http://newt.orgRSS feeds for Newt.org60http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4658/Default.aspx#Comments25http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4658http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4658&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4658/Default.aspxWe've received alot of feedback from you in our search for a new term to reflect the gravity of the "political correctness" mindset that led to the Ft. Hood tragedy. Your comments in the previous blog post, as well as tweets and facebook comments, have been great, and we'd like for you to vote below on which term you think is best:What term should replace “political correctness” to describe the mindset that led to the Ft. Hood tragedy?(opinion)Matt ScofieldTue, 17 Nov 2009 17:18:40 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4658http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4654/Political-Correctness-Or-Something-Else.aspx#Comments63http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4654http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4654&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4654/Political-Correctness-Or-Something-Else.aspxLast night, I appeared on Greta’s show to discuss why Nidal Hassan was still allowed to wear a uniform despite numerous red flags that he was both unstable and had expressed a clear allegiance with our enemies. You can watch the appearance above. Greta and I discussed if “political correctness” was to blame for the fact that authorities did not aggressively purse Hassan despite the warnings. (Read this NY Times article for more details.)But after the interview, I wondered if “political correctness” is the right term to use. When most think of political correctness, they think of hyphenated names and gender neutral terms. Sure, they sound a little silly. But political correctness as a threat to our safety?So I’m asking for your help. As we grapple with the nature of the threat from Radical Islam, what is the best term we can use to describe the pressure to be willfully blind to apparent threats, to put lives in danger out of a fear of offending someone?Is it “politically correctness” or something else? Let me know what you think.NewtFri, 13 Nov 2009 15:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4654http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4641/Reagan-and-the-Berlin-Wall.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4641http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4641&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4641/Reagan-and-the-Berlin-Wall.aspxSome have called the President's decision not to commemorate the fall of the Berlin Wall an outrage. I think instead, for someone who so ably uses the rhetoric of hope, it is a tragedy he is not attending. My Friday column on the anniversary is hereNewtFri, 06 Nov 2009 17:37:22 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4641http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4633/Rally-Thursday-Against-ObamaPelosiCare.aspx#Comments14http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4633http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4633&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4633/Rally-Thursday-Against-ObamaPelosiCare.aspxHelp stop the gov't take-over of healthcare. Join the Rally Thursday against Obama/PelosiCare http://bit.ly/ZsKxGNewtWed, 04 Nov 2009 15:34:58 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4633http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4631/Fighting-Vote-Fraud.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4631http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4631&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4631/Fighting-Vote-Fraud.aspxDavid Kralik on 4 ways to report vote fraud uisng internet tools:Twitter | use #votefraud hashtag YouTube | visit http://www.youtube.com/group/votefraud09  Flickr | visit: http://www.flickr.com/groups/votefraud  Facebook | visit: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=214486540096 newt.orgTue, 03 Nov 2009 14:28:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4631http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4630/More-Pictures-From-the-Tour.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4630http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4630&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4630/More-Pictures-From-the-Tour.aspx newt.orgMon, 02 Nov 2009 15:39:28 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4630http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4629/I-Am-Endorsing-Doug-Hoffman.aspx#Comments593http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4629http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4629&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4629/I-Am-Endorsing-Doug-Hoffman.aspxUpdated 11/1 - The race has evolved into a contest between a conservative and a pro-Pelosi, tax increase, big government liberal Democrat. This is both a tribute to the power of the national conservative movement to define an issue and a commentary on the populist anger against politics-as-usual. The New York GOP has now had two troubled special elections and it is clear they should go to a primary nominating system so everyone will feel it was fair and open. The age of party leaders picking people is over. Scozzafava did the right thing in dropping out. I am, however, deeply disappointed that she has chosen to back Owens over Hoffman. I am endorsing Doug Hoffman and believe everyone who wants to create jobs with lower taxes and to control spending and deficits should vote for Doug Hoffman Tuesday.NewtSat, 31 Oct 2009 16:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4629http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4627/A-Special-Halloween-Message.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4627http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4627&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4627/A-Special-Halloween-Message.aspxTomorrow night, while eating all that leftover candy, how about curling up with Newt and Bill Forstchen’s new novel, To Try Men’s Souls, an inspirational account of General George Washington and the colonial army’s miracle victory at the Battle of Trenton?Available wherever books are sold. Learn more at www.totrymenssouls.com.And thanks to Lt. Commander Dr. Timothy Powell from Suffolk, Va for the pictures of his fantastic pumpkin! Go Navy!newt.orgFri, 30 Oct 2009 18:19:37 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4627http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4618/Some-Pictures-and-Exciting-News-From-The-Tour.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4618http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4618&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4618/Some-Pictures-and-Exciting-News-From-The-Tour.aspx We just received exciting news that To Try Men's Souls will debut at #13 on the NY Times bestseller list!  Michelle Selesky is travelling with Newt this week and she sent some pictures from the book tour.  More coming soon: newt.orgWed, 28 Oct 2009 22:04:56 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4618http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4581/Museum-of-Natural-History-in-NYC.aspx#Comments20http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4581http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4581&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4581/Museum-of-Natural-History-in-NYC.aspx Newt and Callista at the Extreme Mammals exhibit at the Museum of Natural History in NYC. NewtThu, 08 Oct 2009 17:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4581http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4573/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4573http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4573&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4573/Default.aspxAs Newt debates Sir Michael Rawlins on the rationale for having comparative effectiveness reviews (CERs) as part of America’s healthcare system, he exposes a topic of contention within medical communities on which the public should have a say. Read here to check out Newt’s take on this debate, and why this initiative stops medical innovation right in its tracks, denying Americans the potential to receive life saving treatments. newt.orgTue, 06 Oct 2009 20:59:01 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4573http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4568/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4568http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4568&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4568/Default.aspx Newt’s education tour with Al Sharpton and Arnie Duncan is bringing much needed attention to the issue of education.  His recent trip to Philadelphia has shown some light on the incredible: what was once a violent and failing school just three years ago has been transformed in to a thriving, highly successful and safe learning environment where Philadelphia students are getting an education that they would never have imagined just a short while ago.  ChadwickCiocciFri, 02 Oct 2009 14:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4568http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4552/About-that-Intelligence-Estimate.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4552http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4552&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4552/About-that-Intelligence-Estimate.aspx In the wake of the revelation that Iran has built a secret nuclear facility, it is worth remembering that in late 2007, the DNI’s National Intelligence Estimate on Iran said confidently that the country had stopped its nuclear weapons program in 2003. Of course, many keen observers, Newt included pointed out that the report was intellectually indefensible and seemed deliberately designed to undermine the Bush administration at the expense of our nation’s security. And it looks like they’ve been proven right. Tom Joscelyn at The Weekly Standard has more. joedesantisMon, 28 Sep 2009 15:44:27 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4552http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4533/Help-improve-education-globally.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4533http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4533&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4533/Help-improve-education-globally.aspxby Newt GingrichPaul Buchheit is giving money to charities based on your vote; I recommend Curriki, which creates open source textbooks. You can vote here.NewtThu, 17 Sep 2009 14:38:30 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4533http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4527/912-Tea-Party-Rally--Mid-day-report-from-DC.aspx#Comments20http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4527http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4527&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4527/912-Tea-Party-Rally--Mid-day-report-from-DC.aspx Our own Michelle Selesky is attending the rally today in downtown Washington D.C. She reports:There are 200 events going on around the country today in 45 states. Tea partiers have come to DC from Hawaii and Alaska. The crowd stretches from the capitol to 7th street. Children, seniors, young adults, vets, everyone. The theme is protesting big gov't but just as much is the message of love of country. The whole crowd just sang the national anthem! And now chanting USA! Don't tread on me flags are flying everywhere, in addition to some humorous signs against "Obamacare". The state treasurer of Indiana just spoke. Kellen Giuda of Parcbench and NY tea party director to speak soon! newt.orgSat, 12 Sep 2009 17:57:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4527http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4517/Default.aspx#Comments64http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4517http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4517&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4517/Default.aspxClick here to sign up for Newt's weekly newsletterIs President Obama listening to us, or to his party's left wing? Join the Newt.org team and community for a Live Blog -- right here -- tonight of President Obama's Healthcare speech. We need reform -- but what kind will the President talk about tonight?We have proposed, instead of a massive omnibus bill, a series of reform bills:Improving the delivery & administration of medical careCreating real competition & choice in the insurance marketSaving Medicare & Medicaid from bankruptcyInvesting in science & innovationJustice ReformJoin us below, tonight at 7:45!Click here to sign up for Newt's weekly newsletterGrade the speech along with us using Newt's 10-point checklistNewt.org Live Blog of President Obama's Health Care speechClick here to sign up for Newt's weekly newsletterGrade the speech along with us using Newt's 10-point checklistnewt.orgWed, 09 Sep 2009 13:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4517http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4508/Job-Growth--H1B-Visa-reform.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4508http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4508&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4508/Job-Growth--H1B-Visa-reform.aspxby Newt GingrichWhile visiting Asia, and witnessing the dynamic entrepreneurial and high-tech business culture in Toyko, Beijing, and Seoul, I was reminded of how critically important it is for America to reform H1-B visas to make our country more accessible to high-skilled immigrants.Reform in this area would be particularly helpful for America’s high tech companies. A recent post by Vivek Wadhwa, a visiting scholar at Berkley and immigrant himself—shows that ¼ of all “technology and engineering startups” have immigrant founders. In Silicon Valley, over half of these start up companies were founded by immigrants.Wadhwa also points to the drive in innovation from immigrants. Of all the patents filed on behalf of companies like Merck, GE, and Cisco, immigrants make up well over the majority.This has been a goal of mine for several years. H1-B visas would lead to more jobs and more growth. As some policy officials call for another stimulus, they should look to H1-B visa reform as a cheaper and more effective stimulus for economic growth. NewtWed, 02 Sep 2009 21:25:02 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4508http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4503/From-AEI-A-Tale-of-Two-100000-jobs.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4503http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4503&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4503/From-AEI-A-Tale-of-Two-100000-jobs.aspxby Newt GingrichNick Schulz of AEI writes in The American: A Tale of Two $100,000 Jobs: There is a world that works & a world that fails. I encourage you to read the blog post.NewtTue, 01 Sep 2009 13:43:22 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4503http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4489/Default.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4489http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4489&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4489/Default.aspxby Newt GingrichIlan Berman provides a thought-provoking and convincing argument for the challenges we face in the "Long War," how we have missed the mark in our prosecution of it so far, and the next steps we must take to achieve victory. His analysis is forward thinking, insightful, and lucid. Radical Islamists are mobilizing against the West, and we are failing to meet the challenge. Since September 11, 2001, we have made critical errors. But so have our enemies. Every crisis is also an opportunity, and Ilan Berman presents clear solutions that--if acted upon today--wil not only change the course of the current fight but can also hasten the end of radical Islamism once and for all. Winning the Long War is a seminal call to action that should be required reading for all national security practitioners and each citizen of the United States. If we act upon its message, we most certainly can retake the offensive against radical Islam.Newt Gingrich is the longest-serving teacher of the Joint War Fighting course for Major GeneralsNewtMon, 24 Aug 2009 22:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4489http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4480/A-Tripartisan-Plan-for-Education-Reform.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4480http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4480&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4480/A-Tripartisan-Plan-for-Education-Reform.aspxby Newt GingrichI recently joined up with Education Secretary Arne Duncan and the Reverend Al Sharpton to push for dramatic reform in our educational system. We have launched a tour that will take us to Atlanta, Baltimore, and New Orleans these next few months.But this isn’t new—education reform has been a priority of mine for a long time. In 1983 the Reagan administration warned in “A Nation at Risk” that our schools were crippling our national security and limiting the safety, security, and prosperity of American children. In 2001, I served on the Hart-Rudman Commission that warned the failure of math and science education was the second greatest threat to our national security after a weapon of mass destruction. Sadly, 26 years of reform effort have failed to achieve the progress we need. My purpose for joining Secretary Duncan and Rev. Al Sharpton is to bring all of our efforts together to formulate a “tripartisan” plan for arriving at a breakthrough in education.This is a national security effort and deserves the support of all Americans. If we are going to build that broad coalition, with the support of both parties and Congress and the president, we have to work to work through our differences and come together to help create a brighter future for America’s children.Our future strength is dependent on the quality of our schools.  Sign up for tour updates, and for occasional updates about our overall education efforts.NewtWed, 19 Aug 2009 18:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4480http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4472/Statement-on-the-passing-of-Robert-Novak.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4472http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4472&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4472/Statement-on-the-passing-of-Robert-Novak.aspxby Newt GingrichIt was sad to learn of the passing of Robert Novak. For half a century he aggressively and at times pugnaciously covered politics and government. Bob Novak brought a zest for reporting, a toughness for judging and a lifetime of knowledge to his columns and his TV appearances.NewtWed, 19 Aug 2009 14:29:58 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4472http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4470/Drill-There-Drill-Now.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4470http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4470&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4470/Drill-There-Drill-Now.aspxBy Steve Everley on August 18, 2009Last week we highlighted a disturbing story about how Cuba is going to allow the Russians to drill in the Gulf of Mexico, potentially as close as 45 miles from the American shoreline.We pointed out how it makes no sense for the Cubans to allow drilling so close to our shores while our own government has needlessly delayed the process for American oil and gas exploration.But in today's Wall Street Journal, the narrative of our current irrational energy policy got worse:  America will be financing offshore oil and gas exploration... in Brazil.That's right.  Our own Department of Interior chose to delay exploration for American oil back in February.  And now our government has decided that we should not only keep that de facto ban in place here at home, but that we should finance other countries' offshore drilling efforts.This is unacceptable for American taxpayers, and it is an unacceptable energy policy.Be sure to visit YourEnergyOpinion.com today and tell the Department of Interior that you support American energy and American jobs.UPDATE:  Vince Haley, Vice President for Policy at American Solutions, was on Fox Business today to discuss America financing Brazil's offshore oil drilling.-->newt.orgTue, 18 Aug 2009 22:40:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4470http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4466/Government-decision-on-home-healthcare.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4466http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4466&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4466/Government-decision-on-home-healthcare.aspxThe cmms decision to cut homehealth care everywhere in america because of their failure to control fraud is exactly why people worry. This blanket rule that effects the honest and dishonest, the frugal and the wasteful, the average case and the unique case with a sledgehammer. The cmms home health decision is proof congress ought to reform medicare & medicaid before it even thinks about bigger government healthcare.NewtSun, 16 Aug 2009 20:58:28 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4466http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4465/New-Podcast-Series.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4465http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4465&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4465/New-Podcast-Series.aspxI'm starting a new 2+2=4 podcast series at American Solutions. When the government tells us a $1 trillion health care bill will not add to the deficit, that a $1 trillion national energy tax affecting every business in America will not kill jobs, and that a $787 billion unread spending bill is actually saving our economy, we must demand honesty.Listen hereNewtFri, 14 Aug 2009 13:39:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4465http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4446/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4446http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4446&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4446/Default.aspxWith the fights at stake on many policy fronts, Adam Waldeck at American Solutions wants to know: What will you be doing to keep up the pressure on your representatives over August recess?And what can we (American Solutions) provide you with that you would find helpful?Please click here to provide your responsenewt.orgThu, 06 Aug 2009 13:45:55 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4446http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4434/Towards-a-new-transportation-infrastructure.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4434http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4434&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4434/Towards-a-new-transportation-infrastructure.aspxNewt spoke at the National Press Club recently in a bi-partisan event, with Gov. Ed Rendell and former Rep. Dick Gephardt. Their goal was to discuss solutions to revitalize America's transportation infrastructure. Below is brief clip highlighting Newt's 8-point plan, Premium members can view the full speech as well as the Q&A session:newt.orgThu, 30 Jul 2009 17:56:20 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4434http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4432/The-Defector.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4432http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4432&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4432/The-Defector.aspxDaniel Silva's new novel "The Defector" is number one on the ny times list I recommend it very highly:NewtThu, 30 Jul 2009 14:50:46 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4432http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4419/One-Mans-Impact.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4419http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4419&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4419/One-Mans-Impact.aspx My daughter, Jackie Gingrich Cushman, whom I recently wrote 5 Principles for a Successful Life with, has a new column out today. She writes on the impact of James Oglethorpe's leadership:James Oglethorpe was the third son of English nobleman, who could have lived out his life with ease and excess. Instead, his focus and concern for the common man led him to a life of service.After serving in the army, Oglethorpe moved to his family’s estate and reestablished himself in the community. He ran, and was elected by one vote, to the House of Commons in 1722. Oglethorpe became part of the committee charged with investigating debtors’ prisons. The prisons had been investigated before – but no reform had come about. Oglethorpe vowed to change this by investigating them himself and taking the committee to the prisons for them to see the terrible conditions. His work led to the 1730 Debtors Act, which provided rights to debtors.However, Oglethorpe is best known for... Read the full column NewtMon, 27 Jul 2009 13:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4419http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4408/NewtorgParaLatinos.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4408http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4408&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4408/NewtorgParaLatinos.aspxDid you know that newt.org has a Spanish site? Visit www.newt.org/ParaLatinos to view articles, the weekly newsletter, and blogs in Spanish. As you know, Newt has a twitter page in English at www.twitter.com/newtgingrich. Now, we have a Spanish language version at twitter.com/gingrichespanol.In the past few weeks, we have received many comments about Newt's outreach to Spanish speaking Americans. Many wonder why Newt would do this.After all, Newt has said clearly on numerous occasions that English should be the language of government in the United States. To be clear, Newt adamantly believes ALL new Americans must embrace American values and culture, and that learning English is essential part of that process. In addition, there can be no debate that learning English is an essential step for new immigrants to prosper in America. However, it is equally important that all new Americans understand the important issues facing our country. New Americans, even if they have learned English, may still be more comfortable in their first language. And certainly, America has a long tradition of many languages being spoken here, even as English has been the language that has united us all. We encourage to share our efforts at outreach in Spanish by sharing the website and twitter feed with your friends and neighbors who speak Spanish as well.sgarciaThu, 23 Jul 2009 19:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4408http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4400/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4400http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4400&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4400/Default.aspxNewt sat down in the Green Room Monday before his speech at the Heritage Foundation. Heritage put up a blog post with the interview.Click here to see the blog postnewt.orgWed, 22 Jul 2009 18:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4400http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4391/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4391http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4391&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4391/Default.aspxNewt.org user Lawrence H. wrote in and asked the following questions about William Forstchen's novel One Second After. Mr. Forstchen (Bill around here) responded below:Lawrence: William Forstchen's novel One Second After with Newt's excellent forward suggests EMP is a clear and present threat. I have several questions:1. What, if anything, is being done to harden our essential systems such as power, water, transportation and medical supplies?2. If we are not moving at flank speed to protect ourselves do we not have our priorities skewed?Bill: Amen to the question raised by Lawrence.Our priorities are completely off balance. As a good friend of mine says "what good is a bailout if there is no country left to bail out?"The evidence has been clearly laid before Congress in the EMP Commission Reports of 2004 and 2008. The "reward" for the service of that Commission, chaired by Congressman Roscoe Bartlett, was to have the commission...newt.orgMon, 20 Jul 2009 16:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4391http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4380/One-Year-Later-Wheres-the-Energy.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4380http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4380&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4380/One-Year-Later-Wheres-the-Energy.aspx Today, July 14, marks the one year anniversary of President Bush lifting the executive branch's 18-year moratorium on offshore drilling. Unfortunately, one year later, we are no closer to accessing America's abundant energy resources than we were last July. At 11 am today at the U.S. Capitol, we held a press conference with members of Congress to call on the President to move forward on a plan to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and allow Americans access to the energy resources that we own. You can watch the video of this press conference below. So where do we stand today and how can you help? Well, you can help in a big way, and it only takes one minute. Read the whole post here at American Solutions newt.orgWed, 15 Jul 2009 00:47:55 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4380http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4375/Default.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4375http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4375&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4375/Default.aspx I recently did an interview with Newsmax on CHT's efforts for bipartisan health-based health reform vs gov't-run healthcare. I mentioned our petition drive to force congress to join any public plan they create. I urge you to sign the petition here.NewtMon, 13 Jul 2009 14:15:29 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4375http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4352/Service-Members-at-the-Tiger-Woods-Tournament.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4352http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4352&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4352/Service-Members-at-the-Tiger-Woods-Tournament.aspxBy Newt GingrichIt was very heart warming to see the military and especially the wounded warriors honored at the tiger woods tournament in washington. It would be great if pga adopted principle of allowing men and women in uniform to attend all events for free or set aside some free ticketsNewtMon, 06 Jul 2009 16:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4352http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4351/Default.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4351http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4351&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4351/Default.aspxBob Haynes at the Northwest Arkansas News has a review of Newt's book Rediscovering God in America. You can buy an autographed copy of the book at shop.newt.org. Check out the review below."There is no attack on American Culture more destructive and more historically dishonest than the secular Left's relentless effort to drive God out of American's public square." These words were written by Newt Gingrich in his book "Rediscovering God in America." I highly recommend this book to all Americans - young and old. Gingrich, by giving his readers a virtual tour of Washington's historic documents, public buildings and monuments, brings into bright focus the truth that we are a nation under God, and that fact is irrefutable. In fact, God's role is at the "heart of our freedom as Americans and our identity as a people." As a former teacher of history, I was enthralled with the depth of knowledge shown by Gingrich, who is noted for being a historical scholar. He brought into sharp focus facts that indicate the liberal Left has misinterpreted so much of our solid relationship to God that they have had to try to run God out of America. Read the rest of the article...newt.orgMon, 06 Jul 2009 15:55:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4351http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4343/On-President-Obama--Honduras.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4343http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4343&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4343/On-President-Obama--Honduras.aspxSadly the Obama Administration has joined Castro and Chavez in attacking Honduran Supreme Court and Congress for defending their Constitution.Having Fidel Castro call for defending democracy should convince any reasonable person that Honduras was on the edge of a leftish dictatorship.Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen expressed her opinion on the matter by saying “Honduras: President overstepped in his power grab by going against constitution”.If you want to read about the issue, AEI has two good articles explaining the issue and discussing whether we should be for or against the coup in Honduras, you can read them here - http://blog.american.com/?p=2619, http://www.aei.org/article/100693NewtWed, 01 Jul 2009 21:18:35 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4343http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4339/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4339http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4339&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4339/Default.aspx By Emily Renwick   Today, in a 5-4 decision, the Supreme Court reversed a decision set by Supreme Court nominee Sonya Sotomayor, and ruled that the City of New Haven, Connecticut discriminated against 17 white and Hispanic fire fighters.   In reversing Sotomayor’s enjoined appellate decision, Justice Kennedy’s Majority Opinion stated plainly that the City’s move constituted discrimination: Emily RMon, 29 Jun 2009 16:41:38 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4339http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4338/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4338http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4338&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4338/Default.aspxOver the weekend, the Wall Street Journal published a terrific article that echoed many of themes Newt has been talking about for some time. Entitled The Albany-Trenton-Sacramento Disease, they note the destructive progessive policies each state has embarked upon and how President Obama is trying to continue on this same destructive path.Newt has talked similarly on this topic:Michigan has lost more jobs than any state in the United States except the impact of Katrina on Louisiana. And nobody stops and says, "What is the systemic reason for this collapse?"...(I'm relaying) the systemic failure of the American system, Democrat and Republican, systemic in Sacramento, systemic in Detroit, systemic in Albany, systemic in Washington, D.C., and the fact that neither political party is producing the kind of campaign and the kind of candidates not just for president but across the system.We are not coming to grips with how big our problems are. -- FNS 07/29/07and he has used this example in a recent newsletter as well:...politicians and lobbyists in Sacramento are ignoring or rejecting the voters' will, just as they are in Albany and Trenton. The states with huge government machines have basically moved beyond the control of the people. They have become castles of corruption, favoritism and wastefulness...the political machines in California and New York are wrecking the states' economies and driving out successful residents. But the machines don't care because all they want to do is own the wreckage.Now President Obama, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid want to impose on the nation this style of politics in which interest groups, politicians and bureaucracies dominate. Look at their record: a $787 billion stimulus no elected official had read, 8,000 earmarks, an Environmental Protection Agency plan to control the economy through carbon regulations, the government threatening retaliation against those who would protect their property rights against theft in the Chrysler bailout -- again and again, this team is moving toward a government that owns the country rather than a government that is owned by the people.To find out what more you can do to stop this systemic corruption, visit American Solutions today.Matt ScofieldMon, 29 Jun 2009 16:05:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4338http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4335/Stop-the-Energy-Tax.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4335http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4335&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4335/Stop-the-Energy-Tax.aspx Everyone should call their congressman this morning and demand a no vote on the unread energy tax increase The vote is very close. Use this link to call: http://www.americansolutions.com/take-action/call.php NewtFri, 26 Jun 2009 16:38:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4335http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4330/Default.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4330http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4330&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4330/Default.aspxNewt joined former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, HHS National Coordinator for Health Information Technology David Blumenthal, CCHIT Chairman Mike Leavitt, GE Director of Global Healthcare Robert Galvin, and Microsoft Health Solutions Group Vice President Peter Neupert join other governement and industry leaders in presenting their perspectives on health reform at CHT's June member meeting today.Learn more at the Center for Health Transformation.Matt ScofieldThu, 25 Jun 2009 19:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4330http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4321/Default.aspx#Comments12http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4321http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4321&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4321/Default.aspx The Constitution reflects the principles set forth in the Declaration of Independence, and thus it is the Declaration that serves as the ultimate foundational text. severleyFri, 19 Jun 2009 01:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4321http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4317/The-Truth-About-Teachers-Unions.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4317http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4317&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4317/The-Truth-About-Teachers-Unions.aspxThis video from Union Facts is interesting. The Truth about Teachers Unions from Union Facts on Vimeo.newt.orgThu, 18 Jun 2009 16:50:03 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4317http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4314/Facts-About-the-Uighur-Detainees.aspx#Comments17http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4314http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4314&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4314/Facts-About-the-Uighur-Detainees.aspx Last week, the Obama administration announced that the remaining Chinese Uighurs held at Guantanamo will be accepted by the island nation of Palau.    The announcement has brought Newt Gingrich’s May 15 op-ed “Let’s NOT Meet the Uighurs” back into focus.  You can read it here.    A lot of disinformation and spin is being hurled about regarding the refusal to release these soon to be former detainees into the United States.  including the notion that the decision to not release any of the Uighur detainees into the United States is somehow the result of a Chinese propaganda and counterintelligence campaign.  Some have even questioned the source of the information Newt was using when he wrote the op-ed above.   There is no question that the human rights record of China is deplorable.  However, the question at hand is not China’s treatment of the Uighur population at large.  The question is whether the United States should release any of these Uighur detainees into the United States.   (click below to read more)  joedesantisWed, 17 Jun 2009 19:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4314http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4311/Reconsidering-Insurance-Regulation.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4311http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4311&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4311/Reconsidering-Insurance-Regulation.aspxEmily Renwick—financial reform researcher at AEI for Newt – outlines policy proposals following today’s hearing House Financial Services Committee on prudential insurance regulation.Click here for the Op-Ednewt.orgTue, 16 Jun 2009 20:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4311http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4289/The-Reagan-Formula.aspx#Comments28http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4289http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4289&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4289/The-Reagan-Formula.aspx I have received a number of thoughtful emails and tweets from those concerned that trying to remain inclusive in the Republican Party will come at the expense of our conservative principles.I agree that expanding our majority should never come at the expense of our principles. However, standing firm on our principles does not mean we should not allow those who only partially agree with those principles to feel welcome in our party.On this, I think Ronald Reagan provides an important illustration.Most will agree that President Reagan remained true to his conservative principles.However, Reagan also always reached out to Democrats and independents. And he always tried to keep moderate Republicans in the Party.If you go back to his two gubernatorial races in 1966 and 1970 you will see a conscious effort to attract Democrats and independents.If you look at his 1976 speech to the Republican National Convention he begins by saying "my fellow Republicans in this hall...and those Democrats and independents around the country who are looking for a better future."In 1979 only 21% of Americans called themselves Republicans. Reagan knew he had to grow his appeal far beyond the baseI first met with Reagan in October 1974.I campaigned with him in the late 1970s.As chair of the Planning Committing of the House Republican campaign committee (NRCC) I worked with RNC chair Bill Brock to study the Thatcher 1979 victory and apply the lessons to the 1980 campaign.I helped design the first Capitol steps event in history in the fall of 1980 (the Contract with America was actually the second, in 1994).From 1981 to 1988 I worked with resident Reagan as a member of Congress.This year, my wife Calllista and I released a movie called Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny which is a documentary about his career and achievements.Stick to first principles—yes.Be inclusive and encourage others to side with you even if they only agree with part of your platform – yes.That would have been the Reagan formula. NewtThu, 11 Jun 2009 18:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4289http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4288/The-Obama-Stimulus-Predictions-vs-Reality.