No Regrets!

Well folks, we tried. Lowndes County was close (45.4% to 54.6%; that poll didn't lie). Unfortunately, Bill lost every county (33.4% to 66.6%), except one:

Bill Gillespie, who challenged Kingston said, “We won Liberty County! That felt goo. Since I am a 3rd ID veteran and still work there. We had great support in Liberty.

“As for the First Congressional District, it was unfortunately, very similar again to 2006. We thought there would be more incumbent angst and Obama coat-tails, but no. The district wasn't ready for Obama. However, I want to make it clear that I was! I am very excited about our future.

As for my campaign, I have no regrets. I think we ran the best small campaign we could. The experiences, causes advanced and friends made were well worth it. We helped the Democratic Party in the district continue its positive growth. It is now time to come together as Americans to fix these tough obstacles.

Thanks to all of you who helped.

Last Call! Vote Today

There will be no House race runoff, so if you want Bill Gillespie to be our next U.S. Representative from Georgia's First District, and you haven't voted yet, vote today!

The VDT was confused about the runoff, but they weren't confused about Jack Kingston being in a precarious position. Help oust Jack and elect Bill.

If you have already voted, go on down to the Tybee Island office and help get the vote out.

Or go to your local Obama Campaign for Change office (such as 102 East Adair St., Valdosta) and help call to remind people to vote, join door-to-door canvassing to remind people to vote, or volunteer to give rides to get people to the polls.

These people waited 45 minutes to 2 hours Friday in Lowndes County to vote. People in Atlanta stood in line up to 8 hours. Are we in the 1st District going to let Atlanta outdo us? I didn't think so. Get out the vote!

Veterans' issues in WSVH radio interview

The intro says "long-shot candidate" but the audio interview includes snippets like a veteran wearing a McCain hat recognizing Gillespie, calling him by name, engaging in conversation, and later saying he may vote for him. Lots of material about Bill Gillespie's Iraq experience, disabilities, and knowledge of veterans' health care. Also economy, taxes, and Iraq. Well worth listening to.

Poll: Jack Kingston in Precarious Position

The Valdosta Daily Times says:

The position of Jack Kingston is equally precarious. Kingston’s support is exactly 50 percent with almost one in four registered voters undecided, according to the survey, making a runoff in Georgia’s First Congressional District with challenger Bill Gillespie a possibility.

This is from a telephone survey of 453 random phone numbers (margin of error 4.6%) in Lowndes County on 16-26 October by the Center for Applied Research (CAR) at Valdosta State University (VSU), Professor James LaPlant.

Update: The VDT was confused about runoffs. While a runoff is quite possible for the Senate race, which has three candidates, a runoff is extremely unlikely for the House race, which has only two candidates. So if Jack Kingston is to plummet from his precarious perch, it will happen today, and, if so, Bill Gillespie will win today.

The Valdosta Daily Times previously relegated a story on massive new voter registrations to the inside pages and put a story about Lowndes County supposedly always being Republican on the front page of the same issue. The VDT later declined to endorse anyone, because they didn't expect so much early voting! If even the VDT says Kingston's position is precarious, Kingston is perched on a precipice indeed. Bill Gillespie can win!

I have the whole poll, and among respondents who said they'd already voted, Kingston was below 50%. This is ignominious for Kingston, who in 2006 got 59% against 41% for Democrat Jim Nelson in Lowndes County.

This figure shows early voters vs. likely voters:



Chris Prine (D) and Freddie Taylor (R) are running for sheriff, Ashley Paulk (D) and G. Norman Bennett (R) for county commission chair, Bill Gillespie (D) and Jack Kingston (R) for U.S. House GA-01, Jim Martin (D) and Saxby Chambliss (R) for U.S. Senate GA-Sen, and Barack Obama (D) and John McCain (R) for U.S. president GA-Pres. As you can see, the local races are not even close; the Democrat is way ahead in each of those. The national races show the Democrat trailing, but much closer in early voting. In GA-01, Jack Kingston (R) fell below 50% in early voting, and Bill Gillespie (D) is catching up. The poll showed 28% early voters at a time when more than 20% had voted early. The last day of early voting was packed in Lowndes County. Final early voting was about 22,000 out of about 57,000 registered voters, or about 38%. So if the trend shown in this survey continued, the Democrats are even closer in the national races now.

The professor who organized the survey, Jim LaPlant, tells me:

I should also note that the survey found that Democrats outnumber Republicans in our sample of Lowndes County registered voters. Our sample was 36% Democrat, 34% Republican, 26% Independent and 4% no
response. In 2004, Republicans outnumbered Democrats and the numbers were roughly equivalent in the 2006 survey.

The survey also shows 53% of voters chose the economy as their biggest issue, with terrorism coming in a distant second at 12%. Bill Gillespie's top issue is the economy, and on terrorism Bill is a decorated Iraq veteran and Jack is not.

The poll summary says 2008 has:

...a presidential election that has the potential to generate the highest voter turnout since the 1960 presidential election.

This turnout, especially of the massive number of newly registered voters, will favor Bill Gillespie, especially in Lowndes County, where the local Obama office has handed out thousands of Bill Gillespie flyers and has mentioned his name at every opportunity.

So, if you haven't voted for Bill yet, get out and vote Tuesday!

Major Endorsement!

Bill Gillespie snags a major endorsement from newspapers distributed throughout Georgia's First District:

Coastal Empire News, publishers of Savannah Daily News, The Business Report & Journal and Coastal Family Magazine, is endorsing Savannah's Bill Gillespie (D) for Congress to represent the 1st Congressional District over incumbent Jack Kingston (R).

Savannahian Bill Gillespie is a highly educated, fiscally conservative Democrat, a war hero of the Iraq War, a recipient of the Bronze Star and a candidate with a vision of how to bring jobs back to the 1st District in manufacturing, alternative energy and the timber industry.

And as for Jack "flag pin" Kingston:

And these times force us to step back, and take a hard look at his actual voting record on critical issues including fighting all measures to set a timeline to get out of Iraq, his failure to fight runaway Federal spending as a member of the House Appropriations committee that develops the budget, his leadership in defense of Tom Delay and President Bush as well as Republican party smear campaigns this election cycle, and his failure to file his personal financial disclosure information due last May 15 even though he was up for re-election. These votes and others lead us to believe that it is time for a change in 1st District representation.

Frankly, Jack began to lose our support last Feb. 27 when he appeared on the Dan Abrams show and said it was okay to "question Sen. Barack Obama's patriotism because he doesn't regularly wear an American flag lapel pin."

Problem was, sitting there on the TV set with the cameras rolling, Jack wasn't wearing a flag pin. These types of smear tactics are repugnant and demean elected officials in an era when voters are begging for straight talk on the issues versus old-style personal attack politics.

Yet, he continues to use such tactics, seeking to smear his opponent Bill Gillespie in this race, accusing him of lying about his educational degrees and other achievements, despite two news organizations having confirmed that Gillespie's resumé is accurate.

I guess they agree with Larrietta Johnson about that Atlanta debate.

Much more in the endorsement, con Kingston and pro Gillespie.

Concluding statement:

Bill Gillespie is a credible candidate and a man in touch with the needs of the military establishment in our region, which is a critical component of our local business economy.
To achieve a change, we must change.

All that and Bill Gillespie can fly!

Oh yeah: you can, too.

Bill in Valdosta with Jim Martin Thursday Friday

Photo: jimmywayne22 CC

Jim Martin and Bill Gillespie are on the road! As you know, Jim Martin aims to defeat Saxby Chambliss for Georgia Senator. You're probably aware by now that Bill Gillespie aims to oust Jack Kingston from GA-01.

