T minus 1 day and counting
We’re now just one day away from important primaries and caucuses in four states: Texas, Ohio, Vermont, and Rhode Island. As you may know, tomorrow is being called “March’s Super Tuesday,” because of the large number of delegates up for grabs in these contests.
Help us get out the vote in each of these states. If you live in one of these states and have already signed up to be a precinct leader, please help Ron Paul by making as many phone calls to likely voters as you can.
The number of Ron Paul supporters signing up as precinct leaders has dropped off significantly in recent weeks, and we need your help to boost those numbers.
Being a precinct leader is very easy… it just involves signing up on our website, getting a list of voters in these four states to call, and then phoning as many people as you can before the polls close tomorrow. And for those of you who might be shy on the phone, I can tell you first hand that all of these voters are likely Ron Paul supporters based on their views of the issues.
For those of you who are not yet signed up as precinct leaders, we desperately need you to do so - regardless of the state in which you reside. The precinct leader program that we have unveiled is our chief means of getting out the vote in all states, and it is the most important tool for all of us who want to see the largest possible turnout of Ron Paul supporters.
All precinct leaders in states whose primaries or caucuses already have passed will be given a list of voters’ phone numbers to call in tomorrow’s four critical states. Please sign-up and make at least 5 phone calls for Ron Paul today.
And FYI, in the coming days, we are going to have a few blog posts outlining how the precinct leader program will carry on this revolution even after the 2008 election is complete. The tools that we are providing are invaluable, and will help us organize as efficiently at the local level as possible. Remember: all politics is local. By taking back our precincts one at a time, we will lay the groundwork for taking back the entire Republican party — both the presidency AND the Congress.
But we need your help to do it. Regardless of where you live, sign-up to be a precinct leader, recruit others to do the same, and then make as many phone calls as you can. This revolution is yours, and we’re counting on your help!
March 3rd, 2008 at 10:36 am
I posted this on the previous blog entry and am re-posting it here since it seems more fitting to this topic.
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I for one am becoming more and more frustrated by the media completely ignoring Dr. Paul as a presidential candidate. When I speak to people about him they believe he has dropped out of the race–if they have heard of him at all.
I really want to know what the campaign is doing to address the blatant lies the media are telling when they say things like “the two remaining candidates”. At least Huckabee seems to fight back. I want to see Dr. Paul fight for the respect and attention he deserves. The media has anointed McCain as the republican nominee, but I don’t see anyone standing up and telling everyone it’s not a done deal yet. People like to see presidential candidates fight for themselves. If he can’t do that, then how can they believe he will fight for the people of the United States as president. A few well-chosen words with the right kick-*** attitude can do wonders. When Dr. Paul has done that during the debates, he has received great applause and more media attention. I have gotten excited seeing him stand up to Guiliani and when he was asked during one debate if we should “take our marching orders from Al Qaeda”, and he shot back and said “NO!” and that we should take our marching orders from the constitution. That was terrific to watch and memorable to those watching.
Obama is all style and no substance. Dr. Paul is all substance and in need of the right style if he’s going to draw people to him. Once he has people’s attention they will like what they hear, but he has to make them sit up and take notice first.
March 3rd, 2008 at 10:43 am
For what it’s worth, Obama is getting the message out here in Austin, there was a march in front of the capital and down Congress yesterday.
March 3rd, 2008 at 10:44 am
One word: NOTHING!!!!! If I’m wrong, then simply TELL US what specifically you’re doing!!!
Have you at National sent out personbal e-mails to every volunteeer in the national database asking them to sign up as a Precinct Captain? Why NOT some agreesive marketing in this very most important way to win and get around the MSM. Has anyone here on this BLOG ever received a PERSONAL E_MAIL about becoming a Precinct Captain? I haven’t.
March 3rd, 2008 at 10:53 am
Sign up people!
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:05 am
Look at the Ron Paul main page under press releases. 9 days ago on 2/23/08 is the last press release. Hard to blame the MSM when the R.P. national fails to issue anything to write about. In contrast Huckabee website has 3-7 press releases PER DAY. In addition under R.P. activities section has ZERO, ZIPPO, NADA. The lack of leadership is evident in the irrie silence from national. What do 50 personal find to do on any given day. The grass roots are being asked to go the extra mile 24/7. As I search the R.P. site I see old news and events collecting cob webs.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:09 am
Ohio is not even on the list. I’ve tried for more then a week now, everytime I try no Ohio. But that hasn’t stopped me from doing it on my own. Plus I have extra canvassing materials I would like to pass on to PA. Contact me at joe_sheila@verizon.net
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:10 am
Wisdom Seeker,
Thanks for your comment. We have sent out numerous e-mails asking people to sign up as precinct leaders, and Dr. Paul has asked on multiple occasions himself. I’d be more than happy to talk with you further about this. Our number is (703) 248-9115, and you can ask for Jonathan.
In the meantime, would you be willing to keep your comments more civil in tone? I know that it’s difficult to know what is going on at our national office, but I only can tell you that people here are — and have been for a long time — working very hard to see Ron Paul in the White House. We will be the first to tell you that we have made mistakes, but confrontational commentary like what you’ve posted only helps to undermine Ron Paul. We believe that having this dialogue is useful to all of us, but please don’t start with the assumption that the national campaign staff does not care about winning this election. I can’t begin to express how badly the converse is true.
Sincerely,
Jonathan
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:17 am
www.gopteaparty.com
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:21 am
I think that we have made enormous progress organizing people to defend the Constitution.
Here’s a strategy to push at all the next conventions.
We know that McCain is not eligible to be President based on his place of birth. We should form a coalition with the Huckabee folks , if needed, and vote to unbind any McCain delegates.
This takes some coordination but it is possible, start now.
This would demonstrate our new strength and put the establishment on notice that we mean business.
Take this strategy and talk to people. I have been getting very positive feedback.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:26 am
Tim from Minn.-
If simply issuing press releases got you media attention, then anyone could get plenty of MSM just by doing that.