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4288http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4288&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4288/The-Obama-Stimulus-Predictions-vs-Reality.aspxI wanted to pass along this interesting illustration of the job losses that the economy is encurring under the Obama administration. Turns out jobs which were to be "saved" (and how do you measure in a quantitative way a "saved" job??) were in fact lost. Remember the rush to pass the stimulus without reading it?? Well keep that fresh in your mind as you watch this: Matt ScofieldWed, 10 Jun 2009 21:00:39 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4288http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4280/Stop-the-Energy-Tax--now-over-75000.aspx#Comments25http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4280http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4280&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4280/Stop-the-Energy-Tax--now-over-75000.aspxWe’ve passed 75,000 signatures on the Stop the Energy Tax petition. Keep sending around to help spread the message, and let me know your thoughts below on how to fix our energy problems. For more info on our plans, visit AmericanSolutions.com/energy.NewtTue, 09 Jun 2009 17:32:10 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4280http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4271/Honoring-the-65th-anniversary-of-DDay.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4271http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4271&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4271/Honoring-the-65th-anniversary-of-DDay.aspxAs we look to celebrate the heroism of our troops on D-Day, Life magazine has published some great photos from D-Day and Operation Overlord. Check out the pictures here.Also if you haven't yet, please call your local radio station to have them play FDR's D-Day prayer tomorrow, Saturday June 6th. They can get all the info from Newt.org/ddayprayer.Matt ScofieldFri, 05 Jun 2009 23:16:40 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4271http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4262/Default.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4262http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4262&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4262/Default.aspx I went to St. Peter’s Square at 8 this morning to meet the American and Italian camera crew that as in Rome to film a Newt and Callista Gingrich Production special, a DVD entitled “Nine Days That Changed the World” about Pope John Paul’s historic first trip back to his native Poland in June 1979 – almost 30 years ago to the day. That was a trip that did indeed change the world, giving birth to Solidarnosc and, ten years later, to the fall of the Berlin Wall and communism, an anniversary we will all mark this coming November. I first met Newt and Callista when they were in Rome last fall on one of their journeys to places that were such a big part of Pope John Paul’s life, Poland, of course, and Rome and the Vatican. To read the whole post, as well as view some of Joan's great pictures from the day, click here. newt.orgMon, 01 Jun 2009 19:43:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4262http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4259/GM-Bankruptcy-and-the-fall-of-Detroit.aspx#Comments14http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4259http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4259&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4259/GM-Bankruptcy-and-the-fall-of-Detroit.aspxWith GM's bankruptcy this morning, I thought it would be apropos to remind you of this speech clip from last year where Newt talks about the Left and what happened to the once great city of Detroit:Matt ScofieldMon, 01 Jun 2009 13:51:48 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4259http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4253/On-Supreme-Court-nominee-Sonia-Sotomayor.aspx#Comments163http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4253http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4253&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4253/On-Supreme-Court-nominee-Sonia-Sotomayor.aspx by Newt Gingrich*UPDATE* Read my newsletter on Sotomayor hereImagine a judicial nominee said "my experience as a white man makes me better than a latina woman" Wouldn't they have to withdraw? New racism is no better than old racism.A white man racist nominee would be forced to withdraw. Latina woman racist should also withdraw. NewtWed, 27 May 2009 16:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4253http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4252/Monday-Miscellany.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4252http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4252&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4252/Monday-Miscellany.aspxIts been a busy news day to start the week. While Newt and Callista are in Poland, filming for 9 Days That Changed The World, we have some commentary highlights to show you on today's news:President Obama has stated "empathy" is a key characteristic he wants in his Supreme Court pick, but as Terry Eastland in the Weekly Standard asks, does Sonia Sotomayor have empathy for Frank Ricci?If you go by her ruling, and her comment that: "I would hope that a wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn’t lived that life" -- well you would have to wonder, and you should, whether her empathy has limited reach when it comes to white males.Roger Kimball has related thoughts here when he wonders if "identity politics is her judicial philosophy", while David Kopel writes on her views on the 2nd amendment and gun-rights.On California's upholding of the passage of Prop 8, on banning gay-marriage, law professor William A. Jacobson writes: "What does it all mean? The issue of gay marriage in California will be left to the political process. Having intervened in that political process by finding a Constitutional right to gay marriage (by a one vote majority), the Supreme Court Justices have had the issue taken away from them. Supporters of gay marriage will have to win in the court of public opinion. It will be interesting to see if supporters of gay marriage go the way of those who, in the aftermath of Prop. 8, engaged in boycotts and intimidation, or will argue the gay marriage case on the merits. In any event, the next electoral cycle should be interesting."Finally, on the North Korean nuclear testing, Newt (via Twitter agrees with Sen. McCain that their actions were "provocative and dangerous - sanctions and Chinese pressure absolutely necessary." Bruce Klingner of the Heritage Foundation has a brief write-up on the issue today, noting among other items that: "North Korea's longstanding goal to develop the means to threaten the U.S. and its allies with nuclear weapons underscore the critical need for America to develop and deploy a missile defense system."Matt ScofieldTue, 26 May 2009 21:42:32 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4252http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4251/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4251http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4251&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4251/Default.aspxCheck out this great new post from AEI's Emily Renwick at American Solutions' new website Here's the opening paragraphs. Read the full post here.Secretary Geithner has announced yet another new financial regulation. But unlike the TARP and TALF programs, this one looks like it will be a positive move that brings more transparency to financial markets without costing the taxpayer hundreds of billions of dollars.In brief, Geithner's plan would require that all investors report each derivative transaction to regulators and prove that they have enough capital to support their wager. If Geithner enacts his plan with cautious restraint, he will avoid another Sarbanes Oxley type of calamity. If, on the other hand, he enforces a one-size-fits all blanket regulation, his plan will drive investors to less regulated Asian markets, while also leading to the creation of more complex, nefarious investments that outwit regulators and lead to further destruction of our capital markets...newt.orgTue, 26 May 2009 18:00:35 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4251http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4246/Happy-Memorial-Day.aspx#Comments16http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4246http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4246&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4246/Happy-Memorial-Day.aspxCallista and I were surprised to find this icon of the Midwest in Manhattan. BBQ a few hotdogs as you enjoy your Memorial Day weekend.NewtFri, 22 May 2009 15:13:24 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4246http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4238/Video-and-Editorial-Comment--Newt-on-GMA.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4238http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4238&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4238/Video-and-Editorial-Comment--Newt-on-GMA.aspx Here is the video of Newt’s appearance on Good Morning America this morning. A note about the interview: There is a huge difference between Speaker Pelosi’s shameful, blanket smear of the CIA during her press conference and the necessary and proper oversight of the Intelligence community by the House Intelligence Committee. To read more click the link below... joedesantisWed, 20 May 2009 21:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4238http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4230/Nancy-Pelosi-disqualifies-herself-as-Speaker.aspx#Comments21http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4230http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4230&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4230/Nancy-Pelosi-disqualifies-herself-as-Speaker.aspxFrom the Joe Scarborough Radio Show yesterday, Newt talked about the actions of Speaker Pelosi regarding her handling of National Security matters:"This is a big deal. I don't think the speaker of the House can lie to the country on national security matters. She either comes across as incompetent or dishonest. Those are the only two defenses...To have the person third in line to be president say that the CIA misleads us all the time is so utterly irresponsible and such an attack on the men and women who are risking their lives ... that she disqualifies herself for being speaker of the House."What do you think?Matt ScofieldTue, 19 May 2009 17:24:19 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4230http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4226/Dream-Big.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4226http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4226&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4226/Dream-Big.aspx Everyone defines success differently.  That is what makes personal success so complex. What your neighbor values will be different from what you value.  It is important to understand your personal version of success, which includes all aspects of life: family, physical, social, spiritual, financial, community and business just to name a few.  Once you have defined your version of success, then it is time to Dream BIG and make it happen.   In, 5 Principles for a Successful Life: From Our Family to Yours, which I co-authored with my father, Newt Gingrich, Principle One is Dream Big.  Why dream big?  Because the only other options are to dream small or not dream at all—both of which will not yield worthwhile results.    Dreams are essential, no matter what age we are—they help focus our energy on the future and keep us hopeful.  Dreaming—finding that picture and allowing its pursuit to motivate you—is key.   When you dream, don't let practical considerations limit you: the bigger the better. Big dreams inspire you to start moving. They grab your imagination and fill your mind, consume your thoughts and lead you to act. Because they are hard to achieve, they provide you with a great sense of satisfaction once you have accomplished them. Remember that you will accomplish only as much as you dream you can—so if you want to accomplish big things, you'd better dream big.   Everyone can see what is certain and real, but only those who can imagine what could be have a chance to create and live their dreams. Those without a dream will have no reason to strive, work hard, or think of better days to come. People who dream big accomplish big.   A big dream is a goal that will stretch you beyond your current capabilities. That is the point. Dream BIG.       How big is big enough?  Tavis Smiley, one of our 42 contributors, explains it best, “If people don't laugh at you when you share your dreams, then you're not dreaming big enough.” Jackie CushmanMon, 18 May 2009 18:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4226http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4195/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4195http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4195&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4195/Default.aspxEmily Renwick has a great new post up about the TARP program. It is here at the brand new American Solutions website. If you haven't seen the new site, do us a favor and sign up there to go "kick the tires" a bit.Here's a taste of Emily's post:As was concluded by the Congressional Oversight Panel, the successful mediation of our financial crisis depends on a government that reinforces "transparency, assertiveness, accountability, and clarity." If the government moves to arbitrarily abrogate the contractual agreements of TARP, we are only prolonging the financial crisis.Read the whole thing here.Matt ScofieldWed, 06 May 2009 12:57:45 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4195http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4178/On-Senator-Specters-party-switch.aspx#Comments15http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4178http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4178&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4178/On-Senator-Specters-party-switch.aspxSpecter switching makes a choice between low tax, smaller government, less spending GOP and higher tax, bigger spending Democrats. Senator Specter left the GOP for the most practical reason--his vote for a $787 billion spending bill no one had read infuriated Republicans.NewtWed, 29 Apr 2009 13:50:46 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4178http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4177/Default.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4177http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4177&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4177/Default.aspxOriginally posted at American Solutions.If some members of Congress have their way, your household energy bill will go up by $3,100.Even President Barack Obama admitted this proposal will cause the price of your energy to “necessarily skyrocket.” Last Friday, Newt testified at the House Energy and Commerce Committee against this proposed massive, job-killing energy tax, which is often called cap-and-trade. (Watch his full testimony here).The highlight of Newt's testimony was this exchange with Representative Waxman where he argued we shouldn't punish Americans with new energy taxes:The Waxman-Markey bill is essentially a tax on energy companies and other industry that is passed down to every American in the form of higher energy costs and higher costs for anything produced with energy (i.e., food, clothing, entertainment, etc.).Chairman Emeritus of the Committee John Dingell, a Democrat from Michigan, said during the hearing, “No one in this country realizes that Cap-and-Trade is a tax, and it’s a great big one."The effort to raise the price of your electricity is fierce and relentless, but fortunately there is bipartisan resistance to this tax, which according to several studies would cause 1.9 million Americans to lose their jobs. Simply put, this energy tax is a threat to America’s global competitiveness. The Energy and Environment subcommittee is determined to move on this bill this week or next, so it is extremely urgent that you take action and call you Congressman now.And if you haven’t already, don’t forget to sign up for action alerts to stay up to date on this unfolding threat to American jobs and prosperity.newt.orgWed, 29 Apr 2009 13:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4177http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4158/Obama-Chavez-and-the-Saudi-king.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4158http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4158&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4158/Obama-Chavez-and-the-Saudi-king.aspxInteresting blog post by Michael van der Galien over at PoliGazette on Newt's take on the President's interactions with other heads of state.He notes, "Obama defended himself earlier: “It’s unlikely that as a consequence of me shaking hands or having a polite conversation with Mr. Chavez that we are endangering the strategic interests of the United States,” the president told reporters at a news conference."Galien analyzes, "The above shows that the 44th president underestimates the power of words and attitude tremendously. World leaders are testing him, and Obama is failing almost every single test they subject him to. That is not a good sign. Whether Obama likes it or not, the world is a Hobbesian place. It is not Kant’s wonderful paradise in which we all get along. No, the world is a rough place and America’s enemies will hurt its interests if they think they can get away with it.""Gingrich is right. His criticism is spot-on. This is not about whether or not America should act in a more diplomatic manner, but about whether or not America’s leader should be overly humble and let himself be humiliated just because some foreigners feel the U.S. deserves it."Matt ScofieldTue, 21 Apr 2009 14:24:38 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4158http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4156/Kudos-to-Juan-Williams.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4156http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4156&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4156/Kudos-to-Juan-Williams.aspxJuan Williams shows real courage in this op-ed by bucking the party line and calling out President Obama and his administration for their indefensible dismantling of the DC voucher program.Read it here.joedesantisMon, 20 Apr 2009 22:50:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4156http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4150/Default.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4150http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4150&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4150/Default.aspxAccording to American Solutions, On Friday, April 17th the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared that carbon was a threat to public health and safety, likely ensuring that carbon dioxide will be regulated as a pollutant. While 2 out of 3 Americans do not support the passage of a cap-and-trade plan to regulate carbon emissions, the EPA is still set to impose a tax on carbon that will raise the price of energy, transportation, and virtually every item that requires energy to be produced for businesses and consumers alike. It will be the 21st Century version of taxation without representation. For more on what you can do, contact American Solutions.Watch Newt discuss the problems with cap-and-trade below:newt.orgMon, 20 Apr 2009 16:35:27 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4150http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4140/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4140http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4140&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4140/Default.aspxKerry Weems and Ben Sasso have a powerful article in the Wall Street Journal today proving government is a more expensive as a health manager than private companies. (You can read more about our efforts to transform American Healthcare at the Center for Health Transformation)NewtTue, 14 Apr 2009 13:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4140http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4139/My-thoughts-on-the-White-House-puppy.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4139http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4139&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4139/My-thoughts-on-the-White-House-puppy.aspxMy comments on ABC's This Week about the type of attention given to the Obama family's choice of dog have been misconstrued that I am somehow dismissing the importance of pets in the lives of American families.This is unfortunate because I really do love animals and the natural world. I grew up with dogs in my household for much of my life and today I enjoy playing with my grandchildren and their dog in Atlanta. In fact, before deciding to enter into public service I had planned to be a zoo director. Furthermore, at the Center for Health Transformation, we have a “Healthy Pets, Health People” initiative, because we recognize that responsible pet ownership has shown to have significant health benefits. You can read more about our initiative, here: http://www.healthtransformation.net/cs/healthy_pets_and_healthy_people NewtTue, 14 Apr 2009 13:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4139http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4136/Whats-your-Obama-Debt-Number.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4136http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4136&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4136/Whats-your-Obama-Debt-Number.aspxGraphic courtesy of Heritage FoundationIn a post at American Solutions, Emily Renwick notes the following:What’s your Obama debt number when you add up how much you will have to pay on interest over the course of your working career for President Obama’s 2010 budget?Our estimates find that if you are 20 years old that plans to retire when you are 70, you will owe to President Obama $114,280.72 for the interest payments on his budget.$114,280.72 for just one single budget under President Obama.This payment is equivalent to paying over $2,200 in additional taxes every year for the next 50 years. You can calculate your Obama Debt Number using the free calculator at American Solutions.How much do you more do you owe the government because of their excess spending? Frustrated?? Make sure to attend a Tea Party this Wednesday, April 15th.Matt ScofieldMon, 13 Apr 2009 06:15:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4136http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4133/Video-of-Newt-on-ABCs-This-Week.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4133http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4133&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4133/Video-of-Newt-on-ABCs-This-Week.aspxYou can catch video of Newt on ABC's This Week w/ George Stephanopoulos from this Sunday here, where topics include the economy, health care and judicial activism/gay marriage.In addition to this clip, in the green room Newt et al. talks about the upcoming tea parties here.Finally there is an additional clip from ABC where Newt and the roundtable talk about the issue of the Somali pirates.newt.orgSun, 12 Apr 2009 16:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4133http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4129/Default.aspx#Comments17http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4129http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4129&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4129/Default.aspxTax Day is almost here, and Pajamas TV is doing daily shows on what to expect from these nationwide rallies. Check out their latest coverage here and make sure to take solutions to your Tea Party -- its not just about protest, but supplying an alternate vision for America. For more check out: AmericanSolutions.com/teaparty.Matt ScofieldThu, 09 Apr 2009 13:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4129http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4117/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4117http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4117&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4117/Default.aspx Tonight on PJTV LIVE at 4 pm pacific, 7 pm est, The Nationwide Tea Party Coalition, the grassroots organization sponsoring the April 15 Tax Day Tea Parties across the country, in conjunction with American Solutions and other groups, announced this morning that it will broadcast the group’s regular Monday conference call. This is your chance to get involved and let your voice be heard about the direction our country is going in.  As Newt said today in an online chat, "If the tea parties draw people who are upset with taxing and spending policies that will hurt working and job creating Americans and if the groups when they get together share email addresses and form committees of correspondence and if they serve notice that any member who votes for a big spending, big taxing, big bureaucracy, big politician, big deficit budget should expect to see citizens actively looking for candidates this may and june-a year and a half before the elction-- then these tea parties will have real meaning." Newt will be attending the New York City tea party on April 15th and speaking there.  Find your nearest party at AmericanSolutions.com/teaparty. Matt ScofieldMon, 06 Apr 2009 18:04:19 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4117http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4113/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4113http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4113&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4113/Default.aspxNot hardly. You may have heard Secretary Clinton or Senator Feinstein mention recently that 90% of guns used in crimes in Mexico come from the US. Nothing could be further from the truth, according to some great reporting done by William La Jeunesse and Maxim Lott of FOX News.ATF statistics shows that 83% of the guns found at crime scenes in Mexico could NOT be traced to the U.S.An ATF spokeswoman, seeking to clarify Clinton et al's comments on the 90% figure, said the statistic "is that over 90 percent of the traced firearms originate from the U.S."So how many are traced?In 2007-2008, Mexico said it recovered 29,000 guns from crime scenes.Only 11,000, or 32%, were sent to the US for tracing, because the others were obvious from their markings that they do not come from the U.S.Of the 11,000 guns Mexico sent to the ATF for tracing, only 6,000, or 55%, were successfully traced.Of that 6,000, 90% were traced to the US -- hence Clinton/Feinstein's 90% claim.So in sum: 90% of the 55% of the 32% of guns found at Mexican crime scenes came from the US.Mexico's crimes are overwhelmingly not carried out with American guns.Matt ScofieldFri, 03 Apr 2009 17:01:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4113http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4106/Newt-at-the-New-York-Tea-Party.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4106http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4106&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4106/Newt-at-the-New-York-Tea-Party.aspxFor those of you in the northeast area, Newt is going to be at the tea party at New York City Hall on April 15 from 7 to 9 pm. As you know, American Solutions has partnered with this growing movement of Americans of all political stripes to protest the bailouts and the growing federal involvement in our economy.To find out where your closest tea party is, go to AmericanSolutions.com/teaparty, and also make sure to bring solutions to the event -- check out the tea party tool kit at TaxDayTeaParty.com.Matt ScofieldThu, 02 Apr 2009 18:36:59 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4106http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4094/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4094http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4094&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4094/Default.aspx Alex Berenson and William R. Forstchen have written two bold new novels which warn us that America is threatened by new weapons and new threats which seem “unthinkable” to our national leadership.Berenson’s “The Silent Man” and Forstchen’s “One Second After” describe truly catastrophic threats to America. NewtTue, 31 Mar 2009 18:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4094http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4085/Default.aspx#Comments12http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4085http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4085&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4085/Default.aspx Next month, America will have officially entered the longest recession since World War II. Dubbed the “Subprime Crisis of 2008-2009,” much of the blame for the current economic turmoil can be attributed to greedy, predatory lenders that locked people in to homes they could not afford. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, officially sanctioned as Government Sponsored Enterprises, were collectively behind this drastic increase in subprime and ALT-A mortgages. As lenders targeted individuals who had poor or no credit, Freddie and Fannie quickly pooled together these risky mortgages and sold them as Mortgage Backed Securities (MBS).  Investors immediately recognized the potential to make a quick and sizeable profit off of these securitized mortgages, and little by little, these MBS’s poisoned the portfolios of banks across the world. Ten years ago, the New York Times issued a prophetic warning (PDF of article), cautioning policy makers to be weary of easing credit requirements for  low income home owners.  My AEI colleague Peter Wallison was one of the first to recognize the systemic risk in these GSE’s: “If [Freddie and Fannie] fail, the government will have to step up and bail them out the way it stepped up and bailed out the thrift industry.” The Times reinforced this ominous warning, “Fannie Mae is taking on significantly more risk, which may not pose any difficulties during flush economic times. But the government-subsidized corporation may run into trouble in an economic downturn, prompting a government rescue similar to that of the savings and loan industry in the 1980’s.” We are now facing such a time, and the scale of government intervention has surpassed that of the S&L crisis of 1980s. Ten years ago, we knew we were putting the tax payer’s dollar at risk.  Individuals at the helm of Freddie and Fannie gang—Barney Frank, Rahm Emanuel, and Chris Dodd—are still in power and pushing for more government intervention into the private sector. We cannot wait another ten years to reflect upon the warnings today.  We cannot depend upon another massive government bailout. Freddie and Fannie should be liquidated, and we should put an end to the this troubling legacy of GSE gambling at the taxpayer’s expense. Emily Renwick is Newt's Research Assistant at AEIEmily RFri, 27 Mar 2009 16:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4085http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4075/Join-Us-for-a-Tea-Party.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4075http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4075&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4075/Join-Us-for-a-Tea-Party.aspx American Solutions is excited to announce that we’ve partnered with the Nationwide Tea Party Coalition, and we will be sponsoring Tax Day Tea Parties all across the country on April 15. This is our chance to communicate our anger and opposition to the irresponsible big spending policies of Washington politicians. More importantly, however, this is our opportunity to clearly define a bold agenda with better solutions that will actually get our economy growing again.  To that end, we’ve created an "American Solutions Toolkit for Tea Parties" that you can download and pass out at your local Tea Party. The Tea Party movement is gaining momentum by the day, with upwards of 4,000 and 5,000 people attending recent Tea Parties in Orlando and Cincinnati. Already, more than 200 locations are confirmed for April 15.  If you’d like to help organize or attend a Tea Party near you, please go to www.AmericanSolutions.com/TeaParty. DanKotmanMon, 23 Mar 2009 18:59:38 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4075http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4068/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4068http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4068&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4068/Default.aspx Add Newt as a friend on Facebook here and thenjoin our March Madness group "Newt Gingrich and Friends" here. Newt made his selections last night so see if you can beat him!Make sure to add Newt as a friend on Facebook and then join our group! newt.orgTue, 17 Mar 2009 18:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4068http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4067/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4067http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4067&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4067/Default.aspxLate last Friday Newt made an appearance on Alan Colmes' radio show and they had an stimulating discussion on ending poverty. We think you'll enjoy and are interested in your feedback below. Download the mp3 directly to your computer by right-clicking the link below and selecting "save as" or "save target as."Audio of Newt on Poverty on Alan Colmes' radio showMatt ScofieldMon, 16 Mar 2009 18:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4067http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4051/An-Update-on-Afghanistan--Iraq.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4051http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4051&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4051/An-Update-on-Afghanistan--Iraq.aspxI'd like to point you to this interesting article from solid reporter Michael Yon on the wars we are currently fighting. Entitled "The Pathetic Afghan Army & Will Obama Fumble Iraq?" its an excellent piece of analysis about where we've been and what the future may hold given present conditions. He writes:Whereas the Bush-war ended in a new if messy democracy, this year we could see an Obama-war begin; the new President has sent a clear signal that we intend to mostly abandon Iraq during this crucial transition period. Today, the progress is obvious. But if Iraq descends back into chaos, the Obama-war, a newborn war, will not be a result of U.S. aggression, but of limp leadership intent on fulfilling campaign promises that were misinformed to begin with...Today we have an American President and Secretary of Defense who have essentially kicked, prodded and begged our allies to get more serious about Afghanistan, but mostly to no avail. And so 17,000 more American troops are kissing their loved ones goodbye, many of them for the last time in their lives, and heading into Afghanistan. Per capita combat deaths probably will be higher in Afghanistan this year than for any year in Iraq. The situation is very serious for the relatively few soldiers fighting there. Some are in combat every day and night.The AfPak war began more than seven years ago. It is fair to ask why are we sending more U.S. troops today.Read the whole articleMatt ScofieldWed, 11 Mar 2009 16:41:15 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4051http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4049/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4049http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4049&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4049/Default.aspx Catch Newt "On The Record" with Greta van Susteren on FOX at 10pm ET tonight (Tuesday).  They will be talking about the "card check" bill and its threat to our economy. To learn more about "card check" and the related efforts to defeat it, visit the Freedom not Fear page at American Solutions . newt.orgTue, 10 Mar 2009 18:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4049http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4025/More-evidence-they-think-were-stupid.aspx#Comments13http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4025http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4025&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4025/More-evidence-they-think-were-stupid.aspx Jonathan Martin has written a revealing article in Politico today detailing the deliberate and calculated campaign the Democrats are running to paint Rush Limbaugh as the de facto leader of the Republican Party and keep him in the news cycle as long as possible. As political gamesmanship goes, it is an impressive and scientific effort that shows the full range of the Left-wing machine’s ability to dominate the news cycle when it is firing on all cylinders. However, on a governing level, it is deeply cynical and destructive.  It is a pure Nixonian political tactic that does not solve a single challenge, create a single job, or help anyone anywhere in America.  That is except for Democratic politicians.   As Newt said at CPAC on Friday about the Obama administration, “They must think we’re stupid.” More after the jump... joedesantisWed, 04 Mar 2009 15:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4025http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4022/IRS-Data-Taxation-and-the-Lefts-Agenda.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4022http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4022&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4022/IRS-Data-Taxation-and-the-Lefts-Agenda.aspx Robert Reich posted an article worth reading on February 1st at Washintonpost.com that compares some of his personal observations and experiences as Bill Clinton's Labor Secretary to the challenges facing the Obama administration.  Mr. Reich does an excellent job detailing the Left's perspective on the pending stimulus package, the role of government in the economy in coming years, and how we got to where we are now.  If you've ever wanted an explanation of what motivates the Left on economic policy, this article will enlighten you.  And so will the IRS data that destroys their argument... concepts2Tue, 03 Mar 2009 07:25:53 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4022http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4014/Default.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4014http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4014&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4014/Default.aspxBy Peter Ferrara If you expected the rise of the Obama regime to leave conservatives dispirited, you would be wrong. This year’s CPAC was the largest ever, with close to 9,000 in attendance, full of spirited young people ready to fight for the future, as well as long term veterans of the battle. newt.orgMon, 02 Mar 2009 15:17:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4014http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4012/Default.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4012http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4012&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4012/Default.aspx*Reminder* If you are going to one of the American Tea Parties to protest the out of control politicians in D.C., take the 12 Solutions with you (PDF) and help spread the positive, honest, and pro-growth alternative.There was an interesting blog discussion on the future of the GOP that I wanted to point you to, and hopefully generate some discussion here. But first...The big event today is Newt's appearance and speech at CPAC. The speech is at noon, so swing by if you are in town. We will be posting the speech on Newt.org by 6pm ET today.Finally Newt will be giving a screening of his latest DVD, Ronald Reagan: Rendezvous with Destiny. It was produced with the help of Gingrich Productions, where you can view the trailer and purchase information as well....so back to this dicussion on the GOP and principled conservatism. Patrick Ruffini, an editor and excellent blogger at The Next Right, posted an entry entitled: The Joe-the-Plumberization of the GOP. Its all worth reading, here's a snippet:"If you want to get a sense of how unserious and ungrounded most Americans think the Republican Party is, look no further than how conservatives elevate Joe the Plumber as a spokesman. The movement has become so gimmick-driven that Wurzelbacher will be a conservative hero long after people have forgotten what his legitimate policy beef with Obama was...Our base is the common-sense voter in the middle who bought a house she could afford and didn't lavishly overspend in good times and who is now subsidizing the person who didn't...This is why I love Newt's emphasis on finding 80/20 issues and defining them in completely non-ideological terms. We need to advance our ideas without ever once saying the word "conservative" or "Republican" in a speech. We need to define these ideas not as conservative, but as American."Comments in response to this included:...Rush regularly talks about how one of his great frustrations is that elected Republicans don't articulate a conservative message to the broader public. That's where JoeThePlumber comes in. McCain used JTP as a central argument when JTP should have been a mild compliment to a well shaped narrative....Republicans have nurtured a bias against intellectuals. Your campaigns have touted the ignorant as being the only true Americans. Now it is coming back to bite you. People look at Joe the Plumber and Sarah Palinn and are shocked that anyone would consider them to be capable of assuming a leadership role....JTP did articulate a major issue in a simple to understand way, but now it just looks like he and others are trying to capitalize on his "appeal."So what do you think? We'd like to share your thoughts with Newt and the team here. Below are two videos capturing some of Newt's central advice on the way forward for good governance and conservative principles.Matt ScofieldFri, 27 Feb 2009 10:18:15 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4012http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4008/Default.aspx#Comments43http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4008http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4008&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4008/Default.aspxClick here to increase the size of the Live-blog window belowJoin Newt.org Team members & users as we live-blog Pres. Obama's first address to CongressMatt ScofieldMon, 23 Feb 2009 21:28:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4008http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4007/Default.aspx#Comments10http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4007http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4007&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4007/Default.aspx by NewtIn David Brooks' recent NYT column, he writes:"The nation’s economy is not just the sum of its individuals. It is an interwoven context that we all share. To stabilize that communal landscape, sometimes you have to shower money upon those who have been foolish or self-indulgent. The greedy idiots may be greedy idiots, but they are our countrymen. And at some level, we’re all in this together."I disagree with Brooks in a fundamental way. Bad government and corrupt politicians, dispensing money they are taking from the productive and from our children and grandchildren, will sicken America and threaten the very fabric of our society.This is as profound a moment as 1800 or 1828 or 1860 or 1980.I encourage you to take action now and endorse the positive, honest, pro-growth agenda for getting America’s economy moving, the Twelve American Solutions for Jobs and Prosperity.P.S. -- Are you going to one of the American Tea Parties to protest the out of control politicians in D.C.? If so take the 12 Solutions with you (PDF) and help spread the positive, honest, and pro-growth alternative. NewtMon, 23 Feb 2009 16:21:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4007http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4005/Reaganomics-vs-Obamanomics.