"What is the Road To Change Bus Tour? The Democratic Party of Georgia will tour across Georgia, making 50 stops in 7 days, touting our Democratic candidates."

Friday 31 October 2008. Introductions at 7:30PM, Jim Martin at 8PM, other candidates at 8:30PM, including Lt. Col. Bill Gillespie (Army, ret.), all on the Lowndes County Courthouse steps, 108 E Central Ave., Valdosta, GA 31601.

Come see the new face of Georgia's Congressional delegation!

You can RSVP via mybarackobama.com.

Letter from a Veteran

This one needs no editing:

From: "Larrietta Johnson"
Date: Tue, October 28, 2008 2:02 pm
To: billgillespie@billforgeorgia.com

Hello Bill,

It's Larrietta Johnson. I was the soldier in the accident traveling behind your vehicle in Kuwait. I just wanted you to know that I voted for you today to represent the first congressional district of Georgia as our congressman.

I also watched your debate against Jack Kingston on GPB and I was proud of the way you handled yourself. I remember you saying that no one listened to you when you were in charge. I think the important thing is that you listened to others. I once had a young army captain tell me "Sergeant there is nothing to discuss" when I was trying to explain something to him. You were not like that and I will never forget you telling me that I could always come to you whenever I had an issue to discuss. Thank you for that.

I am currently about to finish my last semester to become a registered nurse. I attend school at the Technical College of the Lowcountry in Beaufort, S.C. Out-of-state tuition, inadequate funding in educational benefits for veterans, and gas prices has left me on the verge of packing it up and leaving Hinesville. I've just about lost everything that I've worked so hard for trying to better myself and my financial situation through education.

We certainly need change here in the first congressional district of Georgia and I wholeheartedly believe that you are the change that we need. I was graded on an assignment in one of my nursing classes and ironically the subject was that I write a letter to my congressman. My nursing instructor was so impressed with the letter that she gave it her seal of approval, asked to speak with me privately about my concerns, and put a cute little sticky on my assignment that read "bet he contacts you." Guess what?

Congressman Jack Kingston never contacted me. I guess the issues concerning soldiers, their benefits, and education incentives for Licensed Practical Nurses to become Registered Nurses were not worth his time.

Thank you Bill for fighting the fight with me that most politicians only talk about. I voted for you today and I wish you all the best!

Sincerely,
Larrietta Johnson
Veteran, US Army

Here's a link to the debate.

Atlanta Debate Video

Look in the GPB election archive, scroll down in the menu to APCD-1st Congressional District Debate, and press play.

A very few snippets are below. You've already seen some other impressions. Now you can watch for yourself.

Bill criticises Jack for not doing anything for the soldiers in his district, and compares Jack to Colonel Sanders: good for the fast food industry; not so good for the chickens.

Jack keeps shifting ground on Iraq and Afghanistan, sounding more like Barack and Bill all the time.

Bill: "This was a war of choice." "We can leave honorably in eighteen months." "Listen: this is a sinkhole." "The Iraqis can start taking care of themselves, and we can start focusing on our own internal problems."

Reporter to Jack: "Wouldn't it be a benefit to connect south Georgia to Atlanta and other cities?"

Jack: "You know there could be a time." "...the critical mass is not there."

Bill: "The time to fix the roof is when the sun is shining." But Bush didn't do that. Ties Kingston to DeLay. "We need to make public transportation a part of our public stimulus package."

Reporter to Bill: How do you propose to pay for the things you want to do?

Bill: "It's time we look at investing in skills for the 21st century."

Reporter asks Jack about earmark reform, given his many earmark requests.

Jack: Why yes! It's all the Democrats' fault that we don't have earmark reform. Jack: #1 have to have strong military! Decisions by generals in Baghdad! "vigilant military" etc. Worked for Tybee beach erosion. (Yet Mr. Zero on the Environment wants offshore drilling.)

30 second closing statements

Bill: Not set up for 21st century. Champion of middle class and working people. Change.

Jack: "He wants to kill No Child Left Behind!" Thump thump!

I'm pretty sure he said something else, but the blatancy of "kill" "child" was over the top even for Jack.

Jack must be scared!

Jack Showed Up! "Like a Chicken Voting for Colonel Sanders"

After saying he DECLINED to debate Bill Gillespie, Jack Kingston showed up Sunday after all!

Jack didn't have much to say, though:

with Kingston primarily charging that Gillespie misrepresented himself as having a Ph.D. Gillespie said he had made no such claim, but said he had completed all of the work necessary for a Ph.D., other than the dissertation.

Instead of picking at trivia, Bill went for substance:

Among other things, Gillespie, the Democratic challenger, said Kingston, the Republican incumbent, had failed to support soldiers and their families.

“A soldier voting for Jack Kingston is like a chicken voting for Col. Sanders,” said Gillespie.

Mainstream media coverage of this debate was lacking. So now we turn to a blogger, who has more to say:

First, Kingston tried to say that Dems love him, since some Dems here in southern Georgia support him.

You can find one or two of those in every election.
Kingston is an experienced politician:

As for the rest of the debate, it mainly consisted of Kingston distorting facts and otherwise smearing as well as employing demagoguery whenever possible--like during his timed rebuttals or during his closing argument, when no one could take him to task for it.

Now to the interesting candidate:

Gillespie, on the other hand, does know what he is about. He is an expert on the environment and, to me, that is absolutely wonderful. We really need that kind of expertise as we move towards sustainable energy--and as we try to fend off the "drill baby drill" wingnuts like Kingston who refuse to see that we simply don't have the oil reserves to meet our energy needs and don't care about the environmental impact of drilling off Georgia's coast.

It goes without saying that he knows more than Kingston when it comes to Iraq and what needs to be done there.

I also see in Gillespie a reasonable person who is not a blind partisan or ideologue. We need reasonable people who can think clearly and make decisions based on rational analysis. What we don't need is more of the same, shouting, fear-mongering, know-nothing governance that we have had for so very long--and which Kingston and others in this state still think represents "good government."

Here's hoping GPB will get the debate up online soon, so we can all see it again (or, in the case of Lowndes County, for the first time, since channel 8 didn't have the feed). So Kingston only had chicken feed, and Bill had substance. That's what this election is about.

Get Married and Work Longer Hours!

Jack Kingston means you! Especially if you're a member of the "Democrat Party":

If the Democrat Party truly wanted to take on poverty, they would have to say what is the relationship between marriage and the poverty level and between hours worked and the poverty level, because the truth of the matter is, if people end poverty, many of them would marry and work 40 hours a week, they would be out of poverty. … It’s not something I have the knowledge of or the information of, but it’s an economic fact that I hope we could have committee hearings on and discuss this. If we want to attack poverty, that’s where we need to go. With that, I yield back the balance of my time.

This is the same Jack who didn't want to work more than three days a week in DC:

"Keeping us up here eats away at families... Marriages suffer. The Democrats could care less about families -- that's what this says."

Keep Jack in Washington? Or make him yield back the balance of any future terms?

Contribute here to get more Bill Gillespie ads on TV, in newspapers, in the mail, and in people's yards.

And don't forget to debate party tonight. Bill goes on the air statewide at 6PM for half an hour, because Jack backed out of the debate.

Debate Parties Sunday!

The Atlanta debate Sunday between Jack and Bill will be broadcast on Georgia Public Broadcasting. Time for debate parties! The debate starts at 6PM, so you can start partying at 5.

Will Jack Kingston show up, or will he be missing like his Republican cohorts Westmoreland, Linder, and Price? Or like Jack himself when he failed to show in Savannah Friday? Maybe Kingston didn't like getting beat by Bill in the Brunswick News debate. Is Jack running scared?

