all corners, whether it be from Alabama, where we just picked up the support of Montgomery Mayor Bobby Bright, or here in the Northeast, where I think we stand an excellent chance at winning a majority of states, particularly the electoral prizes of New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. I'm excited to continue campaigning these last few weeks - I think we stand a real shot.
Hannity: Thank you for appearing this evening. Best of luck to you!

OOC

SPIDERMAN ENDORSES BLOOMBERG

I've kept my city safe for years - America needs a President who will keep us safe. I've known the Mayor for years, and have even saved his life before. This dude would make one helluva President. If you like Spiderman, you should like Bloomberg too!

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TV Ad: Your Voice

Mayor Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, focusing on his independent record. It will run in the following states:

Bloomberg: Look at American politics today. We have members of the establishment running on both sides, folks who have contributed to the problems in Washington, not solve them.

America needs a new kind of leadership, one void of the partisanship. I'm an Independent, and I'm ready to work across the aisle with both sides to get things done. I'm Michael Bloomberg, and I approve of this message, and as President, I will be your voice.

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TV Ad: The One

Mayor Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, focusing on his record as Mayor. It will run in the following states:

Blanche Lincoln: Hi, I'm Blanche Lincoln, Senator from Arkansas and former Presidential candidate. I support Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh because both of them have a record of getting things done.

As Mayor, Michael Bloomberg cut wasteful spending and turned a five billion dollar deficit into a four billion dollar surplus. He focused on improving the quality of education and making health care affordable for all. And he did this by working across the aisle, something we see little of in Washington D.C.

Bloomberg: I'm Michael Bloomberg -  I'll be a President for all of America, not just one region or party. I humbly ask for your vote on November 4th.

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Mike Castle Campaigns for Bloomberg

Mike Castle campaigns for Bloomberg in Dover, Delaware

I want to thank the people of Delaware for entrusting me to serve this state in the House - it is truly an honor, and I hope I am elected again on November 4th. But there is a much bigger race this election, the race for the White House. One candidate stands out in my mind, one ticket, I know, will lead this nation back in the right direction. That candidate is Michael Bloomberg.

I urge my friends here in Delaware and across the nation to cast their vote on November 4th for Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh. Both are pragmatic leaders with executive experience, executives who have worked across the aisle many times and desire to bring unity to Washington D.C. They are the type of leaders we need!

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OOC: Can we please quite spamming this thread with OOCs? There's another thread where you all can have your conversations (as well as private messages).

Jodi Rell: America Needs Mike Bloomberg!

Connecticut Governor Jodi Rell (R) gives a warm endorsement to Michael Bloomberg

Good afternoon.

I am here today to announce my endorsement of Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh to be our next President and Vice President. I have great respect for Senator McCain and Governor Pataki, my fellow Republicans, but I believe there is a stronger ticket in this race, a ticket better prepared to not only defeat Dean here in Connecticut, but also a ticket better prepared to lead this nation in a new, positive direction.

Senator McCain is right when stating that our nation is in decline - we simply cannot continue down the same path of reckless spending that is plaguing our nation. We need leaders that are prepared to make the difficult decisions required to put us back on a path of economic stability. Living just a few miles away, I've witnessed Michael Bloomberg do just that in New York City, and I am confident that he can take the same pragmatism to Washington D.C.

It's time for leaders, not just in the executive office, but across the board, who will drop the party politics and go to Washington D.C. with only the people in mind. We need to stop the name calling, stop making the divisive and offensive comments towards our colleagues, as Dean has done for years and continues to do today. We need real leaders, leaders who will sit down with both sides and hash out solutions that will benefit us all. Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh are the only candidates in this race who have a proven record of doing that. America needs this type of leadership - America needs Michael Bloomberg and Evan Bayh!

Matt Damon: Michael Bloomberg will bring change

Actor Matt Damon formally endorses Michael Bloomberg for President

As Mayor, Michael Bloomberg made his city safer by promoting pragmatic gun-control laws. As President, I know he'll do the same.

Michael Bloomberg has a solid record as Mayor, the best of any candidates running. He's promoted fiscal responsibility, erasing a large deficit and building a surplus in New York City. He's improved schools and roads, and made our children safer. But I don't support Michael Bloomberg because of what he's done...I support Michael Bloomberg because of what he can do as President. We have a rare opportunity in this election to not just talk the talk, but to walk the walk and send real, bi-partisan leaders to Washington D.C. Polls continue to show that Americans are tired of the way Washington is working, that they want leaders who will work across the aisle and ignore the special interests. Michael Bloomberg is exactly the type of leader we need, and quite simply, we as Americans would be foolish to pass up on the opportunity of having these bi-partisan leaders be our next President and Vice President.

My fellow Democrats, Independents, Republicans...Americans: Join me in this election! Let's take back America and elect leaders who will fight for us!

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Michael Bloomberg Campaign Advertisement: Medicare

Michael Bloomberg has released the following television advertisement, which will air in the following states:

Announcer: Howard Dean claims to support Medicare. But what did Mr. Dean say while serving as Governor of Vermont?

Howard Dean Voiceover: "one of the worst federal programs ever and a living advertisement for why the government should never administer a national health care program."

Michael Bloomberg: As President, not only will I protect Medicare funding, but I'll also fight for legislation providing health care for each and every American, because that is what you deserve. I am proud to approve of this message.