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=4005http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=4005&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/4005/Reaganomics-vs-Obamanomics.aspxCheck out this great post by Peter Ferrara at the Fox Forum:Excerpt: A reduction in tax rates increases incentives by allowing people to keep a higher percentage of what they earn from productive activity. But Obama’s tax cuts are all based on tax credits, which do nothing to improve incentives. They are really just the same as his government spending in terms of their effect on the economy, just like sending more welfare checks out to everyone.At AmericanSolutions.com, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich has proposed an updated version of the Reagan economic recovery program for today. It includes, among other items, a reduction in the federal corporate income tax rate from 35% to the 12.5% rate that over the past 20 years has lifted the standard of living in Ireland from the bottom of the EU to the top.Read the whole article herenewt.orgWed, 18 Feb 2009 14:58:56 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:4005http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3994/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3994http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3994&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3994/Default.aspx Steve Everley, Research Assistant for Speaker Gingrich at the American Enterprise Institute, joins Mike and Spike on KNCB radio in Shreveport, Louisiana to discuss the Speaker’s latest efforts on energy, clean coal, and Drill Here Drill Now Pay Less:Click here to listen to the audio! newt.orgFri, 13 Feb 2009 15:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3994http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3987/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3987http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3987&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3987/Default.aspxHelp us generate momentum for 12 solutions that will generate real change for our economy. AmericanSolutions.com/jobsNow more than ever we need your voice.Washington solutions of more money for more government and more power for politicians will not lead to real growth in jobs and prosperity.We need a clear and decisive alternative that creates jobs and rewards work, saving, and investment.Endorse the plan and send to friends -- click hereLet's work to generate real momentum behind this alternative stimulus plan. Read the 12 solutions and endorse the plan here!Matt ScofieldMon, 09 Feb 2009 22:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3987http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3977/Default.aspx#Comments10http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3977http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3977&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3977/Default.aspx Yesterday Gingrich spokesman Rick Tyler was on FOX News and brilliantly took to task the notion of President Obama's ethics credibility with his nomination of Daschle, Geithner and other tax-dodgers to the Cabinet.Watch his appearance here newt.orgThu, 05 Feb 2009 14:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3977http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3969/Ronald-Reagan-Rendezvous-with-Destiny.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3969http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3969&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3969/Ronald-Reagan-Rendezvous-with-Destiny.aspx Citizens United Productions, in conjunction with with Gingrich Productions, has produced a new movie on the great Ronald Reagan. Please visit Gingrich Productions.com to view the trailer and learn more about all the features of this new DVD. *UPDATE*  Watch Newt & Callista on Hannity newt.orgTue, 03 Feb 2009 18:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3969http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3956/Our-Latest--YouTube-Video.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3956http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3956&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3956/Our-Latest--YouTube-Video.aspxNewt talks to reporters about how the stimulus bill before Congress acts as a plan to keep the generation of young Americans in debt. He further discusses specific policies that will and won't promote economic growth.newt.orgThu, 29 Jan 2009 19:05:34 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3956http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3949/BIG-Week-for-the-RNC-has-arrived.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3949http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3949&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3949/BIG-Week-for-the-RNC-has-arrived.aspx The Republican National Committee is coming to Washington D.C. this week. Some have already arrived. It’s time for the big winter meeting, and for the first time in a long time, a new RNC Chairman will be elected. For the past few RNC election cycles, there has been no election for chairman because they were appointed by President Bush but with the White House in Democratic hands, the committee will be forced to choose the next leader for themselves. 168 members from each of the 50 states and the territories will choose the next chairman. While there’s still time, visit www.chooseyourchairman.com to express who you’d like to see as the next RNC chairman. Your comments will be sent via e-mail to the RNC member in the respective state of the zip code you enter. There is still time for the message to get to their inboxes or blackberries before voting! Candidates include: Saul Anuzis, MI GOP ChairmanKen Blackwell, Former OH Sec. of StateKaton Dawson, SC GOP ChairmanMike Duncan, Current RNC ChairmanChip Saltsman, former TN GOP ChairmanMichael Steele, Current GOPAC Chair and former Lt. Gov. of MD. Princella Smith www.princellasmith.com Princella SmithThu, 29 Jan 2009 06:01:37 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3949http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3948/Is-the-Rangel-Rule-What-Our-Economy-Needs.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3948http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3948&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3948/Is-the-Rangel-Rule-What-Our-Economy-Needs.aspx U.S. Representative John Carter (TX) may have just found the silver bullet for our economy, inspired by the most unlikely of sources: IRS Penalties and Interest Eliminated for All U.S. Taxpayers under new “Rangel Rule” Legislation (WASHINGTON, DC) – All U.S. taxpayers would enjoy the same immunity from IRS penalties and interest as House Ways and Means Chairman Charles Rangel (D-NY) and Obama Administration Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, if a bill introduced today by Congressman John Carter (R-TX) becomes law. Carter, a former longtime Texas judge, today introduced the Rangel Rule Act of 2009, HR 735, which would prohibit the Internal Revenue Service from charging penalties and interest on back taxes against U.S. citizens. Under the proposed law, any taxpayer who wrote “Rangel Rule” on their return when paying back taxes would be immune from penalties and interest. “We must show the American people that Congress is following the same law, and the same legal process as we expect them to follow,” says Carter.  “That has not been done in the ongoing case against Chairman Rangel, nor in the instance of our new Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner.  If we don’t hold our highest elected officials to the same standards as regular working folks, we owe it to our constituents to change those standards so everyone is abiding by the same law.  Americans believe in blind justice, which shows no favoritism to the wealthy or powerful.” Carter also said the tax law change will provide good economic stimulus benefits, as it would free many taxpayers from massive debts to the IRS, restoring those funds to the free market to help create jobs. joedesantisWed, 28 Jan 2009 23:13:41 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3948http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3937/Newt-Guest-Stars-in-HighFive-Inauguration.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3937http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3937&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3937/Newt-Guest-Stars-in-HighFive-Inauguration.aspx "You've got a Democratic Congress and a Democratic President. You can expect three things: high taxes, high budgets, and high fives!" ~ Pat Buchanan Check out this oddly entertaining "High-Five Inaugration" video, created by The Montage in Washington, D.C. during the Presidential Inaugration. It features tons of cameo appearances, including a guest appearance by none other than Newt! MichelleMon, 26 Jan 2009 20:35:59 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3937http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3927/Newt-helps-Schwarzenegger-with-reform.aspx#Comments10http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3927http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3927&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3927/Newt-helps-Schwarzenegger-with-reform.aspxAs a former California resident, I can tell you that its a beautiful state but very hard to live with at times. Especially if you are a Dodger fan such as myself.As this AP story from Monday notes, "the number of people leaving California for another state outstripped the number moving in from another state during the year ending on July 1, 2008." Rising taxes, a bloated beauracracy and union structure, immigration and assimilation, crime -- all these things have led to trouble for the great state in the past decades.On a recent swing through California this week, Gov. Schwarzenegger's aides sought the help of our own Speaker Gingrich with bringing reform to the way Sacramento operates. And this reform is badly needed, as the emigration numbers show. As Newt said recently, "Sacramento is worse than Washington. If we don’t change direction in Washington, it will someday resemble Sacramento."What are your thoughts on the type of reform that California needs?Matt ScofieldWed, 14 Jan 2009 20:58:04 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3927http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3914/Default.aspx#Comments10http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3914http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3914&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3914/Default.aspxBill Cosby portrayed it: an upper middle-class, successfully educated African-American family. Dr. King dreamed of it, spoke of it, and gave his life for it. Slaves and then civil rights activists were jailed, beaten, and died for it: for the day when not only would a person of color be allowed into the White House but would run the White House.   It's been a long time coming, but the American minority has officially reached the highest American ceiling, and that's a testament to the maturity of this country…   I say this as someone who disagrees with Obama ideologically. I believe in the notion that less is more when it comes to government. I believe in individual responsibility and ownership. I believe that more funding to schools will not replace the need for school reform and teacher accountability. I believe that people should be allowed to invest in their own individual social security accounts and that any extra money in the account can be left to family members at death.  I believe in a comprehensive energy plan that includes drilling for American resources while developing alternative forms of energy.My official trek into politics was jumpstarted by Republicans. I have held true to most of party's ideals, BUT I AM American enough to see the patriotism in celebrating the history of this moment...Princella SmithThu, 01 Jan 2009 23:07:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3914http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3905/Default.aspx#Comments33http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3905http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3905&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3905/Default.aspxDear Chairman Duncan,I was saddened to learn that at a time of national trial, when a president-elect is preparing to take office in the midst of the worst financial crisis in over seventy years, that the Republican National Committee is engaged in the sort of negative, attack politics that the voters rejected in the 2006 and 2008 election cycles.The recent web advertisement, "Questions Remain," is a destructive distraction. Clearly, we should insist that all taped communications regarding the Senate seat should be made public. However, that should be a matter of public policy, not an excuse for political attack.In a time when America is facing real challenges, Republicans should be working to help the incoming President succeed in meeting them, regardless of his Party.From now until the inaugural, Republicans should be offering to help the President-elect prepare to take office.Furthermore, once President Obama takes office, Republicans should be eager to work with him when he is right, and, when he is wrong, offer a better solution, instead of just opposing him.This is the only way the Republican Party will become known as the "better solutions" party, not just an opposition party. And this is the only way Republicans will ever regain the trust of the voters to return to the majority.This ad is a terrible signal to be sending about both the goals of the Republican Party in the midst of the nation's troubled economic times and about whether we have actually learned anything from the defeats of 2006 and 2008.The RNC should pull the ad down immediately.Sincerely,Newt GingrichChairman, American SolutionsFormer Speaker of the House of RepresentativesNewtTue, 16 Dec 2008 18:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3905http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3904/Making-it-safe-to-say-Christmas.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3904http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3904&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3904/Making-it-safe-to-say-Christmas.aspxFrom across the pond comes a story of rebellion against silly political correctness. New London Mayor Boris Johnson rejected calling the Christmas Carol Service a "Multi-faith" service "on the basis that no one celebrating Diwali or Jewish festivals would entertain the thought of a 'multi faith concert', so why should Christians at Christmas?"Three cheers for the Mayor for battling the entrenched beauracrats at City Hall. He also took them on over the City Hall Christmas Tree, when some mindless civil servant decreed that they should order a Christmas tree with no ornaments or symbols that would connect the tree to Christmas! What a farce. Thankfully Boris stopped this foolishness as well. So give thanks that there are still politicians who are sane and act upon common sense, and remember this the next time you say Merry Christmas!Matt ScofieldTue, 16 Dec 2008 18:17:06 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3904http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3903/OPEN-THREAD-FRIDAY.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3903http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3903&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3903/OPEN-THREAD-FRIDAY.aspx If the forum is not displaying correctly below then click here to interact INSTRUCTIONS: Just click on "New Topic" to start a new discussion, or click on an existing Topic title below to contribute to an existing discussion. This all happens within this same window, no need to go to another page! It's very easy to use. Conservative Solutions, Newt Gingrich and Real Change newt.orgFri, 12 Dec 2008 19:36:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3903http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3902/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3902http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3902&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3902/Default.aspx This week Newt participated in a panel discussion at American Enterprise Institute on domestic drilling.  Gathered with other AEI experts, they took a serious look at the economics and politics of allowing more drilling in the United States and address broader issues related to the development of a sensible national energy policy. Watch the video or listen to the audio here. newt.orgThu, 11 Dec 2008 22:17:29 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3902http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3900/Support-a-Tax-Holiday.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3900http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3900&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3900/Support-a-Tax-Holiday.aspx Before Congress hands over another blank check to Wall Street, they should consider Congressman Gohmert’s alternative plan that would put taxpayer dollars back into the hands of the American people.Under H.R. 7309, Congress would rescind the remaining $350 billion of appropriated bailout funds, and instead pass a two month tax suspension of personal income and FICA (Medicare) tax. According to calculations based upon IRS data, this two month tax holiday would save the average American household nearly $1,989. The tax relief would be an effective 17% reduction of every American’s tax obligations.Why should Americans continue to trust corporate executives to make the best use of their hard earned money? Instead of giving companies like AIG funds to spend on expensive hunting trips and weekend getaways to California resorts, we should give Americans a holiday away from the current economic burdens. By placing more money in the pockets of the American people, we are more likely to see more Americans apply for a mortgage, pay off their medical and electricity bills, and afford to cover the costs of their own economic livelihood.Sign the Petition for a Tax Holiday instead of a BailoutEmily is a Research Assistant for the Speaker at American Enterprise Institute Emily RWed, 10 Dec 2008 21:34:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3900http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3897/A-New-Generation-of-American-Leadership.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3897http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3897&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3897/A-New-Generation-of-American-Leadership.aspx Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao Thirty-three years after fleeing communism in Vietnam, Mr. Anh Cao has become a member of Congress in the greatest democracy in the world.It is clear that 2008 is a year of historic elections: In November, we elected Barack Obama to become America’s first black President, and this Saturday we elected the first Vietnamese-American to Congress—Anh Cao ( pronounced “kow”). As a Republican and as a person of Vietnamese descent, let me explain why the election of Anh Cao is so remarkable:Cao’s incredible upset win over nine-term incumbent, Rep. William Jefferson, shows that America is serious about improving our government. As the Louisiana election results show, Jefferson, who had been charged with 16 counts of federal corruption, is not a reflection of the change that Americans want.On the other hand, Cao offers a political ideology that is a refreshing shift from the red vs. blue politics of the past decade... MichelleTue, 09 Dec 2008 22:35:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3897http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3891/Default.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3891http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3891&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3891/Default.aspxRick Tyler, Newt's spokesman and head of Renewing American Leadership, has been leading efforts to amend Washington D.C.'s newest monument. At the recently opened Capitol Visitors Center, several references to our common religious history have been omitted -- though thanks to the efforts of many, some historical lessons have been re-incorporated into the Center.Watch Rick explain the current situation and what work is left do on CBN News below, and then sign the petition and join the nearly 12,000 who have put forth their committment to correct the politically-correct omissions of our true history. Matt ScofieldMon, 08 Dec 2008 18:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3891http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3886/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3886http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3886&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3886/Default.aspxThe cost of Medicaid is rising each year and consuming more public funds with little end in sight. CHT Project Director Jim Frogue was on FOX Business recently talking about the impact of Medicaid and other healthcare costs on State budgets. You can view the video below.Learn more about the efforts of the Center for Health Transformation to lower costs and provide quality healthcare here.Click "READ MORE" below to view the latest video from FOX:Matt ScofieldWed, 03 Dec 2008 15:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3886http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3882/Tired-of-constant-delays-in-air-travel.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3882http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3882&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3882/Tired-of-constant-delays-in-air-travel.aspxThen join the ASAP team at American Solutions.We can no longer allow an obsolete system that keeps government bureaucrats working unnecessarily at a greater cost to everyone else in America. It is time for a twenty-first century solution.That solution is being advocated by American Solutions and you can help implement it. Called NextGen, which uses global positioning satellites, this system would allow planes to fly closer together while increasing safety and would boost the capacity of our airways by about 40 percent. It would eliminate nearly all delays, except for those caused by weather. It would mean more efficient airlines, using less fuel, having higher profits and higher wages, and offering better service at lower costs.Join the ASAP team at American Solutions today and bring an end to a failed government program which is making life painful for us all.Matt ScofieldTue, 02 Dec 2008 16:49:50 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3882http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3873/Stop-the-EPA-from-strangling-the-economy.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3873http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3873&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3873/Stop-the-EPA-from-strangling-the-economy.aspx On the heels of today's reports that that bailout could balloon to $7.4 trillion (!) dollars, or just about half of our entire GDP, comes news that the Government is considering even more harmful steps into our economic life. The EPA is considering new regulations which could dramatically increase costs on individuals and businesses.As a study by the US Chamber of Commerce notes, "The compliance costs of EPA regulation of CO2 would be financially and administratively unreasonable for millions of new regulated entities. Construction in the U.S. could stop, millions of greenhouse gas-related citizen suits could arise, and strict technology and offset requirements could mean a permanent scaling-down of industry in the U.S. Businesses forced to limit their emissions in the U.S. will simply move to other nations which have much less substantial environmental standards than the United States, and will continue to emit. Regulation under the Act would therefore result in economic chaos with little, if any, actual benefit to the environment."If you want to lend your voice, there are 4 days left on the EPA's public hearing of the issue so you should visit StopEPA.com to be heard. Matt ScofieldMon, 24 Nov 2008 19:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3873http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3867/Crony-Capitalism-and-Government-Bailouts.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3867http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3867&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3867/Crony-Capitalism-and-Government-Bailouts.aspx If the forum is not displaying correctly below then click here to interact INSTRUCTIONS: Just click on "New Topic" to start a new discussion, or click on an existing Topic title below to contribute to an existing discussion. This all happens within this same window, no need to go to another page! It's very easy to use.Newt's latest comments on the Auto Bailout newt.orgTue, 18 Nov 2008 17:03:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3867http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3862/Auto-Bailout.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3862http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3862&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3862/Auto-Bailout.aspx A lot of people are writing Newt.org about the auto bailout.  In case you missed it, Newt discussed it a bit last night on Greta: VAN SUSTEREN: What about the -- President-elect Obama is talking about -- and with other Democrats, Speaker of the House Pelosi -- about some bail-out for the auto industry, talking about, I don't know, $25 billion. Is that something that you, if -- you know, if you were in the position that you would push for and investigate and think it's a good idea? GINGRICH: Look, I think the auto companies have to go to the United Auto Workers and they have to get an entirely new contract. There are provisions in this contract which provide, for example, for the auto companies to pay money to people to do no work. Now, you can't afford to compete in the world market paying people to do nothing. And I think that we have to confront the fact that the UAW and its liberal Democratic allies and the big auto company executives and their Republican allies are trying to find a way to get average, everyday independent businessmen and women and self-employed people to pay extra taxes to bail out three companies that have not been prepared to have tough negotiations. In the airline industry, you had a series of airlines that went through a bankruptcy, had to renegotiate everything, came out of bankruptcy. You know, none of them were taken over by the government. None of them were given billions by the government except in the immediate aftermath of 9/11, which was a national security crisis. Read more of the interview, here. joedesantisFri, 14 Nov 2008 19:09:25 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3862http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3839/The-Bottom-Line.aspx#Comments72http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3839http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3839&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3839/The-Bottom-Line.aspx The results of the 2008 election caused me to wonder if McCain ever really had a chance in the first place. Truthfully, about mid September, I realized that if there was indeed a shot for a Republican to win the Presidential race, it was lost. (Mid-September was the start of the HORRENDOUS financial bailout.) Tuesday night, when I was on the air at the Christian Broadcasting Network, I didn't bash President Bush, but I did point out that there were some failed policies that have ultimately led to the political blood bath that Republicans suffered last night. The American people are responding in anger and disgust for what has happened over the past 3-4 years. It's not entirely Bush's fault. Some things could not be helped, but a leader is not judged by what happens but on how he/she responds to what happens. I believe Bush is a sincere person whose actions were based on what he felt was the right thing to do, but he was loyal to a fault to some people who advised him and/or served in his administration, and it has unfortunately ruined his legacy. Even yesterday an Obama supporter told me that he believes that Bush was sincere, but that the people around him ruined him. While this isn’t true for all Bush advisers, it is unfortunately true for many of them. The reason why Republicans got kicked this cycle is because... Princella SmithWed, 05 Nov 2008 23:19:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3839http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3831/Default.aspx#Comments16http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3831http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3831&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3831/Default.aspxMatt ScofieldTue, 04 Nov 2008 13:35:09 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3831http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3825/Exciting-Times-in-Washington-DC.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3825http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3825&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3825/Exciting-Times-in-Washington-DC.aspx It’s November 3rd, and life in Washington DC doesn’t get any more exciting than this! Those of us on the Newt team have had some fun experiences lately, and we want to share them with you!This Saturday, a few of us headed to the McCain rally in Springfield, VA. It was pretty cold in the morning, but a large line of Virginians showed up bright and early (or shall I say, dark and early?) to support Senator McCain in an important battleground state during the critical 72-hour home stretch. After befriending an amazing group of Vietnam veterans (American and Vietnamese), we were able to join them and other “VIP” supporters in the front row of the rally... MichelleMon, 03 Nov 2008 16:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3825http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3821/Default.aspx#Comments12http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3821http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3821&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3821/Default.aspx Barack Obama uttered a revealing turn of phrase last night at a rally, saying we are "just five days away from fundamentally transforming the United States of America."  (video after the jump) Notice he does not say he wants to change the government.  He says he wants to change America.  Well, perhaps the last few days of the campaign can be spent discussing what about The United States Barack Obama thinks needs to be transformed.  joedesantisFri, 31 Oct 2008 17:22:17 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3821http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3818/How-Low-Will-They-Go.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3818http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3818&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3818/How-Low-Will-They-Go.aspx $250,000…..$200,000…$150,000…??? The Obama campaign began by promising that no family earning less than $250,000 would see an increase in their taxes. Then that magic number lowered to $200,000. Now it's down to the $150,000 mark. Which one is it?! This inconsistency is disturbing because many Americans are slowly and involuntarily being sucked into the growing “tax increase” category, and they are starting to worry about how much more this number will change. In this case, CHANGE doesn’t sound so good. As Newt explained on Hannity & Colmes last night: "You know, if he tells me it's a quarter million before the election and then he tells me it's $200,000, and then his running mate tells me it's really $142,000, I don't really know what he'll do after the election. "But what I do know is he believes he has the right to take my money. And I think the average American doesn't particularly like the idea of a politician intervening to decide who he is going to spread the wealth to." Who do you think is more capable of spending your money wisely? YOU… or the federal government? Share your comments below! MichelleWed, 29 Oct 2008 18:40:33 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3818http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3811/Monday-Miscellany.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3811http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3811&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3811/Monday-Miscellany.aspxCourtesy of Reuters' embedded photographer Fabrizio Bensch, here are some great photos of the coalition troops on duty in Afghanistan. They are well worth a look.In today's Washington Post, Peter Wehner, a former adviser in the Bush administration, writes on the prospects for conservatism. He notes that which American Solutions has been saying for over a year now:"America remains, in the main, a center-right nation. Twice as many respondents to an October Newsweek poll said they consider themselves to be conservative as said they were liberal (40 percent vs. 20 percent). And a Fox News poll taken at the start of October found that 76 percent of respondents believe lower taxes and smaller government are preferable to higher taxes and larger government.And an Obama victory would not signal an ideological pivot."Learn more about what you can do to advance competent solutions for our country at American Solutions.And in case you missed the latest YouTube video making the rounds in the election, a 2001 interview of Obama talking about redistribution of wealth, see it here.Matt ScofieldMon, 27 Oct 2008 20:43:13 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3811http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3802/YouTube-Video-Your-Vote.aspx#Comments16http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3802http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3802&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3802/YouTube-Video-Your-Vote.aspxYouTube is partnering with PBS to encourage Americans to document their voting experiences this election season. Video Your Vote is working to help citizens reveal the excitement and energy of their participation in our democratic process. Here is an introduction video to learn more, and we encourage you to participate with your own video. Check it out:Matt ScofieldWed, 22 Oct 2008 16:57:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3802http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3798/I-am-Joe-the-Plumber.aspx#Comments25http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3798http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3798&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3798/I-am-Joe-the-Plumber.aspx There is an interesting article written today by Byron York over at National Review. In it he explains why people feel so strongly connected to "Joe the Plumber" and the way the major media outlets are covering Joe, and by extension this election. newt.orgMon, 20 Oct 2008 17:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3798http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3797/October-Scandal-for-Obama.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3797http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3797&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3797/October-Scandal-for-Obama.aspx I woke up this morning to the radio and the story of Sen. Obama reporting $150 million in campaign contributions for the month of September. Such numbers are astounding and can help to explain why I've noticed (especially in the Virginia market) more airwave saturation by the Obama campaign versus the McCain ticket.However this morning there are also reports, via Newsmax for example, that much of Sen. Obama's donations have come from foreign sources. Notes Ken Timmerman of Newsmax:"The Obama camp claims to have 2.5 million donors in all...but the identity of 2 million (of those) donors is being kept secret.As of the end of August, those secret donors have given an incredible... Matt ScofieldMon, 20 Oct 2008 16:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3797http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3795/Jokes-and-Analysis-for-the-weekend.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3795http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3795&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3795/Jokes-and-Analysis-for-the-weekend.aspxNewt and Hannity crack some jokes yesterday, while also talking up the Presidential race. In addition check out John McCain and Barack Obama joking around at the Alfred E. Smith Memorial Dinner yesterday evening. Newt on Hannity: Download the mp3 directly to your computer by right-clicking the link below and selecting "save as" or "save target as."Audio of Newt's speech at the National Press Club Matt ScofieldFri, 17 Oct 2008 20:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3795http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3792/LIVE-BLOG-Presidential-Debate.aspx#Comments46http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3792http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3792&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3792/LIVE-BLOG-Presidential-Debate.aspx Join Newt's staff as we live blog the Presidential Debate tonight, starting at 8:45pm!You can comment directly in the box below, no need to use the standard comments link newt.orgWed, 15 Oct 2008 21:32:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3792http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3785/Newt-on-cnet-tv.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3785http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3785&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3785/Newt-on-cnet-tv.aspx Here is a recent video of Newt being interviewed by cnet tv talking about a wide range of topics including technology, the bailout and the election. newt.orgTue, 14 Oct 2008 21:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3785http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3780/Default.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3780http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3780&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3780/Default.aspxSalena Zito of the Pittsburgh Tribune reports today that former Democratic Presidential Candidate George McGovern has joined the increasing number of voices condeming the misnamed "Employee Free Choice Act". This act is a key piece of legislation Republican Senators were able to block this year, but next year -- after the election -- could be a different story. Watch McGovern's ad below:This act would by force of law remove the rights of workers to have a secret ballot when voting on unionization. Replacing our democratic right to a secret ballot would the infamous "card check". What would this "card check" look like in reality? Check out the video below:For more information, check out the Labor Pains blog on how to stop this legislation.Matt ScofieldTue, 07 Oct 2008 18:28:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3780http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3771/Coming-this-November-Widespread-voter-fraud.aspx#Comments14http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3771http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3771&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3771/Coming-this-November-Widespread-voter-fraud.aspxEvery Tuesday I have the pleasure of attending the Conservative's Bloggers Luncheon, hosted at the esteemed Heritage Foundation. Led by Robert Bluey, we spend an hour with fellow bloggers and presenters which range from Congressmen to Statesmen to leading academics.Recently journalist John Fund gave a presentation on how groups such as ACORN, combined with teams of lawyers from both campaigns in multiple states, could lead to a protracted election well past November 4th. He sketches out the basics in this NY Post column. If true, this can't be good for America nor her reputation. Unfortunately, little has been done by Washington to prevent this mess from occurring, and indeed it has enabled this dilemma in some respects...just as in the financial mess. Here's hoping the American people are tired enough of business-as-usual to vote for Real Change.Matt ScofieldMon, 06 Oct 2008 13:30:48 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3771http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3770/Courage-doesnt-always-roar.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3770http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3770&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3770/Courage-doesnt-always-roar.aspx As the last days of this politically dramatic summer drift slowly towards the golden leaves of November, the extended campaign season and all the worries of a nation are beginning to take its toll on those of us who keep ourselves plugged in 24/7.  Daily barrages of bias and negativity may build up over time, leaving some feeling there is no hope, while others sound as if they have given up already, unable to summon the will to rise up and defeat liberalism once more.  But it must be defeated. We have been assaulted by the energy fiasco and multiple financial bailouts, multitudes of mindless debates, blatant media bias, polls that aren’t going our way, and dozens of problems that call out for a conservative solution, even as the Left locks us out of the debate.  Let history decide if now is the time for our ideas to rise up to solve these problems, not our lack of effort.  Be diligent and know our time will come. concepts2Mon, 06 Oct 2008 06:51:22 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3770http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3760/Newt-Im-with-you-on-the-bailout.aspx#Comments25http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3760http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3760&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3760/Newt-Im-with-you-on-the-bailout.aspxAfter his informative speech at the National Press Club, Newt took some questions from reporters and I captured one revealing answer on the digital recorder with me.[Download the mp3 directly to your computer by right-clicking the link below and selecting "save as" or "save target as."Newt on Taxpayers, Business Owners and the Bailout (mp3 audio, approx 40 seconds)]As you can hear, Newt talks about average taxpayers, business owners and the reaction to the House bailout proposal. He reaffirms his solidarity with the American people's entirely appropriate revulsion on the House bailout proposal. Yet he points out the dangers to business owners, who more so than any other are feeling the tightening of liquidity as they try to grow their businesses. This, and his position as former Speaker, was the impetus behind his advocacy of a reluctant "yes" vote for the initial bailout bill.In light of the bill's failure, as you can see in his latest speech, Newt advocates one immediate step we can take to relieve pressure on business owners is to -- today -- suspend the mark-to-market rule which has caused much of this crisis.We should not bailout out business failure. In the short term the American people would support a "workout", not a bailout, by tactics which include providing loans and improving the FDIC, instead of blunt government takeovers. At the same time we need a solid long-term strategy of strong growth policies, which start with things such as lowering the corporate tax rate as Ireland has and repealing Sarbanes-Oxley which adds $3 million to the cost of starting a business in America.What are your thoughts?Matt ScofieldWed, 01 Oct 2008 03:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3760http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3753/Hello-Newtorg-Community.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3753http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3753&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3753/Hello-Newtorg-Community.aspxHello Newt.org Community I wanted to introduce myself to you all. My name is Robbie Gross and I am a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, School of Design. I am a website designer that has been working behind the scenes here at Newt.org for the past month and a half. Some of the work that I have been involved in helping with are the recent featured article images on the home page and designing our new multimedia player, Newt TV. We will be looking to expand the player in the coming months to provide more videos and audio, as well as interactive materials on the solutions which Newt is advocating. I'm very interested in your comments on the Newt TV player and what you would like to see going forward, so please leave them below in the comments section. Together with Matt Scofield, our Director of Online Communications, I look forward to working with the community here to help make this one of the best websites on the Internet. Robbie GrossMon, 29 Sep 2008 21:55:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3753http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3750/Voting-for-the-Bailout-Bill.aspx#Comments120http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3750http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3750&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3750/Voting-for-the-Bailout-Bill.aspx Updated: The bill failed in the House.  