The fact that there is nothing new in the release section of the website doesn’t mean that HQ isn’t doing anything. Last week I saw Dr. Paul on CNN, Fox Business and in the Wall Street Journal.
My guess is the problem isn’t HQ but the media which largely ignores Ron Paul.
As for the events, we all know that he is focusing on making sure that he stays in Congress. I for one think that that is a good priority, even if it means putting the Presidential campaign on hold until after Tuesday.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:35 am
To get the word out in spite of MSM, I think people should be looking at the idea posted at http://blogs.libertytruth.org/one_old_codger_says/index.php
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:36 am
My husband and I live in California. We got in touch with Ron Paul Letter Writing Campaign, and mailed out 2,000 handwritten and hand addressed letters about Ron Paul and all his talents for President. These letters went to Ohio and Texas. We are precinct leaders. Come on Ron Paul!!!
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:48 am
Good posts, Jonathan and Jackson!
I thank HQ; I thank my fellow RP supporters for “keeping on keeping on”. I believe that the people attracted to Dr. Paul’s candidacy are long-term supporters of freedom under the Constitution; we’re aware that we are underdogs…and that our cause is right.
It was thrilling to see Dr. Paul on CNN, Fox, and WSJ last week; as Jackson points out, the MSM decided to ignore Dr. Paul’s newsworthiness.
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:54 am
I bet you would find that the precinct numbers stopped climbing at the same time Dr. Paul stopped campaigning. I understand that he is busy with his work in Washington and his congressional seat, but do you expect people to “sell” Dr. Paul to their neighbors when he has essentially quit campaigning? It seems he is through when no events are listed. Has he gone to Vermont, Rhode Island, or Ohio?
March 3rd, 2008 at 11:55 am
Jonathan,
Would it be possible to have a National Weekly Update? Something posted or maybe a separate section on the web page to keep everyone in the know about what National is doing. Everyone feels like we are working extremely hard at the grassroots level, yet do not know what is going on at the national level. If there was a way to let people know what media sources have been notified, what phone calls have been made or what commercials have been paid for…I think everyone would feel a lot better. All we are asking for is information. With no real information coming available, the assumption is that there is nothing going on.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:11 pm
tim, minnesota Says:
Look at the Ron Paul main page under press releases. 9 days ago on 2/23/08 is the last press release. Hard to blame the MSM when the R.P. national fails to issue anything to write about. In contrast Huckabee website has 3-7 press releases PER DAY. In addition under R.P. activities section has ZERO, ZIPPO, NADA. The lack of leadership is evident in the irrie silence from national. What do 50 personal find to do on any given day. The grass roots are being asked to go the extra mile 24/7. As I search the R.P. site I see old news and events collecting cob webs.
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Tim, I’m glad you see what I see about National. IF Ron Paul doesn’t get the GOP nod, the blame can be placed solidly at National’s feet. I would add also that these folks are PAID!!!!! It sounds like National hired a bumnch of welfare people… get paid but do little???
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:11 pm
Brian in Austin:
The whole thing about McCrazy not being eligible is simply too far out there. Think about it, an illegal alien can run across the border to drop her kid so it is a US Citizen (eligible for Presidency), but a child born in another country to an active military parent (both US Citizens) not be eligible? Do you realize how many children are born out of country to military families? I can’t give you numbers but I know it is a lot. No, we cannot treat our military families that way.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:12 pm
It’s no suprise to me that the precinct leader levels have started to plateau on the line graph. You just have to understand that precinct leadership sign up is going to slow down especially when you only have a handfull of states left, and the mainstream media is already trumpetting the succession of McCain as the Republican nominee. For Ron Paul to win this, there really is no strategy left. He can only win this by a miracle. But we can’t go around just assuming or hoping that it might turn out that way.
Remember what Ron Paul has said time and time again. I could swear that this repeated line by Ron Paul has flowed right in one ear and out the other for thousands of people, but really think about it. He says “I will have my shortcomings, but the message of Liberty has no shortcomings.” And he talks so much about sensing that there are a lot of people who are waking up to this idea. It doesn’t mean that the message is mainstream, yet. But I beleive the Ron Paul Revolution is at a crossroads. I know that a hell of a lot of work went into getting Ron Paul into the white house. I know, because I myself have spend countless hours making and holding signs out by the road, sending out hundreds of e mails and making tons of phone calls, showing up at voting booths to support Ron Paul, and with the wrong kind of attitude, it can be very discouraging that it’s looking now like Ron Paul will not become the President. But just look what we have done in one year! We have woken up so many people in ONE year! The question about our crossroads is, are we going to go back to sleep? Or are we going to successfully use the next four years to make sure that this country fixes their mistake before its too late?
At this point in the road, as much as it makes me cringe to say it, but it looks like Barack Obama will be our next president. But there is something that I know, and that just about every other Ron Paul supporter knows out there. And that is that we’re getting the same old **** over and over again. And because of that, even if and when Obama becomes the next President, his following will surely fade out with the end of his Presidential term and no one will really care anymore. But we have an opportunity, that even if Ron Paul will not be running again, that we can confidently tell people the story of how we were woken up, and how Freedom is popular and it is the only thing left that can save our country. And there will surely be another like Paul in the next election, who will fight for our Liberties, and hopefully then America will have one more chance at turning ourselves around.
So am I quitting the Revolution? I’ll never quit. And I, someone who only 6 months ago, had no interest in anything political, and was completely apathetic, will take this to the next level. The last 5 months was spent talking to peers, family, and friends, and sign waving to the public, but as this election closes in, and if Ron Paul doesn’t make the ticket, I won’t be stopping there. The next place you can take this revolution is into localized government meeting, like town hall meetings. And my goal at a town meeting is to make sure that any town authority that discourages personal Liberty will fade away, and any town authority who promotes the ideas of Liberty, and sound money, will be supported and encouraged. This Revolution can be far from over, if YOU decide that for yourselves. And the more that we get into town meetings, and other localized government systems, the more we will be spreading the message of Liberty. And if we can work, like we just worked within the last year, for four more years, can you imagine the work we can get done? Please keep this Revolution alive by writing to your congressmen, and attending local government meetings. Keep people in line and make them realize, that we are not going to take anything less than what is advised by our founding fathers in the U.S. Constitution.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:14 pm
In regard to the MSM ignoring Ron Paul. See this article about another election where that game was played.
http://www.alanstang.com/index.php?/site/comments/i_like_ron_and_he_can_win/
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:15 pm
Jackson Says:
If simply issuing press releases got you media attention, then anyone could get plenty of MSM just by doing that.