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Town Hall Presidential Debate: Bloomberg Responds - Part 1

Michael Bloomberg answers questions at the Town Hall Presidential Debate

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Thank you for your question. First of all, I would like to thank the sponsors of this debate and the good people of Nashville for hosting the debate. I would like to thank Governor Dean, Senator McCain, and Mr. Nader for participating, and I would just like to say I'm happy to be here with my wife Diana and my lovely daughters, Georgina and Emma. With Georgina being a professional horseback rider, we thoroughly enjoyed touring Nashville today, especially being able to enjoy the historic Hidden Acres Farm.

September 11th is a date that will always remain engraved in our minds. As a New Yorker, it brought great warmth to my heart seeing our nation come together as one, ready to do whatever necessary to ensure safety in our nation. Following the devastating attacks, I stood with President Bush in the War on Terror, believing in what was necessary to protect our nation at home. And as a New Yorker, I take serious offense to Governor Dean making the suggestion when he was running for President back in 2004 that Bush may have been warned that 9/11 would happen, and that an investigation on it should take place. These types of conspiracies have no place in the White House, or anywhere near our capital for that matter.

Fast forward to today, and my commitment to protecting our nation remains the same.  Initially, we went into Baghdad, and we as a nation celebrated. But since then, the war has been badly mishandled, and little progress has been made. We have spent over $600 billion in Iraq, have lost over four thousand lives, and from a strategic perspective, al Qaeda is now stronger than any time since 2001. By focusing on Iraq instead of Afghanistan, we took our eye of the ball, and it has put our nation at risk not only in terms of foreign policy, but in terms of economic stability. The Iraq War has put our nation in billions of dollars in debt - our budget is overstretched and we are having to borrow too much money from overseas as a result.

Our leaders in Afghanistan have stated time and time again that they need more troops...they need more resources. Their pleas have been ignored by this administration. They will not be in mine. After seeing years of failed leadership there, as President, I will bring the troops home from Iraq and will direct our attention to Afghanistan and the fight against Al Qaeda. As I've said before, I take 9/11 very personally- it is imperative that we crush Al Qaeda and that we capture Osama Bin Laden. I don't care if I have to travel to the gates of hell to do it - we will find him.

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The experience and integrity of an individual will be the main criteria in my mind, as well as their vision for our country's future. The work of protecting our nation is never done, never finished, and we have much to do: Ending the war in Iraq, building a successful operation in Afghanistan, caring for the brave men and women risking their lives to protect our freedom, preparing for a full range of threats, and supporting policies to ensure that our men and women in uniform should be able to serve this country they love, no matter who they love.

I need someone who, like I am, is ready to sit down and work with both Republicans and Democrats to craft policies to better secure our nation. Someone who understands that war should only be done when absolutely necessary. I want a Secretary of Defense that will always be their for our men and women in uniform. There are many individuals who meet all of those qualifications and more, and I'm not sure whom I would chose. Former Secretary of State Colin Powell comes to mind, and I'm proud to have his support in this campaign. Senator Chuck Hagel, a decorated veteran and foreign policy expert, would also be on my list, as will current Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who I believe has done well since taking over the position in 2006. Any of these individuals, as well as others not mentioned, would do an excellent job at ensuring the safety of our citizens both here and those abroad.

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I'm proud to be a citizen of the greatest nation on Earth, and it is an honor to be standing on this stage with four qualified gentleman, vying to become the next leader of this land of opportunity. This nation has made extraordinary accomplishments in such a short time, and I know that regardless of who our next President may be, our nation's best days are ahead of her, and we will continue to grow and prosper.

Now, there are many areas needing improvement, and our nation faces many threats and obstacles. We need the right type of leaders to face those obstacles - leaders who will be ready to sit down on Day One and work with both sides, rather than ostracize and tear down the opposition, as we have seen Governor Dean do as DNC Chair and still today as a candidate for President. We simply cannot afford four more years of division and partisan politics, as they will make the threats facing our nation even greater. Part of what has led to the grave issues facing our country is a result of the two-party state in Washington D.C. Party bosses and special interest groups dictate policy, and I know that myself and most Americans are fed up with both Republicans and Democrats leading our country down the wrong path, and as President, I will end this stench of partisanship controlling Washington.

Abroad, you have to look at the War On Terror and ask if we're really winning this war. Terrorism is still rampant around our world, and I don't think we are much safer than we were eight years ago. Finding Osama Bin Laden and other Al Qaeda leaders is an absolute necessity, as is working with other countries to ensure nuclear weapons are kept out of the wrong hands. A powerful Al Qaeda or a country such as Iran or North Korea developing nuclear weapons is most certainly the greatest obstacle facing our nation, and it is imperative that we are prepared to both prevent and protect.

Here at home, our biggest long-term threat is our budget crisis. Under the policies of Bush, supported by Senator McCain, we've seen a multi-billion dollar surplus wiped out, and our nation is trillions of dollars in debt, with an ever-growing deficit. If we continue at this rate, America will be bankrupt in 10-15 years, and the economic implications that would have would be send us into another Great Depression. As Mayor, we combined both conservative and liberal ideas - we cut wasteful spending and created fair tax rates. This combination not only turned a five billion dollar deficit into a four billion dollar surplus, but also created jobs and expanded opportunities and services for many New Yorkers. As President, I will do the same - I'll fight against the pork barrel spending we've seen dominate D.C. for decades, end the influence of special interests, and require more accountability for government agencies. We need a smaller and more efficient government, and more importantly, a government that the American people can trust again, something we haven't had in decades. These bold reforms require cooperation and dedication - it's not something that's going to be solved in my first hundred days, but I believe if we create a greater sense of accountability in D.C., our nation can once again become economically secure.