Congress must act quickly to craft a bill that: 1) the American people can support; 2) assures the markets that we will do something positive both short and long term3) will actually grow the economy not band-aide it4) fits our market beliefs5) fixes regulations immediately that are crippling our financial service sectors More soon. ########### Previous post: I have sadly come to two painful conclusions.First, the crisis of the credit markets is real and could have horrendous consequences dislocating the world market, causing enormous economic pain, and discrediting free market capitalism for a generation.Second, as long as Secretary Paulson is in charge, it is impossible to get a creative or significantly better solution. The House Republicans, reinforced by John McCain, have improved this bill significantly so it is less bad than the original Paulson proposal. However, they cannot improve it more because of Paulson’s intransigence, which is an even greater obstacle to a good bill than the liberal Democrats who run the House and Senate.Therefore, while I am discouraged at the final collapse of the Bush Administration, and frustrated by the Democrats’ passion for the taxpayer’s money, I would reluctantly and sadly vote for the bailout were I still in office.I understand and sympathize with any member who votes no.The bill is not the best proposal for solving the crisis. It is not even a good proposal for solving the crisis.However it is the only proposal Secretary Paulson would support and his support was essential in this setting.This bailout is a temporary emergency measure to stop a hemorrhaging of credit and the potential collapse of the American and world economy. However, it is not a cure nor is it a roadmap for the future. The American people need to know that we will fight for an economic growth program and an energy independence program that will put them and their country back on the path to prosperity. Anything less will be a betrayal of their future.Congress should move beyond this bill by passing an economic growth bill and an energy bill. We need growth and we need to bring home at least $500 billion of the $700 billion a year we are sending overseas.If we do not get an economic growth bill and an energy bill, the economy will continue to limp along and there will be a grave danger of yet another bailout next year. The Congress should also begin a series of public hearings on how we got into this mess and what kind of insider-dealing has been at work.Yesterday, New York Times reported that the head of Goldman Sachs was the only private sector person in a New York Federal Reserve meeting on AIG (in which Goldman Sachs had a $20 billion interest). If this report is true, this is further grounds for demanding Paulson’s resignation.Having a former chairman of Goldman Sachs preside over disbursing hundreds of billions of dollars to Wall Street is a terrible concept and inevitably will lead to crony capitalism and the appearance of - if not the actual existence of - corruption.The Bush Administration has now provided three case studies in arrogance, isolation, and destructiveness: Michael Brown during Hurricane Katrina, Ambassador Jerry Bremer in Baghdad, and Secretary Paulson at Treasury. It is a tragic and very expensive legacy. No conservative and no Republican should doubt how much it has hurt our cause and our party.The Congress should demand that the Securities and Exchange Commission suspend the mark-to-market accounting rule pending reevaluation of its destructive role in the current downward spiral. There is a grave danger the bailout itself may trigger further asset devaluation and actually worsen the liquidity crisis.If the SEC refuses to suspend mark-to-market accounting, Congress should pass a free standing bill requiring it to do so.Finally, if the economy continues to weaken, the Congress should consider a bold and dramatic program to restart economic growth and rebuild market efforts.In particular the Congress should repeal Sarbanes-Oxley, which failed to warn of every single bankruptcy, but provides a $3 million a year accounting and regulatory expense for every small company wishing to go public.The Congress should consider a dramatic cut in the United States corporate income tax (the highest in the world when combined with state taxes) so we can compete with the lower tax rates across the world in attracting high-value, productive, and desirable jobs back to the United States.The Congress should look at the Chinese and Singapore growth patterns and match them by zeroing out the capital gains tax to induce massive flows of private capital to rebuild the market and minimize the need for a taxpayer funded bailout.This is the kind of pro-growth, pro-entrepreneur program that would accelerate America’s recovery and lead to the next economic period of real growth.While all these steps should be taken, the immediate crisis must first be met. Sadly, under the circumstances, the current administration binds us to that fact that the only possibility of needed timely action is this bill. Therefore I reluctantly sadly support its passage. EDITORS NOTE: If you have a question about Newt's position on the bailout bill, leave it in the comments section (include your first name and location with your comment please) and Newt will respond via audio podcast this week. Thank you. NewtMon, 29 Sep 2008 17:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3750http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3739/The-McCain-Leadership-Factor--Obamas-Decision.aspx#Comments40http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3739http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3739&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3739/The-McCain-Leadership-Factor--Obamas-Decision.aspx Today John McCain showed what it meant to put country first. He put everything on the line to try to put together a bipartisan sizable economic package to replace the failed Paulson bailout package. This is the greatest single act of responsibility ever taken by a presidential candidate and rivals President Eisenhower saying, ‘I will go to Korea.’ Every House and Senate Republican should join him in seeking the best ideas and the best solutions from across the country. This is the day the McCain-reform Republican Party began to truly emerge as a movement which puts country first, solutions first, and big change first. If House and Senate Republicans can help McCain put together a three part economic package history could be made. We need: an economic growth component; an energy solution; and a work-out (not a bail-out) for the financial sector. If McCain can develop this plan, bring enough Democrats to support it to get passage, and then convince President Bush to sign it, this will be one of the most amazing achievements in the history of presidential campaigns. It will also be a great service to the country and proof of what putting country first really means. ***UPDATE ON SEN. OBAMA'S DECISION NOT TO SUSPEND HIS CAMPAIGN As Speaker of the House, I know what being in deep negotiations is and what it takes to get members in Congress to get something done. We were able to work through welfare reform and a balanced budget.  Let me just tell you first hand, what Senator McCain is proposing will take extraordinary hard work and it is going to take many long hours. It is surprisingly irresponsible and politically dangerous for the Obama campaign to try and insist on a debate Friday night. While both of these men are candidates for president, they are still both currently serving as United States Senators.  The American people, in this kind of economic situation, want to see their elected leaders working to solve this crisis, not debating.  They want this problem fixed and that will mean getting real bipartisan agreement. .All members on both sides in both houses including Senators McCain and Obama are going to have to roll up their sleeves, sit down, listen to each-other, and work very hard to get it done. I’m not sure Senator Obama has ever participated in a crisis of this magnitude at this level, but he should set aside politicking and commit to working with Senator McCain to find a solution to this problem. The economy can’t wait, postpone the debate.  We can get back to talking later.  For the moment, let’s produce a real solution for America. NewtWed, 24 Sep 2008 21:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3739http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3732/Who-will-win-Free-Gas-for-a-Year.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3732http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3732&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3732/Who-will-win-Free-Gas-for-a-Year.aspxAfter many good submissions in American Solutions' "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Nothing" Video Contest, the Top 3 were selected.The creator of one of these 3 videos will win an entire year of gasoline for free -- and we need your vote to decide who that is!Voting will end on September 27, Solutions Day, at 4 pm EDT, so cast your vote here, and tell your friends to vote – today!Matt ScofieldTue, 23 Sep 2008 21:23:15 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3732http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3731/Newt-the-bipartisan-uniter.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3731http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3731&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3731/Newt-the-bipartisan-uniter.aspx Lest anyone doubt Newt's bipartisan credentials, witness that he has brought together Michelle Malkin and Markos Moulitsas (founder of Daily Kos) in agreement.  Markos: Newt is rightMalkin: Newt Gingrich gets on board It's hard to get more bipartisan than that! joedesantisTue, 23 Sep 2008 21:20:23 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3731http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3725/Default.aspx#Comments32http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3725http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3725&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3725/Default.aspxWatching Washington rush to throw taxpayer money at Wall Street has been sobering and a little frightening.We are being told Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson has a plan which will shift $700 billion in obligations from private companies to the taxpayer.We are being warned that this $700 billion bailout is the only answer to a crisis.We are being reassured that we can trust Secretary Paulson "because he knows what he is doing".Congress had better ask a lot of questions before it shifts this much burden to the taxpayer and shifts this much power to a Washington bureaucracy.Imagine that the political balance of power in Washington were different.If this were a Democratic administration the Republicans in the House and Senate would be demanding answers and would be organizing for a “no” vote.If a Democratic administration were proposing this plan, Republicans would realize that having Connecticut Democratic Chris Dodd (the largest recipient of political funds from Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) as Chairman of the Banking Committee guarantees that the Obama-Reid-Pelosi-Paulson plan that will emerge will be much worse as legislation than it started out as the Paulson proposal.If this were a Democratic proposal, Republicans would remember that the Democrats wrote a grotesque housing bailout bill this summer that paid off their leftwing allies with taxpayer money, which despite its price tag of $300 billion has apparently failed as of last week, and could expect even more damage in this bill.But because this gigantic power shift to Washington and this avalanche of taxpayer money is being proposed by a Republican administration, the normal conservative voices have been silent or confused.It’s time to end the silence and clear up the confusion.Congress has an obligation...NewtSun, 21 Sep 2008 19:26:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3725http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3718/Exciting-News-for-Newtorg-Members.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3718http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3718&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3718/Exciting-News-for-Newtorg-Members.aspx Newt will be conducting a LIVE chat with the Washington Times on Monday, September 22, at 3PM Eastern. This is your chance to get your question answered by the former Speaker! If you have a question for Mr. Gingrich, you must first register at www.washingtontimes.com.  Click on "REGISTER" in the top right-hand corner and follow instructions. newt.orgWed, 17 Sep 2008 21:03:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3718http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3715/Default.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3715http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3715&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3715/Default.aspx It has been said that trying to do something and failing is better than trying to do nothing and succeeding.  Today, the U.S. House of Representatives did both by passing H.R. 6899, the Comprehensive American Energy Security and Consumer Protection Act. The GoodThe 110th Congress actually passed a bill, for starters.  Seriously though, the bill does allow drilling more than 50 miles offshore, giving unfettered access to 15% of known reserves, and closer in if states allow it.  It takes royalties that would normally have gone to the states and converts them into a funding source for "most of the above" renewable energy research and development and natural gas.  The "poor" get help with their heating bills this winter.  The bill allows for drilling in Rocky Mountain shale, so long as the states approve it.   Lastly, it is encouraging to see the Left find faith in incentivizing industry, something Newt.org has been pushing for quite some time. Read More for the Bad and the Ugly concepts2Wed, 17 Sep 2008 17:37:32 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3715http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3709/A-Tribute-to-Those-Who-Gave-So-Much.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3709http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3709&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3709/A-Tribute-to-Those-Who-Gave-So-Much.aspx "We can't all be heroes.  Some of us have to stand on the curb and clap as they go by." -- Will Rogers   It is an amazing phenomenon: no matter how often one visits the World War II Memorial  in Washington DC, its ability to inspire never fades. This weekend, Whitney (Gingrich Communications Intern) and I had the rare opportunity to meet and honor some of the heroic men and women whom this memorial was built to honor, and our respect and admiration for what the Memorial symbolizes has grown even more.     This Saturday, Whitney and I volunteered with The Honor Flight Network. They are a wonderful non-profit organization that honors America’s WWII veterans by flying them to Washington, DC to visit and reflect at their national memorials. They do whatever it takes to fulfill the dreams of our nation’s veterans and to make sure our senior heroes travel absolutely free.   So early Saturday morning, Whitney and I headed to Reagan National Airport to greet the WWII veterans from Southwest Florida and cheer for them as they arrived at the gate. What a sight! A large group of volunteers had assembled with American flags and loud cheers, and the Fire Department even welcomed the veterans on the tarmac by spraying their hoses in an arc over the plane as it pulled up to the gate.   One by one the veterans walked into the terminal and everyone...Read More (w/ pictures) MichelleMon, 15 Sep 2008 20:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3709http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3702/Republican-Convention-Day-3-and-4.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3702http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3702&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3702/Republican-Convention-Day-3-and-4.aspxObviously I’m very late to post this entry but I simply became overwhelmed and did not have time until now to write this.  Unfortunately, I only have time for a few words.    While memory is fading, the most overriding impression left from those two last days was the unbridled energy, enthusiasm, and shear joy pulsing through the delegates and crowd.  Governor Palin brought the house down with her speech and Mayor Giuliani has a top-notch opening act.  And on Thursday, we heard a personal testimonial from Senator McCain about the development of his character that turned into a sacred promise to all of America.    This enthusiasm from the delegates and attendees poured over into all the different parties afterward each night, of which I was fortunate enough to attend several (for the record: Boehner threw the most impressive bash of the week).    Click Read More to view some extra pictures from the week.joedesantisTue, 09 Sep 2008 21:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3702http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3688/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3688http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3688&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3688/Default.aspx Governor Sarah Palin is under intense attack from almost every media outlet imaginable.  Blogs, radio, network TV, cable news channels, newspapers, magazines, and just about every other tool at the Left’s disposal has focused on this intriguing candidate like a laser.  Newt has described this as an all out attempt to destroy Governor Palin because of her authenticity, and to pollute the intense public interest her selection has created.  Perhaps, after her excellent acceptance speech this evening, some of the criticism will subside? All that aside, just how intense is the public interest, and how can we measure it in the digital age?  Click below for the answer. concepts2Thu, 04 Sep 2008 08:59:39 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3688http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3684/Day-2-Finally-Some-Action.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3684http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3684&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3684/Day-2-Finally-Some-Action.aspx I have more pictures from Day 2 below, but first I want to highlight an aspect of the analysis over the Sarah Palin news coverage that has not been mentioned: Gustov helped drive it. Let me explain.Nothing happened on Monday because of the storm. So we had all these political reporters in St. Paul wandering around bored with nothing to do. They had deadlines to meet; they had to produce something. So they all cued in on all these rumors swirling around about Palin’s latest child actually being her daughter’s. They played their favorite trick. Instead of reporting the smears, they focused their “reporting” on the mere fact that there are smears going around, and of course, mentioned what they are (this thin line is enough for a panicked political reporter with no real news to report). So these rumors started swirling, and the Palin family had to release the news that their daughter is pregnant as a way of refuting them. Maybe this would have happened anyway, but certainly the storm and the cancelled events helped accelerate the focus. Now all anyone can talk about is Palin, and, oddly, Gustov played a role. Just a thought.Anyway, on Monday, as mentioned, most of the action took place outside the convention due to protests and the few hundred anarchists causing trouble. Yesterday, this was not the case. President Bush gave a great speech that made official John McCain’s place as the head of the Republican Party. Fred Thompson gave a moving account of John McCain’s experiences as a POW. (Incidentally, this was probably the best speech I’ve ever seen Thompson give.) And then, Joseph Lieberman was very effective in describing John McCain’s independence of spirit. Overall, I thought the evening’s speakers were very compelling.For Newt’s part, he had an afternoon highlighted by a very successful education event sponsored in part by American Solutions and featuring, if you can believe this, the Reverend Al Sharpton (who received two standing ovations!!) among other high profile speakers. You can view photos from Day 2 by clicking on "Read More" below. joedesantisWed, 03 Sep 2008 18:30:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3684http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3682/Default.aspx#Comments224http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3682http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3682&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3682/Default.aspxI watched this last night and it was fantastic! Afterwards Keith Olbermann said he would come after Newt on his points, but retreated and never did so.Transcript (via Newsbusters):MSNBC's Ron Allen said to the former Speaker, "But to be fair, her (Palin's) resume is not something we're familiar seeing with presidential candidates."This didn't sit well with Gingrich who strongly replied:"It's stronger than Barack Obama's. I don't know why you guys walk around saying this baloney. She has a stronger resume than Obama. She's been a real mayor, he hasn't. She has been a real governor, he hasn't. She's been in charge of the Alaskan National Guard, he hasn't. She was a whistleblower who defeated an incumbent mayor. He has never once shown that kind of courage. She's a whistleblower who turned in the chairman of her own party and got him fined $12,000. I've never seen Obama do one thing like that. She took on the incumbent governor of her own party and beat him, and then she beat a former Democratic governor in the general election. I don't know of a single thing Obama's done except talk and write. "Newt then challenged Allen:I'd like you to tell me one thing Sen. Obama's done.With that, Allen retreated, and said:Thanks very much, Mr. Speaker. I'm going to leave it there. I'm not going to argue the case. Thanks very much.End of Transcript.What do you think?Matt ScofieldWed, 03 Sep 2008 14:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3682http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3680/Convention-Day-1.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3680http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3680&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3680/Convention-Day-1.aspx Newt and Karl Rove chat before their Hannity and Colmes hits. As I’m sure everyone reading already knows, the convention activities were mostly suspended yesterday due to Gustov.  A colleague recounted a story yesterday where he was talking to his wife, who is not political, and he commented the schedule may be changed due to the hurricane.  She responded, “That’s stupid.  How is the hurricane going to make it all the way up to St. Paul?”  There is some truth to her question.     Despite the abridged schedule, we had a full day.  Newt bounced back and forth between Minneapolis and St. Paul, speaking to different groups and doing lots of media hits in between.  Almost everyone asked about whether changing the convention schedule was the right move (yes), Newt’s opinion on Palin, and, after the news broke in the afternoon, what his reaction to the story about Palin’s 17 year old daughter.  Many readers may have heard Newt on the Sean Hannity show at 4 Eastern, or saw him on Hannity and Colmes at night, but he also did a number of ABC radio stations, Brian and the Judge, a USA Today Roundtable discussion, and taped an appearance on the Tavis Smiley show, which will air later this week.  Add to this about two dozen interviews with reporters who ran up to Newt and stuck a microphone is his face (pushiness is clearly not considered a negative trait in journalism) and I think it’s safe to assume Newt got his points “out there” yesterday.   A number of Newt’s staff from American Solutions and yours truly ended the evening at a party thrown by Citizen’s United and Tom Delay’s PAC featuring the rock band Smashmouth.    I took some pics throughout the day which you can see below: joedesantisTue, 02 Sep 2008 18:55:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3680http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3670/Blogging-from-the-convention.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3670http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3670&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3670/Blogging-from-the-convention.aspx I have just returned from a party hosted by Citizen's United in Minneapolis where they screened Newt and Callista's movie, Rediscovering God in America, and showed a preview of their new movie, Rendezvous with Destiny, about, of course, the Gipper, Ronald Reagan.  Afterward there was delicious fingerfood and drinks along with the impressive cadre of guests, including none other than former Congressman J.D. Hayworth, who is much more physically imposing in person than I could have imagined. Earlier in the evening I was mapping out routes between the Fox News tent, the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul, and the River Center, where most of the media operations, including radio row, are set up for the convention.  Newt will be doing quite a bit of media tomorrow (some ABC stations, Hannity radio, Hannity and Colmes, a USA Today roundtable) and I'll be "staffing" him. Staffing Newt is an interesting experience because you get to meet a wide variety of amazing people and, of course, hang around with the Speaker all day and... joedesantisMon, 01 Sep 2008 06:42:29 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3670http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3665/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3665http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3665&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3665/Default.aspx Newt was named the 10th most powerful person in health care by Modern Healthcare Magazine.  In addition, to Newt, several other Center for Health Transformation members were included, including Bill Gates.  Visit CHT's website for the rest of the members and a link to the full list.  newt.orgTue, 26 Aug 2008 19:30:47 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3665http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3655/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3655http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3655&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3655/Default.aspxIts Day 15 of the historic energy protest being put together by Republican Representatives who are fighting to try and get back into session to help ease the burdens Americans are now facing with high energy prices. They want to have an up or down vote on the current American Energy Act but Speaker Pelosi has denied even the ability to take a vote on this issue.Today we gleam some notes from Leader Boehner's blog about the happenings. Speaking on the floor this morning to tourists from all over this country and abroad, Representative Kenny Hulshof from Missouri stated that "in ANWR, we are looking at a 2000 acre area to help expand American energy production. That is roughly the size of an airport and the entire size of ANWR is about 19 million acres, which is about the size of South Carolina."Continuing, Representative Bill Shuster from Pennsylvania talked of the lack of open discussion in the current House of Representatives. "The Speaker said this will be the most open Congress in history. In reality, it's been the most closed. Look at the number of closed rules we've had. And on the number issue, energy, what did we do? We went on recess."He also brought up that "the world's oil is controlled by countries, not companies. It's too dangerous for America to keep relying on foreign oil."Representative Thelma Drake from Virginia also brought up a bunch of good points:How can we continue to grow if we keep holding America back? Look at what we’ve closed off: the outer continental shelf; oil shale and oil sands; coal gasification. Well I have a new saying: American oil from American soil.""Yesterday Canada signed a contract for their fourth oil platform in the North Atlantic. Canada also goes after oil shale. Why would we not go after our own resources?""Everyone talks about alternatives…and they’re right. But we need to develop those alternatives first. And while we’re developing those, we should not place America at risk. We could easily open America’s resources and move forward."All the speakers gave great points on why we should reconvene congress and get an up or down vote on the American Energy Act but we need your help. Please contact your local representatives and help us fight to get Congress back in session so that we can lower gas prices and move confidently towards a new energy infrastructure. More tomorrow!Matt ScofieldThu, 21 Aug 2008 20:35:26 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3655http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3646/Default.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3646http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3646&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3646/Default.aspx There is a lot to be said for the Republicans and pro-energy Representatives who, two and a half weeks after the start of the revolt on the House floor, are still speaking and continuing their effort to pass a comprehensive energy plan for America. At the beginning of the Revolt, all of the press conferences and the media coverage created a huge buzz and a sense of rebellion, and as that starts to fade it is easy to slip into a lull. As you may find with most things, it is difficult to continue the passion and enthusiasm when the initial hype wears off. Everyone knows that starting something is easy, but it’s the follow-through that really counts. HOWEVER, you can be sure that Republicans and pro-energy Representatives are indeed following through for you on Day 14; two and a half weeks after Speaker Pelosi ended the debate on energy for America. From the House floor…. Republican Leader John Boehner was the first to speak this morning to a rather large crowd. He promised that Republicans will continue to hold these sessions until there is a vote on energy. Congressman Ted Poe from Texas (whom you may remember from his profound speech on energy saver light bulbs) just returned last night from a trip to Afghanistan with Congressman Turner and others, and his trip helps put our energy issue into some perspective. Afghanistan, Congressman Poe points out, is barren when it comes to natural resources. In fact, in terms of energy, they average 4 hours of electricity every three days. Now if we compare Afghanistan to the vast amount of natural resources that America is blessed with, does it not seem utterly ludicrous that we spend $700 billion overseas each year for energy when we have such an ample amount of resources here at home? Congressman Poe also made it clear that the stigma associated with off-shore drilling and the potential for huge oil spills on our beaches is an “environmental myth.” According to a study conducted by the National Academy of Sciences, which the Congressman referenced, 63% of ocean pollution from oil comes from Mother Nature (i.e. oil seeping from the ocean floor into the water), 32% of oil pollution is from boats, 3% of oil pollution is from oil tankers (which, as Congressman Poe reminds us, come from Saudi Arabia), …and only 2% of oil pollution is from off-shore drilling! Thanks to technology and large valves (called Christmas Trees), we have vastly improved our ability to prevent oil leaks. Case in point, the 200+ oil rigs near Congressman Poe’s district in Texas didn’t have a single leak during the violent storms of Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita.  And in addition to Congressman Poe’s riveting speech today, Congressman Mike Simpson of Idaho made a great point: Representative Simpson asked all of us on the House floor this morning to think back on the history of our nation. To think back to all of the great issues and challenges of our country that were debated in that very building: slavery, women’s suffrage, recession, and the Great Depression.  When you think about these huge issues that America has overcome by means of debate and through working together… Isn’t it absolutely stunning that we can’t have a debate on energy? So Congressman Jim Gerlach of Pennsylvania optimistically reminded us how central our role is as American citizens. The legislative process is reactive, and the debate starts with us—you and me. Republicans and pro-energy Representatives are doing their job to keep the debate alive for the American people, so citizens must continue to do their part as well. Talk to all of your elected officials, write letters to the editor, and call your local talk radio station. Do all you can to help the debate on energy. It’s Day 14, and Republicans in Congress haven’t let down one bit. Neither can you! Until Tomorrow,Michelle Selesky MichelleWed, 20 Aug 2008 19:10:55 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3646http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3641/Return-of-the-Soviet-propaganda-machine.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3641http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3641&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3641/Return-of-the-Soviet-propaganda-machine.aspx It has been a little more than fifteen years since I had the pleasure of laughing at vintage, Soviet-style, anti-American propaganda.  I had forgotten how ridiculously funny the posters, newsreels, and stories translated from Pravda were back then, even though I remember feeling bad for the honest, hard working Soviets who had no choice but to endure.  I was a boy, what could I do?  We never had a bomb shelter at the Newcomb house but, like most of the kids in my generation I practiced "duck and cover" in school.  America had no missile shield then, just a desk, a chair, and Mrs. Marshman tapping that huge yard stick on her desk as she counted down to our imaginary, impending doom. Geography was not a strong subject for me, but I never understood why they would want to drop an atomic bomb on White City, Oregon. None of the other kids complained so I just went along with the crowd.   concepts2Mon, 18 Aug 2008 08:43:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3641http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3639/Default.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3639http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3639&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3639/Default.aspxThings are still busy on the Floor here at the Capitol -- over 90 members have come back to D.C. to demand a vote on an "all of the above" energy plan which encompasses more drilling, conservation, and the development of alternative energy sources.All this can be found in the American Energy Act, which Speaker Pelosi refuses to hold a vote on, even though the majority of Americans and legislators in the House support such a plan.Tourists and staffers alike are enjoying the speeches, being able to sit on the House floor, and hear a real discussion of the burdens of high energy costs and how they can be solved.  Its just too bad Democrats haven't yet deigned to join them in this discussion in the People's House.Rep. Latham of Iowa got the common sense line of the day, with applause, when he said: "Drilling isn’t everything but in the next 10-15 years we will continue to be dependent on gas. We need to realize that."As Newt has been saying all along, we have an enormous amount invested in our current energy infrastructure.  We cannot simply move to alternate fuel sources in the next few years.  A prudent energy plan will drill now to use more of our current fuel sources (instead of relying on the Saudis to provide it) while seriously developing alternate energy fuel sources.  Changing from a fossil fuel system to run our economy is a generational project, but one that we can do.In related news, the LA Times reports that Speaker Pelosi and other Democrats are seriously looking at allowing more domestic drilling -- this is because of the pressure that YOU have helped provided with the Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less campaign.  Let's keep it up!Speaking of the softening stance of some on the Left, you can watch Newt address this topic last night on Hannity and Colmes.In other news related to the efforts of the GOP to keep the House in session, here's a great article from Fortune about Sen. Obama's assertions that we can't drill our way out of this problem, and that drilling will have no affect on prices.The National Journal reports that "Republicans are threatening to block the annual extension of the ban on offshore oil drilling, claiming to be building support for an effort that Democrats say smacks of a threat to shut down the government."Finally, while I don't agree with some parts of this Washington Post article, such as their take on drilling in ANWR, they do a pretty nice job of debunking 3 claims that the Left is fond of making against domestic drilling: namely that drilling is pointless because the United States has only 3 percent of the world's oil reserves, that oil companies aren't using the leases they already have, and that oil companies aren't using the leases they already have.Of course we've answered these arguements and more on Newt.org, just check out the Latest Articles section on the front page, or visit our Newt News and Opinion section using the menu bar above. More to report tomorrow, our voices are being hard so keep the pressure up and let a Democrat Rep in your state you know you'd like to see them force Speaker Pelosi to allow a vote!newt.orgThu, 14 Aug 2008 21:25:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3639http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3633/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3633http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3633&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3633/Default.aspx Ask someone on the platform drafting committee of the Democratic Party what the "most important issues to their party" are and they'll tell you (as Shushannah Walshe of Fox News reports) that it's health care reform and: "...comprehensive immigration reform, improved emergency response to natural disasters, protecting children and seniors, campaign finance reform, reproductive rights and defending Roe vs. Wade, amongst others. Committee members also pledged to uphold the second amendment, the right to keep and bear arms." Wording was changed from the working draft to include Clinton's stance on the issue after supporters of hers urged the committee to do so. The draft will now read, "As affordable coverage is made available, individuals should purchase health insurance. While there are differing approaches within the party about how best to achieve the commitment of universal coverage, we stand united to achieve this fundamental objective through the legislative process." That's a big list that's sure to please the far Left, but isn't it missing something obvious?  ▒ N▒ R G Y --- "Vanna, I'd like to buy a vowel.  Could I have an E please?" concepts2Thu, 14 Aug 2008 07:22:54 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3633http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3632/Want-a-chance-to-win-free-gasoline-for-a-year.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3632http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3632&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3632/Want-a-chance-to-win-free-gasoline-for-a-year.aspx American Solutions just launched their “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Nothing” Free Gas Video Contest with a fun new YouTube clip.   This is a YouTube contest where you can submit short videos that demonstrate why they think we ought to adopt a ‘Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” approach.   They will choose the Top 3, and then you will vote on an overall winner that will be announced at Solutions Day 2.0 (September 27). That winner will then receive free gasoline for an entire year!   Learn more about the contest at www.americansolutions.com/videocontest.   If you’d like to go straight to the funny YouTube video, you can find it here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngcIgV-nYBQ&fmt=18 newt.orgWed, 13 Aug 2008 18:19:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3632http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3628/Default.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3628http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3628&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3628/Default.aspx Day 8 of the Energy Revolt at the Capitol continues and there is a sign that the American people are being heard. Last night appearing on CNN Speaker Pelosi indicated that she would be willing to allow a vote on expanded oil and gas drilling: "They have this thing that says, drill offshore in the protected areas. Well we can do that.  We can have a vote on that." To which GOP Leader John Boehner today noted: "If Speaker Pelosi is truly sincere about having a vote on deep ocean oil and gas drilling to help bring down fuel costs, she should use her power as Speaker to call Congress back into session immediately and schedule a vote on the American Energy Act.  Ever since Speaker Pelosi adjourned Congress for a five-week break while Americans are left to suffer at the pump, House Republicans have taken our message of more American-made energy and lower gas prices directly to the American people - on the floor of the House and in communities across the country.  Based on the Speaker’s comments last night, it is clear our unprecedented nationwide effort is having an impact. "Our message to Speaker Pelosi is very simple: we are ready to vote on more energy production and lower gas prices right now, and we should not wait one more day to begin giving the American people the relief they expect and deserve.  If you meant what you said last night, we welcome you and your Democratic colleagues to join us in our historic call to action on American energy.  End your five-week break early and call Congress back into session now so we can vote for more American-made energy and lower gas prices without any further delay."   As Rep. Kline of Minnesota said so succinctly on the Floor today:   "We want to see the lights on, the cameras on, and the Speaker in the Chair.  We want an open debate and open votes on the American Energy Act."   More tomorrow! newt.orgTue, 12 Aug 2008 23:22:44 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3628http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3625/Day-7--An-American-Town-Hall-Meeting.