Update: Apparently so! Jack DECLINED to show. So Bill gets half an hour of free TV time to remind us why he's better than Jack for GA-01!

Those of you in Valdosta, the Blue House is hosting a debate party: Blue House, 102 East Adair St.

You can go to Atlanta, if you like:

All debates will take place at Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) before a live studio audience. Members of media, students and the general public are welcome to attend. Please call 404-577-7377 with questions or if you would like to attend a debate.

Georgia Public Broadcasting is located at 260 14th Street, Atlanta 30318.

But why spend four hours on the road when you can have the same fun in your home town? Call your friends, ask your neighbors, host a debate party!

Jack Kingston: Zero on the Environment! (Worse than Saxby)

The League of Conservation Voters rates Jack Kingston
a whopping zero (0)
on his environmental votes in the 110th Congress.

Once again, Jack manages to be worse than Saxby Chambliss, who apparently did good at least once; Saxby got 8%.

Jack isn't just bad, he's one of the two worst of the entire Georgia Congressional delegation.

What do you expect from somebody who wants big tours and roads on Cumberland Island? Jack may flip-flop about earmarks, but now we know Kingston is consistent about something: zero on the environment!

Jack Kingston, ProLogic

(Photo: Waldo Jaquith, CC license)

No, I don't mean Kingston is for logic. This is the same Jack who impugned Obama's patriotism while not wearing a flag pin on national TV. Kingston doesn't wear one back home, either,.

ProLogic is a military contractor in a CBS News on Jan 11th saying the FBI is investigating ProLogic for its use of some public funds.

According this list of political contributions ProLogic provided CBS News, it looks to me like Kingston or his political supporter groups got $9,000 in campaign contributions from people associated with ProLogic. Hm, this writeup says $16,500 since 2002.

In an accompanying story, CBS News says Kingston got ProLogic $2.4 million in earmarks.

Meanwhile, at Armstrong Atlantic State University (AASU),

The government contractor has opened an office at Armstrong Atlantic State University's Cyber and Homeland Security Institute, where it will develop technology for government and civilian clients.

Now there's nothing wrong with high tech jobs for Savannah. Earmarks aren't even necessarily a problem. But earmarks for a company that contributes to Kingston's campaign?

And ProLogic is only one among many: Kingston collected $101,600 for his 2006 campaign from intended earmark recipients, according to the FEC.

Curiously, Kingston proposed earmark reform in a bill (HR 967) introduced 7 Feb 2008, shortly after the CBS News ProLogic story.

More Kingston logic: he was for earmarks before he was against them.

Jack Kingston: Before Bachman, Worse than Saxby

Michelle Bachmann's got nothing on Jack Kingston. The whole country knows Kingston as the hypocrite who accused Barack Obama of being unpatriotic for not wearing a flag pin while not wearing one himself. And harping on Obama's middle name Hussein and claiming Obama wouldn't say the pledge of allegiance and trying to peg Michelle Obama as unpatriotic; Dan Abrams tells Kingston not to come back unless he's wearing one himself. Kingston calls this just a little banter back and forth. OK, so he doesn't know the difference between debate on the issues and impugning a candidate's patriotism.

We could all shrug and say that's just Jack being goofy. What can you expect from somebody who wants Congress to commend Rush Limbaugh? But this foolish persona hides deeper problems.

Jack claims to be a champion of the middle class, but actually gets an F from the middleclass.org year after year, most recently with 23%, worse than Saxby Chambliss, who got 52%.

Yet Kingston get a C from Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA): worse than Saxby Chambliss, who gets a B.

Jack's been out front on keeping the war going in Iraq. When he compared more years in Iraq to Germany and South Korea Chris Matthews slammed that as lazy and untrue propaganda.

Jack hasn't stopped with promoting the wrong war at the wrong time; a war that's draining our economy. He's also against new bridges, paper ballots, local fruits and vegetables, preserving nature, health care for children, equal pay for equal work for women, unemployment compensation, and an Office of Congressional Ethics.

And that's before even mentioning Abramoff.

Let's replace Jack Kingston with someone who will work to end the war, bring jobs and renewable energy to south Georgia, and improve healthcare, education, and the environment: Bill Gillespie.

Jack's been a paragon of contradiction from the beginning. He signed Newt Gingrich's Contract with America, which included

The Citizen Legislature Act: A first-ever vote on term limits to replace career politicians with citizen legislators.

Yet Kingston has been in Congress for 16 years! That alone convinces a lot of people to vote against him.

Jack has gotten exposure through Stephen Colbert's show. On the very first Better Know a District, Jack says he's African-American because he once lived in Ethiopia. Colbert lampooned Kingston for complaining about a five day work week for Congress. Colbert probably thinks he's put one over on Kingston. And another. And another. But Kingston is using Colbert to promote his goofy clueless persona, which hides a darker side. As the DNC noted:

...if he thinks he's African-American, why has he supported so many policies that are harmful to the African-American community?" asked Amaya Smith, a spokesperson for the DNC. "Look at his record. He's anti-affirmative action ... and he's been an adamant supporter of Bush's plan to privatize Social Security, which would harm African-Americans that have benefited from Social Security."

Jack brags about supporting agriculture in his district. yet:

...he voted against providing fresh fruits and vegetables for public schools, using local food whenever possible, as part of the ‘Buy American” statutes (HR 2419). Wouldn’t that promote local farmers and get our children healthy food?

More Jack backwardness:

Jack voted against HR 3999, the National Highway Bridge Reconstruction and Inspection Act. He voted no to state and local grants to make backup paper ballots available for this years election (HR 2642). Check out how easy the voting machines can be wrong and manipulated.

...

Jack voted against equal pay for equal work for women (HR 1338) and against the establishment of the Office of Congressional Ethics (HR 1031). I think they need a whole building on ethics, not just an office. He voted against an emergency bill to extend unemployment compensation (HR 5749).

Jack not only voted against SCHIP (health care for children), he published against it in the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

Jack voted against the Anti-Predatory Lending Act (HR 3915), but he was and is for financial deregulation; in 2006 he said:

Despite the critics, it is clear that our economy is rocking and rolling like never before!

On the military front,

Jack voted against an amendment to HR 2642 that provides education funding for eligible members of the Armed Forces. He voted against mandatory rest time for our troops in between deployments (HR 3159).

Kingston, sitting in a Congressional committee, accused Robert Greenwald of being a war profiteer because Greewald made a documentary about war profiteers; nevermind Greenwald didn't take a dime. Watch this one: Kingston's goofy persona almost hides what he's saying, which is basically he's for war profiteering and anybody who isn't is against profits, anti-capitalist, and probably anti-American.

Jack is the king of pork for Georgia, and it's amazing how many military contractors donate to his campaign and coincidentally get earmarks!

Oh, yeah: Jack is also for building roads in nature reserves.

Finally, Kingston's curious closeness with Jack Abramoff has never been investigated; more on that in another post.

Bill Gillespie will work for the people of Georgia's First District. When people hear about Bill, they want to vote for him. Listen to the applause when he speaks.

Term limit Jack Kingston and elect Bill Gillespie!

Kingston Is Liberal! (with earmarks)

Jack Kingston is "the House champion for Georgia" in pulling in federal funds.

(Photo: Waldo Jaquith, CC license)

He defended earmarks back in 2007:

"Why do you think we have 13 (military) bases in the state of Georgia?" Kingston said in an interview. "That doesn't happen by accident."

Hm, well, that sounds plausible; who in GA-01, with its four major military bases, would object to that? And earmarks in themselves aren't the problem: they only account for less than 1% of the federal budget.

