Blogging for Max

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Former U.S. Representative and current candidate Max Burns today predicted ultimate victory in the race for Georgia’s 12th District, once all votes have been accurately recorded and certified.

“Based on information in the belated recording of our tremendous showing in Effingham County, I believe a thorough and independent review of vote totals district-wide will result in our winning this race,” says Burns.  “I am instructing our staff and supporters to continue aggressively working with state election officials to ensure that final count is timely, comprehensive, and accurate.”

Georgia Secretary of State Cathy Cox today reported Burns carried Effingham County with nearly 74% of the vote.  Those results were unavailable last night due to technical difficulties.

The landslide in Burns’ favor all but erased a slim lead in the total district vote by incumbent Democratic Congressman John Barrow, bringing the contest back to a virtual 50-50 tie, with only around 1,000 votes separating the candidates.  The narrow margin is well within the 1% threshold margin to initiate an automatic recount.

Burns says that in a race as competitive as that in the 12th District, both campaigns owe the voters an absolutely accurate and clean vote count.

“Regardless of who wins, this election of nearly 150,000 people will come down to just a few hundred ballots,” says Burns. “This is a golden opportunity to let the public know just how much their vote can mean in an election.  We need to work together to guarantee that this outcome is not marred by any hint of inaccuracy or fault in the voting process that would negate the vote of any person.”

The Secretary of State will continue tabulating votes until Monday, when a final tally will be certified and reported, opening the way for a formal recount request if necessary.

From the campaign: Georgia Secretary of State reports Effingham County totals with Burns securing 74% of the vote

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Republican Congressional Candidate Max Burns has won a landslide victory over Democrat John Barrow in Effingham County, according to the latest data released by Georgia Secretary of State Cathy Cox.  The release of Effingham County totals had been delayed since last night due to technical difficulties with voting machines.

The huge surge of support for Burns has largely erased Barrow’s earlier narrow lead, and moved the hotly-contested race below the 1% margin threshold for automatic recount under Georgia law.

“We knew the overwhelming support was there for Max in Effingham, and other counties that have not fully reported, and that this race is far from over,” says Burns Campaign Manager Tim Baker.  “We look forward to getting all the final results in so we can determine who won this race.”

Flailing Democrat runs TV ads supporting Bush; radio ads attacking him – simultaneously

SAVANNAH, Ga. – In a bizarre end game even for a politician nationally-known for flip-flopping, Athens Congressman John Barrow’s final campaign ads were blasting Bush on the radio, while praising him on television – at the same time.

“This latest flip-flop would probably take the national prize for two-faced politicians this election cycle if there were such an award,” says Burns’ Campaign Manager Tim Baker, “but only because this time the flip-flop is occurring simultaneously on the air.  He’s done the same thing over his two years in office with gay marriage, amnesty for illegal aliens, voter photo IDs, and raising taxes.   But it’s absolutely hilarious to finally hear and see him contradicting himself in his own ads.”

Barrow’s radio ad criticizes Burns for bringing President Bush to the district, claiming Bush and Burns will block raising the minimum wage, while his TV ads brag that Barrow “voted with George Bush on Iraq and the war on terror every single time.”

“While this is gallingly amusing, it’s prime evidence of why it’s time for Barrow’s political career to come to an end,” says Baker.

“Friend and foe alike have come to learn you have no idea where Barrow stands on anything, because he couches everything in Harvard-lawyer speak to make you believe what you wanted to hear.  He had the Boston Globe believing he was for amnesty, but has the Savannah Morning News believing he’s against it.  He had Savannah’s Gay Pride Day festival believing he was for gay marriage, but has the Augusta Christian TV station WBPI believing he’s against it.  He had the Atlanta Press Club believing he was strongly for voter photo ID, but has the Savannah and Augusta Chapters NAACP thinking he’s really against it.”

Baker says Georgians can take comfort in the fact they should only have another couple days to put up with Barrow’s deceptions.  “With Max Burns, you may agree or disagree with a particular position, but you know without a doubt where he stands.  He says the same thing in Waynesboro and Vidalia as he says in Washington, and votes that way, too.  And completely outside political issues, there’s a heck of a lot of just plain public service work a Congressman provides to his district and individual constituents, so this issue of reliability is critical for voters of all political persuasions - Republican, Democrat, independents, conservatives, moderates, and liberals alike.   We got tricked in 2004 by the double-speak, but now we’ll fix it come Tuesday.”

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, and wife Lora will team up to campaign across Georgia’s new 12th District for Election Day 2006.  Burns and his wife have been campaigning since June of last year and will work polls across the district this coming Tuesday.

Mr. Burns will begin rallying supporters at Milledgeville-area precincts early Tuesday morning, while Mrs. Burns does the same in Sylvania.  Mr. Burns will continue with similar stops and Sandersville, Augusta, Waynesboro, Sylvania, Springfield, Rincon and communities in Chatham County, while Mrs. Burns will work communities in Statesboro, Millen, Swainsboro, Vidalia, Glennville, Reidsville, Claxton and Metter.  The couple will meet to watch election results with the rest of their family in Statesboro that evening.

Burns will vote at 1:15 pm at his stop in Sylvania.

Burns and his entire family will be spending election night at Forest Heights Country Club in Statesboro.  The public and media are invited to attend.

Max Burns

7:00 – 7:45 am             Milledgeville – Courthouse Precinct, Baldwin County Courthouse, 121 N. Wilkinson Street

8:30 – 9:15 am             Sandersville – Sandersville Precinct, Washington County Recreation Department, 200 Franklin Hayes Blvd.

10:30 – 11:15 am         Augusta – 805, Southside Baptist Church, 3612 Mike Padgett Highway

11:45 – 12:30 am         Waynesboro – American Legion, 270 S. Liberty Street

1:15 – 1:45 pm             Sylvania (Max will vote at Jackson Fire Station Precinct, 2960 Old Poor Robin Road, Sylvania at this time)

2:15 – 2:45 pm             Springfield – Effingham County Board of Elections, 405 Ash Street, Springfield

3:15 – 3:45 pm             Rincon – 4B, Rincon Church of God Family Center, 3430 Highway 21 South

4:15 – 4: 45 pm            Port Wentworth – Port Wentworth Community Center, 300 Appleby Road

5:15 - 5:45 pm             Pooler – Rothwell Baptist Church, 216 E. Rothwell Street

6:15 -7:00 pm              Pooler – Pooler Town Hall, 100 Collins Street

Lora Burns

7:00- 8:00 am               Statesboro - Pittman Park United Methodist Church, 1102 Fair Road

8:30 – 9:30 am             Millen - Senior Citizens Building, 998 E. College Avenue

10:00 – 11:00 am         Swainsboro - Earl Varner 4-H Center, 220 S. Circle Drive

11:30 – 12:30 am         Vidalia - Vidalia Police Department, 101 Durden Street

1:00 – 2:00 pm             Reidsville - Manassas 2, Reidsville Armory 1, 161 Brumby Avenue

2:30 – 3:30 pm             Glennville - Glennville Baptist Church, 321 W. Barnard Street

4:00 – 5:00 pm             Claxton - Claxton City Hall, 204 W. Railroad Drive Street

5:30 – 7:00 pm             Metter - Metter Community Center, 435 N. Roundstreet Street

Victory Celebration ‘06

7:00 p.m.