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3625http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3625&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3625/Day-7--An-American-Town-Hall-Meeting.aspxThe day at the Capitol began with a press conference in Statuary Hall before the Representatives proceeded to the House Floor to begin another day of speeches and presentations. The press conference was simple and to the point: we want Speaker Pelosi to give an up or down vote on the American Energy Act. It was noted over 90 members of the House are back now to help continue what many called an American Town Hall Meeting taking place on the Floor of the House.And Town Hall Meeting was apt, as Representatives fielded questions from ordinary citizens in the House, citizens who came in the hundreds to see the speakers and sit on the Floor. The session in the House began with a prayer and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, to which all stood.Rep. Price of Georgia was the emcee of the day, and got things off by noting how we ought to be having this debate now in the House instead of Speaker Pelosi going on a vacation and book-tour. He noted that what the Republicans were engaged upon was responsible and indeed positive action for the American people. Rep. Pence of Indiana followed up with a line that got much applause, "The American people deserve access to more American oil!" He noted that critics say that staying in the House during a recess is a stunt, to which Pence replied that only in D.C. could you get someone who thinks like that -- who thinks that it is a stunt to stay late after work when your work is not finished. When the American people are hurting, he noted, Congress should not adjourn but Act.There is a bi-partisan majority who would vote for the "all of the above" Energy plan that is the American Energy Act -- if only Pelosi would do the Democratic thing and allow a vote.Rep. Pence urged people to call (202) 224-3121 and place a call to a Democrat Representative from your State -- and respectfully ask that they show up and demand the Speaker allow a vote on the American Energy Act.Up next, Rep. Davis of Virginia noted that Speaker Pelosi is failing in her leadership -- of the 11 appropriations bills Congress needs to pass to keep the gov't running, she has worked to pass only 1. Her plan, he noted, is to pass continuing resolutions (CR's) until after the November elections because she thinks she will have stronger numbers after the elections. But Americans are hurting now, and we shouldn't have to rely on dysfunctional, polluting nations for our energy supply. He ended with an appeal to let us finish our work now, debate now and most importantly, have a Vote now!Rep. Forbes of Virginia next spoke on the great efforts in the Manahattan project and putting a man on the moon, and how he hopes a bill before Congress can help create a new program of similar scale for development of new energy sources. But in the meantime we have to use more of our current fuel sources: coal, gas and nuclear. Although he didn't say it, it's pretty clear we need to drill here and drill now.Rep. Feeney from Florida next spoke on how improved our oil recovery and nuclear technology is since the 1960's. We need to utilize both just as other countries in the world do, such as France with using 80% of nuclear power for its needs. He also touched on how the failure to act means more trouble and diminishing profits every day for counties, charities and small businesses (plumbers, landscapers, etc) everywhere.Rep. Conaway from Texas spoke of how this all got started. On Friday, many Republican members were signed up to speak late into the evening. Normally just some members do this, typically speaking to an empty chamber and a CSPAN camera between 5pm and midnight in order to make sure their remarks get on the record. Well, Speaker Pelosi saw the sheer number of Representatives who were going to record their outrage that Congress was going into recess without dealing with energy legislation, and she decided to cut off debate: turning off the mics, lights and cameras in the House. Perhaps Speaker Pelosi, Conaway noted, might've been better off just letting Republicans spend themselves in talking all night on Friday -- however by blocking not only a vote, but debate itself, she stirred up a sentiment that has been the rallying cry for weeks: "Let us have a Vote!"The last speaker I saw on the day was Rep. Franks of Arizona. He spoke on the need for conservation efforts and how they are included in the American Energy Act. Touching on the difference between politics and statesmanship, he said there is a clear need to look for what is good for the next generation and that is why Congress needs to vote now and not delay anymore time. Finally he noted that we likely wouldn't face a threat from a nuclear armed Iran and their fellowship with jihadist terrorism if we develop our own resources NOW. "They wouldn't have enough money to buy a box of Sparkles if we drill here!" he exclaimed to thunderous applause from the citizens sitting on the floor.As I left after this rousing moment, Rep. Price got back on the floor with a big ol' check made out to Hugo Chavez -- for $170 million dollars. That is how much we give him each day. He noted that Speaker Pelosi needs to take this check into account and realize that developing our own resources is not an environmental hazard, however not doing so is a hazard to our security.The "American Town Hall Meeting" taking place in the People's House will continue tomorrow, and will keep on until Speaker Pelosi allows a simple up-or-down vote on the American Energy Act. More reporting tomorrow from Michelle Selesky!Matt ScofieldMon, 11 Aug 2008 21:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3625http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3619/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3619http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3619&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3619/Default.aspxIt was another interesting day in the People's House on Capitol Hill. Republican Leader John Boehner was in town to further rally the troops. He spoke on the need for Speaker Pelosi to call our Representatives back into session so we can have a simple vote on comprehensive Energy legistlation. He also reiterated this "phantom" session will continue next week just as it did this week and it will keep going until Speaker Pelosi calls Congress back into session. You can watch his Press Conference below:Representatives McCotter, Pence and Bartlett all spoke this afternoon on the floor, with Bartlett talking specifically about the issue of "peak oil" and the rumors of how much supply of oil we really have left. Earlier Rep. Miller of Florida received quite a bit of applause for his line, "We are not saying drilling is our only solution to this problem. But we do need to release ourselves from foreign oil."All in all I've had a great time this week with fellow conservative bloggers and meeting the Reps and the tourists in the Capitol building. There is a real sense we can make something of this effort and we are going to keep it going into next week and beyond. Have a great weekend and let's get back to it on Monday!Matt ScofieldFri, 08 Aug 2008 20:05:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3619http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3618/Day-Fivethe-ProEnergy-Fight-is-Still-Alive.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3618http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3618&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3618/Day-Fivethe-ProEnergy-Fight-is-Still-Alive.aspx You know the old saying “The lights are on, but nobody’s home?” At the U.S. House of Representatives, the lights aren’t on, but Republicans are home. That’s right folks. This is Michelle Selesky here, Communications Coordinator at Gingrich Communications, and today I convinced Matt Scofield to let me replace him so that I could head our Recon mission at the U.S. House of Representatives. Yes, on Day 5 of the energy revolt in the House, pro-energy Republican congressmen and women are still fighting the good fight and haven’t let up in their effort to bring lower energy prices to the American people. These Reps are using all of their energy to fight for yours! Today, Catherine Butterworth (super intern) and I headed to the House floor, straight to the heart of the debate (which is more than the absent, anti-energy Left can say). First, I must say that as an American citizen, the opportunity to sit right on the House floor is as cool it gets. Being a part of the conversation is truly the essence of American democracy, and I encourage all of you to head over to the Capitol if you can, and take advantage of this historic and unique opportunity! Catherine and I were lucky today—we were able to catch 7 amazing Congressmen in action on the House floor. Talk about movers and shakers! Congressman Joe Barton (TX)Congressman Rob Bishop (UT)Congressman Dean Heller (NV)Congressman Lee Terry (NE)Congressman Michael McCaul (TX)Congressman Kevin McCarthy (CA)Congressman Louie Gohmert (TX)…and former Congressman Robert Walker (PA) One of the best parts was when Congressman McCaul spoke. He has collected hundreds of gas pump receipts from his constituents back in Texas, which he gathered to show to Speaker Pelosi (perhaps when she comes back from her vacation and book tour). Each individual wrote a note to Speaker Pelosi on their receipt, and Congressman McCaul read them aloud on the House floor so that their voices are heard. My personal favorite: “Dear Nancy, I used to be a Democrat.” And all of the Representatives were quick to point to the sign that sits above the Speaker’s chair at the front of the House floor. It’s a quote by Daniel Webster, which states… “Let us develop the resources of our land, call forth its power, build up its institutions, promote all its great interests, and see whether we also in our day and generation, may not perform something worthy to be remembered.” Webster was a bright man, and it seems that Americans and pro-energy Republicans and Democrats agree—let’s develop the resources of this land. Let’s unlock America’s energy resources and take that next step to becoming energy independent. All in all, we are happy to report that on Day 5—the energy surrounding the energy debate is high! It is refreshing, exciting and inspiring to witness REAL ACTION and efforts to achieve REAL CHANGE in Congress. So, we should all be cheerfully optimistic that there are pro-energy Congressmen and women who are continuing to work and fight for the American people at the House. Speaker Pelosi, microphones and TV cameras might not be there, but who needs microphones when you have the voice of the American people behind you? MichelleThu, 07 Aug 2008 20:11:22 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3618http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3616/Default.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3616http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3616&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3616/Default.aspx At a Capitol Hill press conference with Members of Congress working to make Speaker Pelosi allow a vote on an "all of the above" energy solution for America, Speaker Gingrich delivers a message of thanks and encouragement on behalf of the 1.4 million Americans who have signed the "Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less" petition.This press conference happened this morning before members of Congress took to the House floor once again to press Speaker Pelosi to simply allow a vote. Watch:The press event was great, lots of media ("throngs" one could say) showed up and several dozen tourists crowded the halls to get a glimpse, many applauding as the former Speaker made his way to the dais the House members that are still in town.It was mentioned by one of the Representatives speaking that the Obama plan for a windfall tax on oil profits does not tax or punish the Russians or Saudis or Venezuelans -- it only punishes American companies employing American workers. All it means is less American oil and more overseas oil.While Newt spoke, a couple Pelosi staffers circulated a one page sheet among the audience "10 questions for the House GOP on Energy" which American Solutions will have a response to shortly. One myth which has been utterly shattered is that drilling now won't lower prices now.I REPEAT: This myth has been shattered, so spread the word about this link here at Newt.org. It is an economic study (and rejection letter from The Energy Journal) showing it is common knowledge that drilling now will lower prices for gas NOW. Go check it out and spread the word about these undisputed FACTS: Drilling now will lower prices NOW!So the momentum is now rolling on for this effort to tell Speaker Pelosi to allow an up or down vote NOW on drilling our oil. Newt's press conference was well covered by FOX, CBS, CSPAN, and MSNBC among others.Finally, the speaking on the House floor begin as a regular session might begin in the House, with the pledge and a prayer said. Today was the best attended day yet, much of the seats on the floor and in the gallery were packed from the start with some of the loudest applause yet. It truly is a site to witness -- if you can make it down or know someone who lives nearby, encourage them to come on down. The momentum is only yet building and we are not done. We want the most American thing possible: a simple vote.Matt ScofieldWed, 06 Aug 2008 18:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3616http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3610/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3610http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3610&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3610/Default.aspx Updates below Internet connections are being spotty today, but the crowds are just as happy to hear the message that Republicans are bringing: the need for a vote on "all of the above" energy legislation. Rep. Tim Walberg and Nick McCreary, Michigan and Louisiana, are speaking exactly on this topic.IF YOU ARE IN THE WASHINGTON D.C. AREA: come on down, we need more people to fill the galleries and to sit on the house floor to show our support for this effort. Email Me if you need help with the logistics.If you aren't in DC, call Speaker Pelosi at 202.224.3121 and demand she bring Congress back and allow a vote on "all of the above" legislation that includes domestic drilling. More soon! *UPDATES* Well its been a crazy afternoon, we had a conservative bloggers luncheon which was well attended, with plenty of pizza, and things went off quite well.  Since Speaker Pelosi has cut off the cameras and microphones, bloggers are playing a big role here in getting the word out about the efforts of the GOP to force Speaker Pelosi to allow a vote on American Energy Independence.  If you have blogged here or elsewhere, share in the comments what you've been saying. After the luncheon, MoveOn.org tried to hold a rally around 4pm near the Capitol to protest that Republicans are in the pocket of "Big Oil" -- but as you can see from Newt's current article on the front page of this site, MoveOn.org recently admitted that we are winning this argument.  They are scared and running, and conservative groups were able to present a nice counter-demonstration to their small-time propganda-fest (pictures possibly coming).  A movement is brewing just in time for the elections. MoveOn.org is also wrong with their protest because the Republican energy plan -- the American Energy Act -- is not just about domestic drilling.  The plan being pushed is exactly what Americans of all stripes want:  an "all of the above" energy plan that includes conservation, funding for new technology for new fuels, as well developing our domestic resources of carbon, oil and uranium.  The plain fact of the matter is there is no alternative energy substance that can replace coal, oil or nuclear at the levels capable of running our nation: not now and not for 20 years or more likely (while 10 years or less for oil).  We have to embrace in the short-term more of our current fuel sources while we develop better fuels going forward. And this really gets at a key remark of so many Republican congressmen and women we talked to at the luncheon today:  how they would welcome Democrats to come back to the House with them and engage in a real debate on this.  Further, they should do so to show they are not in the pocket of extreme environmentalists like Speaker Pelosi and others on the hard Left.  The American people overwhelmingly want this legislation and Democrats should embrace the wishes of the American people. At the luncheon, Rep. Hensarling noted we just want two things:  To get a simple vote on the American Energy Act and to send a signal to the world market that America is serious about increasing its domestic supply of energy.  The reality is that we are in a carbon-based economy and transitioning from that will take time.  As Newt has said, we have an enormous amount invested in our current energy infrastructure.  A vote on the American Energy Act shows our commitment to transition to a new infrastructure while embracing more independence in terms of our current energy systems.  However Speaker Pelosi is beholden to the environmental extremists who want you, the desire you, to pay even more than you do now for your energy.  They are content for businesses to move, jobs to be driven out, and your car to be parked.  They feel we deserve the burdens of expensive energy. And Hensarling spells out the burdens we face:  farmers paying ever more to keep their tractors running, truckers -- the backbone of our economy in many ways -- being put out of business, family commutes and heating costs soaring, the fuel costs for school buses taking away from the resources needed to teach our children.  To me it seems that Speaker Pelosi and the Left are fine with this situation -- its why they have left town for 5 weeks!  "Let them eat cake" -- or "Let them bike to work" might as well be their mantra. And in this perhaps Speaker Pelosi's plan is genius -- after all, the American Spirit is one of innovation and entrepreneurship.  By restricting our energy sources, the environmental extremists on the Left are really just telling us all:  go! Invent something new to power our economy!  They really just want to spur innovation -- unfortunately its by putting Americans out of work and shuttling business overseas, where they don't restrict themselves from developing their own resources.  If necessity is the mother of invention, the Left's energy policy verges on sadism.  Perhaps that is the spirit of environmental extremists with a religious aversion to progress, but it is not the spirit of America. Our spirit prefers common sense solutions: let's develop the oil shale in Colorado.  As Congresswoman Musgrave (R-CO) points out, there is enough energy there for 240 years, and initially its development would create over 70,000 jobs with salaries averaging $60,000.   Let's develop the 7th largest uranium source in the world in Viriginia.  Let's develop our offshore oil resources.   And as Congressman Gomert (R-TX) points out, if any state doesn't do its part in energy development, than let's pass the State Hypocrisy Act, whereby these states that don't develop their resources don't get to use the power generated by those who do!  It's a bold idea, but these are bold times.  And again this is all while employing sensible conservation measures and prizes and funding for innovation of new technologies.  Americans want an "all of the above" energy plan and Speaker Pelosi is preventing a simple up or down vote on this. Finally at the luncheon Congressmen Shaddegg (R-AZ) and Pence (R-IN) informed us how 70 Republican members of Congress are headed back to the Hill to continue this pressure on the environmental extremsists holding our energy policy hostage.  We have the technology to leave a small footprint where we drill, and with pipelines already in Alaska, we don't have to worry about another Valdez-shipping-related oil spill.  Not that the Left is concerned about spills from the daily shipments we get from overseas, nor are they concerned (as Charles Krauthammer notes) about that fact that, "Outsourcing U.S. oil production does nothing to lessen worldwide environmental despoliation. It simply exports it to more corrupt, less efficient, more unstable parts of the world -- thereby increasing net planetary damage."  The energy policy of Speaker Pelosi and the Left makes no sense in terms of economics (we could be generating jobs instead of losing them), engineering (solar/wind/hydro is not ready for large scale at all) or the environment (see above). Newt will be down on the Hill tomorrow to help keep the pressure on and let's make sure we do the same.  This is about Energy Independence, both in terms of National Security and in terms of our personal independence:  We, our elderly, our college students, our commuting families, should not be dependent on others for travel.  We should have the ability to travel where we like without paying heed to either environmental extremists nor foreign dictators. Share what you've been doing below and let's see what more we can do -- we can make Real Change happen. Matt ScofieldTue, 05 Aug 2008 14:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3610http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3607/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3607http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3607&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3607/Default.aspxUnlike the Pelosi-led Left, they have refused to adjourn without dealing with this vital energy legislation -- Join the growing discussion here. I will be live-blogging from the Capitol this week -- using the same link above -- so join for updates!Matt ScofieldMon, 04 Aug 2008 15:16:55 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3607http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3605/Default.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3605http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3605&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3605/Default.aspx On June 22, a San Francisco man and his two sons were allegedly shot and killed by an illegal Salvadoran immigrant. The suspect, twenty-one year old Edwin Ramos, already has two convicted felony charges under his belt. After the murders of Tony, Matthew, and Michael Bologna, many San Franciscans wondered how Ramos was even allowed to be on the streets. The answer lay in a sanctuary law passed in 1989 that enables juvenile criminals in San Francisco County to be protected from federal immigration officials so the San Francisco County Sherriff’s Department didn’t hand Ramos over for deportation.   If there had been no sanctuary law, the Bologna men would probably still be alive. It was just a year ago this time when another illegal immigrant, also protected from deportation for previous crimes by a sanctuary law, executed 3 young students in New Jersey. Newt wrote then:"Either the killing of three young Americans is a horrendous event that requires us to act or we will go on with politics as usual while young Americans in our inner cities are massacred by people who should not be here. There is a war here at home that is just as important as the war against terrorism overseas."As Newt notes in the video above, the Secretary of Homeland Security says that 2 million of the 11 million illegal immigrants in this country are convicted criminals -- and yet they have not been found nor deported.  Pile on top of this the effect of sanctuary laws like that in San Francisco and how are Americans supposed to feel safe?  In light of these tragic killings in one of America's great cities, today a new study released by the Center for Immigration Studies shows that the Hispanic illegal immigrant population has significantly declined in the previous year because of stepped-up enforcement efforts.  Congressman Lamar Smith (R, TX) noted this study shows that, "Congress and the administration simply need to ensure that our immigration laws are enforced and our border secured." The research conducted by American Solutions found that Americans, by 72 percent to 21 percent, believe that immigration laws aren’t being enforced as well as they could be. How are the police and immigration officials supposed to effectively enforce laws when sanctuary policies make it easier for illegal aliens, who have committed crimes, to avoid deportation? While crime by illegal immigrants needs to be dealt with by enforcing laws already on the books, there is a clear majority of Americans who sympathize with those immigrants desiring a better future in the United States. By 83 to 16 percent, Americans would approve of a worker visa program to allow immigrants to work in the United States more easily—and legally.   The United States was founded by hard working individuals and we didn’t become the world’s lone superpower by sitting back and letting everyone else do the work for us. The American people value hard work and want to reward it but, with one catch: You have to be legal.   Real change is absolutely necessary in the immigration sector. Visit American Solutions to find out more about these fundamental issues of securing our borders and providing a competent worker visa program. newt.orgThu, 31 Jul 2008 21:34:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3605http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3602/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3602http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3602&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3602/Default.aspxAmong the environmental extremists on the Left confusion reigns. They want carbon-free fuel sources, yet often stand in the way of their development. They want to migrate the world's developed economies -- the largest energy users -- to renewable fuel sources, but continually discount the energy demands of the developing world.Nowhere is this nexus more prevalent than when it comes to nuclear power, which uses uranium -- the only carbon-free fuel source which at present can generate power on a scale to feasibly help run a country.So while developing countries like China plan to build another 100 nuclear reactors for itself in the next 20 years, and India plans at least 25, America is...being blocked by environmental extremists from developing its largest source of uranium.In Virginia sits largest undeveloped uranium deposit in the United States -- and the seventh largest in the world. And why aren't we developing it? Well you can perhaps thank Jane Fonda for scaring Virginia legislators into banning uranium mining. While the owners of the uranium deposit are seeking to overturn this ban, others oppose:"There will be a dead zone within a 30 mile radius of the mine. Nothing will grow. Animals will die. The radiation genetically alters tissue. Animals will not be able to reproduce. We'll see malformed fetuses," says Jack Dunavant of the Southside Concerned Citizens in nearby Halifax County.Contrast this extremist rhetoric with that of James Kelly, who directed the nuclear engineering program at the University of Virginia for many years. "It's an aesthetic nightmare, but otherwise safe in terms of releasing any significant radioactivity or pollution," he told me. "It would be ugly to look at, but from the perspective of any hazard I wouldn't mind if they mined across the street from me."The plain fact of the matter is if the U.S. had developed Nuclear power at the same rate France has, we would today put 2,200,000,000 tons less carbon into the atmosphere -- beating even the Kyoto requirements by 15%. Plus not only could we be developing more of our own fuel domestically in Virginia, but we could potentially sell our fuel to the developing world as well. This is all sensible energy policy and all that stands in our way is the extremist rhetoric of Leftist environmentalists.You can help turn the tide by embracing the alternative to the Left's environmental extremists: Green Conservatism. The video below on Green Conservatism will tell you more:Matt ScofieldTue, 29 Jul 2008 13:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3602http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3601/Senate-Showdown-2009-Harry-Reid-vs-Tom-Coburn.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3601http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3601&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3601/Senate-Showdown-2009-Harry-Reid-vs-Tom-Coburn.aspxUPDATE: Coburn and the GOP KO Reid!In just a few moments, at 4pm EST, the Senate will begin taking votes on the "Coburn Omnibus Bill" which Majority Leader Harry Reid is trying to force through the Senate. This bill would cost $10 billion to implement and does not contain any provisions to reduce spending in order to offset the $10 billion authorized to be spent.In addition, Reid's bill creates at least 34 new federal programs, many of which are duplicative of current government programs and initiatives.With today's announcement that the federal deficit is likely to be $490 billion next year, your support to stop this massive spending bill is needed.It is called the "Coburn Omnibus Bill" because Republican Senator Tom Coburn has been blocking roughly one hundred bills because of pork spending or the creation of otherwise ill-conceived gov't programs. To counter this, Reid decided to roll all the bills up into one giant, pork-filled package to vote upon today. Check out Coburn's detailed response to why he is blocking each bill -- and then go give him, and your Senator, your voice of support to stop business as usual on Capitol Hill. Matt ScofieldMon, 28 Jul 2008 19:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3601http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3599/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3599http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3599&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3599/Default.aspx A new study by the U.S. Geological Survey reveals that there may be an estimated 90 billion barrels of untapped oil in the Arctic—an amount large enough to feed America’s hunger for oil for 12 years. And there’s even better news: A whopping one-third of those 90 billion barrels is in Alaskan territory. newt.orgThu, 24 Jul 2008 22:05:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3599http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3597/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3597http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3597&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3597/Default.aspx Hi!  I’m Christine Hall, a Staff Assistant at American Solutions.  Currently I am working to help launch a grassroots program for our activists. I'm writing today to let you know of a great opportunity for you!    On August 2, 2008, American Solutions will officially launch our Real Change Chapter program.  Our Real Change Chapter program will be a way for you to get more involved with "Drill Here. Drill Now. Pay Less. ", for you to work locally with your friends and neighbors to support the national efforts of American Solutions, and also for you to tackle local issues that need to be addressed in your community.   Signup on our website by filling out the Real Change Chapter Leader form, and we will be sure to provide you with all the materials you need to be a successful meeting host! Newt will kick off our first meeting on August 2nd with... Christine HallThu, 24 Jul 2008 18:54:04 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3597http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3590/On-The-Issues-updates.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3590http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3590&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3590/On-The-Issues-updates.aspx Happy Tuesday (the other Monday), Bloggers! Here are a few posts from the last couple of weeks that are available to you in the On The Issues section of Newt.org.  We aim to bring you stories and comments that are relevant to the issues Newt has identified as important to rebuilding America, and hope you find them to be worthwhile. A hard number (to swallow) on California dropouts details recent statistics released by the state of California gathered using a system of metrics to accurately track students passing through the system. NYC begins spending money to reduce greenhouse gases highlights Mayor Bloomberg's plans to lower carbon dioxide emissions in New York City. Border Security 101 discusses some of the politics behind hiring and training border patrol agents. Later this week, we'll be bringing you an update of the California school dropout numbers and possible solutions suggested by that state's legislature, contrasted with education solutions Newt has proposed over the years. As always, your comments are welcome and solicited. concepts2Tue, 22 Jul 2008 07:50:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3590http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3585/Check-out-this-clip-of-Newt-on-GretaWire.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3585http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3585&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3585/Check-out-this-clip-of-Newt-on-GretaWire.aspxClick here to watch as he discusses Brett Farve, the Green Bay Packers and a pair of charming almost-newlywedsMatt ScofieldFri, 18 Jul 2008 16:17:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3585http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3584/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3584http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3584&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3584/Default.aspx  Happy Friday, Majority Leaders!Leading the Majority is on TODAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.This week Rick and Vince welcome Alan Levine, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. Secretary Levine will talk about the revolution of conservative reform in Louisiana headed by Governor Bobby Jindal, whom Newt Gingrich calls “America’s most transformational Governor.” Rick and Vince will also be joined by Frank Macchiarola, Republican Staff Director of the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Frank will talk about offshore oil and gas and explain the revenue sharing process between the federal government and states who allow offshore drilling. He will also discuss how such revenue sharing could work for states not yet involved. So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. Make sure to check the LTM home page on Monday when we'll have the show audio availble for you!Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky newt.orgFri, 18 Jul 2008 13:47:22 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3584http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3569/Default.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3569http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3569&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3569/Default.aspx The long wait for Congressional action on US energy independence may soon be over, thanks to your efforts in supporting the Drill Now campaign.  Newt.org blogger Ray “Wally” Wellbrock alerted us to the following story that shows the Drill Now petition campaign appears to be sinking in on Capitol Hill.  Without your effort in this matter this wouldn’t be possible, and without your continued efforts this promising moment may not be fulfilled.   Led by Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) and John Peterson (R-Pa.), Congressmen from both parties are beginning to band together to end this energy crisis with a comprehensive, environmentally responsible effort to move American towards energy independence and away from the bitter partisan struggles and special-interest squabbles that have led to (and are extending) our current energy crisis.   These two Representatives are leading the charge with talking points that could have come directly from the Newt.org “Get The Facts” page, while John Boehner (R-Ohio) brings to light statistics that should prompt swift action from parties.  concepts2Fri, 11 Jul 2008 19:18:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3569http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3567/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3567http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3567&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3567/Default.aspx It's that time again! Yes, you guessed it....Leading the Majority is on TODAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.You can also listen to the show on the LTM home page starting the Monday after the show.This week Rick and Vince welcome Congressman John Peterson, sponsor of the National Environment and Energy Development Act (pdf file). Congressman Peterson will talk about how the new "Gang" of House Members who are working to greatly enhance the nation's environmental, energy, economic, and national security and end federal prohibitions on the domestic production of offshore supplies of natural gas. Rick and Vince will also be joined by Ben Stein—author, actor, speechwriter and filmmaker—to talk about his newly released book, “How to Ruin the United States of America,” a sardonic, humorous, but also angrily emphatic, analysis of our nation’s current state of affairs. So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. And if you can't listen today, check the LTM home page on Monday and we'll have the show posted then.Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky MichelleFri, 11 Jul 2008 12:42:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3567http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3557/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3557http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3557&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3557/Default.aspxThis morning, Tuesday, a new bipartisan Senate tradition begins at 10 a.m. EST. The purpose of this new tradition is to commemorate the Declaration of Independence. Senators Coburn and Lieberman will be reading the Declaration into the Record, and other members (Martinez, Murkowski, Webb, Whitehouse) will read speeches that address the principles of the Declaration. The proceedings can be viewed online or on CSPAN.Clips of the speeches will be available on request from the office of Sen. Cornyn.Speeches to be read tomorrow include:George Washington's letter to the Touro Synagogue regarding religious liberty.Patrick Henry's speech at St. Johns Church (Give Me Liberty or Give me Death)Abraham Lincoln's speech at Independence HallThomas Jefferson's last letterJohn Quincy Adams' speech on the 50th anniversary of George Washington's inauguration.Another good speech, which won't be read, is Calvin Coolidge's speech marking the 150th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, in which he states:"A spring will cease to flow if its source be dried up; a tree will wither if its roots be destroyed. In its main features the Declaration of Independence is a great spiritual document. It is a declaration not of material but of spiritual conceptions. Equality, liberty, popular sovereignty, the rights of man these are not elements which we can see and touch. They are ideals. They have their source and their roots in the religious convictions. They belong to the unseen world. Unless the faith of the American people in these religious convictions is to endure, the principles of our Declaration will perish. We can not continue to enjoy the result if we neglect and abandon the cause."For more on the spiritual underpinnings of America's foundation, watch Newt's recent speech from this Sunday given before the congregation of Rev. Charles Stanley.newt.orgTue, 08 Jul 2008 04:26:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3557http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3548/Family-values-arent-what-they-used-to-be.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3548http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3548&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3548/Family-values-arent-what-they-used-to-be.aspx Just a few short years ago, Johnny would come home from playing sandlot baseball with a skinned knee (why we felt the urge to slide into home plate on asphalt was silly to begin with) for a shot of Bactine, a band-aid, and a kiss to make it all better.  Then he’d go do something safer, like climb a tree or catch frogs in the aquaduct.  Times have changed, apparently. In a Time.com interview with Hara Estroff Marano, author of Are you turning your child into a wimp?, we find an exceptional examination of how kids learn to cope with life's little misfortunes these days, and why we may not be doing Johnny any favors by keeping him from stubbing his toe occasionally. concepts2Mon, 30 Jun 2008 22:45:24 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3548http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3545/Default.aspx#Comments23http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3545http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3545&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3545/Default.aspx We recently posted a new "Get the Facts" page to illuminate some of the myths that some are spreading about the Drill Here, Drill Now movement. So click here to Get the Facts, and there is a preview below:Is more drilling for American oil an essential part of lowering energy costs and freeing us from dependence on foreign sources of energy?  The typical response of critics is a resounding “NO!” and includes several common arguments, which are not supported by the facts.  MYTH: Oil companies currently have 68 million acres of leased public lands that contain large amounts of economically recoverable oil available.  Drilling in these areas could generate 4.8 million barrels a day so opening up more land is not necessary.  MYTH: Drilling will not provide any short-term relief in the price of oil because it will take many years before new drilling will lead to new supplies. MYTH: The U.S. only has a small percentage (from 2-6%) of the world’s oil supplies, and since oil is a global commodity, our increased production won’t affect prices much if at all. MYTH: Drilling offshore will lead to ocean spillage, damaging wildlife and beaches. MYTH: The price of oil has increased due to “over-speculation” by energy commodities traders and outlawing or heavily regulating energy trading is the best way to dramatically reduce the price of oil. MYTH: Drilling for unconventional sources, such as tar sands or shale oil, is too costly and creates a large carbon footprint, among other environmental problems.  PLUS: 3 ways to lower gas prices: Click Here to Get the Facts Matt ScofieldSat, 28 Jun 2008 23:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3545http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3544/My-Response-for-you-History-Enthusiasts.aspx#Comments13http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3544http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3544&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3544/My-Response-for-you-History-Enthusiasts.aspx In response to all the commentary that have come in over the last week or so, it is much appreciated, it means folks care deeply about their subject.   In part, to response to some of the criticisms, I’ll just have to say it is a work of fiction after all and not a doctoral dissertation.    Guided by Tolkien’s great maxim  “write a rousing good tale” that was our effort and at times we did bend the rules a bit, such as Yamamoto’s range of command etc.     As mentioned earlier, even some of the primary sources on the campaign of December 1941, are loaded with glaring errors, as primary sources often are, and those are adopted by secondary sources and “become fact.”    We had a number of historians, experts on naval warfare etc., review our manuscript for some of the details as mentioned in the commentaries to this blog, and apologize if we did not hit the mark correctly on some points.    But then again, it is fiction. A good analogy.  I spent two years of my life doing a dissertation on an African American regiment, a good part of it, the role it played at the Battle of the Crater, July 30, 1864.   I guess you could say I’m one of the world’s leading experts on it and in my research discovered a number of details not known and a significant number of errors in the standard secondary works and even some of the primary.    It comes from that daily grind of what was sometimes 16hours a day, type of days.    I went nuts trying to endure “Cold Mountain,” both book and movie as but one result (besides living within minutes of where the story takes place).   We’ll take under advisement any errors noted, review, and learn.     A few are dead on, a few we could debate, I know all come from the heart which I appreciate, and please do remember we are in a fictional setting trying to learn some real world lessons. Regarding MacArthur. . .hmmm. . .one is never suppose to give away what comes next, but let’s just say it is definitely a very big item on the table for the books ahead.   The debacles at the Philippines, Java Sea, and Singapore are the forgotten campaigns of our war in the Pacific because they were such stunning and humiliating defeats.     There was much that went wrong in our ill-preparedness, and in the flush of victory later, they became campaigns that few paid attention to.   