The fact that there is nothing new in the release section of the website doesn’t mean that HQ isn’t doing anything. Last week I saw Dr. Paul on CNN, Fox Business and in the Wall Street Journal.
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True about press releases NOT having to be published by MSM BUT IF you don’t put out any then don’t blame the MSM??? BTW, I did notice that volunteer activities have gotten out much press coverage. Rememebr the BLIMP? Remember the Boston Tea Party?
Jackson: so I take it your happy with the financial report for Nov, 2008?
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:20 pm
Jackson,
In response, I follow second tier media outlets especially on line. When Ron Paul sends press releases this group of local media sources around the country pick up and print the press releases. My point is without MSM support we need whatever exposure is available.
Today I read an article on a MSM web site campaigning for Super Tuesday #2. Huckabee is praised for having 1,100 people show up in Texas Saturday at a hotel rally and 2,000 later in the same day at a university rally. In addition, not one word of Ron Paul in Texas having 1,200 at as morning rally and 5K6K at university in the afternoon the weekend prior.
Across the country Ron Paul’s Saturdays rallies a week ago picked up by and published second tier media form the Ron Paul press releases. This is my point of marketing after the interested customers, whoever they may be.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:30 pm
Good grief, now we have Dr. Schell posting under an alias… when will it end?
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:32 pm
Hi Jonathan,
Reposting without the links as it seems to hold my comments in moderation mode forever…
I am posting this again, as I think (doesn’t every poster
) this style of ad campaign might hit a nerve. Making the assumption that the Ron Paul March takes place at the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, do you think this is a good idea?
Could the campaign pull out all the stops and start a national advertising campaign about the march on the convention center? We need a hook or meme in these ads like the old lady in those commercials, “Help! I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” or “Where’s the beef?”
Maybe we could do 30 second spot where we have an animated America running around asking, “Have you seen my Constitution? I’ve lost my Constitution! Where is it?”, asking animated cartoons/caricatures of:Bush, Cheney, Rice etc. at first, then McCain, Obama, and Hillary. All of these caricatures would answer various expressions of “no” (i.e shrugging shoulders, ignoring the animated America, kicking it out of the room etc etc).
For example:
- Bush would shake his head and say “it’s nothing but a piece of paper!”
- Cheney would snarl, “No! Go away!” then bury his head into a newspaper that headlines, “Halliburton and Iraq: The money just keeps rolling in.”
- Obama would shrug then go back to his “Global Tax Bill: How to Bankrupt America”.
Hillary who boots the Constitution out of the room, and picks up a report entitled, “Medicare: Wait till you see what it costs when it is free!”.
- Cut to Bernanke, who would shake his head, and go back to turning the crank on his printing press with breakneck speed, having money fly out of it, while a chart behind him entitled “Value of the Dollar” has a red line going down through the floor behind him and another “Inflation” chart going through the ceiling?
- Feel free to add other ideas and recognizable people here…
The animated America would become increasingly more frantic going from caricature to caricature until finally America hears off to the left of the screen the voice of the good Doctor gently saying, “I have it right here.”
Camera pans left, and there is Ron Paul (not a character, but the real man) holding the Constitution out toward the animated America. The America approaches him, jumps into his arms, then sighs with relief. Ron Paul looks at his new charge and says again, softly but firmly, “I will do what you entrusted me to do.” or “I will do right by you.”, something like that.
Fade to black with no audio but a screen that says:
Join us on our March for Freedom
Republican National Convention
[Insert Date and Place here]
Take America Back!
www.ronpaul2008.com
Another idea, tapping into the style of those 3 minute long old “Schoolhouse Rock” videos, is to create similar ads explaining how money is created out of thin air, what inflation is and how it works, etc etc, but at all times, link it back to Ron Paul’s campaign. Forget the debates to get Ron Paul’s message out…if you can create a catchy song, “Conjunction junction, what’s your function?…” and have cartoons, you will have a captive audience.
As Doc Egerton at MIT said, “The trick to education is to teach people in such a way that they don’t realize they’re learning until it’s too late”
For those of you have no idea (and a blast from the past that do remember) what I am talking about, here is an example:
These are all available on Youtube, but if I post the URLs, my comment never seems to come out of moderation. Just youtube the following titles:
“How a Bill Becomes Law”
“The Shot Heard Around the World” (It was about the American Revolution)
Or even more relevant to this day and age: “Tyrannosaurus Debt”
Those of you might remember the Schoolhouse Rock grammar lessons:
“Conjunction Junction”
“A Noun is a Person, Place, or Thing.”
Those of you who are younger will not appreciate the power of “Schoolhouse Rock”. It was huge in it’s day. All of us remember those songs, twenty or thirty years after we saw them last, permanently etched on our neurons.
I think if the campaign (or the talent embedded in the grassroots, harnessed via a contest) can create an ad campaign in the vein of “Schoolhouse Rock” to air the product The campaign could buy “B” or “C” time from media outlets and of course it would go viral on the internet.
If the campaign/grassroots could create a fad…wow.
What do you think?
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:35 pm
IndyCindy,
I understand how you feel, but we need to look at the Constitution for guidance and understand that the rule of law is important. If we ran this country based on gut feelings, we would have a mob and no justice or minority protections.
If we do not like what the Constitution says, we can change it but ignoring the Constitution has caused many of the problems we now face in this country.