Forest Heights Country Club

3772 Country Club Road ~ Statesboro, Georgia

ELECTION NIGHT MEDIA CONTACT: TIM BAKER (912) 656-6851 - CELL

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, and U.S. Representative Jack Kingston will tour Georgia’s new 12th District via airplane on Monday, November 6th, in support of Burns campaign to return to Congress. Burns and Kingston will begin the day with a kick-off rally at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, and then continue via private plane to rallies in Statesboro, Milledgeville and Augusta. U.S. Representative Charlie Norwood will join Kingston and Burns in Augusta.

9:45 AM
Savannah Airport Rally
Signature Terminal
1001 Davidson Drive
Savannah, GA

10:45 AM
Statesboro Airport Rally
Statesboro Airport
601 Airport Blvd
Statesboro, GA

11:30 AM
Visit to Statesboro High School for a Special Presentation
10 Lester Road
Statesboro, GA

12:45 PM
Visit Boyd’s Bar-B-Que
302 Northside Drive
Statesboro, GA
2:15 PM
Milledgeville Airport Rally
Baldwin County Airport
216 Airport Road, NE
Milledgeville, GA

3:30 PM
Augusta Airport
Daniel Field Airport
1771 Highland Avenue
Augusta, GA

Updated: 11/02/2006, 1:09 p.m.

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Americans for Immigration Control, the Dustin Inman Society, and the Minuteman Political Action Committee will weigh in on key Georgia congressional races Friday during a series of news conferences in Macon, Augusta, and Savannah.

WHAT:

IMMIGRATION REFORM CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENTS

WHO:

CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE AND FORMER U.S. REP. MAX BURNS
CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATE AND FORMER U.S. REP. MAC COLLINS (MACON ONLY)
U.S. REP CHARLIE NORWOOD (AUGUSTA ONLY)
AMERICANS FOR IMMIGRATION CONTROL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR PHIL KENT
DUSTIN  INMAN SOCIETY PRESIDENT D.A. KING
MINUTEMAN POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE PRESIDENT CHRIS SIMCOX

WHEN AND WHERE:

9:30AM MACON: CITY HALL, 700 Poplar Street
1:00PM AUGUSTA:  MUNICIPAL BLDG, 530 Greene Street
4:30PM SAVANNAH: CHATHAM CO SHERIFFS DEPT, 1050 Carl Griffin Drive

Presidential Council Chairman Confirms Barrow Quote from Council Fabricated

ATLANTA, Ga. – John Barrow’s re-election campaign imploded last night live on GPTV, as Republican candidate Max Burns released incontrovertible evidence that Barrow fabricated quotes from the Presidential Advisory Council on Federal Tax Reform[2] used in his “Max Tax” negative ad campaign.

In the ad, Barrow claims the Presidential Advisory Council on Federal Tax Reform said “Max Burns’ National Sales Tax would increase taxes on 75% of Americans.” However, Burns revealed during last night’s debate that the Chairman of the President’s Advisory Council, former U.S. Senator Connie Mack reviewed Barrow’s ad yesterday and found Barrow’s claim patently false.

“The President’s Advisory Panel on Federal Tax Reform did not examine any proposal by Max Burns,” says Senator Mack. “Furthermore, the panel did not score H.R. 25.”

While Burns has never authored any national sales tax proposal, Barrow has continued his “Max Tax” campaign based solely on Burn’s support for U.S. Rep. John Linder’s (R-GA) proposal for a national sales tax, HR 25. Senator Mack’s findings therefore rule out even Barrow’s indirect deceptive claim against Burns.

“Mr. Barrow, take down this false ad,” demanded former 12th District Congressman Max Burns. Burns also demanded Barrow formally apologize to the voters of the district for airing false advertising. Senator Mack’s findings confirm reports last week from WSAV TV investigative reporter Paul Rea, who also found that the Council report[3] from November, 2005 in fact did not examine any proposal by Burns, or even any specific bill supported by Burns, and that the claim is “untrue.”

“Findings of false advertising by John Barrow from two independent, unrelated sources provides more than adequate justification that these ads be immediately pulled from the air by all broadcasters,” says Burns for Congress Campaign Manager Tim Baker. “We are formally requesting this action immediately, as every airing of this false advertising is financially damaging to Max Burns for Congress and personally damaging to Dr. Burns.”

[1] http://www.wsav.com/midatlantic/sav/search.apx.-content-articles-SAV-2006-10-23-0017.html

[2] http://www.taxreformpanel.gov

[3] http://www.taxreformpanel.gov/final-report/TaxReform_Ch9.pdf

Secures endorsements from the two major dailies in the new 12th District
From the Augusta Chronicle, 10/29/2006: 

Return Max Burns

He has proved himself once. Now we need his leadership again

There are many reasons why voters in Georgia’s redrawn 12th Congressional District should elect Max Burns to the U.S. House of Representatives next month, but this is the most telling: That seat, now held by Democrat John Barrow, could determine which party controls the lower chamber.

Max Burns was elected president of his Republican freshman class when he became a U.S. House member in 2002. Now he needs to bring his ideas and values to Washington in 2006.

If Democrats win, Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi will be speaker and her far-left San Francisco values - gay marriage, cutting and running from Iraq, coddling terrorists, raising taxes, amnesty for illegals - will become the House agenda.

That would cripple our commander in chief’s ability to lead. This is surely why he plans to campaign for Burns on Monday in Statesboro - the second time this year the president has come to Georgia to help his fellow Republican.

Burns represented the 12th District with distinction in the 108th Congress, but lost to Barrow two years ago. Since then, the 12th was redrawn to be more competitive, and more geographically sensible. There is now a “community of interest” in the district that needs Max Burns to look after those interests.