Recall that John Ford, in 1945, made one heck of a movie about it  “They Were Expendable” which barely broke even because when released the war was ending and “we” did not wish to see a movie about our worst defeat. . . .”Sands of Iwo Jima,” which was far more “Hollywood” and less accurate, was far more to our taste in the years after the war. I appreciate your understanding as to why I can’t post my email directly.   I hear all sorts of horror stories from those who do.   One jerk of an author I know, frankly can’t stand the guy who is ultra revisionist, did have my email address, did some open postings regarding what he claimed was a new ground breaking book of his, (with recepient’s names listed) and wham, my mailbox just exploded after his posting.   Anyhow, hope my explanation to those of you with far deeper detailed knowledge is acceptable. Sincerely, Bill Forstchen Bill ForstchenFri, 27 Jun 2008 20:56:27 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3544http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3542/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3542http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3542&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3542/Default.aspx It's that time again! Yes, you guessed it....Leading the Majority is on THIS FRIDAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.You can also listen to the show on the LTM home page starting the Monday after the show.This week Rick and Vince welcome Enid Borden, President and CEO of the Meals On Wheels Association of America. Enid will talk about how gas prices are affecting Meals On Wheels programs and senior citizens nationwide.  Rick and Vince will also be joined by Roy Innis, Chairman of the Congress of Racial Equality. Mr. Innis will discuss how high gas and energy prices are impacting America's poor and what the government must do to lower gas prices immediately.  So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. And if you miss it check the LTM home page on Monday and we'll have the show posted then.Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky MichelleThu, 26 Jun 2008 20:08:19 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3542http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3536/Default.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3536http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3536&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3536/Default.aspx Decreasing our dependence on foreign energy sources is common sense, but the solutions that get the most attention seem to involve some amount of personal sacrifice, like buying a smaller car or raising the temperature in your home.  What if there were better ideas? concepts2Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3536http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3534/Default.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3534http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3534&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3534/Default.aspx Many of you have asked how to respond to the Left’s attacks on using more of our American oil to lower gas prices.  I wanted to highlight this section of my newsletter, which responds to some of these points. And remember, if you haven’t signed our Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less petition, go here to sign up today! Drilling opponents support more drilling so long as there is no oil Perhaps some Democrats have been reluctant to sign on because of two popular talking points making the rounds. These opponents say that oil and gas companies already hold 68 million acres of federal land (offshore and land combined) that they are not using to produce oil and gas. They also say it would take 10 years before any of that oil makes it into our gas tanks. Just this weekend on Meet the Press, Sen. Joe Biden (D.-Del.) said, "They [the oil companies] have now leased 41 million acres of offshore leases. They're only pumping in 10.2 million of those acres. . . . And John [McCain] says they need more? And it would take 10 years for it to come online." There are a number of problems with these arguments. First, when federal waters or lands are leased to energy companies, the first step is to explore for oil - in other words, look for it. Most of the acres leased for oil end up being determined to not hold enough oil or gas to make it profitable for energy companies to actually extract it. So the vast majority of those 68 million acres are not being used for a simple reason: they're currently unusable. Given this fact, it is obvious that citing the amount of currently unused leased land is a ruse. It allows opponents of using American oil to seem as if they actually support it, when in truth they only support more drilling in areas where there is not enough oil to make it worthwhile to drill. In other words, they actually don't support using our American oil to lower gas prices. Either it is a ruse, or it is a testament to the profound arrogance of the Washington elite that they believe they understand the business of oil production better than American oil companies. Drill here, drill now, pay less ... in the short term and long term Lastly, even if we were to accept the estimate of 10 years to get American oil into our gas tank (if America made it a priority to quickly extract our oil I'm confident we could find a way to speed up the process), there is good reason to believe the short-term affect on oil prices would be significant. While estimates range on the degree to which oil futures trading is affecting the price of oil, there is broad consensus that it is playing a role. The very act of opening America's vast oil deposits for extraction would send an immediate signal to speculators that supply will be increased, and that betting on higher prices for oil is no longer a safe investment. Prices will fall as a result. Also, beginning the process of drilling for our American oil would allow us the freedom to empty part of the strategic oil reserve into the market on the promise it will be replenished by these future American sources. This immediate increase in the supply of oil would cause a decrease in price. NewtTue, 24 Jun 2008 16:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3534http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3524/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3524http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3524&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3524/Default.aspx It's that time again! Yes, you guessed it....Leading the Majority is on TODAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.You can also listen to the show on the LTM home page starting the Monday after the show.This week Rick and Vince welcome Glenn Vawter, Executive Director of the National Oil Shale Association. Mr. Vawter will discuss the resurgence in oil shale development and how we can responsibly reduce petroleum imports and increase our nation's energy and national security. .Rick and Vince will also be joined by Jon Gordon, speaker, consultant and author of the new book, The No Complaining Rule: Positive Ways to deal with Negativity at Work. Jon will talk about how this rule applies to politics in 2008 and how our nation can achieve real change by focusing on positive solutions.So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. And if you miss it check the LTM home page on Monday and we'll have the show posted then.Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky MichelleFri, 20 Jun 2008 12:12:56 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3524http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3515/Happy-Birthday-Newt.aspx#Comments15http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3515http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3515&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3515/Happy-Birthday-Newt.aspxIt's Newt's birthday, so leave your birthday wishes for Newt below in the comments sections and we will share them with him. Make sure to log-in to the website if you don't want them left as anonymous!As always, thanks for visiting!Matt ScofieldTue, 17 Jun 2008 18:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3515http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3507/Your-Chance-to-Vote-for-Newt.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3507http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3507&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3507/Your-Chance-to-Vote-for-Newt.aspx Although he's not in the Presidential race this year, Newt has once again been nominated to Modern Healthcare's list of 100 Most Powerful People in Healthcare. Based on his accomplishments with the Center for Health Transformation this year, we encourage you to cast your vote for him here.Newt has been ranked in the top 25 every year since he founded the Center in 2003, and in 2006 he was ranked number five. To learn more about Newt's accomplishments in transforming healthcare for all Americans, please visit www.healthtransformation.net. newt.orgMon, 16 Jun 2008 20:25:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3507http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3503/Face-the-Nation-appearance.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3503http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3503&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3503/Face-the-Nation-appearance.aspxI hope everyone is having a good Father's day today. If you didn't get a chance to view Newt's appearance on Face the Nation this morning, I've posted the video so you can view it here. The transcript will posted when its available as well.In this appearance Newt discusses a number of topics, including Lousiana Gov. Bobby Jindal, Obama & McCain, and the flaws of the recent Supreme Court decision on GITMO detainees.Matt ScofieldSun, 15 Jun 2008 16:56:52 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3503http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3500/My-responses-to-your-questions.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3500http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3500&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3500/My-responses-to-your-questions.aspxApologies for not getting back to some of your questions sooner.  The last weeks with end of the school year for my daughter, a friend with emergency surgery and don’t ask me about the torture session with my dentist. . .I accused him of being trained by the Gestapo afterwards!   But actually he’s a great guy, just that I ran an allergic reaction, and other stuff, including take some flight exams, tied me up.  Bill ForstchenFri, 13 Jun 2008 17:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3500http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3494/Default.aspx#Comments28http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3494http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3494&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3494/Default.aspx As of last night, the American Solutions Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less petition reached over 500,000 signatures! If you haven’t already, click here to sign now, and encourage your friends and family to do so too, so that we can increase the pressure on Congress to lower prices and make us energy-independent.   And if you can't convince them, maybe Chuck Norris can:  Remember to sign the petition at American Solutions so that we can show the support of 1,000,000+ Americans in no time! The more citizens who sign, the more Congress will have to listen up! newt.orgWed, 11 Jun 2008 18:39:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3494http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3484/Default.aspx#Comments7http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3484http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3484&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3484/Default.aspxThe thing I appreciate most about this book is how believable it is. As with their Civil War series, Gingrich and Forstchen have crafted a narrative that sounds like it really happened. The benefit of alternate histories is their ability to make us think about how important one minor event can be to the outcome of a battle, a war, and more. As bad as the attack on Pearl Harbor was, it could have been much worse, and the aftermath could have been vastly different from what we read in the history books.Newt Gingrich and William R. Forstchen have teamed up before; their trilogy of alternate Civil War history was received quite well. In that series...newt.orgMon, 09 Jun 2008 20:29:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3484http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3481/Virtual-Energy-Forum-tomorrow-at-11am-EST.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3481http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3481&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3481/Virtual-Energy-Forum-tomorrow-at-11am-EST.aspxTomorrow, June 10th, at 11:00 AM ET I will be keynoting a unique conference called The Virtual Energy Forum. What is unique about this event is that it will take place 100% online – meaning you can experience the event live, over the web, from your home or office without incurring any travel costs. The most intriguing aspect of this event is it practices what it preaches. Physical events require a great deal of energy consumption when you factor in travel costs for attendees and the power requirements to run the large exhibition halls.Following my keynote address I will be hosting a live Q&A session. This is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and interact with me live. You can also leave your comments below for my review.The event is free to attend and I encourage you to register and attend my session by registering here.The focus of the event is...NewtMon, 09 Jun 2008 12:51:58 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3481http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3479/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3479http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3479&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3479/Default.aspx Happy Friday, Leaders of the Majority!This week Rick and Vince welcome Clifford D. May, President of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies—a policy institute focusing on terrorism created immediately following the 9/11 attacks on the United States. Mr. May will discuss the necessity of American energy independence and its implications for our national security.Rick and Vince will also mark the anniversary of D-Day and honor our troops and our nation’s religious heritage by playing Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s extraordinary, nationally broadcast prayer that first aired just hours after Allied troops were storming the beaches of Normandy. Make sure to LISTEN on RIGHTALK.COM at 2pm ET! Your Fearless Producer,Micheller MichelleFri, 06 Jun 2008 13:57:50 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3479http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3476/Free-Speech-World-Update-Canada-and-France.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3476http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3476&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3476/Free-Speech-World-Update-Canada-and-France.aspxIn case you missed it French actress Brigitte Bardot was fined today for Anti-Muslim speech which she wrote in a letter to Nicolas Sarkozy, now President. While her remarks are (at the least) controversial, punishing her for them seems equally so.However things are quite a bit more Orwellian over in Canada, where MacLean's magazine is on "trial" for publishing a book excerpt from Mark Steyn's "America Alone", that supposedly incited hatred against Muslims. About a year after the article was published, a few Muslim students found offense with it and decided to take MacLean's to court -- but not a real court, a Human Rights Council. This is the second day of the trial and Andrew Coyne is conducting some great live-blogging of the hilarious events here, check it out to have a laugh (or cry) at those who would oppose freedom of speech.Matt ScofieldTue, 03 Jun 2008 19:19:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3476http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3474/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3474http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3474&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3474/Default.aspx Here in Silicon Valley, David Kralik is, let's face it, some strange import. Kralik is Gingrich's point man in the Valley, arriving nearly five months ago. He describes himself as a bridge between "a world that works: the Valley" and "a world that doesn't: Washington." The political gridlock. The circular bureaucracies. What Kralik fails to mention is that the Valley, too, has its faults, its own shortcomings. It's a bubble. And, just a few years ago, the bubble burst. But technology is irrepressibly changing politics. The 2008 presidential campaign has buried any doubt. Its impact, Kralik knows, goes beyond whichever party wins the White House and Congress in November. It will continually affect how people interact with their government, Kralik explains, and what they expect from their officials, and when. "That's why I'm here now," says Kralik, who lived in Washington for 10 years. "This is the new world." newt.orgTue, 03 Jun 2008 17:27:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3474http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3472/Immigration-News.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3472http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3472&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3472/Immigration-News.aspxI'm liveblogging the Bradley Report press conference this morning -- click here to read itIt will interest our readers to know of a webcast tomorrow featuring a debate on the economic effect of immigration, being conducted by the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.The webcast will be from 2pm-4pm tomorrow and can be viewed here.Also tomorrow, The Bradley Project on America’s National Identity will release its report, 'E Pluribus Unum':"Sixty-Three Percent of Americans Believe our National Identity is Weakening, and One in Four Believe the Nation is So Divided That a Common National Identity is Not Possible"The report is available online, and I will do some live-blogging from the event tomorrow morning.Matt ScofieldMon, 02 Jun 2008 19:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3472http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3467/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3467http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3467&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3467/Default.aspxClip #1:Watch hereYou can read a transcript of his appearance here.Clip #2:Watch hereMatt ScofieldThu, 29 May 2008 15:47:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3467http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3465/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3465http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3465&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3465/Default.aspx Arthur Brooks is submitting a couple blog entries this week as our featured guest blogger. He is Louis A. Bantle Professor at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Public Affairs, and a visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. He is the author of the just-published Gross National Happiness (Basic Books). You can listen to his recent interview on Leading The Majority here.Understanding freedom is a matter of no small importance. The Founders believed that it was one of at least three fundamental rights from God, along with life and the pursuit of happiness. These three rights are interrelated: not only does liberty, of course, depend on life, but the pursuit of happiness depends on liberty. In fact, evidence shows that freedom and happiness are strongly linked. But what kind of freedom makes Americans happiest? And what can government best do to promote freedom and help us pursue happiness, as is our inalienable right?newt.orgWed, 28 May 2008 22:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3465http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3464/Calling-All-Fans-I-want-to-hear-from-you.aspx#Comments19http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3464http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3464&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3464/Calling-All-Fans-I-want-to-hear-from-you.aspxWelcome to “Ask Bill!”   I am pleased to announce the grand opening of my new Blog thread that I created just for you.   Please write to me in the Comments section of this entry with all of your questions and ideas about Days of Infamy, Pearl Harbor, World War II, our Civil War book series, “active history,” or history in general!   I will be responding to your questions weekly… right here!  I have been so thrilled by all of the questions, comments and ideas that you have submitted to me that I have opened this as a forum for you to submit all of your thoughts.   It is always so rewarding for me as a writer to hear from such passionate and interested readers like you.   Thank You for being such enthusiastic fans of history.   I look forward to reading and responding to your comments!Bill ForstchenWed, 28 May 2008 20:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3464http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3453/Default.aspx#Comments102http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3453http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3453&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3453/Default.aspx Since we launched the “Drill Here, Drill Now, Pay Less” campaign last week, the positive responses we’ve received have been overwhelming. More than 35,000 people have signed our petition urging Congress to immediately start drilling for oil domestically. If you haven't signed the petition yet, I hope you'll sign it now and join me in sending a message to Congress that we need real solutions to stop the pain Americans are feeling at the pump.The United States has the resources to create its own fuel. For example, the largest domestic resource is oil shale, found in parts of Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming in the Green River Formation. According to estimates, this reserve has over a trillion barrels of oil, with 800 billion barrels fully recoverable, or three times the current oil reserves as Saudi Arabia.Existing technology and current oil prices prove that extracting domestic oil from shale is both feasible and cost effective, but the Left is blocking attempts to take advantage of this resource.Americans truly have a choice – a choice between the Pay More, Send More Money to Foreign Dictators and Cripple America Left and the Produce More, Enjoy More, Pay Less, Stengthen American Center-Right Majority. Make your choice by visiting AmericanSolutions.com.I also want to take the time to congratulate a principled Democratic Representative who had the courage to break with his party leadership last week on the issue of domestic energy production. NewtTue, 27 May 2008 21:10:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3453http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3450/The-True-Meaning-of-Memorial-Day.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3450http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3450&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3450/The-True-Meaning-of-Memorial-Day.aspx Exactly one year ago I was in Hawaii for the launch of our book “Pearl Harbor.” I know, tough job. A lot of it was great fun, especially because my teen age daughter Meghan, my close buddy Bill Butterworth IV  (WEB Griffin Jr.), and Newt’s wife, Callista were with me as well. Sure between breaks we did the usual fun things you do in Hawaii, but that is not what I feel so compelled to write about today, on this the beginning of the Memorial Day weekend. Bill ForstchenTue, 27 May 2008 14:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3450http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3449/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3449http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3449&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3449/Default.aspxMichael Arrington: I asked Newt about his thoughts on the upcoming presidential elections. He clearly supports Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal as McCain’s running mate, and also says there’s a good chance that Hillary Clinton will end up teaming with Obama on the Democrat side of things. How will those two teams stack up? He gives the Democrats a 60% chance of winning.I also asked Gingrich about his own presidential aspirations: “The other twitter question is, When are you going to run for president? Please run for president.” Gingrich responds that...Finish reading the transcript below by clicking Read More, or listen to the podcast here.newt.orgFri, 23 May 2008 19:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3449http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3433/Drill-Now-Drill-Here-Pay-Less.aspx#Comments110http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3433http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3433&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3433/Drill-Now-Drill-Here-Pay-Less.aspxA Real Change Campaign to Lower Your Gas Prices, from American SolutionsSign this petition to urge Congress to support Real Change for Gasoline prices.Consider the following:· The average price for a gallon of gas is now $3.72, this is $.61 higher than a year ago.· In the wake of higher gasoline prices, Congress must act to reduce our dependence on foreign oil. The U.S. Congress has acted, but in the wrong direction. Last week, the Senate voted narrowly against reversing a moratorium on oil-shale development.· Federal officials and industry experts estimate that up to 1.8 trillion barrels of oil is trapped in the region's oil shale, or three times the proven reserves of Saudi Arabia.· Laws and policies that restrict access to America’s abundant energy drive up the price of fuel and electricity. They cause widespread layoffs and leave workers and families struggling to survive, as the cost of everything they eat, drive, wear and do spirals higher.Sign this petition now at American SolutionsMatt ScofieldMon, 19 May 2008 21:33:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3433http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3429/LEARN-AND-EARN--TURNING-AN-IDEA-INTO-REALITY.aspx#Comments13http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3429http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3429&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3429/LEARN-AND-EARN--TURNING-AN-IDEA-INTO-REALITY.aspx My FOX News Interview on Learn and Earn: Sometimes it takes time, and hard work - but ideas can turn into reality. I first heard my Dad mention the idea of paying for learning in 2005 at the Kennedy School of Government. A visionary known for ideas, Dad has more ideas that most people have thoughts. Well, it took a while, but this idea is now a reality - the Learn and Earn pilot program, and has changed the lives of participating students in Fulton County.(Newt on Learn and Earn: Download Quicktime video here)Yesterday, representing the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation, I joined almost 40 middle school and high school students who are participating in the “Learn & Earn” program, along with their teachers to celebrate their achievements. The 15-week study, which began in January, tests the hypothesis that paying students to attend and participate in after-school math and science tutorial sessions will improve their academic performance. The students participating in the program were previously underperforming in math or science (c- or failing).The students were the stars. I heard story after story about grades improving, and students passing graduation tests. Thee students, who were once struggling in math and science, have learned that hard work does pay off and that they can be successful. Several of the middle schoolers were saving the money that they made for their college fund. Several parents come up to me after the ceremony, thrilled with the program's impact on their children. One parent noted that “The program has turned my child around.” Teachers relayed stories of students who were once contemplating dropping out, who were now excited and engaged in learning.View a slideshow of pictures from the eventFulton County Commissioner Robb Pitts, who championed the program since first hearing the idea from Dad joined us for the event. Robb worked with the Fulton County School system and helped put the key participants together. The initiative was privately funded – using no tax dollars – by Charles Loudermilk, chairman and CEO of Aaron Rents Inc, through the LMD Foundation. Charlie first heard about the idea from Dad at a Buckhead Business Coalition event in January 2006.The educators in the Fulton County School system were incredible to work with and provided incredible support and assistance. In an time when public education is often disparaged, it was thrilling to work with people who are truly dedicated to teaching and inspiring students. Results so far are encouraging. Learn & Earn teachers report all students have improved performances in math and science, and preliminary student/teacher focus group findings show improved student attitudes and elevated self-confidence levels. A comprehensive statistical report by EMSTAR Research Inc. will be completed this summer and be made available on the Learning Makes a Difference Foundation website. JcushmanMon, 19 May 2008 14:54:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3429http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3424/Newt-takes-on-the-Obama-appeasement-flap.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3424http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3424&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3424/Newt-takes-on-the-Obama-appeasement-flap.aspxFrom Hannity & Colmes last night, you may find Newt's response to Colmes pretty interesting: View video hereMatt ScofieldFri, 16 May 2008 17:09:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3424http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3422/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3422http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3422&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3422/Default.aspx  Hello Majority Leaders!Leading the Majority is on TODAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.You can also listen to the show on the LTM home page the Monday after the show.This week Rick and Vince welcome The Honorable Robert S. Walker, Chairman of Wexler & Walker and former Republican Congressman. Mr. Walker is the former Chairman of the Science Committee, and he will join Rick and Vince to discuss nuclear power, alternative energy and the key steps Congress can take to increase nuclear power production.Rick and Vince will also be joined by Vincent Reinhart, AEI Scholar and former director of the Federal Reserve Board's Division of Monetary Affairs. Mr. Reinhart will talk about his latest article, "Behind the Food-Price Riots," and share his insight on the current state of high food and energy prices.So tune in live TODAY at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. And if you can't join us today (tear), check the LTM home page on Monday and we'll have the show posted for you then! Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky MichelleFri, 16 May 2008 12:56:57 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3422http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3420/Back-from-the-Days-of-Infamy-Book-Tour.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3420http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3420&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3420/Back-from-the-Days-of-Infamy-Book-Tour.aspxBack from the book tour. . .back to reality!The build up to the launch of a book can be darn exciting. A long time ago I use to compare it to the anticipation a couple must feel waiting for the baby to arrive...(then I became a father and that analogy was dumped, the arrival of my daughter was far more exciting...and scary, and at least there are no critics lingering in the wings!) The day after it is over? Well...I slept....and unlike having a new born in the house, you really can sleep.Bill ForstchenWed, 14 May 2008 18:33:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3420http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3414/Want-happiness-Work-for-freedom.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3414http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3414&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3414/Want-happiness-Work-for-freedom.aspx Arthur Brooks is submitting a couple blog entries this week as our featured guest blogger. He is Louis A. Bantle Professor at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Public Affairs, and a visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute. He is the author of the just-published Gross National Happiness (Basic Books). You can listen to his recent interview on Leading The Majority here.Freedom is a key ingredient to happiness. Sound obvious to you? It isn’t to the politicians and policymakers who almost daily propose regulations, redistribution schemes, speech codes, and methods to keep us safe from ourselves—all of which are supposed to make our lives better, but which inevitably abridge our economic, political, and religious freedoms. Consider the evidence on freedom and happiness. In the year 2000, the National Opinion Research Center’s General Social Survey (GSS) asked how happy people were with their lives, as well as how free they felt they were.Arthur BrooksTue, 13 May 2008 18:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3414http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3408/American-Solutions--Updates-and-Endorsements.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3408http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3408&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3408/American-Solutions--Updates-and-Endorsements.aspx Princella Smith has clued us in to the latest updates from American Solutions. Below is a list of endorsements and states that have passed resolutions/planks of the Platform of the American People into their state party platforms, read more in her most recent blog posts with new news.Platform AdoptionsNevada - 14 planks State levelCalifornia - 16 planks State levelNorth Dakota – State levelAlabama – Bi-partisan resolutions in state legislature *Iowa – District level – State Convention June 14th *Georgia – District level – State Convention May 16-17th *Wisconsin – Passed Committee – State Convention May 16-17th Key Endorsements:U.S. Congressman, Tim Murphy R-PAU.S. Congresswoman, Kay Granger R-TXRep. Roy Ragland, District 90, Arkansas House of Representatives (Endorses top ten planks)Rep. Tom Rice, District 51, Georgia House of RepresentativesWI National Committeeman, Steve KingCA GOP Chairman, Ron NehringCT GOP Chairman, Chris HealyDE GOP Chairman, Terry StrineMI GOP Chairman, Saul AnuzisTexas Federation of Republican Women President, Toni Anne DashiellRep. Ed Garner, District 41, Arkansas House of RepresentativesRep. Daniel Greenberg, District 31, Arkansas House of RepresentativesCatch up with more news at the American Solutions blog.Matt ScofieldMon, 12 May 2008 17:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3408http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3406/Today-on-Leading-the-Majority.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3406http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3406&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3406/Today-on-Leading-the-Majority.aspx It's that time again! Yes, you guessed it....Leading the Majority is on THIS FRIDAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.You can also listen to the show on the LTM home page starting the Monday after the show.This week Rick and Vince welcome Arthur C. Brooks, AEI Scholar and Louis A. Bantle Professor of Business and Government Policy at Syracuse University's Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and Whitman School of Management.Professor Brooks will join Rick and Vince to discuss his latest book, Gross National Happiness: Why Happiness Matters for America--and How We Can Get More of It, which former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich has called "a must read for every person who wants to understand what policies America needs." So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. And if you miss it check the LTM home page on Monday and we'll have the show posted then.Your Fearless Producer,Michelle Selesky MichelleFri, 09 May 2008 16:42:16 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3406http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3403/Updated-articles-in-the-On-The-Issues-section.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3403http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3403&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3403/Updated-articles-in-the-On-The-Issues-section.aspxYou’ll notice several new posts in the On The Issues section recently, a reflection of the desire to bring Newt.org visitors timely and interesting stories that illustrate conservative principles in action. Look for daily content updates that might otherwise go unnoticed among the headlines on the economy and the 2008 election season. As always, your comments are desired (and encouraged) on stories we post, and on the blogs posted by our users. They are read and appreciated by many, and help extend the conversation.From time to time, we would also like to turn your attention to interesting technologies that might help you expand your horizons through technology, or make it easier to network with other conservatives.On that note, there is a nifty program that helps you organize your inbox and contact lists, called Xobni (inbox spelled backwards, www.xobni.com) You can read the NY Times article by Brad Stone here. In a nutshell:“Xobni … has produced free downloadable software that, once installed, indexes all the e-mail in Outlook and makes those messages quickly and easily searchable.” … “Other programs, like Google Desktop, perform that same basic index-and-search function. But Xobni, which its creators call an “intelligent filter,” adds a few more features. When it scours the inbox, it extracts phone numbers it thinks are associated with the sender. So when a user searches for a person, Xobni presents the number in a side panel to Outlook.”While just for Outlook now, Xobni promises to support other popular email clients in the future. Conservative bloggers, campaign workers, local activists, and just about anybody that actively uses Outlook can benefit from a tool such as this. Getting things done is always easier when you have multiple levels of contacts, as our lives are ever more influenced by social networking.Your comments on tips like these are appreciated, and we look forward to hearing from you in the On The Issues section of Newt.org.newt.orgThu, 08 May 2008 18:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3403http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3392/Default.aspx#Comments83http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3392http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3392&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3392/Default.aspxI have read your thoughtful comments to my blog post from last week and hope this more thorough response answers some of your questions.Entering the Arena:Why Conservatives Must Engage in the Environment-Energy Policy DebateWhat conservatives too often narrowly – and mistakenly – dismiss as "environmentalism" really encompasses four very real, parallel challenges:NewtMon, 05 May 2008 18:25:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3392http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3387/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3387http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3387&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3387/Default.aspx Happy Friday, Leaders of the Majority! Have we got a fully-loaded all-star line-up for you today! This week Rick and Vince welcome Nicholas Negroponte, founder and chairman of the One Laptop Per Child non-profit association. Mr. Negroponte will talk about the innovative XO laptop and his efforts to provide children around the world with a quality education. Rick and Vince will also be joined by Dr. William Forstchen, co-author of the newly released, Days of Infamy. The New York Times bestselling author will talk about his new book how and how we can apply the study of "active history" to 2008. Dr. Philip Salzman will also join Rick and Vince to talk about his book, Culture and Conflict in the Middle East. Negroponte, Forstchen and Salzman are all leading experts in their field of study... that makes for one great show! So tune in TODAY at 2pm ET on www.rightalk.com to listen to Leading the Majority with Rick & Vince! *UPDATE* Friday's show is now available on-demand, just click here to listen Your Fearless Producer, Michelle Selesky MichelleFri, 02 May 2008 13:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3387http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3383/On-The-Road.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3383http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3383&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3383/On-The-Road.aspx I’ve always wanted to title an essay like that, “On the Road.”   Living in North Carolina I was always an admirer of Charles Kuralt.    As I write this Newt and I are running around NYC promoting the launch of “Days of Infamy.”    It can get hectic, even a bit intimidating when you walk into a book store and four hundred people are lined up for copies.   Newt might be use to it, but as a writer I am a bit more of a recluse.   Another thing, of so many, that I admire about Newt is that he is inexhaustible.  Bill ForstchenThu, 01 May 2008 17:26:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3383http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3380/Newts-appearance-on-the-Daily-Show.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3380http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3380&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3380/Newts-appearance-on-the-Daily-Show.aspxMatt ScofieldWed, 30 Apr 2008 15:45:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3380http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3379/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3379http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3379&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3379/Default.aspx First, to Randy, and a couple of other friends who have written back so far.   Thank you!   Hope you are well and appreciate your thoughts.  I like the feedback and questions so keep them coming!   I wanted share a few thoughts about the writing of this book, and just things in general when it comes to a book launch, especially one co-authored with Newt. Sure, I could drone on for boring pages about the fact that it was a heck of a lot of hard work.   What isn’t if you want to do something right?   But on the other side, it was also a lot of fun.   It’s hard to explain working with Newt.   A lot of people ask me about it, my usual answer with a grin is...  Bill ForstchenWed, 30 Apr 2008 15:09:13 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3379http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3377/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3377http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3377&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3377/Default.aspx© Callista Gingrich, Gingrich ProductionsWell its a busy week already here as Newt and Callista are traveling around the country promoting the new work of historical fiction by Newt and Bill Forstchen, Days of Infamy.Callista has been snapping photos of a few events and we've posted a photo album of the tour so far. Click here to see photos of the book tour.There are several media appearances, including The Daily Show w/ Jon Stewart tonight, so make sure you check out the Calendar to see when he is appearing on radio, tv or in-person for a book signing.