But when you dig deeper a different picture emerges:

Nearly one-fifth of the $552,000 war chest U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston collected in his 2008 re-election bid came from intended recipients of earmarks he requested this fiscal year or their hired lobbyists, campaign finance reports show.

How many earmarks are we talking about?

The eight-term Republican congressman from Savannah requested $100.2 million worth of earmarks - funds inserted into federal appropriation bills for specific purposes - either solo or jointly with other lawmakers in 2008 spending bills. That's the 13th highest total among the 435 U.S. House members.

Indeed most of it goes somehow to various military installations.
Still, the coincidences mount:

Kingston was appointed to the House appropriations subcommittee on defense in 2005, and campaign contributions from defense contractors soon came pouring in.

By the end of his 2006 election cycle, Kingston had collected $1.1 million - the most in any of his campaigns for public office. Defense contractors and their hired lobbyists also emerged as his top contributors.

Those same groups are among the largest donors to his 2008 campaign.

How much came from intended earmark recipients? $101,600 according to the Federal Election Commission.

Nearly one-third of that money came from big defense contractors - L-3 Communications, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems - and their lobbyists.

The congressman earmarked a combined $7.2 million in U.S. Department of Defense projects for those three firms, or their subsidiaries, this fiscal year.

Helping out local military bases that constituents want is one thing. Earmarking funds for companies that contribute to Kingston's campaign provides the appearance of something else.

There's a lot more in Mike Perry's June 8 Savannah Morning News article.

See also the 11 Jan 2008 CBS News story about the FBI investigating a military contractor called ProLogic for its use of some public funds, and Kingston's role in providing earmarks for ProLogic. Kingston is on the list of political contributions ProLogic provided CBS News.

So if none of this is a problem, why is Kingston now proposing earmark reform, in a bill (HR 967) introduced 7 Feb 2008, shortly after the CBS News ProLogic story?

Maybe he was for earmarks before he was against them.

Bill Gillespie Wakes Up the Candidates' Forum in Valdosta

Bill got applause for saying what needed to be said:


Video by Gretchen Quarterman

A few of my favorite bits from Bill Gillespie's speech at the south Georgia Political Forum in Valdosta, Oct 14:

"going from analog to digital ... new leadership, new opportunities; I want to be one of those new leaders that put people first",

"Iraq war... wrong war, wrong time; it's a money pit, money that we could be better spending right here on our own economy",

"it's sad to see our number one export, our children... we need to fix that",

"I knew when America was right, because we were respected around the world and we were respectful, and I want to able to be a Congressman that reinstates that around the world with our allies",

"we're not set up for the 21st century; why don't we make something again?"

"Lowndes County, you know about service industry jobs, because you have the lowest wages ... compared to the sixteen counties that come to Lowndes County for services",

"there are things we need to do with ... 21st century in terms of education; 40% high school dropout rate; we've got to do better",

"No Child Left Behind left many people behind",

"if the Blazers had a failing season, we would get rid of the coach. It's time for a new coach, I'd appreciate to be that next coach."

The audience loved it.

Bill vs. Jack in Atlanta, Sunday Oct. 26

They met in Brunswick.

Jack cancelled in Savannah.

They meet again in Atlanta, Sunday, October 26th, at Georgia Public Broadcasting in a debate sponsored by the Atlanta Press Club.

All debates will take place at Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) before a live studio audience. Members of media, students and the general public are welcome to attend. Please call 404-577-7377 with questions or if you would like to attend a debate.

Georgia Public Broadcasting is located at 260 14th Street, Atlanta 30318.

See Bill beat Jack again!

VSU-TV shows South Georgia Political Forum

The South Georgia Political Forum of Tuesday 14 October is appearing repeatedly on VSU-TV, today, tomorrow, and Wednesday, and more times after that. Both Bill Gillespie and Jack Kingston spoke, so this should be of interest across GA-01. Here's the schedule:

Sat Oct 18: 6PM
Sun Oct 19: 12AM, 9AM, 6PM
Wed Oct 22: 8:30PM
Sat Oct 25: 9AM, 6PM
Sun Oct 26: 12AM, 9AM, 6PM
Wed Oct 29: 8:30PM
Sat Nov 1: 9:00AM, 6PM
Sun Nov 2: 12AM, 9AM, 6PM

Maybe VSU would agree for other south Georgia universities, such as SSU, to rebroadcast this show, as well.

Dennis Marks, Lowndes County Democratic Party Chair, says:

Thank you to AAUW and all the co-sponsors for presenting the South Georgia Political Forum at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center. Special thanks to the Conference Center and to the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Conference. It was a wonderful opportunity for voters to meet and greet the candidates and to hear their speeches!

A special thank you to the candidates with opposition on the ballot who participated: John Monds and Jim Powell for Public Service Commission; Jack Kingston and Bill Gillespie for 1st Congressional District; Sanford Bishop and Lee Ferrell for 2nd Congressional District; Freddie Taylor and Chris Prine for Sheriff; Terry Hawke and Bill Watson for Coroner; Norman Bennett and Ashley Paulk for County Commission Chair; David DeMersseman, Earl Wetherington, Steve Davis, Ronald Miller, and W. G. Walker for Tax Assessors; Jim Tunison and Greg Voyles for Superior Court Judge; and Jeff Spradley for Lake Park City Council. Thank you also to all the public officials and unopposed candidates in attendance.

Vote early. To quote Dennis: "I'll say it often: vote early."

Oh, and vote for Bill!

Bill @ SSU Tonight! (Jack Cancelled)

Jack debated Bill once; guess he didn't want to try again.

Bill Gillespie, Candidate for Congress in Georgia's 1st Congressional District will address a Joint SSU/AASU student body @ SSU tonight. The event was suppose to be a Debate, but Mr. Kingston cancelled!

The Political Science Association -- Sponsor of the event will allow Bill to give a Policy Address -"A Vision for the 21st Century." The event is open to the public. Please attend, bring a friend, or forward to others that might be interested.

Tonight!, Friday, Oct 17th: Political Forum with Bill Gillespie 6:00PM at Hubert Auditorium, Room 109;

Contact Quartavius Swanson, President of the Political Science Association, Swansonq@savstate.edu, 912-695-5685.

Students, here's your chance to support renewable energy, jobs, environment, healthcare, and getting out of Iraq.

Rocking and Rolling? Kingston on the Economy in 2006

Here's Jack Kingston on his blog (found by Capitol Impact), in 7 April 2006:

Despite the critics, it is clear that our economy is rocking and rolling like never before! In fact, the unemployment rate dropped to 4.7 percent, which is lower than the averages of the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s.

It is clear that the economy is continuing to thrive and surge thanks to common-sense Republican policies of lower taxes, less government, and less regulation and red-tape for small business owners and entrepreneurs.

How does Jack's prediction look now?

This week the Republican Treasury Secretary made the nine largest banks in the U.S. an offer they can't refuse to sell shares to the federal government, in other words, to be partly nationalized. At 3PM the bank CEOs arrived, and:

But by 6:30, all nine chief executives had signed — setting in motion the largest government intervention in the American banking system since the Depression and retreating from the rescue plan Mr. Paulson had fought so hard to get through Congress only two weeks earlier.

Oh yes: Jack linked to an article about Nancy Pelosi warning of falling rocks:

Pelosi claims the Bush tax cuts that have led to economic growth are only benefitting a certain segment of the U.S. population.

"With tax cuts for the wealthiest few causing red ink as far as the eye can see, incomes falling, and our jobs moving overseas, the economic record of President Bush is dismal for middle-class families," Pelosi said. "The Bush economy is going in the wrong direction: gas prices are sky-high and health costs are an overwhelming burden for too many Americans."

How are those Republican policies working out now?