Barrow may be proud of standing up to his party’s leftist leadership on occasion, but he’s clearly swimming upstream - and every time he goes under, so will Georgia. Under a Speaker Pelosi, the undertow would only intensify.

Why take that risk, when you can vote for Max Burns, who’s an authentic conservative with a record in the previous Congress that proves it. He was hailed as one of the most prolific freshmen representatives in history, writing and passing legislation to help farmers and the elderly.

Barrow, on the other hand, is listed on Congress.org as one of the 10 least-effective congressional members by a government relations management company - less effective, even, than Cynthia McKinney.

Burns, a former Screven County commissioner, is supported by groups concerned about taxes and the economy. The National Federation of Independent Business, the nation’s foremost small-business advocacy group, endorsed Burns on Thursday.

That’s the reality. Yet Barrow’s “Max Tax” TV ads have disingenuously accused Burns of supporting a 23 percent national sales tax increase without making it clear he’s referring to a replacement tax that gets rid of all other federal taxes, including income and payroll taxes. The FairTax, as it’s known, would also greatly simplify the tax code and scrap the IRS. Barrow’s smear of this innovative tax reform plan has been independently documented by a Savannah TV station as a gross distortion.

Burns has not committed to the tax revamp, but says he’s for considering it. Barrow should be too, unless he thinks the current monstrous tax code doesn’t need change. The FairTax deserves serious debate, but that’s impossible when one candidate distorts the issue for political advantage.

You don’t need to worry about Max Burns having to swim upstream toward Georgia values. He’s already there.

This might be the nation’s pivotal congressional race, upon which control of the House rests. Voters in Georgia’s 12th Congressional District may provide the entire nation with lower taxes, greater national security and rational immigration policy.

But only by voting for Max Burns on Nov. 7.

From the Savannah Morning News:

12th District Race
Return Burns to House

WHO ARE the two candidates running for Georgia’s 12th Congressional House seat? Judging from the advertising, one is a loony liberal and the other is a twisted conservative.

Fortunately for voters in this district, which includes portions of Savannah and southeast and eastern Georgia, that’s not the case. These ads are mostly caricatures. John Barrow, the Democratic incumbent, and Max Burns, the Republican who wants to regain his old seat, are thoughtful men who bear only passing resemblances to the negative images on TV and radio and in direct mail pieces.

However, differences do exist. Our recommendation in the Nov. 7 general election is Mr. Burns.

Voters sent the Screven County resident to Washington in 2002 to represent the 12th District, which at the time was the most Democratic district in the nation with a Republican congressman. In 2004, the Democratic National Committee made Mr. Burns’ defeat a top priority. It succeeded, despite the fact that Mr. Burns was an effective lawmaker who supported President Bush’s tax cuts and the president’s war on terror and who diligently tended his Georgia roots, especially in farm country. (Example: He supported the buyout of the state’s tobacco growers).

We believe Mr. Burns deserves a return trip to Washington, and give him the edge over the incumbent for one major reason: tax reform, likely to be a major issue in the next Congress.

While both candidates rightly support the end of the “death” tax, Mr. Burns goes one additional step and wants to abolish the convoluted income tax and Internal Revenue Service. Instead, the revenue that the federal government needs to operate would be collected through a national sales tax.

Georgia Rep. John Linder has championed this proposal, which would slash the costs of complying with the existing tax code, boost real wages, give workers more control over their money and create more opportunities for business and job growth.

Mr. Barrow opposes it. Although the incumbent says he favors tax reform, we believe Mr. Burns would be a better advocate for the changes that would do the most good for the most working Georgians.

Mr. Burns’ advocacy of lower taxes is just one way to foster economic growth and investment. Another is his support for improving transportation, education and agriculture. He supports changes that would help move truck traffic into and out of the mammoth Georgia Ports Authority facility in Garden City and connect this vital resource with other areas of Georgia and the Southeast, largely through the construction of the proposed Interstate 3 that would run north from Savannah to Augusta.

The next Congress will reauthorize the farm bill, and Mr. Burns has a solid record supporting farmers. Pairing him with Georgia Sen. Saxby Chambliss, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee, would give Georgians a one-two punch in Congress on issues important to the state’s agricultural industry.

Mr. Burns had a solid record on supporting the military and supported the Bush Doctrine of pre-emption - engaging terrorists overseas. He supported the Patriot Act to give anti-terror agencies needed tools to better protect Americans.

Mr. Barrow, an attorney who relocated to Savannah from Athens, has a voting record of a Southern Democrat - not as hard left as the national party. For example, the ACLU graded him at 36 percent during the last session, compared to a perfect 100 percent for Democratic Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi of California and soon-to-be former Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney of Atlanta.

We also have supported some of his initiatives, such as hiking the mileage reimbursements to veterans who drive long distances for medical treatment from veterans’ health-care facilities.

However, we disagreed with him on the Central American Free Trade Agreement, which we supported and he opposed. We also disagree with him on raising the minimum wage, which will eliminate jobs.

He also voted for an unneeded “hate crimes” bill. He voted against the fiscal 2006 budget resolution to limit spending and impose tax cuts, and he voted against a bill that would help the United States become more energy independent by opening up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge for oil and gas exploration.

Mr. Barrow is no knee-jerk Democrat. He broke ranks with the party and voted to protect gun manufacturers from frivolous lawsuits, for instance.

However, we believe Mr. Burns would be a more effective representative. We support his candidacy.

Governor, Two Senators, and U.S. Congressman Lend Support to Burns Effort

AUGUSTA, Ga. – In a massive display of public support, an estimated 750 Augustans turned out tonight to support Max Burn’s bid to restore Georgia’s 12th Congressional District seat to conservative voters.

Burns was joined by Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue, U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss and Johnny Isakson, and U.S. Representative Charlie Norwood, who all stumped for Burns to beat Athens trial attorney John Barrow.

Burns said the number one weapon to take back the seat from Barrow, who has promised to raise taxes if re-elected, is to energize conservative voters.   “Every one of you here needs to call the first ten numbers on your cell phone speed dial and tell ‘em to go vote, and if they have a problem getting to the polls, take ‘em,” Burns said.  “I’m more than willing to let those ten voters decide, since I know if the majority of this district gets to the polls, we’ll win back this seat.”