*UPDATE* Check out this video interview with Newt conducted today by John Fout at TheStreet.com.Also here is a clip from his interview with Barbara Walters this morning.Matt ScofieldTue, 29 Apr 2008 17:53:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3377http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3372/Updates-from-American-Solutions.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3372http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3372&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3372/Updates-from-American-Solutions.aspxPrincella Smith has been doing admirable work for American Solutions to build support for the Platform of the American People (POAP). The Platform is a core set of "tri-partisan" values, principles and solutions that will unite a majority of Americans and effect real change now.Mrs. Smith's efforts have lead to the Nevada GOP recently adopting 13 planks into their State Platform, and U.S. Representative Kay Granger endorsing the Platform of the American People as well. There have also been almost 100 new people signing up on the POAP as well.Princella will be on Neil Cavuto's show today on FOX at 4:05pm EST, and also she will appear with Newt on Hannity's America this Sunday, May 4th, at 9pmEST to talk about American Solutions and the Platform of the American People. Tune in!newt.orgMon, 28 Apr 2008 18:59:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3372http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3366/The-Card-Check-bill-and-Union-political-power.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3366http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3366&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3366/The-Card-Check-bill-and-Union-political-power.aspxI attended a conservative bloggers luncheon in D.C. this week with Sen. John Ensign (R-NV). He spoke on behalf of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) and estimated that if Democrats pass the Card Check bill, then, for Wal-Mart alone (were it to be unionized by the easy Card Check method) up to $430 million in union dues would be collected -- money which funneled into political activity would utterly change the political landscape as we know it.Sen. Ensign pulled no punches with his example above and stated that the biggest reason to help Senate Republicans keep their seats is to prevent the Democrats from passing the Card Check bill. This is important from a conservative perspective because it is a fundmental expectation that when you vote you do so privately, without intimidation. A Card Check bill would remove from workers the right to cast a secret ballot when deciding on unionzation and make it so they just need to sign a card, in public or wherever union officials could harrass you into doing so.To wit, watch this excellent ad featuring a "Sopranos" star on the issue:To learn more about preventing the Card Check bill from passing, visit the NRSC.Matt ScofieldFri, 25 Apr 2008 20:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3366http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3364/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3364http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3364&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3364/Default.aspxIt's that time again! Yes, you guessed it....Leading the Majority is on THIS FRIDAY at 2pm EST on Rightalk.com.This week Rick and Vince welcome Mr. Michael Novak, former U.S. ambassador and George Frederick Jewett Scholar in Religion and Public Policy at the American Enterprise Institute. Mr. Novak will discuss his upcoming book, No One Sees God, and share his insight on the results of the Pennsylvania primary.Rick and Vince will also be joined by U.S. Congressman Tim Murphy, a leader on healthcare and Co-chair of the 21st Century Healthcare Caucus. Congressman Murphy will discuss his Healthy Hospitals Act and the recently-passed Dingell-Murphy Bill.So tune in live at 2pm EST on www.rightalk.com. You won't want to miss it!Your Fearless Producer,Michelle SeleskyMichelleThu, 24 Apr 2008 20:47:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3364http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3363/Are-Michigan-and-Florida-states.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3363http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3363&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3363/Are-Michigan-and-Florida-states.aspxOne of the things we love to do here at Newt.org is follow politics regardless of the party. Its an inherently interesting topic we are passionate about. Towards that, Hillary Clinton's expected victory yesterday became the subject of much conversation around here.Matt ScofieldWed, 23 Apr 2008 23:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3363http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3362/My-ontheclock-nostalgia-tour.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3362http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3362&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3362/My-ontheclock-nostalgia-tour.aspx One of the more fun aspects of our job here at Gingrich Communications is the opportunity to “staff” Newt when he delivers speeches all over the country.  Staffing Newt essentially involves keeping everything on schedule, knowing where to go next, and coordinating other details.  It’s a relatively easy assignment because most of Newt’s speeches are hosted by groups who know how to organize an event; so I’m basically there as a backup.  The best part is that during the travel time you get to converse with Newt and brainstorm.  It’s an amazing educational opportunity.    Well, last Thursday, I had the odd experience of one of these educational opportunities intersecting with a previous one – my alma mater, DrewUniversity in Madison, NJ.    Newt was speaking there as part of the Tom Kean lecture series which has attracted luminaries such as Madeline Albright, Bill Clinton, and other famous opinion leaders.  When I saw back in November that the speech had been booked, I made sure I was the staff person for the trip.  What a great opportunity to revisit the old stomping grounds!  And after all, who else on staff has such an intimate knowledge of the event site?  joedesantisWed, 23 Apr 2008 19:52:44 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3362http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3351/Default.aspx#Comments426http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3351http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3351&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3351/Default.aspx *UPDATE* Newt has responded to your comments below! CLICK HERE to read this latest response to you! Visit ContractWithTheEarth.com for more on green conservatism Many of you have written to me to ask why I recently taped an advertisement with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi for The Alliance for Climate Protection, a group founded by former Vice President Al Gore. I completely understand why many of you would have questions about this, so I want to take this opportunity to explain my reasons. First of all, I want to be clear: I don't think that we have conclusive proof of global warming. And I don't think we have conclusive proof that humans are at the center of it. But here's what we do know... NewtTue, 22 Apr 2008 21:36:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3351http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3341/Online-echat-today-at-11-ET.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3341http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3341&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3341/Online-echat-today-at-11-ET.aspx Newt is conducting an online e-chat with Slate magazine this morning. The topic is the environment and Newt's book A Contract With The Earth. You can participate in the chat here:http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/discussion/2008/04/17/DI2008041703486.htmlThe transcript of the chat is available there as well.And you can catch up with all of Newt's points on the environment at ContractWithTheEarth.com newt.orgMon, 21 Apr 2008 12:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3341http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3337/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3337http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3337&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3337/Default.aspx Hello fellow Newt.org-ers!   This is Michelle Selesky again, your Leading the Majority radio show producer. Boy have we got a show for you this week! Two very special guests will be joining us...   This Friday Rick and Vince welcome Dr. Thomas Sowell, Senior Fellow of Public Policy at the Hoover Institution. Dr. Sowell will join Rick and Vince to discuss his latest book, Economic Facts and Fallacies, which sheds light on important economic issues being ignored in politics and by the media. You might say that this book "puts the flesh of real issues on the bare skeleton of economic theory."   Then, Rick and Vince will be joined by Ben Stein, filmmaker and recipient of the OSD Exceptional Public Service Award, to talk about his new film, Expelled, a documentary that chronicles his confrontation with the widespread suppression of freedom of inquiry.   You don't want to miss it! It's going to be a great show, and you're invited!    Join us by going to www.rightalk.com at 2pm EST. Click on the channel for "Leading the Majority." Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the show because it's going to be a great one! (Always is...)   Your Fearless Producer, Michelle MichelleThu, 17 Apr 2008 18:48:52 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3337http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3333/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3333http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3333&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3333/Default.aspx The Supreme Court today upheld Kentucky's use of lethal injection in administering the death penalty. Deciding 7-2 in Baze v. Rees, they concluded that Kentucky was not violating the Eighth Amendment's prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment.What is great in this opinion is Justice Scalia writing another great criticism of judicial fiat which so many liberal justices of recent decades have employed. In this case, his wit and intellect are directed at Justice Stevens, who basically rejected any other evidence besides his own opinion:But actually none of this really matters. As Justice Stevens explains, “ ‘objective evidence, though of great importance, [does] not wholly determine the controversy, for the Constitution contemplates that in the end our own judgment will be brought to bear on the question of the acceptability of the death penalty under the Eighth Amendment.’ ” “I have relied on my own experience in reaching the conclusion that the imposition of the death penalty” is unconstitutional.Purer expression cannot be found of the principle of rule by judicial fiat... (click to Read More) Matt ScofieldWed, 16 Apr 2008 19:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3333http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3332/Changing-the-way-we-hold-Presidential-Debates.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3332http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3332&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3332/Changing-the-way-we-hold-Presidential-Debates.aspxAndrew Glass of Politico recently noted an idea that Newt, and others, have espoused of setting aside nine consecutive Sundays for 90-minute presidential debates in the run-up to Election Day. Newt hopes by doing this "that these nine debates would force substance into the final phase of a campaign that is almost certain by that time to be exhausted by cynicism, sound bites and 24/7 drivel."Here is video, provided by American Solutions, of Newt talking about this idea of "Nine Nineties in Nine":Matt ScofieldTue, 15 Apr 2008 23:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3332http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3331/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3331http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3331&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3331/Default.aspx As I mentioned in my last entry, I have dozens of stories about how Newt and I work together  when writing a book.  With our next book, Days of Infamy, I sought out a bit of a different type of research.  One of the great things about working with Newt is he can really open up doors when an historian needs a door opened. Bill ForstchenTue, 15 Apr 2008 22:09:15 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3331http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3327/Newt-on-Carters-visit-with-Hamas.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3327http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3327&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3327/Newt-on-Carters-visit-with-Hamas.aspxView the video below to get Newt's take on Jimmy Carter's visit with Hamas:newt.orgMon, 14 Apr 2008 20:56:56 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3327http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3321/The-real-Obama-shows-up-in-San-Francisco.aspx#Comments11http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3321http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3321&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3321/The-real-Obama-shows-up-in-San-Francisco.aspx "And [these small towns] fell through the Clinton administration, andthe Bush administration, and each successive administration has saidthat somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not..."  Obama reportedly continued. "It's not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations."-Senator Barack Obama April 2008, San Francisco If you go to the most expensive private school in Hawaii and then move on to Columbia University and Harvard Law School, you may not understand normal Americans. Their beliefs are so alien to your leftwing viewpoint that you have to seek some psychological explanation for what seem to be weird ideas. They can't really believe in the right to bear arms. They can't really believe in traditional marriage. They can't really believe in their faith in God. They can't really want to enforce the law on immigration. Therefore, they must be "bitter" and "frustrated." This is the closest Senator Obama has come to openly sharing his wife's view that "America is a mean country". Not since Governor Dukakis have we seen anyone so out of touch with normal Americans. It makes perfect sense that it was in a fundraiser in San Francisco that he would have shared the views he has so carefully kept hidden for the entire campaign. NewtSat, 12 Apr 2008 21:06:38 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3321http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3319/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3319http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3319&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3319/Default.aspx Newt recently gave a lecture at Princeton, in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs. The topic was Health Care, and you can view the lecture using these links below, courtesy of Princeton:Running time 1:05:42 RealVideo: 56K 350K WM Video: 56K 350K If you want to learn more about what we are doing in the Health Care field, visit Center for Health Transformation newt.orgFri, 11 Apr 2008 15:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3319http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3312/Another-example-of-the-need-for-Real-Change.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3312http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3312&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3312/Another-example-of-the-need-for-Real-Change.aspx Download the mp3 directly to your computer by right-clicking the link below and selecting "save as" or "save target as."Newt on Hannity MP3 The Census failure by the Commerce Department: An example of everything that is wrong with GovernmentListen to Newt talk with Hannity today about the boondoggle that is the multi-billion dollar failure of the Commerce department to implement a technology plan for the Census in 2010.This failure is another example of the need to move the gov't to the world that works. What do you think can help take us there? Is this an issue McCain should seize upon?newt.orgWed, 09 Apr 2008 21:18:02 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3312http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3309/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3309http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3309&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3309/Default.aspxNewt writes this week of the sacrifice of Petty Officer 2nd Class Mike Monsoor and how "Any judgment we make about where we are and what we must do in Iraq must be conditioned by the courage and commitment of those who have volunteered to protect us." This is especially important in light of today's testimony by Gen. Petraeus.To help illuminate some more on the recent operations in Iraq and the General will be testifying about (here is his opening statement to Congress today), here are some links from non-traditional media sources to help round out your point of view on our progress in Iraq:Courtesy of Blackfive, we bring you this video of recent Special Forces fighting in Sadr City:Also courtesy of Blackfive is this great tribute to Michael Monsoor, you can view this video below:Finally, also take a look at independent reporter Bill Roggio of the Long War Journal. He writes on a closer look at the related Operation Knights' Assault in Basrah of these past couple weeks in addition to having his team regular cover updates from all the hot beds of Islamic Fundamentalism.newt.orgTue, 08 Apr 2008 14:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3309http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3307/Newt-and-Nancy-film-an-Ad-on-Climate-Change.aspx#Comments108http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3307http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3307&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3307/Newt-and-Nancy-film-an-Ad-on-Climate-Change.aspxReturn to Main Blog Page© Callista Gingrich, Gingrich ProductionsNewt recently filmed a commercial with current Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. The ad focuses on how we can come together to find solutions for problems caused by climate change.For Newt's explanation of why he filmed this ad for the Alliance for Climate Protection, founded by Al Gore, please visit ContractWithTheEarth.com. Click play on the Audio box to the right.After listening to his explanation, let us know your thoughts below so we can share them with Newt.You can view the ad below:Return to Main Blog Pagenewt.orgMon, 07 Apr 2008 23:13:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3307http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3305/American-Solutions-Updates.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3305http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3305&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3305/American-Solutions-Updates.aspxAmerican Solutions announced that they recently received an award for online political communication.They won the prestigious Pollie Award for Newt Gingrich's appearance in the virtual world of Second Life. The Pollie Awards are given out annually from the American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC) to honor the best in political communication.American Solutions won the award in the category of "Best Use of New Technology."Gingrich's Second Life presentation took place on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol on September 27, 2007, the 13-year anniversary of the Contract With America. The presentation was a part of a series of nationwide Solutions Day workshops designed to foster collaboration and a new wave of citizen involvement in a positive, solutions-oriented movement."We are dedicated to using the latest technology to create a dialogue about solutions, and we thought the rich, interactive experience in Second Life was a great way to begin this conversation online," said David Kralik, Director of Internet Strategy for American Solutions. "We'd like to thank the American Association of Political Consultants for this award, and we look forward to exploring more opportunities to communicate more effectively online."Also, American Solutions released new polling today showing that 79% of the American people support a worker's right to a federally supervised secret ballot election when deciding whether or not to join a union.The tri-partisan agreement to defend this right is overwhelming, as 77% of Republicans, 82% of Democrats, and 79% of independents believe in protecting private ballots. Support for private ballots was so broad it also spanned every subgroup examined, including majorities of every age, race, geographic group and both genders.This is in direct contrast with H.R. 800, a bill before Congress known as the Employee Free Choice Act (EFCA). The EFCA, which passed the House last year and is currently before the Senate, is the top legislative priority for union bosses. This bill would strip workers of their secret ballot rights and replace it with a card‐check system that makes their votes public and subject to intimidation from union organizers.You can read more at www.AmericanSolutions.com/SecretBallotsMatt ScofieldFri, 04 Apr 2008 17:54:25 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3305http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3301/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3301http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3301&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3301/Default.aspxRick and Vince welcome Dr. Fred Kagan, Resident Scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, who specializes in defense issues and the American military. He will discuss his recently published Phase IV Report entitled Iraq: The Way Ahead, on Leading the Majority.Listen LIVE on Rightalk.com at 2pm EST!Matt ScofieldFri, 04 Apr 2008 15:30:44 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3301http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3298/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3298http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3298&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3298/Default.aspxThe LA Times reports today on how Saudi Arabia "remains the world's leading source of money for Al Qaeda and other extremist networks and has failed to take key steps requested by U.S. officials to stem the flow."Says Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), these "Saudi failures mean that Americans who pay more than $100 a barrel for oil are in effect bankrolling extremism because wealthy Saudis "back-door" their profits into charities that fund extremist causes."What are your thoughts on the situation? How best to go about resolving it?newt.orgThu, 03 Apr 2008 17:10:52 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3298http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3287/How-Newt-and-I-research-a-book.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3287http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3287&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3287/How-Newt-and-I-research-a-book.aspx Newt and I engage in a heck of a lot of  research before the first word of our books is ever typed into a computer.   One of the things that stuns me about him is with all that he does and is involved in, he is still a voracious reader. Bill ForstchenMon, 31 Mar 2008 15:44:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3287http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3286/Answering-a-few-questions.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3286http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3286&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3286/Answering-a-few-questions.aspx Answering a few questions regarding my co-authoring with Newt. Bill ForstchenMon, 31 Mar 2008 15:34:46 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3286http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3279/Newt-speaks-in-Cincinnati.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3279http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3279&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3279/Newt-speaks-in-Cincinnati.aspxNewt was in Cincinnati recently, and the Ohio GOP kindly posted a YouTube video of his speech, which we've included below.Don't forget that Newt has a YouTube channel where you can view many clips of his speeches (most are cross posted here at Newt.org in the Media Center).newt.orgTue, 25 Mar 2008 19:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3279http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3263/Join-us-Friday-on-Leading-the-Majority.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3263http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3263&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3263/Join-us-Friday-on-Leading-the-Majority.aspx Hi Folks! Michelle Selesky here-- I am a proud member of the Gingrich Communications team and the Producer of our exciting weekly radio show, Leading the Majority with Rick Tyler & Vince Haley. Pleasure to meet you! You have a date TOMORROW at 2pm ET on RIGHTALK.COM with Rick & Vince and their special guest Dr. Peter Wood! Dr. Wood is joining us as the Executive Director of the National Association of Scholars. He'll tell you what he thinks about Senator Obama's latest speech and also fill you in with the latest news on the state of our nation's college campuses. Go to RIGHTALK.COM on Friday at 2pm ET for another great episode of Leading the Majority! We'll save you a seat! MichelleThu, 20 Mar 2008 19:19:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3263http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3262/Help-get-25000-signatures-for-the-Platform.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3262http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3262&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3262/Help-get-25000-signatures-for-the-Platform.aspxOur colleague Princella Smith at American Solutions reports on the increasing adoption of the Platform of the American People. We are working with them to help get 25,000 signatures for the Platform.Sign the Platform here and share the same link with others too!Princella reports below on the California GOP's adoption of over 15 planks of the Platform into their state party platform:Read the rest of the updates from other state parties in her blog post.Please share your thoughts below about how we can increase adoption of the Platform and bring about Real Change.Also share the link to Princella's post on the increasing adoption of the Platform of the American People:http://www.americansolutions.com/Blog/Read.aspx?guid=c7467ea9-5da1-4daf-85c6-a4a2fd86cd4eMatt ScofieldThu, 20 Mar 2008 15:57:06 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3262http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3259/Default.aspx#Comments13http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3259http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3259&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3259/Default.aspx Where does one start with the first entry for “their” blog?    I guess hello to anyone out there reading this would be a good enough start!   My name is Bill Forstchen.   Newt and I have been friends for over fourteen years (yup going all the way back to when he was Minority Whip and something called Contract with America was still in the making), and across the years we have written six books together.   Maybe for this first entry a good idea might be to answer that one question I am asked most often about our collaborative effort.   Usually the question is asked seriously, on more than a few occasions, it is asked with a sarcastic edge. . . “Who does what in your books, and what exactly does Newt do?”   When asked seriously, I love to answer since it is a darn good valid question, when asked with that sarcastic edge, implying that I am simply a ghost writer, and Newt does not pull more than his share, it does get me more than a bit ticked.   Sure there are plenty of “vanity” books out there, where a famous name is on top and the “other guy” or woman does the work  (dare I mention some current politicians who have done that?)    But back to the question at hand. . .who does what? Bill ForstchenWed, 19 Mar 2008 16:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3259http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3256/Freakonomics-QA.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3256http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3256&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3256/Freakonomics-QA.aspxNewt did a special Q&A session with the Freakonomics blog at the NYTimes, which blog author Stephen J. Dubner calls "easily one of the best Q&A's we've had".Check it out here: http://freakonomics.blogs.nytimes.com/2008/03/14/newt-gingrich-answers-your-questions/newt.orgTue, 18 Mar 2008 18:49:25 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3256http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3255/Newt-on-Obamas-speech-today.aspx#Comments34http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3255http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3255&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3255/Newt-on-Obamas-speech-today.aspxBarack Obama gave a speech today, stemming from the recent controversy surrounding his Pastor, Rev. Wright.Newt will be delivering his take on the speech on Sean Hannity's radio show this afternoon, and also later on both Your World w/ Neil Cavuto and Hannity & Colmes on FOX.**UPDATE**We have audio of his appearance below, click "Read more" below, and we would like you to share your thoughts with the team here. I see one of our members, Jeff (concepts2), has chimed in already, noting:"The Audacity of Hope is not character. Making excuses for, and refusing to truly distance himself from Rev. Wright says something about the content of Obama's character. He's saying that we should trust his judgement rather than our own, and I think that message rang hollow."So what do you think?You can read a transcript of Obama's speech here and please join in the discussion below.newt.orgTue, 18 Mar 2008 18:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3255http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3252/Monday-Miscellany.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3252http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3252&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3252/Monday-Miscellany.aspx The Heritage Foundation has a great look at the cost, per congressional district, of the proposed House budget combined with the Bush Tax Cuts expiring.  The gist: "The House’s budget could cause a loss of more than $100 billion in GDP in 2012 and could also reduce job creation by over 1 million jobs that year. Furthermore, as a result of the House budget, every taxpayer can expect to pay, on average, more than $2,000 in taxes in 2012, while also losing an average of $1,767 in personal income."  Check out the chart here. Bob Owens of Pajamas Media notes some the great independent reporting on the war in Iraq, and what effect it could have if the mainstream media listened to it. Finally, Newt will be on the O'Reilly Factor tonight on FOX News.  He will be discussing several things, most prominently the Obama/Rev. Wright controversy.  To whet your appetite, check out the interesting comments from Neal Boortz on this issue. Boortz also notes he likes the new HBO miniseries on founding father John Adams, did any of you happen to catch it this weekend? Don't forget to tune into Newt on O'Reilly tonight! newt.orgMon, 17 Mar 2008 16:47:44 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3252http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3249/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3249http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3249&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3249/Default.aspx © Callista Gingrich, Gingrich ProductionsWe have posted Newt's most recent speech, given at the American Enterprise Institute, March 12.  The full speech is available by clicking here. or by simply clicking on "Media Center" above. Let us know your thoughts below, how important were these Reagan speeches to you?  What kind of leadership do we need in light of the lessons Newt makes? We'll make sure to share your feedback with Newt as always. newt.orgFri, 14 Mar 2008 20:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3249http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3245/Gingrich-advice-for-McCains-VP-pick.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3245http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3245&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3245/Gingrich-advice-for-McCains-VP-pick.aspxYou may recall our tounge-in-cheek Valentine's day blog post on who McCain should pick for VP. Well we appreciated your feedback then, and now have an update with some recent advice from Speaker Gingrich himself.On Greta van Susteren's FOX show yesterday, Newt gave the following advice for McCain:GINGRICH: This will surprise you. For obvious reasons, I think he cannot be picked, but I would say the best political leaders of the Republican Party is Jeb Bush by a huge margin.VAN SUSTEREN: Why can he not pick him?GINGRICH: I think you could not have a third Bush in this cycle. This would bring up everything about defending his brother. But Jeb Bush is a remarkable, I think, leader.VAN SUSTEREN: Plus Florida.GINGRICH: And I think he is just one of the most articulate and effective and sincere guys I know.An interesting idea to be sure, but overall McCain should listen to Newt's advice from his appearance on Brian and the Judge this morning:"My only advice to Senator McCain would be don’t even think about it until July 1st. Wait and see how the Democrats evolve and then think about a) who could be President and b)who could help you get elected, because if you don’t get elected you don’t get to be worried about who can be President."Matt ScofieldThu, 13 Mar 2008 16:56:09 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3245http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3243/Tear-Down-This-Wall.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3243http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3243&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3243/Tear-Down-This-Wall.aspxAs you may know, we currently have an exclusive page up for you to visit with many details surrounding the 25th anniversary of two Reagan speeches which changed history.Newt's lecture on these speeches will be conducted today at AEI. We will have the video available for all of you to view tomorrow on Newt.orgIn anticipation of this lecture on Reagan's speeches, I present some background info, courtesy of PowerLine, on another great Reagan speech. This one is from June 12, 1987 at the Brandenburg Gate in front of the Berlin Wall. It was Peter Robinson who wrote the speech and he tells the story behind the speech in his terrific book How Ronald Reagan Changed My Life. Peter condensed his account for Power Line so click here to read it, and you can view some of the speech directly below:Matt ScofieldWed, 12 Mar 2008 14:06:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3243http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3241/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3241http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3241&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3241/Default.aspxToday I attended the Conservative Bloggers luncheon, organized by Robert Bluey of the Heritage Foundation and hosted by Americans for Prosperity. Many folks were abuzz with news from the big press conference today:There is increasing support for a one year earmark moratorium in Congress. This is good news for reforming the spending process, or at least part of it, as all 3 presidential candidates now support this bill. It's sponsor, Sen. DeMint, notes:"Earmarks are a bipartisan addiction and true reform will require bipartisan action. Senator John McCain has worked for years to bring Democrats and Republicans together to close the earmark favor factory, and I'm proud to stand with him. It’s time to end wasteful Washington spending. I thank Senators McCaskill, Obama and Clinton for their support."The first guest of the luncheon, John Fund of the Wall St. Journal, noted that this a win for the spending reform movement, earmarks are now a four-letter word in D.C. However there is still work to do. Some legislators will be incredibly creative in trying to find ways around the moratorium, and in corrupting the reform packages Congress is considering. As Sen. Coburn of Oklahoma notes, "For the past twenty years earmarks have been the gateway drug to spending addiction in Congress."The big vote on the moratorium bill is Thursday -- contact your Congressional representatives today and make sure they know you support Sen. DeMint's Earmark Moratorium bill -- that you want Real Change to happen now!Matt ScofieldTue, 11 Mar 2008 18:52:06 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3241http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3238/What-does-it-mean-to-change-history.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3238http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3238&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3238/What-does-it-mean-to-change-history.aspx The banner on Newt.org today says, "Two speeches that changed history."  But what does it mean to "change history?"  How can we change history?  Don't we actually mean to change the future? I decided to ask one of the smarter people I know, Vince Haley, Newt's Research Director at the American Enterprise Institute.  This was his response: The phrase means that someone changed what appeared to be the trajectory/course of history.  The course of history, prior to Reagan, was that the Soviet Union was here for a long while, and would continue to keep people under the boot.  Reagan changed history, in that he changed its course, and redirected. March 2008 is the 25th anniversary of Ronald Reagan's "evil empire" speech and the address to the nation in which he first outlined the strategic defense initiative, or missile defense.  These two speeches fundamentally altered the direction of the Cold War, from a "reasonable" expectation that the Soviet Union would be around forever, towards Ronald Reagan's original strategy for the Cold War, "We win, they lose." To celebrate, Newt is giving an address at the American Enterprise Institute this Wednesday.  We'll be sure to post it soon afterward on Thursday.  We've also prepared a summary page here on newt.org with audio clips, transcripts and more celebrating the two speeches.  I especially recommend viewing the documents showing the sampling of the number of people who came out against Reagan.  The list is surprisingly bipartisan, which just goes to show you how steadfast Reagan really was.  Ronald Reagan truly is proof that one man can change history and underscores the importance of strong leadership as we face a new enemy today.  Newt was on Hannity's America Sunday night to talk about the anniversary of the two speeches.  You can view it below. P.S. Compare Ronald Reagan's Strategic Defense Initiative Speech to these campaign promises.  Doesn't this underscore the necessity to study these two historic speeches to remind America of the importance of strong leadership and a strong foreign policy? joedesantisMon, 10 Mar 2008 19:40:03 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3238http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3228/Default.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3228http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3228&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3228/Default.aspx News is out today that February employment numbers were worse than expected, and that the numbers from January and February were revised downward.  At the Corner at NRO, there is a link to an analysis which stipulates these numbers "are not signaling recession. What we have is a temporary hiring freeze at many firms in response to fears of a recession, not the kind of layoffs that occur during actual recessions... ...(also) this is the first business cycle in history when Baby Boomers have started to retire. Negative payrolls in the 1980s and 1990s would have been a very bad sign given trend payroll growth of 200,000+ per month. In a world with trend payroll growth near 100,000, payroll declines are less indicative of recession. Also, the recent weakening in the labor market resembles the acceleration of post-recession job losses in early 2003, as fears mounted about the war with Iraq. That weakening was temporary, and we expect recent weakness to be temporary too." Whether you agree with this analysis or not, how concerned are you about the state of the American economy? newt.orgFri, 07 Mar 2008 18:38:55 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3228http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3225/Thursday-Miscellany.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3225http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3225&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3225/Thursday-Miscellany.aspxHere are some articles from around the web which should be of interest to my fellow Newt.org members:Rep. Jim Matheson (D-UT) visited Colombia and talks about the need to pass the free trade agreement with the country. Currently embroiled in a conflict with narco-terrorist group FARC, who pose as Marxists, as well as providing an alternative to socialists like Chavez in the region, Colombia "has made tremendous strides to provide security for its population . . . [however], they're clearly very open about all the challenges they face," says Matheson.Meanwhile the IBD notes Colombia's strong desire for free trade and how Chavez's recent mobilization of troops to the border with Colombia is really empty strategically. Indeed they note, "The U.S. Southern Command, in a bit of thinly disguised mischief on its Web site, noted how fine its new U.S. base in Suriname near Venezuela's now-unguarded eastern frontier was going."Here are 5 useful web applications you probably aren't using. I found at least 3 of them pretty interesting, so take a look for yourself and let me know what you think.Did you know that Thousands of foreign students are still in U.S. flight schools illegally? The TSA, like the INS units it replaced, still has trouble simply enforcing the law. The need for Real Change couldn't be more obvious.Finally today, a 2006 article from the esteemed Theodore Dalrymple on the state of youth and crime in England, entitled It's This Bad. It is an excellent article, I encourage you to read it as an important historical lesson. A prescient quote:"The newspapers confirmed what I had long perceived before I left Britain: that the zeitgeist of the country is now one of sentimental moralizing combined with the utmost cynicism, where the government’s pretended concern for the public welfare coexists with the most elementary dereliction of duty. There is an absence of any kind of idealism that is a necessary precondition of probity, so that bad faith prevails almost everywhere."Matt ScofieldThu, 06 Mar 2008 16:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3225http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3223/Default.