Jack Kingston Is Putting Roads on Cumberland Island

Nature writer Janisse Ray likes Cumberland Island:

I like the kingfishers, sea turtles, dolphins, pelicans. I like the sea oats and live oaks. The royal tern.

But paving is coming even to that remote wildlife sanctuary:

Now all that wildness is in jeopardy. The National Park Service (NPS) wants to run motorized tours through it. It wants to rewrite history: take 9,800 acres of wilderness and hamstring it. It wants roads, Moses in an 18-passenger van.

The Wildlife Act says you can't do that, and:

An 11th Circuit Court judge agreed. No motor traffic. But the NPS and Cumberland landowners have a friend in Rep. Jack Kingston, and he performed a little magic trick for them. He made a bill that would redraw the wilderness. After the bill failed more than once on its own, he attached it as a rider – one of an infestation of anti-environment amendments -- to the Omnibus Spending Bill of 2004. The bill passed, so the rider rode through. Abracadabra!

Jack Kingston, the developers' magician! I think he's talking roads bigger than the one in the picture, too.

Bill Gillespie points out that if they wanted easy access to the chapel JFK Jr. got married in, they could have moved it to the southern camping end.

Preserve nature: oust Jack and vote Bill Gillespie for GA-01.

Veterans for Bill Gillespie

Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) rates Jack Kingston a C for veteran's issues. Meanwhile, Bill Gillespie is a veteran of the Iraq war, and Bill is endorsed by Gen. Wes Clark. After he served in Iraq, Bill ran ROTC programs throughout south Georgia, so he knows conditions on GA-01 military bases first hand. Bill strongly supported the 21st Century GI Bill.

So if you're a veteran, related to a veteran, or care about veterans, Bill Gillespie is the candidate for you.

The Brunswick News Debate

Click here to watch the Brunswick Debate, which was sponsored by The Brunswick News and moderated by reporter Jess Davis.

Anti-Predatory Lending Act: Jack Kington voted Nay

On November 2007, 291 members of the U.S. House voted for H.R. 3915: Mortgage Reform and Anti-Predatory Lending Act of 2007. All of Georgia's Democratic representatives voted Yea; all Ga. Republican representatives voted Nay, including Jack Kingston.

If we had that law, the country wouldn't be in quite such an economic mess now, but Dec 3, 2007: Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. Senate Republicans never let it be voted on.

All the testimony from the House hearings is available online.

We need Bill Gillespie in the House for GA-01 and Jim Martin in the Senate for Georgia.

Jack Kingston for War Profits

Just let Jack speak for himself:

More than 40,000 people have viewed this on YouTube.

Oh yes, Jack wasn't wearing a flag pin.

Is this who we want representing GA-01? If not, support Bill Gillespie.

South Georgia Political Forum

Bill Gillespie, plus almost all the state and local candidates for office, will speak at the South Georgia Political Forum, Tuesday 14 October 2008, at the James H. Rainwater Conference Center, One Meeting Place (off Norman Drive), in Valdosta.


View Larger Map

According to the Lowndes County Democratic Party:

First, candidates will stand at tables around the large meeting room at the conference center, answering questions and having free-form conversation with voters. Second, there will be scheduled microphone time during which each candidate can make a three minute speech. The microphone time will be moderated by Dr. Sharon Gravett, Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and longtime member of the AAUW. The American Association of University Women (AAUW), Valdosta Branch, organized the forum working in conjunction with Myrna Ballard of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Chamber of Commerce, Julie Greenhaw of the Lowndes County Republican Party, and Dennis Marks of the Lowndes County Democratic Party. For more information contact Christine James at chjames@valdosta.edu.

I don't know whether Jack Kingston will attend. Ah, looks like Jack has confirmed after all. Jack and Bill in the same room: should be interesting!

Busses and Trains for South Georgia

Bill Gillespie will work for mass transit for south Georgia, including busses. This dovetails nicely with Valdosta's new Comprehensive Transportation Master Plan which contemplates a bus system for Valdosta. Bill goes beyond local mass transit:

I will also seek to commission a study to research the impact and cost of developing a light-commuter rail system for South Georgia, with lines connecting our centers of trade and education. I envision a “coastal connector” with a line to Savannah, Richmond Hill, Hinesville, Jesup, Darien, Brunswick and Kingsland. I also envision a “mid-south connector” with a line extending to Baxley, Waycross, Douglas and Valdosta. A goal would also be to use commuter rail to someday interconnect our region with other parts of the state: Athens, Augusta, Macon and Atlanta. No private property would be taken through eminent domain. Commuter trains could use current commercial tracks, or rails could be constructed through interstate medians. The trains would be clean, safe, fast, reliable and affordable, and would run on bio-fuel, produced in the First District, or another form of clean, efficient alternative energy. As your Congressman, I will connect South Georgia.

Much of south Georgia exists because of railroads. The Atlantic and Gulf Railroad connected Savannah to Waycross (shown as Tebeauville), Valdosta, and beyond by 1870. (A&G map from Official Guide of the Railways 1870. Georgia's Railroad History & Heritage by Steve Storey.) Residents of Troupville actually picked up and moved 4 miles to found Valdosta on that railroad.

Other railroads were added, mostly to exploit turpentine and logging, plus passenger trains. (GS&F map from Official Guide of the Railways, April, 1918. Georgia's Railroad History & Heritage by Steve Storey.) By the early 1900s, you could take a train to most sizeable towns in the state, and this remained true through the 1940s. Ask anybody over about the age of 70, and they'll remember.

The beauty of it is: most of those railroads are still there and still in use for freight. South Georgia doesn't need to buy rights of way; it just needs to make deals with the owners of the existing railroads. We know this is possible because Central Florida Commuter Rail is doing it with CSX, which is the owner of one of the main lines through south Georgia and north Florida.

The price of gas may be temporarily down right now, but $3.50/gallon is still more than twice the price of 2000 and there's every reason to expect gas prices will go back up, and even higher. People are already driving less. They'd drive even less if they had another way to get places. It's time for mass transit. Bill Gillespie can help bring back busses and rail for 21st century south Georgia.

RADIO INTERVIEW: WLYU 100.9 FM

Thank you to WLYU out of Vidalia for giving me the opportunity to talk to the people of the district. Click here to listen to the podcast of my 30 minute interview.

Bill Gillespie Impresses in St. Marys

Here's a good example of Bill Gillespie's effect when he talks to people:

I'll tell you right up front, we walked away from the conversation with nothing but positive things to say about him. He impressed us as genuine, sincere and concerned about the future of this district as well as the country. We spoke briefly about policies and I was impressed. Bill seemed to be very pragmatic and a real progressive. He understood the financial crisis this country is in, and approached the bailout with the skepticism that we all approached it with. It's a difficult decision for any lawmaker. I was convinced, however, that he had the best interest of the American people, and our district in mind.

All you people in safe Atlanta metro districts or from out of state, don't forget who Bill's running against:

George Bush did not do this alone. He had republicans carrying his water in the House and Senate. There is no bigger offender than Jack Kingston.

And here's why it's an uphill fight worth fighting:

So, stop by Bill's site and help out any way you can. If you can donate, please do. He's up against a candidate that is heavily entrenched. Along with that entrenchment comes lobbyists and special interest groups. Anything you can give will definitely help. If you can't contribute, then get involved some other way. As always though, keep talking to your friends and neighbors. This is our chance for real change. Don't let it slip away. Don't wake up on November 5, as say coulda, shoulda, woulda.

And remember, cable TV buys in GA-01 are among the cheapest in the country. Bill's busily fundraising, but you can help up the ante so he can flood cable with ads. The only thing Bill really needs to win is name recognition, and that would do it. You can help.