Norwood, Chambliss, Isakson, and Perdue pointed out to the crowd the critical nature of the race, as one that could help determine which party controls the House of Representatives next year.  “If we let Democrats like John Barrow win this seat, we’ll be looking at an automatic tax increase in the trillions,” said Norwood.  “And there’s nothing that President Bush can do to veto it, and nothing our two Senators here tonight can do to filibuster.  All the Democrats have to do is what they always do, nothing, and the increases become law automatically when the Republican tax cuts expire.”

Norwood says the crowd at Julian Smith Casino was the largest political turnout ever for a Republican candidate at that venue, and an indicator that the tide is turning in favor of conservatives this election cycle.

STATESBORO, Ga. - Blogging for Max can now confirm that Monday’s visit by President Bush will be held at the Hanner Fieldhouse on the Georgia Southern University campus in Statesboro. An unnamed official with the Max Burns campaign has said the White House planned to announce Wednesday that Hanner will host the event. A time has not yet been set but the source verified that it will be roughly “mid-morning to lunch.”

Blogging for Max first broke the story of the Presidential visit last Thursday. We will continue to bring you more information as it becomes available.

Most voters know that the “Max Tax” commercials being run by Athens trial lawyer John Barrow and the DCCC present a distorted and misleading version of the Fair Tax, and a misappropriated link between Max Burns and the Fair Tax itself, but WSAV 3 in Savannah put the advertisements to the “truth test” and found that Johnnie Athens has been lying to voters.

In a segment that aired on Channel 3’s 6 pm and 10 pm news, WSAV’s Paul Ray did a great job of exposing the depth to which Barrow and the DCCC have lied in these commercials.

“As the Truth Test found the ads present the sales tax as an increase when it is designed to replace all income and other payroll taxes. Another misleading element is referencing the tax as new, it’s been around for years and while support is growing the “new” tax is going nowhere fast.”

And these ads are essentially the hub of Barrow’s campaign.   With no record to run on, and a great deal of mistakes to hide, Barrow can do little more than lie.  He lied to voters about the tax itself, but he has also distorted Max Burns’ support of the tax.  Larry Peterson of the Savannah Morning News recently wrote:

“At a forum with Barrow last week, [Burns] said he still thinks it’s ‘a good idea,’ but he suggested it could use some tweaks.  ‘There are some things we can take from it and make it better,’ [Burns] said.” (emphasis added)

Even more outrageous is the notion that Barrow has gone so far off the deep end in lying to voters, that he is claiming that he is aligned with President Bush.  At the end of one of the ads he says “I’m John Barrow and I approve this message because I agree with George Bush on this one.”  But that could not be further from the truth.

“The fact is President Bush said ’send Max Burns back to the U.S. Congress,’” said Tim Baker, Burns’ campaign manager. “It’s Barrow trying to run from his true colors and his party.” (emphasis added)

Johnnie Athens lying to conceal his record?  Sounds familiar.  But WSAV saved the most damning evidence for last:

“One of Barrow’s ads claims, ‘President Bush’s commission on tax reform said Max Burns’ national sales tax would raise taxes on 75% of all Americans.’ Then the candidate intones, ‘I’m John Barrow and I approved this message because I agree with George Bush on this one.’  WSAV has confirmed the council looked at a national sales tax plan, but they did not look at the specific plan Burns and others support meaning this part of the Barrow ad is untrue.” (emphasis added)

The bottom line is that Barrow’s a liar.  It’s not quite libel, but it’s close.  Whatever the case, in the words of Ricky Ricardo/Dezi Arnaz, “Johnnie, you have a lot of ’splainin’ to do.”

Burns’ election extremely important to small-business owners across the country

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, today received the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB).  NFIB’s Save America’s Free Enterprise (SAFE) Trust made the announcement at Very Vera’s, a member of the NFIB.

“It’s an honor to have the support of small business,” said Burns.  “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and are the ones that create good paying jobs in our communities.   This endorsement shows that the voters of Georgia’s new 12th District want a Congressman who will work for lower taxes, less government and less regulation so America’s small businesses can continue growing jobs and opportunities in Georgia.”

“Your election is extremely important to the NFIB member small-business owners across the country,” said Dan Danner, Executive Vice President of the NFIB Public Policy and Political.  “Hardworking and spirited entrepreneurs in your district are continuing to battle burdensome regulation, taxes and other unnecessary government intervention.  They need your support in Congress to defeat obstructionists and secure a pro-free-enterprise business environment that is vital to their success.”

While serving in the 108th Congress, Burns received a 100 percent rating from the NFIB and was awarded the “Guardian of Small Business” for his support in championing small business legislation.  With less than three weeks before Election Day, the endorsement is a major boost for the Burns campaign because Athens Congressman John Barrow is a member of the Small Business Committee in the U.S. House of Representatives, which has oversight of all small business legislation that comes before the House.

“It’s shocking that a member of the Small Business Committee didn’t get the endorsement of small business,” said Burns Campaign Manager Tim Baker.  “But after taking a closer look at John Barrow’s voting record, one can understand their hesitation in supporting him.  John Barrow is masquerading around as a lower taxes, less government kind of candidate, but he’s really a liberal trial attorney that’s out of touch with folks in the district.  Small business saw through his disguise and so will the voters in Georgia’s new 12th District.”

STATESBORO, Ga. - As we posted earlier today, President Bush will be returning to the 12th district to campaign for Max Burns.  We can now confirm that the event will be held on Monday, Oct. 30, in Statesboro.  The exact time and place of his visit are yet to be determined.

This is the President’s second visit to Georgia for Max Burns.  On September 7, he visited the Mighty Eighth Air Force Museum in Pooler.  Blogging for Max will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.

UPDATE: Friday, Oct. 12 - 12:24 pm

U.S. Rep. Jack Kingston’s office is saying that the event will be in the morning.  From the Macon Telegraph:

“The president will be in Statesboro Monday Oct. 30, mid-morning to lunch,” Kingston communications director Rob Asbell said this morning.

We still have no confirmation from either the White House or the Max Burns campaign regarding a definite time and an exact place in Statesboro - therefore we cannot yet verify that the event will in fact be held in the morning.  We will keep you updated.

SAVANNAH, Ga. – A source close to the Max Burns campaign has confirmed that President Bush will be visiting the 12th district before Election Day. The date and location are still unkown.

Erick Erickson noted Wednesday on Peach Pundit that “George Bush is going to make a return visit” to Georgia.

Blogging for Max can now verify that this is true and it will be in the 12th district. More details will follow as this story unfolds.