This is a great issue to demonstrate the importance of the Constitution and the power of the movement.
Let’s not be afraid to defend the Constitution.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:38 pm
Jonathan Bydlak Says:
Wisdom Seeker,
Thanks for your comment. We have sent out numerous e-mails asking people to sign up as precinct leaders, and Dr. Paul has asked on multiple occasions himself. I’d be more than happy to talk with you further about this. Our number is (703) 248-9115, and you can ask for Jonathan.
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Since we only have 10% of precincts covered and you say you’ve contacted every volunteer in the National databank, why aren’t people signing up? Have you followed up to see why? This should be the highest priority since EVERYONE agrees that precinct canvassing is the key to a Ron Paul win.
FYI, I’m already a Precinct Captain. I have yard signs and pass out slim jims everywhere I go not only in my precinct but shopping, etc. . I have yet, however, to see or hear an RP ad to support my efforts? The November campaign statement sure helps me to understand why. Much of my donations have gone to the GrannyWarriors and other grassroots actvities where results can be seen. They also show sunshine and accountability for money donated.
Johnathan:
In the meantime, would you be willing to keep your comments more civil in tone? I know that it’s difficult to know what is going on at our national office, but I only can tell you that people here are — and have been for a long time — working very hard to see Ron Paul in the White House.
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Working hard and working smart are very different things. Why NOT give us a report on just how hard you’re working to earn your pay? For instance, how many hours do you put in a week. Do you work nights and weekends? What projects specicially that help to directly support the grassroots.
We grassroots earn our living and then with our free time, work hard to see RP gets elected. Yes, this is a grassroots movement but it must be coordinated and directed. And don’t tell me that McCain-Feingold doesn’t allow this. I know better. IF I’m wrong, how about posting the part of McCain-Feingold and its decisions say this?
Johnathan:
We will be the first to tell you that we have made mistakes, but confrontational commentary like what you’ve posted only helps to undermine Ron Paul.
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Trying to clean up Headquarters is NOT UNDERMINING Ron Paul???? Bottom line is that the $30 million we’ve given has NOT resulted in any 1st places, few 2nd places and few results in double digits. This is what I mean by working smart. RESULTS!!!! RESULTS!!!! RESULTS!!!
Johnathan says:
We believe that having this dialogue is useful to all of us, but please don’t start with the assumption that the national campaign staff does not care about winning this election. I can’t begin to express how badly the converse is true.
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I have been involved in this campaign as a volunteer since September, 2007. I tried to help out best I could in Iowa. We came in 5th there. That wasn’t because there weren’t very dedicated volunteers who BTW raised most of the money for ads in Iowa. There was evidence of vast vote fraud in Iowa but National did nothing but actually discouaged any efforts by the grassroots. This was repeated in NH.
This BLOG wasn’t even STARTED until late November, 2007. I do appreciate your sounding off since ye its important to be honest with each other. Would you list what you consider National’s major accomplishments with the $30 million?
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:38 pm
The Wisdom Seeker’s comments seem boorish; his remark at 12:11 to Tim, that “IF Ron Paul doesn’t get the GOP nod, the blame can be placed solidly at National’s feet”, is silly. Dr. Paul is a darkhorse candidate. He’s our candidate.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:40 pm
To Gilligan:
Wow, what wonderful ideas. I looik forward to hearing how they’ll feel about it.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:45 pm
To Tim in Minnesaota:
You seem to have a good hold on how local media work and many fine ideas of how to utilize the local media. My expereince, FWIW, is the same. Most of the MSM are owned by a few comopanies all of which are part of the PTB. The PTB is the one who is bvlacing out Ron Paul.
And you can’t rely on AP to get the news out. Direct PRs to local media are effective but I admit take much more time to do.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:53 pm
To “The Wisdom Seeker”/Dr. Schell ’cause you sound and write just like him-
“I have been involved in this campaign as a volunteer since September, 2007. I tried to help out best I could in Iowa. We came in 5th there.”
“I have yard signs and pass out slim jims everywhere I go not only in my precinct but shopping, etc. . I have yet, however, to see or hear an RP ad to support my efforts?”
Hmmmm, you stated in another thread that your primary is over, and now you’re expecting to hear an ad?
Wow, that would be a good use of campaign funds right now.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:53 pm
I will say to national headquarters that I am truly disappointed that NO advertising or visits have been done for the state of Rhode Island. We are getting bombarded by Obama, Clinton, and even McCain and Huckabee have been here in the last 2 weeks but absolutely nothing from the Ron Paul campaign. The grassroots level is spending and raising money here to advertise locally but we have had no help from national and since we are not a winner take all delegate state I feel it has been a terrible missed opportunity. I have defended national in the past but a few ads would have gone a long way to help the local effort.
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:56 pm
Below is a perfect example of my above points, this is copied from ABC news 13 in Texas, posted today, hello national:
Obama is, to many of them, the fresher, younger, hipper choice.
It’s also interesting that she chose Ohio as opposed to Texas. I take this as a sign that, as she looks ahead, she’s believing Ohio may be more in play come November than will be Texas. She also may be trying to convince Ohio voters not to discount her because of the NAFTA flap of recent weeks.
Ron Paul’s website does not indicate any public appearances or gatherings the night of the fourth. If I learn of one, I will certainly post it.
All of this said…Eyewitness News will be live from San Antonio (Miya Shay), Columbus (Laura Whitley), and Dallas (me). So tune in for updates throughout the day, prime time, and Eyewitness News at Ten.
Thanks for reading. TA
March 3rd, 2008 at 12:57 pm
Tominellay Says:
The Wisdom Seeker’s comments seem boorish; his remark at 12:11 to Tim, that “IF Ron Paul doesn’t get the GOP nod, the blame can be placed solidly at National’s feet”, is silly. Dr. Paul is a darkhorse candidate. He’s our candidate.
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No question that Ron Paul started out as a darkhorse candidate but why should he remain such after 9 months and $30 million?