New Television Ads (web versions)

FACT SHEET FOR TELEVISION COMMERCIALS

- Jack Kingston has voted for multi-billion dollar tax giveaways to Big Oil companies – even while the companies have received record annual profits and regular Americans have suffered from record gas prices. Votes by Kingston on key energy legislation over the last several years clearly display his position. [Votes awarding Big Oil tax giveaways: [HR 6 of 2005, HR 4305 of 2004, HR 6 of 2003, HR 4 of 2001] [Votes against repealing tax giveaways or increasing taxes on Big Oil: HR 5351 of 2008, HR 6 of 2007, HR 2776 of 2007] [News story on record profits] [Gas Prices Chart]

- During this time, Kingston has owned and profited from stock in oil companies such as Exxon Mobil, Chevron Texaco and Conoco Phillips. Besides oil companies, Kingston has owned stock interests in Freddie Mac, AIG, financial services companies and defense contractors. [2007 Personal Financial Disclosure Report (not found)] [2006 Personal Financial Disclosure Report] [2005 Personal Financial Disclosure Report and the Amended Version] [2004 Personal Financial Disclosure Report] [2003 - 1995 Personal Financial Disclosure Reports]

- Wall Street profit greed and bad deregulation policies are two of the primary causes of America’s financial crisis. Kingston voted for the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act of 1999 that repealed parts of the Glass-Steagall Act and deregulated financial markets [S 900 Summary] [Roll Call for S 900] [Report on Act’s influence on financial crisis] On other key votes in recent years, Kingston has consistently supported market deregulation – ranging from the financial to housing sectors. [HR 5244 of 2008, HR 6604 of 2008, HR 3221 of 2008, HR 3915 of 2007, HR 1375 of 2004].

- This year Kingston voted against the new GI Bill for Iraq and Afghanistan veterans, then later voted for it after political pressure from my campaign and others. [Voted against HR 2642] [Voted for HR 2642]. Also in 2008 Kingston did not vote for the Defense Authorization Bill that among other things increases pay for uniformed service members and lowers the cost of prescriptions under TRICARE. [Did not vote for HR 4986]. Veteran groups, which rank how many times a Congressman votes for legislation they support, have often given Kingston a below average grade throughout his career. [ Disabled American Veterans 66 percent in 2006; Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America a grade of C in 2006; The Retired Enlisted Association 7 percent in 2006; Disabled American Veterans 0 percent in 2005; Disabled American Veterans 0 percent in 2004; The Retired Enlisted Association 33 percent in 2004; Vietnam Veterans of America 38 percent in 2003-2004; Disabled American Veterans 0 percent in 2003; The American Legion 40 percent in 2003]

- Kingston has long been a Congressional leader in the push to privatize Social Security. Kingston was a point man for the Bush Social Security Privatization Plan, holding many town hall meetings to persuade public approval. [National news story on Kingston/Social Security].

Stars Aligned for Bill in the Florida Time-Union

Great writeup in the Florida Times-Union:

Gillespie said he returned home from an Iraq war he considered a mistake to find a state he thought was unprepared for the economic challenges of the 21st century. He believes an unpopular president and a troubled economy could help him beat Kingston in a district favorable to Republicans.

"Every single star has aligned," Gillespie said.

Bill's the candidate for renewable energy and jobs:

Gillespie has pounded the dual issues of economic development and energy, saying Southeast Georgia could prosper from an increased focus on alternative energy and blaming Kingston for not moving aggressively enough.

"Jack is in the pocket of Chevron," he said.

The Democrat also rejects drilling for oil or natural gas off the coast of Georgia.

"There are certain places I do think we could drill more," Gillespie said. "Georgia's not one of them."

Georgia vacationers, do you want oil rigs off Jekyll and Tybee and Cumberland Islands, or do you want south Georgia turned into a renewable energy exporter that creates its own jobs?

You've all seen Jack Kingston on Colbert. You haven't seen Bill Gillespie there. Donate now for more name recognition for Bill.

DeKalb and Fulton County safe district voters: Congratulations on turning out in droves to vote early for Obama! Now how about donating or volunteering for Bill Gillespie in GA-01? You get more bang for your buck down here where TV ads are cheap.

Out of staters, maybe you think Obama's not a patriot because he doesn't always wear a flag pin or maybe you're for big oil or more wars. If so, Jack Kingston's your candidate. If not, here's your chance to replace him with Bill Gillespie, a better Democrat. If you're sitting in a safe state like New York wondering what you can do, how about invest in your country's future by helping Bill?

You're Invited: VP Debate Party Thursday

The public is invited to the campaign headquarters (1110 Laurel Avenue, Tybee Island) on Thursday to watch the Vice-Presidential Debate. Festivities start at 8pm with the debate broadcast at 9pm. Plenty of Cold Drinks. 2 big screens. Great fellowship. Biden v. Palin. See you there. It will be a fun time.

PRESS STATEMENT: House Vote on Emergency Economic Stabilization Act

Despite warnings of economic depression, Congressman Jack Kingston votes NO on the bill and is a leader of the effort to defeat it, all in the name of politics

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (September 29, 2008) - Lt. Col. (ret.) Bill Gillespie, Democratic candidate for Georgia's First Congressional District, has released the following statement regarding today's vote by the U.S. House of Representatives on H.R. 3997. This bill included the 'Emergency Economic Stabilization Act,' which is the bipartisan legislation designed to address America's economic crisis. Congressman Jack Kingston voted no and was amongst a group of partisan House Republicans that worked to defeat the legislation. The final roll call was 228-205.

Bill Gillespie said: "I am disappointed Jack Kingston once again put partisan politics ahead of the people and voted no today on legislation aimed at keeping America out of an economic depression. Our country is in this mess because Jack and his special interest friends loosened rules on Wall Street. It is inconceivable that Jack does not support legislation to help fix the problems he caused. His vote today is a vote in support of more foreclosures, bank closings, credit freezes, business failings, job losses and overall economic depression."

Gillespie added: "Jack does not understand or feel the economic crisis. While South Georgians are being sent to the poor house, Jack and his friends are in the clubhouse."

Gillespie continued: "Although the legislation failed today, the crisis remains. It is time for bipartisan action not political posturing. I call for Congressman Kingston to support the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act and secure our country's economic future. I urge him to lobby other members of Congress to do the same."

Bill in Valdosta

Bill Gillespie came to Valdosta, Lowndes County, Saturday and spoke to a packed house party. One of the college student attendees told me she had never heard a politician speak like that. Not only did he tell a story that tied the south Georgia road and rail infrastructure left over from the logging industry to renewable energy and exports for GA-01; he also fielded questions throughout and worked them into his talk.

As she said, this was no talking points politician.
Sure, he has plenty of issues and he worked through the top several of them, but he wasn't just parroting lines; he was weaving them together with his own biography and the those of constituents and audience members.

She also said she didn't remember a time when Jack Kingston was not the rep. for GA-01. And she'd like to be part of changing that.

Bill Gillespie is an even easier sell than Barack Obama in these parts. Everybody knows who Jack Kingston is, but they mostly don't know Bill yet. When they hear there's somebody running who wants to actually build jobs for south Georgia and has a plan to do so, not to mention get us out of Iraq, they're for it, and they're for Bill.

Clean Energy Produces Jobs and Clean Air

Bill gets it that clean energy produces both jobs and a clean environment. As he says, Invest in technology and infrastructure for a clean energy grid:

“Creating the new technology and infrastructure for a ‘clean’ energy grid would generate billions of dollars in economic activity and put hundreds of thousands of people to work in new jobs. In addition, our country must motivate business to wean itself off fossil-fuels, and can receive an economic boon while doing so. California’s 2006 state law—led by Silicon Valley venture capitalists—that requires fossil-fuel producers to limit green house gas emissions added 20,000 jobs and a $60 billion increase in gross state product.”