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, will hold a press conference tomorrow, Oct. 19, 2006, in Augusta to discuss issues important to small businesses and receive the endorsement of the National Federation of Independent Business.  NFIB will endorse Burns at 11:30 am at NFIB member Very Vera’s, an Augusta restaurant.  Burns will be joined by other members of the NFIB and Burns supporters.  The public and press are invited and encouraged to attend.

WHO: Max Burns and NFIB Members

WHAT: Endorsement of Max Burns’ Campaign for Congress

WHEN: Thursday, October 18, 2006, 11:30 AM

WHERE: Very Vera’s

3113 Washington Road

Augusta, Georgia

For more information, contact Tim Baker (912) 353-9626.

Secretary Johanns: “Max Burns will be that strong voice Georgia farmers need in Washington.”

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, today campaigned with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns during visits in Georgia’s new 12th District.  Burns and Secretary Johanns met with farmers who’s fields have been affected by disaster, discussed farm policy with local 12th District farmers at a listening session in Bulloch County and toured a cotton gin and onion operation in Candler County.

“I appreciate Secretary Johanns visit to Georgia’s new 12th District,” said Burns.  “I am glad the Secretary was able to see what I already know: Georgia farmers grow the best food and fiber in the world.  I wanted the Secretary to hear first hand the needs of our farming community so he can take back to Washington what he learned from them and craft agriculture policy that is beneficial to Georgia farmers.”

“I am glad to be in Georgia and supporting Max Burns,” said Secretary Johanns.  “Max Burns is a farmer.  He understands agriculture.  He has a track record of getting things done and watches out for Georgia’s peanut and cotton farmers.  Max Burns will be that strong voice Georgia farmers need in Washington.”

Burns, who is the third generation to live on his family’s farm in Screven County, has spent a lifetime working in and around agriculture, growing corn, soybeans, hay, oats, and timber, and raising beef cattle.  During the 108th Congress, he served on the House Committee on Agriculture and the first bill Burns introduced in Congress was an agriculture disaster relief bill, which parts of Burns’ bill were eventually included in the final Omnibus Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2003.  Burns also authored the Sudden Oak Death Research Act, which President Bush signed into law.

Burns has made agriculture a central theme in his campaign to return to Congress.  The 110th Congress will re-write the farm bill, which dictates farm policy for the United States, and Burns wants a seat at the table so Georgia farmers are protected.  Burns also wants to expand the use of bio-fuels in Georgia, which will ultimately open up additional markets for Georgia’s farmers.  Burns will seek a seat once again on the Agriculture Committee work to advance policies beneficial to Georgia’s agriculture community.

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Athens trial lawyer John Barrow continues his pattern of lies by launching yet another false, negative attack ad against Max Burns.  Barrow’s latest ad continues the same negative tactics used in 2004 to scare voters into believing Burns will raise their taxes.  Burns will never raise taxes and has an extensive record of cutting taxes and simplification while in the 108th Congress.  On the other hand, Barrow voted three times to put the death tax back on the books and supports raising Social Security taxes and cutting benefits.

“It’s absolutely laughable to think Max will raise your taxes,” said Burns Campaign Manager Tim Baker.  “Max will never raise taxes.  It’s pitiful John Barrow has resorted to lies and false attacks in order to cover up his votes to renew the death tax and raise Social Security taxes and cut benefits.  Voters in Georgia’s new 12th District are much smarter than he gives them credit for and will reject these shameful, negative campaign tactics.”

Burns established a solid record of tax cuts and reforms during his term in the 108th Congress.  Burns voted for H.R. 2, the Economic Growth and Jobs Act of 2003, which cut taxes for millions of Americans and small businesses; voted to end the death tax once and for all; introduced and the U.S. House passed with bi-partisan support the Simple Tax for Seniors Act (418-0), which created the first-ever short-form “1040S” for America’s seniors; and the Tax Simplification for Americans Act of 2004, which expanded the use of the short 1040EZ form to millions of Americans.  Burns supports making all of President Bush’s 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent.

Burns earned the Friend of the Taxpayers Award by the National Taxpayer’s Union while in Congress.  However, Barrow was named “Unfriendly to Taxpayers” by Citizens Against Government Waste for his support of wasteful programs and pork-barrel spending and received a failing grade of 12 percent from Americans for Tax Reform.

“John Barrow wants you to believe that Max Burns will raise your taxes, but that’s a joke,” said Baker.  “Max Burns will always vote to cut your taxes and never vote to your raise taxes.”

SAVANNAH, Ga. – A new campaign advertisement by Athens trial lawyer John Barrow is catching a lot of flack from Southeast Georgia voters.  The Democrat launched the ad Tuesday which claims that his opponent, former Congressman and Educator Max Burns, would raise taxes if elected.

The Burns camp calls the advertisement a lie and says Barrow is using the same scare tactics he used when the two last met in 2004.  Burns’ Campaign Manager, Tim Baker, believes the Athens Democrat is lying in order to intimidate voters into believing Burns will raise their taxes.

“First and foremost, Max’s record on taxes is crystal clear: an honest tax code that is simple, fair and less burdensome to families and small businesses,” said Baker.  “Our current tax system is broken, too complex, and onerous.”

Burns served in the 108th Congress before narrowly losing to Barrow in 2004.

While in Congress, Burns introduced the Simple Tax for Seniors Act, which created the first-ever short-form “1040S” for America’s seniors and the Tax Simplification for Americans Act of 2004 which expanded the use of the short 1040EZ form to millions of Americans.  Both passed the House with strong bi-partisan support.

“Max knows we are well beyond rectifying the unfairness of the IRS by tinkering around the edges,” Baker said.  “Instead, the system is in need of transformation and Max is willing to examine any number of proposals that will lower the tax burden on Georgia’s working families.  What he cannot support is the IRS.”

Earlier this year, Burns signed the Tax Payer Protection Pledge, agreeing to oppose any and all efforts to increase the marginal income tax rates for individuals and businesses.  In 2004, Burns was at the forefront of the “death tax” debate, working to repeal a system that Baker says “kills so many small businesses and family farms.”

Burns also voted for President Bush’s 2003 tax cuts and has said he supports making all of President Bush’s tax cuts permanent.

For his efforts in the last Congress, Burns earned the Friend of the Taxpayers Award by the National Taxpayer’s Union.  Barrow received an “F” from the National Taxpayers Union for his support in reducing spending, regulation and opposing higher taxes during the First Session of the 109th Congress.

“John Barrow knows he is lying about Max’s record to cover up his own miserable record, which supports the IRS and opposition to making President Bush’s tax cuts permanent,” said Baker.  “John Barrow should do the honorable thing and stop using these false attacks immediately, but based on his previous campaigns he will say and do anything to get elected.”