Well… so was Huckabee a darkhorse candidate a few months ago… the difference is that Huckabee’s national staff had a sound strategy that was properlly implemented. He had people who knew what they’re doing. He obvioulsy had his headquarters recruit a sound base of volunteers. BTW, In the beginning the MSM blacked out his campaign also. Huckabeee also demanded that the debates continue but from what I see, National did nothing to join in that demand???
Yes, I know Huckabee is heavily relying on the evangelical vote during the primaries. Fact, Ron Paul is a wonderful Christian, a Baptist, yet little if any effort was used in Iowa to go after the 40% of Iowa GOPers who are social conservatives. Maybe National did in othger states that I’m not aware of???
And RP knows what he’s talking about ecomically and in foreign policy and Huckabee doesn’t. We have literally BLOWN many of the political advantgaes that Ron Paul holds over both Huckabee and especially McCain.
It’s human nature to try to rationalize away failure to turn a darkhouse into a front runner. When we raised $6+ million and got great CNN coverage, what did National do to exploit this breakthrough? This was a major opportunity to become a first tier candidate.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:02 pm
Christine Says:
I will say to national headquarters that I am truly disappointed that NO advertising or visits have been done for the state of Rhode Island. We are getting bombarded by Obama, Clinton, and even McCain and Huckabee have been here in the last 2 weeks but absolutely nothing from the Ron Paul campaign. The grassroots level is spending and raising money here to advertise locally but we have had no help from national and since we are not a winner take all delegate state I feel it has been a terrible missed opportunity. I have
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Don’t feel like RI is being discriminated against. This is the pattern that National follows. Take a look at my posts showing where our donations have been spent. The same advertising pattern happened in Iowa and even NH. The volunteers not only gave to National but dug deeper and had donations for local ads.
National has been a FAILURE and future historians will show exactly what happened to this wonderful Revolution of 2008. Folks, we should be winning it, not sitting a distant 3rd.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:03 pm
I have to admit I am at the least disappointed with HQ. The ball was dropped with the NH recount. We lost a lot of momentum. “When did you 1st hear about RP” sounds like a big distraction, a way to release the angst of well-meaning people with fluff. Our country is going in the toilet and we are reminiscing. I am probably getting paranoid in my old age but HQ has to be a prime target for infiltration. That is the most effective way to disrupt a campaign without raising any eyebrows.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:07 pm
Karen in NC Says:
Hmmmm, you stated in another thread that your primary is over, and now you’re expecting to hear an ad?
Wow, that would be a good use of campaign funds right now.
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IF you had read more closely, you would see that I was referring in general to National ads. Take a look at what’s happening in Texas and in RI. I’m not the only one expressing distress at National??? It would no sense to advertsie in Iowa now. The time to do this is long past.
And since you seem to think I’m Dr. Schell, why don’t you tell who you are. Are you a paid employee of National working there in NC? You seem to defend them so much is why I’m asking.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:13 pm
To The Wisdom Seeker,
I recognize that Ron Paul supporters come in all shapes and sizes. Some donate, some canvass, some cheer, some see a ghost behind every corner. Welcome aboard one and all…. Like it or not, we need every single supporter, of every personality and from every walk of life.
I understand that you have frustrations and questions you want answered. As for me, I donate, as I believe God directs me to do. I do all the reconciling of the books for my husbands small business, and I am fully aware of the expenses that go into it. Nothing that I have seen from your posts concerning the expenditures strikes me as being out of line. If you are honestly uncomfortable with the expenditures, it seems to me, you should be using that phone number and let those of us who ARE comfortable with the expenses keep our focus on winning the battle of freedom.
I beg you, from one over-zealous Ron Paul supporter (me) to another (you), PLEASE use the phone number that Jonathon posted for you. Air your grievances to him directly and please allow those of us that believe HQ is fighting righteously for this cause to get the advice and encouragement that we need from this blog. It is very hard to get that encouragement when we have to weigh through downer posts that were already addressed by Jonathon with a way to receive the answers you so richly desire.
Respectfully Submitted.
GO RON PAUL!
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:14 pm
freedom2007 Says:
I have to admit I am at the least disappointed with HQ. The ball was dropped with the NH recount. We lost a lot of momentum. “When did you 1st hear about RP” sounds like a big distraction, a way to release the angst of well-meaning people with fluff. Our country is going in the toilet and we are reminiscing. I am probably getting paranoid in my old age but HQ has to be a prime target for infiltration. That is the most effective way to disrupt a campaign without raising any eyebrows.
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You’re NOT paranoid!!!! When Dr. Schell was posting on this BLOG, he found out that Don Luskin was a paid infiltrator who controlled the media ads that were run, both the content and the number/placement. Luskin quickly jumped ship to be the key financial advisor to the McCain campaign. Dr. Schell also warned that other communications people and hiring people were the two best places to place infiltrators. I noticed that th other key communications person, Dan McCathey, recently left to “pursue writing opprotunities.”
My guess is that Dr. Schell got so tired of being attacked as negative and worse than that he just “gave up” posting here. I wish I had kept his e-mail address.
I can see now that anyone who is less than enthusiatic will get negative comments. I wonder whether headquarters have plants to do that?
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Heathger d. said:
I beg you, from one over-zealous Ron Paul supporter (me) to another (you), PLEASE use the phone number that Jonathon posted for you. Air your grievances to him directly and please allow those of us that believe HQ is fighting righteously for this cause to get the advice and encouragement that we need from this blog. It is very hard to get that encouragement when we have to weigh through downer posts that were already addressed by Jonathon with a way to receive the answers you so richly desire.
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I like to see things in writing. When one talks on the telephone and it isn’t recorded than both talkers can say anything they want about what was and was NOT said. I would suggest that you not read my “downer” posts if they upset you.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:27 pm
It is a shame but I think this movement will prove bigger than any “hacks”. I read an article by Devvy Kidd regarding the March and I think its a better idea to have it at the GOP convention than wait for this committee to taint it.
http://www.ronpaulwarroom.com/?p=7742
(can’t find the link)
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:32 pm
“IF you had read more closely, you would see that I was referring in general to National ads.”