With Bill Gillespie supporting such a bill from Congress, there's no reason the Georgia legislature can't follow the lead of 16 other states (by now maybe as many as 23 other states) in passing a green house gas emissions law, which would not only clean up the air but also produce jobs. Companies are already scrambling to be green all over the country. Why build another dirty coal plant in Georgia when we could move ahead and become a leader in green energy?

Bill on the Environment: Renewable Energy

Bill Gillespie is big on the environment, as you would expect from somebody with B.S. and M.A. degrees in Environmental Science. This concern runs through several of his top ten issues. Today, let's look at Bill's energy plan: Create the South Georgia Alternative Energy Alliance.

Why pay for foreign oil or burn dirty coal when Georgia has abundant sunlight, wind off the coast, wood chips and bark to burn, and switchgrass and peanut shells for biofuels? Bill says:

“Imagine the economic opportunities if there was a whole new industry in South Georgia. Hundreds of new businesses move in. Thousands of new jobs are produced. As more money and people enter our economy, demand for all services increase. This is my vision. I want to create the South Georgia Alternative Energy Alliance, which would make South Georgia the national leader in alternative energy production and research.”

Band together together local and state government plus universities and business to take advantage of what we already know how to do (more later about what's been going on it Tifton), and fund deployment of solar, wind, and biofuels with federal grants and private venture capital. Georgia state and local governments, currently running shortfalls, would derive income from this new industry just like the private sector. And don't stop with just generating energy in Georgia; turn Georgia into an exporter of parts and knowhow to generate energy.

Fight the climate crisis, clean up the environment, and generate jobs along with energy. As Bill says,

“...clean energy technology—”cleantech”—could become the next great engine of the U.S. economy.”

Let's start right here in south Georgia!

Bill on Health Care

"In rural Georgia there is a great need for medical care. In Georgia's First Congressional District many health clinics are losing staff due to lack of funding. Our rural areas are in need of a renaissance and we must be able to provide quality health care to those areas." That's Bill Gillespie's response to question 14 of the Your Candidates Your Health 2008 voter guide questionnaire.

Here's Bill's answer to #5: "I would make sure that the federal government supplies items needed for preventative medicine to those who need them before an accident happens. I have heard many stories about how a simple shower seat would have prevented a slip and fall accident resulting in surgeries as dangerous as a total hip replacement. I would also like to see local hospitals start wellness programs that promote safe and healthy living that are available to the public." There's plenty more.

Meanwhile, what does Jack Kingston say? We don't know: he hasn't answered the questionnaire yet. But we do know Jack has voted against medicaid, against mental health, and against children's health care.

If you want to continue to benefit big business at the expense of our health, vote Jack Kingston. If you want health care for everyone, including prevention, open hospitals, and more research, vote Bill Gillespie.

GA-01: Bill and Jack on the Middle Class

While Republican Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson is proposing to bail out big finance companies at the expense of the rest of us, is a good time to review Republican Jack Kingston's record on the middle class. His grade from themiddleclass.org is an F. Back in 2003 he got his highest grade, which was a D. Jack just keeps voting against medicaid, mental health, children's health care, affordable college, public transportation, and renewable energy. And of course he's for the war in Iraq, which wastes $10 billion a month, more than enough to pay for all of the above.



Meanwhile, you know what Bill Gillespie stands for: getting us out of Iraq, affordable health care, education, preserving the environment, and investing in south Georgia's economy, including "the 'South Georgia Alternative Energy Initiative' making our region the national leader for alternative energy research and production".

Would you rather have somebody in the House who represents big business, or Bill Gillespie, who will represent you?

Bill at the Blue House

Bill Gillespie signs at the all-volunteer Obama office in Valdosta, Lowndes County, Georgia. There's Bill literature inside, which goes out the door quickly.

Bill was the main speaker at the opening of this office:

Bill supports Barack, so naturally Barack's office supports Bill. After all, when Barack is president he'll need Bill in Congress to help get out of Iraq, make health care affordable, and deploy renewable energy.

Valdosta Fundraiser

Bill's coming to Lowndes County next Saturday. The Saegers are hosting a fundraiser at their house, Park @ Williams, 7-9PM, 27 September. Contact Cameron Brenchley for more information, chbrenchley@hotmail.com.

Come meet Bill, ask him about helping as a statesman to end the war in Iraq and to prevent wars using soft power.

This event is not just for Valdosta: Lowndes County, Brooks, Echols, Lanier, Berrien, Cook, etc.; all are invited.

Glynn County Meet and Greet

Bill's a travelling candidate. Tomorrow, Thursday 18 September 2008, he'll be in Glynn County on St. Simon's Island.

You are invited to meet Bill Gillespie at a fundraising party at the home of David and Audrey Stewart. Co-hosts are Joan and Jack Ross. Wine and other beverages and finger foods will available.

Details here. Go, meet Bill, ask about his South Georgia Energy Initiative. Don't be late; be ready to donate.

ALERT: Gen. Wesley Clark Endorses Gillespie

SAVANNAH, Ga. (September 12, 2008) – Gen. Wesley Clark and his political action committee, WesPAC-Securing America’s Future, have endorsed Democrat Bill Gillespie in Georgia’s First Congressional District election.

Gillespie served 23 years in the Army, working in various leadership positions while stationed in places such as Korea, Germany and the Middle East. He served in Iraq as Senior Logistician for the Third Infantry Division, earning a Bronze Star. Gillespie retired last year as a Lt. Colonel and disabled veteran.

Clark said, “I am proud to endorse Lt. Col. (ret.) Bill Gillespie for Congress. America has reached a critical point, and we need strong leaders in Washington with the courage, knowledge and integrity to overcome our many challenges at home and abroad. Bill’s ideas to develop alternative energy, lower taxes for families and small businesses and recruit manufacturing back to America are just what the ailing economy needs. I also support Bill because he’ll fight hard to increase healthcare, education and other benefits for our brave veterans. Bill represents a hope for change in southeast Georgia - a change to government that represents the people not just special interests with lots of money.”

Clark, who was a 2004 candidate for President, spent 34 years in the Army and the Department of Defense, receiving many military decorations. He commanded Operation Allied Force in the Kosovo War during his term as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe from 1997 to 2000.

Gillespie said, “I am honored by the endorsement of Gen. Wesley Clark, one of our country’s finest military and political leaders. We share many goals, especially making sure our country honors the sacrifices of our troops and their families by taking good care of them when they return home. Last year the Democratic-majority in Congress passed the largest ever funding increase in the 77-year history of the Veterans’ Administration. It is still not enough. The toll of the War on Terror on our military has been large, and I will seek even more increases in funding for veterans benefits.”

Press Release: Gillespie Attends DNCC

DENVER, Colo. (August 26, 2008) - First Congressional District Democratic candidate Bill Gillespie of Chatham County is attending this week's Democratic National Committee Convention in Denver. Gillespie is participating in several events during the week, including speaking at a Press Conference on Tuesday, August 26 at 6:30 p.m. (MT) at Coors Field featuring the Democratic Party's military veteran Congressional candidates. The Press Conference is part of the Future Leaders of America Reception, an event Tuesday night honoring Gillespie and other veteran candidates. Hosts include veteran organizations and Congressman John Salazar (D-CO), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Congressman Joe Sestak (D- PA), Congressman Phil Hare (D-IL), and Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN). C-SPAN will broadcast the event.