Burns represented the old 12th District from Jan. 7, 2003, through Jan. 3, 2005.  Prior to serving in the 108th Congress, Burns, a Fulbright Scholar and Army veteran, served two decades as a Professor of Information Systems at Georgia Southern University, as well as being a farmer.

He is a former Screven County Commissioner and served as its Chairman.  Burns earned the endorsement of the Business-Industry PAC for his commitment to a pro-growth agenda.

Burns takes to 12th District airwaves discussing Barrow’s support of assimilating illegals

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, today began airing his first radio commercial of the 2006 election cycle.  The sixty second radio ad, entitled “Bill, Tommy and Don,” features three 12th District voters discussing Athens Congressman John Barrow’s radio ads and his immigration policy, which includes assimilating illegal immigrants already in our country and making Georgia’s Medicaid benefits more accessible to them.  The ad began playing all across Georgia’s new 12th District today.
Text of “Bill, Tommy and Don”:

Tommy: Say, Bill.

Bill: Yep?

Tommy: You hear those fellas Earl and Eddie bad mouthin’ Max Burns, but claiming John Barrow hung the moon?

Bill: Yep.

Tommy: Well, I’ve never seen ‘em around here before.

Bill: They’re voice talents.

Tommy: Voice talents?  What’s that mean?

Don: Means paid actors.

Tommy: How’s that Don?

Don: Barrow’s payin’ ‘em to bad mouth Max Burns, but say good things about him.

Tommy: So Earl and Eddie wouldn’t know John Barrow if he bit ‘em on the you-know-what?

Bill & Don: Yep.  Umm hum.

Tommy: So they don’t know John Barrow said he’s for “assimilating” 11 million illegal aliens.

Don & Bill: Uh-Oh.  Yep.

Tommy: Or, that John Barrow’s voted to help illegal aliens get taxpayer funded benefits.

Bill: Yep.

Tommy: Well, my support’s not for sale.

Don: I understand that.

Tommy: John Barrow’s lost my vote.

Bill: Yep.

Don: Well, he never had mine.

Max Burns: I’m Max Burns.  I’m running for Congress and I approve this message because I’d appreciate your vote and I’m thankful for these ol’ boys.

Tommy: These ol’ boys didn’t get paid a dime.

Bill: Yep.

Tommy: But this message was paid for by Friends of Max Burns

Burns’ campaign, which also began running television advertising on selected cable systems, has been running broadcast television since after Labor Day and will use this radio advertising to compliment its ongoing paid media campaign.

…when it comes to Medicaid Funding

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Athens Congressman John Barrow’s not on the straight and narrow when it comes to fixing Medicaid funding for Georgians. This week, Barrow held a press conference touting legislation which he introduced yesterday to directly address the funding short fall in Medicaid. The problem, Barrow voted two times to make it easier for illegal immigrants to received Medicaid benefits, which is the leading cause of the financial crisis due to fraudulent claims by illegal immigrants.

John Barrow claiming to fix the PeachCare Funding Shortfall:

“Here in Georgia, PeachCare has helped hundreds of thousands of children get the health coverage they need,” Barrow continued. “It’s been extremely successful. That’s why it’s important that Congress fix the projected federal funding shortfall, so that we don’t turn back the clock on the progress that’s been made here, or keep any eligible child from enrolling…If states like Georgia are forced to cut enrollment because of funding shortfalls, many of the low-income children now enrolled in PeachCare will lose their health coverage,” Barrow said. “Congress created programs like PeachCare, and we have an obligation to adequately fund them. Now’s the time to act, and act quickly.” (Barrow Press Release, 9/18/06)

John Barrow voting 2 times to give illegal immigrants easier access to Medicaid benefits, which funds the PeachCare program:

Illegal aliens siphon off hundreds of millions of dollars a year in taxpayer funded Medicaid benefits intended to pay for health benefits for low-income Georgians. John Barrow voted twice to give illegal immigrants easier access to these taxpayer funded benefits. (Roll Call Vote 601, 11/18/05; Roll Call Vote 670, 12/16/05)

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Athens Congressman John Barrow continues his pattern of lies when he claims he voted against amnesty in his latest television ad and refuses to explain to Georgians in the new 12th District what he meant when he told the Boston Globe that “We have 11 million illegal aliens we need to do a good job of assimilating into the country first.”

“John Barrow claims he voted against amnesty, but H.R. 4437 did nothing to address amnesty for the illegal immigrants in our country,” said Burns Campaign Manager Tim Baker. “In fact, the word amnesty appears no where in the 257 pages of the bill. However John Barrow did tell folks in Boston that ‘We have 11 million illegal aliens we need to do a good job of assimilating into the country first.’ Assimilate means ‘absorb,’ which beyond a shadow of doubt means amnesty. He is a Harvard-educated lawyer. He knows what assimilate means.”

On an April 9, 2006, Barrow told the Boston Globe, when asked what should be done with the illegals already in the country, “We have 11 million illegal aliens we need to do a good job of assimilating into the country first.” Barrow never said a single word about amnesty until after April 10, 2006, when Max Burns criticized Barrow’s plan to assimilate the illegals already in the country. Barrow then ran back to the district and tried to clear up any confusion by claiming his opposition to amnesty and now claims he voted against amnesty.

“John Barrow can claim he’s against amnesty till he’s blue in the face,” said Baker. “It’s been 159 days and John Barrow has never explained what he meant when he told his college’s hometown newspaper he’s for “assimilating” 11 million illegal immigrants. What did this Ivy Leaguer think ‘assimilate’ means – round’em up and send’em home?”

Documentation:

H.R. 4437: The Border Protection, Antiterrorism, and Illegal Immigration Control Act of 2005:

This legislation only strengthens enforcement of our immigration laws, but does nothing to address the unauthorized immigrants currently in the United States. In short this bill:

· Requires every employer to ensure their employees are legal residents

· Strengthens and coordinates border security operations in order to prevent would-be terrorists from sneaking into the United States

· Boosts penalties for individuals found guilty of smuggling illegal immigrants across the border

· Subjects illegal immigrants to criminal penalties

· Protects against detained illegal aliens from being released back into American communities

(Source: House Committee on the Judiciary and the House Committee on Homeland Security)

John Barrow’s response when asked what should be done with the illegals already in the country:

“We have 11 million illegal aliens we need to do a good job of assimilating into the country first.” (Fence Sitters, Boston Globe, April 9, 2006)

as•sim•i•late:

· to absorb (groups of different cultures) into the main cultural body (Webster’s New World Dictionary, Second College Edition)

· to absorb (a minority) into the prevailing culture (The American Heritage College Dictionary, Third Edition)

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th U.S. Congressional District, today began airing his first television commercial of the 2006 election cycle.  The ad, entitled “Max,” focuses on Max’s family, his local roots in the 12th District and highlights Max’s support for lower taxes and his commitment to a safer, secure America.  The ad began airing this morning in the Savannah and Augusta media markets.