Oh, I did, a couple of times, and I stand by my response to you, and while I haven’t heard an ad yet, I saw what was run elsewhere–I saw it here on the site. Perhaps you missed that day.
“And since you seem to think I’m Dr. Schell, why don’t you tell who you are. Are you a paid employee of National working there in NC? You seem to defend them so much is why I’m asking.”
Nope. Just an American who wants America back for my family, for my young children’s future, a citizen who is taking advantage of the useful information I find here to put into action in the best way that I can locally to help change the direction of our country nationally. I’ve admitted elsewhere that I’m not going to suggest that I know the first thing about running a campaign, but I’ve also said that if I did have suggestions for National, I’d email them rather than take up space here berating them because they aren’t telling me every time they take a breath or spend a dollar.
Boorish is a good word, Tominellay. And yes, Dr. Paul is OUR, WE THE PEOPLE’S candidate. GO RON PAUL!
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:33 pm
The Wisdom Seeker,
I truly mean no disrespect to you. Everybody on earth has a different way of dealing with disappointment and doubt. I just want to “boil down” what you are saying here as I see it. You are essentially saying that you don’t care how much further damage you do to Ron Paul’s fight for the Presidency. You feel that National is doing nothing right and is destroying the Revolution from within. With all due respect, whether that is true or not, you are doing your fair share of damage to this campaign.
I don’t want you, or anyone else to leave this blog. Every one of us is needed in this fight. But, there are ways to address your concerns without damaging this effort. Use the phone number. You can legally record the conversation, provided you make the person on the other end aware that you are doing so. If having a record is that important to you, than do so. There ARE ways to address your concerns without doing further damage to this effort.
I am not trying to be impolite, and I mean no disrespect. I am merely imploring you to realize that as strongly as YOU perceive that National is harming the campaign, many others believe that you are doing harm to the campaign.
GO RON PAUL!
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:43 pm
I have been calling more people on my list today and walking my precinct today and reminding them that tomorrow is Primary voting day. And I’m heading back out again. If you can be a precinct leader for Texas, do it and get some phone calls made today, even if it’s only 5 or so. I’m reading that Dr. Paul is getting lots of people applying to be delegates to the states and national conventions. And as you all probably know, the delegates that go to the national convention have to vote for the candidate they are assigned to in the first round of voiting, but if a candidate doesn’t get 51% of the vote at the national convention in the first round of voting, then the delegates are free to vote for whom they want to. So things are not nearly as bleak as we have seen on TV. We need to work today, in my opinion, and forget about the media. Texas and other states are voting in the primaries tomorrow. Lets’ get on the phones guys or on the streets in the states that are voting tomorrow.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:47 pm
Wisdom Seeker,
I guess I just don’t get it. I support this campaign… no strike that… I support this revolution through my efforts for this campaign as it gains the most bang for my bucks. Owning a small business gives me great insight into expenses and how they accumulate when one campaigns for market share.
I have watched Dr. Paul for the past decade and a half, I have confidence in his ability to run a successful campaign and I am grateful for the kickoff of a great movement. In the end, as Dr. Paul has said numerous times, this campaign isn’t about him or his campaign, it’s about us banning together and taking back our country.
There seem to be many people out there that want someone spoon feed them and hold their hand and give them a winning formula. There are no such formulas, as ours is a movement of ideas and wills and as such requires decentralized command. I personally am VERY happy with running my own independent “show” and making progress at my local level and with my sphere of influence. I don’t want someone from HQ at national or the state level trying to tell me how to run my own little campaign.
You want an accounting of funds that you and others have willingly donated? Are you frigging kidding me? If you think you can do it better, do it better on your own. If you don’t trust the only guy on Capitol Hill who has prove to be responsible with the compulsory American tax, then don’t contribute another dollar.
You have been addressed by HQ and given a solution that you obviously don’t want to hear, just others in the past, you b***h but won’t budge when given an answer you don’t like, so you don’t really want a solution, you just want to sound off.
Buck up, or shut your trap about it. I am tired of waisting my valuable time having to scan over your sniveling to get to intelligent posts from others who are having success that I can emulate at my level.
- Ron
Viva la rEVOLution!
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:53 pm
With respect to my post above…
We as Ron Paul supporters, who have tried to get the message out by reason or debate, have limited success converting people by reason. Yes, there are success stories, but the real issue is that people will look at you with, at best, a “glazed donut” look. At worst, they are downright hostile, no matter what type of tact you might exploit.
The ones we do reach are the survivors of government sponsored education. They churn out members of society that do not understand monetary theory, what inflation is, and lack understanding of the simplest financial planning, let alone how the markets are rigged and work. In short, they are trained to be good consumers, not to question authority, and have their critical thinking skills lobotomized. When did you ever take a class that challenged the legitimacy of government in a specific area or as a point in principle? When did you ever take a class explaining how money is created and destroyed. You might hit that at the doctorate level, but not in high school or your first few years of your economics degree. What university professor is going to say, “The Federal Reserve is a fraudulent organization.” or “Inflation is a hidden tax that allows the bankers and government to confiscate the people’s wealth without 1 in 100,000 people even knowing it?”
Not going to happen.
This is why I proposed the animation approach. It’s fun. It’s funky. The tunes would be catchy! And it works. The only bottle neck is getting the message out there via our mainstream stations. They will roadblock it, but there are fads spread on the internet….
Just my two cents.
Imagine replacing, “Conjunction junction, what’s your function?…” with “Inflation Nation, your dollar’s depreciatin’…” Oh man, would it stick. The masses would be a snappin’ their fingers to that beat.
Then link the ad back to Ron Paul, “I am Ron Paul, and I approve this message”.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:59 pm
Gilligan,
I think you have a great idea there. I like it and would love to see it myself…
Can we do this at our level and get it to YouTube? I see all kinds of great videos out there, and YouTube and others like it are one of the reasons that we have bypassed the MSM. It seems to me, that with all the people we have in this movement, someone has a creative teenager or college student (group maybe) that could put out a great production and get it our via our grassroots efforts.