"Our country has a duty to honor the sacrifices by our troops, their families and veterans by making sure we take care of them when they come home. Last year the Democratic-majority in Congress passed the largest ever funding increase in the 77-year history of the Veterans' Administration. It is still not enough. The toll of the War on Terror on our military has been large, and I will seek even more increases in funding for veterans benefits as Congressman," said the 44-year-old Gillespie, who has also proposed that all veterans get a healthcare card that allows them to seek care outside the VA system at whatever facility they prefer.

Gillespie, a retired Lt. Colonel who served with the Third Infantry Division and earned a Bronze Star in Iraq, launched his candidacy for Congress in October 2007. Since then, he has traveled throughout southeast Georgia talking with citizens and building a campaign organization. In a strong showing of base support in the primary election, Gillespie received more votes in the Democratic Primary than incumbent Jack Kingston received in the Republican Primary, each running unopposed.

Happy 73rd Birthday Social Security

Press Conference: Save Social Security

SAVANNAH, Ga. - Leaders from the Democratic Party of Georgia and Chatham County Democratic Party, as well as First Congressional District Democratic candidate Bill Gillespie are holding a Press Conference Thursday, August 7, to discuss a report released yesterday by the Institute For America's Future that analyzes the impact on Georgia of privatizing Social Security. The Press Conference starts at 11:00 a.m. in Savannah's Johnson Square off Bull Street. Media and the public are invited to attend. Speakers include Gillespie, Democratic Party of Georgia 12th Congressional District Chair Tony Center, and Chatham County Democratic Party Chair Karen Arms.

The report from the Institute For America's Future says there'll be dire consequences for Georgians if plans to privatize Social Security become law. It says privatization would cut lifetime benefits by as much as $229,019 per person, and make 217,000 senior citizens vulnerable to poverty in Georgia. The report also says that 1,305,000 people in Georgia depend on their earned Social Security benefit every month, according to the Social Security Administration. Thousands of businesses and the state government also depend on the program. More than $15.1 billion flows into the Georgia economy from Social Security each year, says the report.

To read the report click here.

At the Press Conference, Democratic Party leaders will detail the report's findings, and discuss the importance of saving Social Security from being privatized by Republican Presidential candidate John McCain and others. 'Privatizing' Social Security is the process of diverting payroll taxes from the Social Security fund into private stock market accounts.

Featured Event: Atlanta Reception August 16

You are cordially invited by these Hosts to attend a reception in support of Lt. Col. (ret.) Bill Gillespie:

Page Gleason & Richard Campbell
Shana & Scott Sutton
Catherine Smith & Jerry Tyler
Amanda Zbinden & Beth Keller
Kyle Bailey & many others*

Saturday, August 16, 2008
4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

JCT Kitchen
1198 Howell Mill Rd., Suite 18
(Inside Westside Urban Market)
Atlanta, Georgia

Come enjoy great food, fellowship and politics
RSVP (912) 507-8278 or natalie@billforgeorgia.com
Host Committee $100 / Minimum Suggested Donation $40.00
*Host Committee at time of invitation printing

Press Release: Gillespie wins more votes than Kingston in First District Primary elections

TYBEE ISLAND, Ga. (July 18, 2008) – First Congressional District Democratic candidate Bill Gillespie of Chatham County has won more votes in his primary election than incumbent Republican Jack Kingston.

With 97 percent of the precincts reporting, challenger Gillespie has received 32,734 votes in the Democratic Primary while incumbent Jack Kingston has only 32,430 votes in the Republican Primary. Click Here For Official Results.

The 32,734 votes Gillespie received in the 2008 Democratic Primary is 12,000 more votes than Democratic nominee Jim Nelson (20,722 votes) received in the last primary in 2006. (See page 6)

Gillespie, a retired Lt. Colonel who served with the Third Infantry Division and earned a Bronze Star in Iraq, launched his candidacy for Congress in October 2007. Since then, he has traveled throughout southeast Georgia talking with citizens and building a campaign organization.

“The results of the primary election show that Democratic support for my campaign is very strong and that the Democratic Party is alive and well in southeast Georgia,” said the 44-year-old Gillespie, who has launched a website, www.BillForGeorgia.com.

Gillespie also said he believes his background, message and vision for southeast Georgia will appeal to General Election voters too, no matter if they’re Democrat, Republican or independent.

“People are frustrated that Washington and its insiders are not meeting the important challenges of our time,” Gillespie said. “I understand how to lead southeast Georgia to prosperity in the global economy and to safety in an unstable world. I pledge to offer strong leadership that puts people first.”

Gillespie says his 23-year Army career, including time in Iraq as the Third Infantry Division’s Senior Logistician, prepared him well to be a Congressman who can defend America from terrorism and lead the United States toward winning the peace in Iraq.

His top domestic issue is creating the South Georgia Alternative Energy Initiative, making the region the center of American research and production of agri-fuel, solar, wind, methane and other alternative energies. “This initiative will bring high-paying jobs to southeast Georgia, which we desperately need,” Gillespie said.

Gillespie’s other top issues include: stopping illegal immigration, reforming the healthcare and insurance industries, improving benefits for veterans, lowering taxes for families and small businesses, repealing the No Child Left Behind Act, balancing the federal budget, and promoting ‘sustainable development.’

Vote tomorrow in the Democratic Primary!

I ask for your vote tomorrow in the Democratic Primary. I want to bring good jobs to our region, be a part of forming a smart foreign policy for America, and lead the effort to clean up Congress from the corruption of monied special interests. Even though I am running unopposed for the party's First District nomination, I want to win more votes than the incumbent Republican to show my base is strong. Polls are open in your community from 7am-7pm. Click here to locate your poll. Thank you for your support. Together, we can make our community a better place.

Editorial Response to the Savannah Morning News: Bush, McCain and Kingston out of touch with the military and its families

It is very unfortunate that my May 19th Press Conference comments about Senator John McCain are being taken out of context by the Savannah Morning News. The stories published by them on the press conference have been unfair to the purpose and intent of the twenty-minute speech. My speech was about the need to take care of Veterans, and the need to increase some of their key benefits, particularly their education benefits under the New GI Bill. In my speech, I outlined possible reasons why Senator McCain opposed the New GI Bill. Congressman Jack Kingston does not support this bill either. Despite no support from McCain or Kingston, the New GI Bill passed the House and Senate and is awaiting President Bush’s signature. However, Bush says he will veto the bill.

As a 23-year Army veteran who’s served in Iraq, Germany and many other countries; as the former ROTC Director for southeast Georgia; and as a former Professor of Military Science at GSU, AASU, SCAD and SSU, I have seen first hand the plight of returning enlisted soldiers. Many struggle financially to support their families, and those who want to seek higher-education often find it hard to do so. The financial struggles are especially hard now at Ft. Stewart, where soldiers and their families are dealing with multiple deployments. I currently teach ‘transition classes’ at Ft. Stewart, which help soldiers retiring or getting out of the military be successful in the civilian work force. This New GI Bill, which would give them free access to a college degree, is the answer to their needs; it is their just reward.

As the Global War on Terror enters its seventh year, we need to offer our ‘all volunteer military’ better benefits for their service. War is what awaits all of them as they enlist. I am disappointed that Bush, McCain and Kingston do not understand this. They are out-of-step with the needs of our soldiers and their families. Time after time they choose to protect big business and special interests over the needs of the common people who serve. Americans and South Georgia should rebel against this. It is time our government puts people first. I ask President Bush, Senator McCain and Congressman Kingston to make sure the New GI Bill becomes law. Post WWII, every tax dollar spent on GI’s came back seven fold in tax revenue. It helped usher in an age of great American growth and prosperity for many deserving heroes. Our present day war heroes have earned this same type of treatment.