“Today our campaign began taking my message of who I am, where I come from and my goals for a strong, secure nation directly to the voters in the 12th District,” said Burns.  “I’m confident that once the voters see who I am, the lifetime I’ve spent in our community and my commitment to Georgia families’ way of life, they’ll vote to return me to Congress.”

Burns begins his advertising well in advance of the November election, allowing voters to learn about him and the successful work that he will do when he returns to Congress.

“Our advertising will show voters in the 12th District who Max is, the lifetime he has spent in our community and his desire keep taxes low, grow the economy and protect our way of life,” said Burns’ Campaign Manager Tim Baker.  “Max has always been there for the people of the 12th District, no matter if he’s in Congress or out of Congress, and this ad reflects that commitment.”

BloggingforMax.com should have the advertisement posted this evening or tomorrow.

The voice-over of the TV spot, called “Max,” says:

Max Burns. Devoted to his family, and our community, he and Lora raised two boys here.  And some timber and cattle on the side.

For twenty years, Max taught at Georgia Southern.  And still made time to referee high school football.

In Congress, Max cut taxes for our families and small businesses.

To defend our way of life, Max will secure our ports and control our borders.

I’m Max Burns and I approve this message.

…when it comes to getting tough on illegal immigration

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Athens Congressman John Barrow’s not on the straight and narrow when it comes to getting tough on illegal immigration. In the first debate of the election cycle, John Barrow claimed he voted for every anti-illegal immigration measures, but a closer look at the Congressional Record shows John Barrow actually opposed 4 measures that would get tough on illegal immigration.

John Barrow claiming to be tough on illegal immigration:

“’I voted for every measure that has been proposed and been passed out of the House to secure our borders and help us begin the process of enforcing our laws,’ said Barrow after the debate.” (Emphasis added) (Savannah Morning News, 8/29/06)

John Barrow voting 4 times against measures to get tough on illegal immigration:

John Barrow voted against an amendment that would prevent state and local governments from receiving funds if they refused to enforce federal law. These so called “sanctuary cities” refused to report immigration violations to the federal. (Vote 177, 5/17/2005)

John Barrow voted to extend temporary protected status (TPS) to hundreds of thousands of immigrants in the United States following natural disasters in Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua in 1998 and 2001. The countries have since rebuilt and recovered from the devastating effects of the hurricanes and earthquakes, yet because of John Barrow’s vote their citizens residing in the United States continue to enjoy amnesty and do not have to apply for legal residency as other would-be immigrants from around the world are required to do so. (Vote 222, 5/25/06)

John Barrow voted twice against legislation that included key provisions by fellow Georgia lawmakers Nathan Deal (GA-10) and Charlie Norwood (GA-09) that would require all Medicaid applicants to prove U.S. citizenship before being granted benefits. Illegal aliens currently siphon off somewhere between $300 million in Georgia Medicaid funds, intended to pay for health benefits for low-income Georgians. (Roll Call Vote 601, 11/18/05; Vote 670, 12/19/05)

but around here … we trust those who “walk the line”

For documentation, call Tim Baker at (912) 353-9626

For explanations, call John Barrow in ATHENS at (706) 613-3232

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th U.S. Congressional District, will participate in a forum with Athens trial lawyer John Barrow Monday, August 28, at 7 pm for the first debate of the election at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville. The event will be held in the Student Center’s Magnolia Ballroom.

GCSU faculty members and regional media representatives, including Bobby Matthews, Managing Editor of Milledgville’s Union Recorder, will serve as panelists and pose questions to the candidates. Macon WMAZ 13’s Randall Savage will function as moderator.

The Candidate Forum is sponsored by the GCSU American Democracy Project, College Republicans, Young Democrats, the Government and Sociology Department, Georgia League of Women Voters, and the Coverdell Institute.

The public is invited to attend and there will be an opportunity to speak with the candidates after the forum. The Student Center is located on West Hancock Street, across from the Georgia College campus.

For more information, contact Gregg Kaufman, Director of the Coverdell Institute, (478) 445-1711.

…when it comes to “protect[ing] our gun rights”

SAVANNAH, Ga. – In his new radio ad, Athens Congressman John Barrow’s not on the straight and narrow when it comes to “protect[ing] our gun rights.” John Barrow claims he “protect[s] our gun rights,” but John Barrow led the fight for some of the most restrictive gun laws in Georgia. Incredibly, John Barrow even proposed a ban on center-fired rifles.

“John Barrow voted…to protect our gun rights.” (Friends of John Barrow radio ad approved by John Barrow)

“…all of us on the commission appear to agree that we need some controls on shooting that are in addition to those provided for the State Law.” (Emphasis added) (John Barrow Letter to the Editor, 11/17/92)

“…Barrow wanted a ban on center-fire rifles altogether… Vote 5: “Barrow and Taylor proposed a total ban on center-fire rifles. It went down to quick defeat, 2-8.” (Emphasis added) (Athens Banner-Herald, 12/2/92)

…when it comes to “His Number 1 Priority”

SAVANNAH, Ga. – With Georgia students heading back to school this month all across Georgia’s new 12th District, Athens Congressman John Barrow’s not on the straight and narrow when it comes to “his number one priority” - education. Barrow decided during the 2004 campaign that Education was his top priority and would work to earn a seat on the House Education and Workforce Committee. But just one year later, Barrow abandoned Georgia students in order to bring home more pork barrel spending.

Congressman John Barrow on deciding “during the campaign season that the Education and Workforce Committee was his No. 1 priority”

“Barrow decided during the campaign season that the Education and Workforce Committee was his No. 1 priority and Agriculture came a close second. There’s not much point in specializing until he gets his subcommittee appointments, Barrow said…” (Emphasis added) (Athens Banner-Herald, 1/30/2005)

Congressman John Barrow ‘trading’ his ‘number one priority’ for “bacon for the 12th”

“He [Barrow] also said ‘most folks realize’ that his move to the transportation panel was ‘a trade up and an opportunity to bring home the bacon for the 12th.’” (Emphasis added) (Savannah Morning News, 2/21/06)

Barrow hides liberal, San Francisco Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi in Atlanta. Why?