Just a thought.
Kind regards,
- Ron
Viva la rEVOLution!
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:04 pm
*********************
“You’re NOT paranoid!!!! When Dr. Schell was posting on this BLOG, he found out that Don Luskin was a paid infiltrator who controlled the media ads that were run, both the content and the number/placement. Luskin quickly jumped ship to be the key financial advisor to the McCain campaign. Dr. Schell also warned that other communications people and hiring people were the two best places to place infiltrators. I noticed that th other key communications person, Dan McCathey, recently left to “pursue writing opprotunities.”
*********************
Wisdom Seeker,
Don Luskin was not a paid infiltrator and he did not control the media ads that were run.
I was one of the people that initially talked to Don Luskin after he decided to join Dr. Paul, and we shared correspondence on policy a couple of times. Mr. Luskin agreed to be an advisor and proceeded to do several interviews for us. I was severely disappointed and shocked when he left to join the McCain campaign, but he did not “infiltrate,” was nowhere even in the vicinity of controlling our media ads, and did not do any damage while he was on-board.
Dan McCarthy worked very, very hard, and has an immense respect for Dr. Paul. He would never do anything - anything - to hurt him or the campaign. I count him as my friend, and will stand by him against any accusations of “infiltration.”
I do not have a problem with you expressing your thoughts, and I thank you for your willingness to sign up as a precinct leader, but please do not post unverified accusations.
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
For those of you who are new or have not figured it out yet…
Wisdom Seeker = Dr. Douglass Schell.. who has been complaining on this blog since almost day one.
I suggest everyone ignore him.. he’s just looking for attention again, under a different name.
SSDD
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:23 pm
One thing is clear …
… the Wisdom Seeker is in dire need of one hell of a good roll in the hay!
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:26 pm
One other thing.. My guess is that he (Dr. Schell) started posting again as he found out that Dan had left and the people now running the blog wouldn’t recognize his diatribe.
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:40 pm
Do you know why Huckleberry is still in the race and why he still gets ’some’ attention from the Media?
Because he is a CFR shill just like the rest. He poses no threat to their agenda, he would be a team player. His campaign may have done a better job in general in getting him promoted, maybe, but then he was not subject to a full media blackout either. He is still in this to legitamize this whole process. We know there was voter fraud in these primaries, we know the media used their best tactics to steer votes. I wish more could have been done to expose it…but would any good come of it? I know for a fact that the campaign protested Nevada, and Louisiana. Please stop saying that they have done nothing. But were there any results from those contests? I have heard of none. Should we have contested every primary and looked like a bunch of paranoid conspiracy theorists? That is how the media has wanted to paint us all along.
I wish national was doing more to help win tomorrow’s primaries, I really do. I think that a media blitz would be worthy cause for a money bomb. There have been so many great ideas posted here over the last serveral months…some of which may actually help. But we have been asked to do all this at the grassroots level. To bring people over one by one. That has become much more difficult without our candidate really showing that he is fighting be elected. I am hoping he will back in this full swing after tomorrow. I hope that Texas turns out much better than any of us imagine…and then McInsane is dealt a painful blow in every primary. I hope that everyone of us does everything possible to be delegates to the Republican convention…so that we can show the world…that Ron Paul is going to be our next president. And I hope that Ron returns to us on Wednesday to re-ignite the lost souls of this campaign and power us all up with a renewed energy and purpose to get us through to September!
I propose media blitz after media blitz….nationwide…organized by national…and backed up at the local levels by the grassroots in each states. (National tells me what dates they are running ads in my state and where, I will buy ads in my local papers to compliment on those dates!)
An Organized effort to get Major exposure in the upcoming primary states… (including more rallies!!) and…
A 50 State Wake Up Call for Ron Paul (Mass Media Blitz, state by state)…prior to the convention!
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:41 pm
Folks, it’s real easy, this campaign is being run with a small organization at the National level, who require the “State organizations” to provide the support for it’s voters. Kinda like the way our Federal Government is supposed to be. Small, and limited in it’s powers.
We will have to live, breath, and honor grassroots in order to put Ron Paul in the white house. We will have to do for ourselves to make this happen.
Freeloading off of the Mainstream Media would certainly have it’s benefits. It would take less effort wouldn’t it? Kinda like welfare don’t ya think?
Come on, nothing takes the place of citizens like you and me, pointing out to your friends, family, and neighbors why Ron Paul is our next obvious choice for President. I can’t stress the gratitude I have for the tireless volunteers, who at the precinct level are tirelessly campaigning and getting out Ron Paul’s message.
We’re fighting this fight on two fronts….not only the medias lack of coverage….which requires us to quadruple efforts to get out the message of our candidacy, but also to damage control what little dubious information the media does put out. People on the ground, at the precinct level are working very hard guys…but there simply aren’t enough of them. Nationals calls for Precinct leaders have been LOUD, and OFTEN. If you haven’t gotten it, then perhaps you should take note of the first priority on RonPaul2008.com page. Or better yet, take a reading comprehension course. There are some here who do a whole log of blogging, and no canvassing. If Ron Paul isn’t in the white house, then either we didn’t get out the message, or the American People don’t want freedom. I think it’s the previous.
Man up, get off your butts, and take action to get your candidate nominated. It’s on you, not national.
Sincerely
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:46 pm
Andy, Great ideas, but we need to donate in order to make that happen. “We the People” are dropping the ball on that front.
Just my 2 cents….
DONATE!
GO RON PAUL!
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Carl,
You hit it on the head.
In regards to the two fronts, I just had a good friend come down from another state and he was shocked to hear that Dr. Paul was still in the running.
Thanks for a great post.
Kind regards,
- Ron
Viva la rEVOLution!
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:55 pm
Me thinks WisdomSeeker hasn’t found any wisdom yet. I also think that instead of spending his time here complaining about HQ over and over and over again (yes, a bit redundant), his energy would be better spent trying to recruit votes for Dr. Paul. The one thing we don’t need right now is negativity. I will stand up for anyone who has something to say, good or bad. BUT, I can’t tolerate people who given advice or a solution to their problem, instead keep complaining and whining about said problem instead of at least TRYING the solution given to them. You don’t like talking on the phone? WRITE A LETTER! You do enough of it here. Send it to someone who can do something about it. Address it to RP himself, but get over your own little self. You are definitely not satisfied with how things are being run, so figure out how to get what you want and do it. But posting here negatively is not helping anyone, including you. And don’t bother replying to me in the rude manner you’ve done with anyone else who has stood up you on here, because I won’t be reading any more of your pathetic posts. You’re one of those people who are miserable and you’re not happy unless everyone else is miserable, too. Help yourself, because no one else will want to help you until you at least try to help yourself. *Geesh!*
March 3rd, 2008 at 2:55 pm
We must remember, this revolution is bigger than any of us individually, as even Ron Paul understands when he says that it’s not about him but the message of liberty. We are only at the early stages of this adventure,laying the ground work so to speak. We need not all agree on everything. But we all need to agree on one thing, Ron Paul’s message of Peace , Prosperity and Freedom, through governing according to the constitution. I for one will continue to light the brushfires of freedom
March 3rd, 2008 at 3:19 pm
Ron just gave one example of why National has nothing to do with why people don’t know Ron Paul is still in the race.
The National Campaign can do absolutely NOTHING to offset media/blackout/misrepresentation. We are the source of Nationals success, or failure. We by nature of relationships have much more power than even the Mass News Media . We understand and can communicate our regional priorities much better than National, or the MSM.
We the People, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings of Liberty, to ourselves and our posterity do ordained, and establish this constitution for The United States of America. - Preamble to the Constitution of The United States
Where does that mention, anyone other than us has the responsibility for our choices or our lives?
This must be applied to all aspects of our lives, including this campaign for President. It has always been, and it SHOULD always be about WE THE PEOPLE. Get it done
Ron Paul 2008
Respectfully yours
March 3rd, 2008 at 3:22 pm
All precinct leaders in states whose primaries or caucuses already have passed will be given a list of voters’ phone numbers to call in tomorrow’s four critical states. Please sign-up and make at least 5 phone calls for Ron Paul today.
How do we get these phone numbers? I am a precinct leader in SC - do I need to sign up as a precinct leader in one of the states whose primary is tomorrow?
March 3rd, 2008 at 3:32 pm
Linda, go to the home page and follow their instructions to become a precinct leader in another state (Texas hopefully!) You can get a list of phone numbers and just make a few calls. Since it would be long distance, just a few quick calls is great. Go girl!
March 3rd, 2008 at 3:35 pm
We need help here in Texas making calls, even if you live in another state. Follow instructions on the home page. Tomorrow is voting day here. A few quick calls would help a lot. I’m heading back out again.
March 3rd, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Out of the dozens of calls, there was only one call that I excited answered after hearing the words “Ron Paul!” I was elated to tell the precient leader that I was so excited about Ron Paul that I voted early in the morning on the first day of early voting in Texas. Please Ron Paul, know that you have not lost despite what the vote seems to be. You have won big regardless of what happens! You can only do so much and this country is so snowed under by corrupt media. It has taken me approximately 4 years to learn what is really going on in the government and just recently to learn about Ron Paul despite the fact I am unusually savvy about the Internet and good at ferreting things out, so imagine what the average person is up against. I will keep my Ron Paul magnetic bumper sticker on the car and my refrigerator regardless, along with my liberty Ron Paul bracelet! If you are not the nominee I will write in your name or I will turn and walk out ofthe voting booth in November!! You are the only one qualified to be president, period! I love you Ron Paul (apologies to your wife but she understands what I mean)! I love Ronald Reagan and you are far more fabulous!
March 3rd, 2008 at 4:10 pm
Hi folks
This is psychology. You have been positioned as the enemy LIBERTARIAN group who want to capture the party. If you are enemy then they will not talk with you, they will fight with you, even if in other circumstances they would agree with you. Many good Republicans are fooled by this psychology and while in other circumstances they would agree with you and you would be suprised how many of your belive they share, they would fight with you and they would not listen to you.
It is the same reason why MSM are always adding Libertarian to characteristic of Ron Paul!!!!
To many Conservatives Ron Paul is not True Republican. Why??? Because of this simple trick.
The cure for this is simple.
You need in every argument you say quote some famous Republican like Ronald Reagan. You need to position yourself as the Republican who know his party history and belive in their root belifs. They can fight Libertarian but soon they will start puzzling if you will position them against their hero.
Most of them are Republican, because of their family story, their business, friends etc. You should already know how little they about the party policies.
Also please repeat THAT YOU ARE SICK AND TIRED TO LOOSE AGAIN WITH DEMOCRAT. They may not realize what the party policy is, but they sure know who their party is ENEMY. Even if they will be suspicious about you as the “libertarian”, remember that enemy of my enemy is my friend.
I hope someone will send this to precinct leader because it is very important.
March 3rd, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Well tomorrows the day here in Texas. You can go out and about here and just feel the tension in the air. It makes the hair on your arms and the back of your neck stand up like something inevitable is about to happen soon but no one seems to know what or when. There have been talks and even attempts by certain groups here in Texas about seceding from the union for years. If the peaceful Ron Paul revolution doesnt take a strong hold here I fear there is a real revolution coming. Not just in Texas but nationwide. If the thought of that kind of chaos doesnt scare the living heck out of you I dont know what would. This country would be at its most vulnerable in centuries. Other countries with would be power mad dictators are just waiting for the chance to divide and conquer. At that point what little freedoms and liberties we have left would be wiped out in a day. Lets revolutionize this country peacefully and get out and vote. It’s your only hope. Take it seriously.