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Max Burns, former Congressman and candidate for Georgia’s new 12th District, Friday asked why Athens turned Savannah Congressman John Barrow would campaign with his party’s leader in Atlanta instead of Georgia’s new 12th District. According to an Associated Press article, Barrow hosted liberal, San Francisco Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi in Atlanta Thursday in an attempt to raise money for his campaign.

“John Barrow voted for Nancy Pelosi to be Speaker of the House and said his vote for Speaker was one of the most important things he would do as a Congressman, but what’s he afraid of now?” asked Burns. “Is John Barrow afraid that voters in the new 12th District might learn that Nancy Pelosi voted against the creation of the Department of Homeland Security? Is it that she voted against the $87 billion for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan? Or is it that Nancy Pelosi voted against a national energy policy, legislation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and lower gas prices?

“Is John Barrow hiding Pelosi from 12th District voters because he doesn’t want to have to explain why his party’s leader voted for a budget to cut military funding and increase taxes? Is John Barrow hiding Pelosi from voters because she voted for a budget amendment to raise taxes and increase federal spending? Or is he hiding her because she supported amendments to weaken the Patriot Act and withhold 25 percent of the 2004 intelligence budget? Is John Barrow hiding Nancy Pelosi because she voted for a budget in 2001 that cut defense spending by $65 billion?”

“Mr. Barrow, why would you not bring Ms. Pelosi to Savannah, your new hometown? Voters in Georgia’s new 12th deserve to know why.”

Pelosi has accrued a very long, very detailed, far-left voting record. Below is a small sample of votes and positions detailing this out-of-the-mainstream record:

AGAINST prescription drugs for seniors

AGAINST the tax cuts of 2001 and 2003

AGAINST reforming our medical liability system

AGAINST a budget to curb waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayers’ money

AGAINST relief from the Alternative Minimum Tax

AGAINST Marriage Penalty Relief

AGAINST an expanded 10% tax bracket

AGAINST an extended, increased per-child tax credit

AGAINST a ban on partial-birth abortion

AGAINST the Unborn Victims of Violence Act

AGAINST the creation of Association Health Plans

AGAINST Personal Re-employment Accounts for laid-off workers

AGAINST barring obesity suits against the fast food industry

AGAINST the American flag protection amendment

AGAINST a repeal of the Death Tax

AGAINST the Social Security Protection Act

AGAINST the Defense of Marriage Act

And…

FOR using taxpayer money to fund development of an abortion pill

FOR allowing abortions at taxpayer-funded overseas military hospitals

FOR giving free needles to drug addicts—six times

FOR increasing Social Security benefit taxes from 50 to 85%

FOR increasing motor fuel taxes by 30 percent

FOR extending a 2.5-cents-per-gallon increase in the motor fuels tax

FOR a prohibition of drilling in the Alaska National Wildlife Refuge
FOR restricting the Department of Homeland Security’s decision making power in shaping personnel policy

FOR cutting defense spending on multiple occasions

SAVANNAH, Ga. – In light of the terror plot which was prevented this week, Max Burns Friday asked why Athens Congressman John Barrow would campaign with liberal, San Francisco Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi and questioned why he believes Pelosi’s election to Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives would be “historic” when she has called for the end of the National Security Administration’s wire tapping program and other programs used to fight the War on Terror.

“At a time when our country needs to clearly remain on the offense against terrorists, John Barrow supports leaders who want to retreat and take away the programs necessary to win the global War on Terror,” said Burns. “We are fighting an unconventional enemy who has proven they will use unconventional warfare in order to kill innocent Americans to destroy our way of life. If John Barrow had his way, Nancy Pelosi would be Speaker of the House, and she would have stripped the tools which help those fighting the war uncover terror plots.”

At the beginning of the 109th Congress, Barrow voted for Pelosi to lead the U.S House of Representatives as Speaker, a position that is third in line for the Presidency, and in September 2004 bragged about what an historically event it would be if she was elected, telling the University of Georgia College Democrats, “… I don’t know how long it’s going to take for Nancy Pelosi to get the Speaker’s Chair. But that’s going to be a historic event when it happens.” Pelosi has voted against authorizing these programs designed to help track down terrorist who plan to do harm to American citizens. Barrow just this week campaigned with Pelosi in Atlanta in an attempt to raise campaign cash.

“The terror plot uncovered yesterday shows why America must remain on the offensive in fighting the War on Terror,” said Burns. “These surveillance programs play a vital role, and I support giving the President and the authorities the tools they need to win this struggle for freedom, and support leaders who believe the same. John Barrow should immediately call for Nancy Pelosi to be replaced as his leader or 12th District Georgians will be left to conclude that John Barrow supports his party’s position to “cut and run” and weaken our ability to track the terrorists. There is no gray area here.”

…on being an “Effective” Congressman

SAVANNAH, Ga. – Athens Congressman John Barrow’s not on the straight and narrow when it comes to being an “effective” Member of Congress for Georgia’s 12th District.  Last week, John Barrow sent out an email claiming his record in Congress was “effective.” According to Knowlegis, a government affairs knowledge management company which surveyed all U.S. Senators and Congressman and ranked them in accordance of how “effective [they were] in advancing an agenda,” John Barrow was the least effective Congressman in the entire Georgia Congressional Delegation.  Even Atlanta Congresswoman Cynthia McKinney was more effective in Washington.  John Barrow’s “effectiveness” was so bad; he was ranked 430 out of the 438 Members and delegates in the 109th Congress.

John Barrow Claiming to be an “Effective” Congressman for Georgia’s 12th District:

“And in the two years since taking office, I believe my record in the House of Representatives is summed up best by two words: ‘Independent’ and ‘Effective.’” (Barrow Campaign email, 8/3/06)

Knowlegis Power Ranking John Barrow the Least Effective Congressman in the entire Georgia Congressional Delegation and at the bottom among all Members and Delegates in the 109th Congress.

Georgia Rankings
State Delegation Average Score: 13.27	State Rank: 50
Senate: Name Rank in State Score Rank in Senate Sen. Chambliss (R-GA) 1 26.37 64 Sen. Isakson (R-GA) 2 19.50 84 House:   Name Rank in State Score Rank in House Rep. Kingston (R-GA-1) 1 21.38 77 Rep. Linder (R-GA-7) 2 21.00 87