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3223http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3223&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3223/Default.aspxTonight there is a VIP event occuring at AEI for John Howard, former prime minister of Australia and ally of our forces in Iraq, which Newt will be attending. Howard is the 2008 recipient of AEI's Irving Kristol Award. The annual award, selected by the Institute's Council of Academic Advisers, is given to individuals who have made exceptional intellectual or practical contributions to improved government policy, social welfare, or political understanding.As you may know, Newt is a Senior Fellow at AEI, and here are 3 projects that he has been focusing on there recently:Optional One Page, One Rate Tax Plan—We are working with Congressman Burgess to promote the concept of an optional flat tax form that can be filed as one page. This is an idea that we wrote about in Real Change. It would create a single rate of taxation for businesses and individuals, while maintaining deductions for marriage and dependents. Members of Congress who are receptive to the idea, in addition to Reps Michael Burgess (R-TX), include David Dreier (R-CA), and Paul Ryan (R-WI), and Senators Arlen Specter (R-PA) and Sam Brownback (R-KS). Over 80% of Americans surveyed would prefer an optional single rate with a one page form to the current system.National Aviation Reform-- We would like to see the Federal Aviation Administration be more proactive on the implementation of the Next Generation (‘NextGen’) air traffic reform proposal. NextGen will streamline air traffic control from the archaic radar model to a more safe and sophisticated satellite-based GPS system. We are working with Secretary of Transportation Peters’s office in advancing this idea.Transportation Reform--We are cooperating with the Departments of Transportation and Energy to develop ideas on a 21st century ground transportation system in America that relies on electronic and variable tolling both to finance more efficiently our roads and reduce congestion more appropriately. States such as California, Minnesota, and Florida have already implemented plans for variable rates, and polls show that commuters favor variable tolls to higher fuel taxes. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters recently spearheaded a dissenting voice from the Transportation for Tomorrow commission; a bipartisan commission made up of Congressmen and Department of Transportation officials. In her decent, Sec. Peters argued that a federal gas tax only perpetuates the problem and raises costs for consumers rather than finding a solution for reducing dependence on foreign oil.Also keep your eye out on Newt.org for video of the Speaker's upcoming AEI speech on March 12th, What if Reagan Had Not Run and the Soviet Union Still Existed? The Twenty-Fifth Anniversary of Two Speeches That Changed HistorySo remember Newt and AEI when you are paying your taxes, delayed at the airport or on the highway -- because he's working to change those situations!newt.orgWed, 05 Mar 2008 17:16:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3223http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3217/Default.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3217http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3217&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3217/Default.aspx There is an interesting exercise in political transparency taking place tomorrow. House Republican Leader John Boehner (R-OH) will live-blog the House Budget Committee debate on the federal budget for 2009.Newt has spoken often of using technology, and its applications in the "world that works", to help transform our government agencies. I remember back as an undergrad at the University of Arizona I worked as a lead researcher for CyPRG, the Cyberspace Policy Research Group. Our main goal was to evaluate how governments the world over were embracing the new technology of the internet. The two main factors we looked for were transparency (openness) and interactivity (internal effectiveness). America consistently ranked at or near the top for many agencies, so it is apleasure to see this experiement in transparency by Rep. Boehner is keeping that spirit alive. Perhaps some day soon we can have full transparency for every dollar the federal gov't spends! The up-to-the-minute budget coverage – dubbed "Budget Buzz" – will be available beginning at 10:30am at http://republicanleader.house.gov/Blog. Says Boehner, "With the largest tax increase in history and a tsunami of entitlement spending on the horizon, the time for bipartisan cooperation to address these priorities is now. House Republicans will offer a series of amendments tomorrow to give Democrats a chance to join us in meeting these challenges, and live on the Republican Leader’s blog, the American people will have the chance to follow the action as it happens." Matt ScofieldTue, 04 Mar 2008 17:30:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3217http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3214/Cute-and-cuddly-no-more.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3214http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3214&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3214/Cute-and-cuddly-no-more.aspx Some of you may remember this picture of Newt taken with Knut the polar bear, listed in our photo album under "Newt's Creatures". Knut was born in the Berlin Zoo and became a bit of a sensation in Germany, and elsewhere, for his adorable looks. But now he has grown up and turned into, according to the Daily Mail in London, a "killing machine". Despite his love for Nature, don't think Newt will be taking another close up pic with him soon, apparently "not even the keeper who raised him by hand dares to get close." newt.orgMon, 03 Mar 2008 16:00:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3214http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3213/Its-Leap-Day.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3213http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3213&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3213/Its-Leap-Day.aspx Thanks to the corner at NRO, I found this little historical gem about leap day: Today is Leap Day, the extra day that we tack on to February every four years to keep the calendar in time with the seasons. We do this because the Earth does not orbit the sun in a nice round 365 days, but rather in 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes, and 45 seconds. Ancient peoples based their calendars on many things, from the movements of the stars to the activities of plants and animals. The Greek poet Hesiod told farmers to begin the harvest when the constellation Pleiades was rising and to begin plowing when it was setting, and to sharpen their farming tools when snails began climbing up plants. Most early calendars were based on the stages of the moon, with lunar months of about 29 days each. But the problem with the lunar calendar is that it's about 11 days short of the actual year, so instead of having to add a leap day every few years, you have to add a leap month. The Egyptians were one of the first civilizations to develop a calendar with 12 months and 365 days. When Julius Caesar rose to power, the Romans were using a calendar that was so faulty they often had to add an extra 80 days to the year. In 46 B.C., after his affair with Cleopatra, Caesar chose to adopt the superior Egyptian calendar, and this became known as the Julian calendar. In the first version of the Julian calendar, February had 29 days most years and 30 days in leap years. Caesar named the month of July after himself, so when Augustus came to power, he decided he needed a month too. He named August after himself, but he had to steal a day from February in order to make August as long as July. The Julian calendar worked well for a while, but in the 13 century, a sick old friar named Roger Bacon sent a letter to the Pope. He had calculated the actual length of the solar year as slightly less than 365.25 days, and he pointed out that the Julian calendar was adding one leap day too many for every 125 years. The result was that Christians were celebrating holy days on the wrong dates. Bacon wrote, "The calendar is intolerable to all wisdom, the horror of astronomy, and a laughing-stock from a mathematician's point of view." Bacon was eventually imprisoned for implying that the pope had been fallible, and his writings were censored. It wasn't until 1582 that Pope Gregory XIII hired a group of Jesuits to fix the calendar, and they came up with the complicated system of omitting the leap day at the beginning of each century, except for those centuries divisible by 400. When Pope Gregory made the change, the calendar was about 10 days off, so Gregory deleted 10 days from the year. People went to sleep on Thursday, Oct. 4 and woke up on Friday, Oct. 15. At first, the Gregorian calendar was only accepted in Catholic countries, and even there people were uncomfortable about losing 10 days of their lives. It led to protests and financial uncertainty, since people weren't sure how to calculate interest or taxes or rent for a 21-day month. Protestant countries didn't adopt the new calendar until much later, and this meant that for a long time, if you crossed the border of certain European countries, you had to set your clock back or forward by at least 10 days. When Great Britain finally accepted the Gregorian calendar in 1751, 11 days had to be deleted from the year. The change led to antipapal riots, because people believed the pope had shortened their lives. Mobs gathered in the streets, chanting, "Give us back our 11 days!" When the British colonies in America made the change the following year, Ben Franklin wrote in an editorial, "Be not astonished, nor look with scorn, dear reader, at ... the loss of so much time. ... What an indulgence is here, for those who love their pillow, to lie down in peace on the second [day] of this month and not awake till the morning of the fourteenth." The Gregorian calendar has since been accepted everywhere as the standard. It is so accurate that we will have to wait until the year 4909 before our dates become out of step with the Earth's orbit by a full day. Matt ScofieldFri, 29 Feb 2008 19:28:03 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3213http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3211/TGIF-TG-for-our-troops.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3211http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3211&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3211/TGIF-TG-for-our-troops.aspx Perhaps you are used to ignoring celebrities when they opine on political or military issues, but since it is Friday, I thought we could use some lighter fare. In that spirit I point you to this article by Angelina Jolie in the Washington Post today. She talks about her recent trip to Iraq and the refugee situation there...ok so its not light fare, but hopefully her words can influence some of those who want us to abandon our obligations in Iraq.Quotes: "My visit left me even more deeply convinced that we not only have a moral obligation to help displaced Iraqi families, but also a serious, long-term, national security interest in ending this crisis."Quotes: "What we cannot afford, in my view, is to squander the progress that has been made."Matt ScofieldFri, 29 Feb 2008 18:27:12 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3211http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3208/OPEN-THREAD-Food-prices-and-Food-myths.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3208http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3208&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3208/OPEN-THREAD-Food-prices-and-Food-myths.aspxWell its lunch time here in D.C. and that, combined with two recent articles, got me thinking about some issues related to Food, our supply of it and the quality of it. We're interested to get your take on these issues.The first article, Why are food prices rising?, from the Financial Times, notes that "agricultural commodities such as wheat and dairy trade at record highs, some governments, such as Russia, are implementing price controls on selected types of bread, cheese, milk, eggs and vegetable oil." Bloomberg is reporting today that Wheat prices are at record levels because of concerns that demand is outpacing supply. So what does this portend for our food supply? Will we just have to accept rising prices? Can we expect another green revolution which dramatically increases the yields of our crops?Related to this, the 2nd article, is an interview with Michael Pollan, author of the current bestseller In Defense of Food. Its a very interesting interview, ranging from a indictment of the food industry, real versus imitation foods, and how journalism poorly covers nutritional science. One quote for example:"Basically, the Food and Drug Administration was started in 1938 with the Food and Drug Act and as part of that was this rule that basically held that there are certain traditional foods that everyone knows like bread and pasta and yogurt and sour cream and if you're going to fundamentally change their identity by substituting one nutrient for another, you had to call them imitations...but in 1973, the FDA -- without going to Congress -- simply repealed the imitation rule."Throwing out the imitation rule essentially allowed the food companies to do what they wanted with things like yogurt or sour cream -- fundamentally change the identities of food without having to disclose it. We've moved from real foods like sour cream to edible food-like substances like low-fat sour cream that I refuse to call food."What are your thoughts on these issues? Do you prefer cooking from scratch with natural ingredients? How should we tackle rising food prices? If bio-engineered foods are available at a lower cost, would you have any problem with eating them?We'll make sure to share your thoughts with Newt as always.Matt ScofieldThu, 28 Feb 2008 17:18:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3208http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3206/William-F-Buckley-RIP.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3206http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3206&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3206/William-F-Buckley-RIP.aspx Before there was Goldwater or Reagan, there was Bill Buckley. From writing books, to creating, leading and sustaining National Review Magazine, to his 33-year run as the host of Firing Line on television, Bill Buckley became the indispensable intellectual advocate from whose energy, intelligence, wit, and enthusiasm the best of modern conservatism drew its inspiration and encouragement. It was not until William F. Buckley, Jr., founded National Review Magazine in 1955 that the tide began to slowly turn for conservatives. National Review was a lonely voice of conservatism in an overwhelmingly liberal establishment. Buckley began what led to Senator Barry Goldwater and his Conscience of a Conservative that led to the seizing of power by the conservatives from the moderate establishment within the Republican Party. From that emerged Ronald Reagan. Bill stood up to defend freedom as a positive value of greater moral worth than either the state and the elite, and over time his work had a transformational impact on the quality of American politics that continues even today. He was a wonderful friend, a great patriot, and a lively human being. Callista and I are praying for him and those who loved him. He will be missed. NewtWed, 27 Feb 2008 19:04:28 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3206http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3203/Move-over-Gore--Newts-in-Silicon-Valley-too.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3203http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3203&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3203/Move-over-Gore--Newts-in-Silicon-Valley-too.aspxAs reported by Drudge and others, American Solutions has opened up a new office in Silicon Valley.As Newt notes in his broadcast on the American Solutions' YouTube channel, "We're excited to be in Silicon Valley and to learn from the best of the private sector so we can utilize the latest technological breakthroughs to fundamentally transform government from the world that fails to the world that works."American Solutions is committed to utilizing the latest technology to connect elected officials at all levels and millions of activists to form a diverse, decentralized, collaborative network that will aggregate the best ideas and solutions to move government into the 21st century.To help out, please sign the petition endorsing the Platform of the American People today!Matt ScofieldTue, 26 Feb 2008 17:18:02 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3203http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3201/Well-we-knew-this-already-but.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3201http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3201&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3201/Well-we-knew-this-already-but.aspx...thought it would be interesting to note the recent comments of famed pollster Frank Luntz, captured by the Daily Princetonian, where he says Newt Gingrich "is the smartest human being in the history of American politics, bar none." Heady praise indeed!So this afternoon is your chance to receive some of this wisdom. Via American Solutions, Newt is conducting a workshop about economic prosperity issues, namely keeping NYC the financial capital of the world, eliminating the capital gains tax, and the optional flat tax.You can tune in at this address: http://www.webcastgroup.com/client/start.asp?wid=0650222083993 -- it all starts at 2pm Pacific / 5pm Eastern.Hope to see you there!Matt ScofieldFri, 22 Feb 2008 16:19:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3201http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3199/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3199http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3199&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3199/Default.aspx Click here to Listen on FRIDAY, LIVE at 2pm EST Rick and Vince welcome Congressman Pete Hoekstra, who will talk about the gap in our national defense created by the expiration last Saturday night of the Protect America Act, on Leading the Majority Matt ScofieldThu, 21 Feb 2008 20:28:38 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3199http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3198/Default.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3198http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3198&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3198/Default.aspx As you may know, Newt spends some of his time working with the Center for Health Transformation, which works towards creating a 21st Century Intelligent Health System that saves lives and saves money for all Americans. Yesterday CHT CEO Nancy Desmond participated in a small roundtable discussion in Georgia today, featuring HHS Secretary Michael Leavitt and Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue.  They were discussing the role Georgia could play in a new Medicare Electronic Health Records Demonstration Project. Also today reports are out that Google is testing a new project to store the health records of medical patients. All told this represents some concrete steps towards an idea Newt has been advocating for a while, and which you can find out more about at CHT.   You can read more about yesterday's roundtable in Georgia at the Center for Health Transformation Matt ScofieldThu, 21 Feb 2008 19:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3198http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3195/Civil-War-for-Obama-and-Clinton.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3195http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3195&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3195/Civil-War-for-Obama-and-Clinton.aspxFresh on the heels of Newt's Op-ed, Let's Revote in Michigan and Florida, the WSJ reports:With Hillary Clinton and Obama in a dead heat, pressure is mounting on the states to come up with a new delegate-selection process, such as a caucus or convention, that doesn't violate party rules.A do-over could alienate Democratic voters who already cast ballots, but disenfranchising the two states could also be risky if there is no clear leader before the convention.Now some of us in the Newt.org community don't typically vote for Democrats, but the issue is still of import in ensuring every vote gets heard. On that score, some have noted delegates should apportioned according to the popular vote (and they contend that if so Romney would still be in the race on the GOP side).So with all this mind, do you think what is happening in Michigan and Florida is disenfranchisement? What is the best remedy, a re-vote? Or are you in favor of a national primary day?newt.orgWed, 20 Feb 2008 17:09:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3195http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3193/Castros-down--is-Communism-out.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3193http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3193&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3193/Castros-down--is-Communism-out.aspxIn wake of the news that Fidel Castro is stepping down in Cuba, and rumors that his brother Raul will take over, what are the prospects for the end of Communism in Cuba? Should the U.S. embargo be ended with the change in regime?In Miami, where some of the Newt.org team members are at today, reports are that the celebrations in the Cuban-exile community are quite muted, with some hope that this is the beginning of the end of the communist system on the island.What do you think? Here is a primer on likely new leader Raul Castro.Also how will the change in leadership affect ties with other countries, such as Venezuela and Hugo Chavez, pictured above hugging Fidel.One thing is for certain, this is a time of change in a dictatorship and that always brings a glimmer of hope for freedom.newt.orgTue, 19 Feb 2008 21:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3190/Happy-Presidents-Day.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3190http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3190&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3190/Happy-Presidents-Day.aspx Thanks for visiting on this President's day and enjoy yourself today.  Here in D.C. we are having suprisingly nice weather which I'm about to go enjoy if only for a couple hours.  To help commemorate today, enjoy this Heritage Foundation address from Newt where he discusses some of his favorite stories about George Washington. Be sure also to check out the new Earmark Reform site setup by the House GOP.  Personally, I hope they can use it to get Democrats to agree with them on the issue rather than as a base for partisan mudslinging -- the solution is what is important here -- so make sure you check it out and contact your Representative to voice your opinion. And as always let us know your opinion below too, we read 'em all! Matt ScofieldMon, 18 Feb 2008 16:52:36 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3190http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3189/New-Book-Reviews-from-Newt.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3189http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3189&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3189/New-Book-Reviews-from-Newt.aspx Newt has written some book reviews recently and we've posted them for you to read on Newt.org.  Check them out for your weekend reading: Here is his review of Gordon Rhea's Overland Series.  It contains 4 seperate reviews, one for each volume in the series which deals with Gen. Grant's battles fought in Virginia during May and June 1864, in the Civil War. Here is Newt's review of Stalin’s Ghost, by Martin Cruz Smith.  This book deals with some of the current issues in Russian society. Finally, a review of Allen Guelzo's Lincoln and Douglas: The Debates That Defined America.  Mr. Guelzo explores several themes in his compact but remarkably insightful book. newt.orgFri, 15 Feb 2008 23:03:46 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3189http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3182/Default.aspx#Comments9http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3182http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3182&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3182/Default.aspx It’s Valentine's Day and an election year, so we at Newt.org thought it would be fun to see who could be the VP picks this year, usually made around July or the time of the Party's convention.  The selection of a running mate is always a waiting game, with hopefuls at home waiting for their Presidential valentine to ring.   So to help anticipate whose phone will ring, we are going to give you a little history of some of the previous VP picks in recent elections.    History says speculate on a senator.  In 11 out of 13 elections since the end of World War II, the Democrats have picked a senator.  Republicans have picked a sitting or former senator nearly half of the time.   Many analysts also focus on geography, but only rarely does this appear to be the top factor in considerations.  Diversity, ideology and experience are other big factors for nominees picking a ticket-mate.    To compliment this we have a list of the current crop of possible VP picks -- and we want your opinion: Who will be the VP pick for each party?  And why?  Let us know in the comments section please.At the bottom of this post we've listed the current candidates for VP for each party to aid in your selection.  And as much as we all like Newt -- this is his website after all - don't say Newt!    It's true that Newt has said publicly that if offered a spot on the ticket, he would have to seriously consider such an enormous opportunity to serve his country.  However, Newt has also said publicly that the likelihood of this happening is very, very slim, and that he is planning to spend the next several years focusing his efforts at American Solutions. Our brief recap of VP picks starts in 1984.  newt.orgThu, 14 Feb 2008 17:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3182http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3180/Your-First-Step-in-Delivering-Real-Change.aspx#Comments3http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3180http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3180&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3180/Your-First-Step-in-Delivering-Real-Change.aspx by Dan Kotman, Media Coordinator for American Solutions Turn on the news tonight and you’ll hear questions like this being debated: What does the latest poll say? How is the strategy shifting? How much money is being raised? While polls and campaign strategy are constantly being analyzed, a dialogue about the changes our country needs is almost nonexistent. However, the American people, no matter how little coverage it receives, are united on a series of real and substantive changes. After extensive research, American Solutions developed the Platform of the American People to serve as a blueprint for real change that can unite the American people. It's our hope that both political parties will consider each plank in the Platform of the American People during their district, state, and national conventions as a foundation for bringing us together. To make this happen, we need you to take action today. Sign this petition to the Republican and Democratic parties. The American people are united. The question now is: will the Republican and Democratic parties stand with the American people for real change? Sign the petition today and let them know where you stand. DanKotmanWed, 13 Feb 2008 21:22:33 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3180http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3177/Update-from-Jackie-Cushman.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3177http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3177&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3177/Update-from-Jackie-Cushman.aspxJackie Cushman has recently posted a new blog entry. Make sure you check it out, as well as her weekly columns which can be found at www.jackiecushman.com.Also recently, Jackie and Newt have been involved with the Learn and Earn program, which involves prizes for students who put in extra studying time in Math and Science. Here is a news article on the initiative.Matt ScofieldTue, 12 Feb 2008 16:10:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3177http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3175/Default.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3175http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3175&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3175/Default.aspxWe've posted Newt's latest full speech in our Media Center. Given this Saturday at the big CPAC 2008 conference here in D.C., Newt talks about the need for a declaration of independence for the Conservative movement.Also at CPAC, Newt attended Blogger's Row and was interviewed by conservative blogger Captain Ed, which you can listen to here.Captain Ed also interviewed Princella Smith, a very talented woman who now works as the National Spokesperson for the Platform of the American People over at American Solutions, which Newt heads up. Listen to her interview here.Finally, I've updated our National Security blog with some news from the excellent reporter Bill Gertz of the Washington Times. Check it out and let us know your thoughts on this news of the threats we face.Matt ScofieldMon, 11 Feb 2008 21:08:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3175http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3164/Not-Just-AntiGovernment.aspx#Comments8http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3164http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3164&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3164/Not-Just-AntiGovernment.aspxHere is a short clip from Newt's speech at AEI yesterday during his Real Change Book Forum.The full speech is available for Premium members.Please let us know your comments -- you don't have to be logged in to do so!Matt ScofieldFri, 08 Feb 2008 16:22:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3164http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3163/Default.aspx#Comments32http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3163http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3163&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3163/Default.aspx(posted by Matt Scofield of the Newt.org team)I see members Jeff (concepts2) and John have posted thoughts already, and we are curious what the rest of you think about Mitt Romney dropping out today. How do you think this will shape the race for the White House?newt.orgThu, 07 Feb 2008 19:06:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3163http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3161/A-Visit-to-the-Boise-Zoo.aspx#Comments5http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3161http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3161&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3161/A-Visit-to-the-Boise-Zoo.aspxNewt today traveled to Boise, Idaho to give a speech to the Idaho Association of Counties. In addition to this event, Newt has been signing books and also took time out to engage with his animal side.He is a big advocate of good stewardship towards the animals we share the planet with, and few things are more fascinating for him than a chance to get up close with them. Take a look at a couple pictures from his time at the Boise Zoo this afternoon:Newt feeds the PenguinsNewt poses with a TigerMatt ScofieldWed, 06 Feb 2008 19:47:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3161http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3158/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3158http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3158&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3158/Default.aspxAs previously posted, this evening Newt joined a conference call with the Young Republican National Foundation. Featuring GOPAC chairman Michael Steele, Newt gives his initial take on the incoming results this evening from Super TuesdayYou can listen to what Newt said here.newt.orgWed, 06 Feb 2008 03:18:13 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3158http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3153/Get-Ready-for-Super-Tuesday.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3153http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3153&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3153/Get-Ready-for-Super-Tuesday.aspx On Tuesday evening, Newt will be joining the Young Republican National Federation via conference call to analyze the Super Tuesday election returns. This is a national event hosted by GOPAC Chairman Michael Steele via YouTube video. The conference call with Newt will take place at 10pm EST, Call-in number 218.936.1600, access code 293143. Get all the event info here (link is a PDF file).To help you understand the analysis and give some context to the situation, here is some information on what exactly is going to happen with Super Tuesday, namely the states involved and their delegates which the candidates are vying for:Going into Super Tuesday, the current state of affairs among the Democrats shows Barack Obama leading Hillary Clinton with 63 delegates to her 48.This leaves Obama needing 1,962 delegates for the nomination to Clinton's 1,977.With Republicans, John McCain leads with 93 delegates, Mitt Romney is second with 59 and Mike Huckabee trails with 40 delegates. Ron Paul has earned 4 delegates, leaving him with 1,187 needed to earn the GOP nomination.On Super Tuesday there will be 21 states holding Republican primaries, meaning 1,081 delegates (~43% of the total) are being contested. For the Democracts, 22 states will be holding primaries, representing 2,064 delegates, or 52% of the total available. In some cases, as you will see, some of the delegates for a State are awarded later.2,026 delegates are needed to capture the nomination for Democrats, 1,191 for Republicans.One interesting thing to note is the issue of Super Delegates. As the Wall Street Journal notes: In addition to elected delegates, Democrats have 796 super delegates, who are usually elected officials or party officials and who have the right to vote for the party nominee at the convention. In the past 30 years, super delegates haven't been relevant because the nomination has been decided well in advance of the convention, and those delegates typically vote for whichever candidate their state or congressional district preferred. But they could play a role in a tight race. "They were intended to serve as a peer-review panel" to choose the most electable candidate, says John J. Pitney Jr., a professor of government at Claremont McKenna College in Claremont, Calif. Republicans have 153 equivalent unelected delegates. As far as a state by state breakdown, here is a list of the states and the method by which delegates are won (hat tip to KEN HERMAN and SCOTT SHEPARD of the Cox News Service).Also noted is whether the primary is Open (which means Independents can vote) or Closed (which means only registered Republicans and Democrats can vote):newt.orgMon, 04 Feb 2008 16:58:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3153http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3151/A-Real-Change-Workshop.aspx#Comments2http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3151http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3151&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3151/A-Real-Change-Workshop.aspxToday there is a webcast from Newt on the efforts he is leading at American Solutions. Its design is a workshop for those with interest in bringing about about real change.In this video he highlights the Platform of the American People and the obstacles that we face in transforming government. With inspiration and erudition, Newt explains what you can do as a citizen-leader to help bring about real change.Please view the webcast here.newt.orgThu, 31 Jan 2008 23:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3151http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3111/Default.aspx#Comments17http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3111http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3111&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3111/Default.aspx On ABC’s This Week yesterday to discuss my new book Real Change, I said “the era of Ronald Reagan is over.”  I want to explain my statement because it seems to have caused some confusion.  The fact is that if Governor Reagan was faced with the world of 2008, he would be trying to develop new solutions and be an advocate of real change.  He wouldn’t be suggesting that we could go back 28 years and adopt a program that was totally appropriate for a world that had the Soviet Union, hyperinflation, Jimmy Carter’s policies of weakness and the challenges of 1980.  He would say we need to face the challenges of 2008.  That means America has to find solutions that will work in a world in which China is much bigger, the world market is much more competitive, our dangerous reliance on foreign oil owned by dictators is much greater, and the challenges to America, whether from immigration, from the secular left seeking to drive God out of public life, or from those who would undermine English as the language of America is a different set of dangers than the those of 1980.  Today’s challenges require new solutions and new approaches. The whole purpose of writing Real Change was to begin to outline the scale of “real change” it is going to require for Americans to succeed in the next quarter-century.  We have to be in the business of inventing 21st century, intelligent, effective, limited government in a post-bureaucratic, information-age system.  We have to be committed to developing policies that let us compete with China and India and win so that our children and grandchildren live in the most prosperous country in the world.  We have to be committed to reasserting English as the official language of government and American history as a topic worth mastering by every immigrant and every American child.  The fact is these are new challenges with new opponents and new competitors - they require new solutions.  I believe that in order to succeed, we must learn the lessons of Ronald Reagan just as we have to learn the lessons of Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.  But those lessons have to be applied in our lifetime.  This is the only way we can create a generation of prosperity, freedom, and safety for our children and grandchildren and for our country.  Also, there has been some speculation that I have endorsed a Republican candidate or that I am supporting a particular candidate “behind the scenes.”  Nothing can be further from the truth.  The fact is that I have offered my advice to any candidate that wants it and have had personal conversations with several candidates on a number of issues.  My goal is to help every candidate be the best they can be.  I want the strongest possible field because ultimately that will lead to a stronger America.  NewtMon, 14 Jan 2008 21:14:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3111http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3107/Welcome-Back.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3107http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3107&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3107/Welcome-Back.aspx I want to welcome all of you back after the Holidays. In my newsletter today I had to do something I never enjoy: admit Sean Hannity was right and I was wrong. For most of 2007, I thought Sen. Clinton and her husband had the resources and the professionalism to defeat Sen. Obama in Iowa and gain the Democratic nomination. My good friend Sean Hannity always disagreed. He and I argued on his radio show for about six months. He was convinced the anti-Clinton mood and the visceral reaction to her candidacy would outweigh any advantages she and her husband brought to the race. Sean was right and I was wrong. I publicly changed my mind in late November. Since Bill Clinton remains the most aggressive and effective politician of his generation, it will be interesting to see what the Clintons do now that their backs are to the wall. Read the full newsletter here. While Presidential primaries are taking place across America I will be offering my analysis of the campaigns as they proceed.  This analysis will be exclusive to our Premium members here, so join me as we look at the candidates and work to promote a transformation in Government from the world that fails to the world that works. I look forward to your comments, thank you again for visiting. NewtTue, 08 Jan 2008 21:30:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3107http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3081/Default.aspx#Comments6http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3081http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3081&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3081/Default.aspx I'm in Iowa today to promote a big step in moving America towards real change.  Today I'm unveiling the Platform of the American People: A Red, White and Blue Revolution. The result of months of work on behalf of myself and the team at American Solutions, this platform emphasizes the values and concerns of the vast majority of Americans -- on every issue. Our hope over the next month is to get citizens in both parties to begin moving the Platform of the American People in their parties during this campaign season. To do this we need your help. Please visit www.AmericanSolutions.com/platform and get involved today. NewtWed, 05 Dec 2007 00:55:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3081http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3075/Media-Appearances.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3075http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3075&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3075/Media-Appearances.aspx Newt will be on CSPAN2 for 3 hours LIVE this Sunday at 12pm with audience participation. Also TODAY at 2pm EST Presidential candidate Mike Huckabee and supporter, action-star Chuck Norris, will appear on Leading the Majority w/ Rick & Vince. Newt will go In Depth on Book TV to discuss his book writing career that includes over a dozen fiction and non-fiction books. ALL books being discusses will be available in the Newt.org online store.This 3 hour, live program will include audience participation. You can participate by calling in during the program (a number will be on the screen) with your questions or by e-mailing Book TV at booktv@c-span.org. Gov. Mike Huckabee appears with action-star Chuck Norris TODAY at 2pm EST. You can listen to their appearance on Leading the Majority at RighTalk.com. Tune if for a great interview! And remember: Chuck Norris didn't ask to beon Leading the Majority, he told us toshow up. Be Smart. Do the Same. newt.orgFri, 30 Nov 2007 17:39:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3075http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3058/The-First-Freedom.aspx#Comments4http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3058http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3058&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3058/The-First-Freedom.aspx The concept of religious freedom was important to the Founders of this nation because they believed it was the “first liberty” and without it no freedom, no liberty could exist at all.   Were they right?   Allow me to pose these questions to you:   If the people do not have religious freedom, then do they have freedom of assembly? If the people do not have religious freedom, then do they have freedom of speech? If the people do not have religious freedom, do they have freedom of the press? Can any nation which does not allow true religious liberty then call itself free?   The answer to all these questions, of course, is a resounding NO!   In the past the light of freedom has burned so brightly here in America that it has set fires throughout the world.  When our Bill of Rights was ratified by the states there was not a single free nation in the world, not even one other democracy.  Some European nations such as Monaco and Lichtenstein are still monarchies.   Europeans seem never to have thought much of human liberty in general and surely not of religious freedom, which is why our ancestors fled to these shores. So many times did totalitarian European armies move against the United States that we were finally forced to impose democracy in Europe at the point of a gun.   Even after World War II, Europe had huge areas under totalitarian rule including Spain, which did not become a full fledged democracy until 1982.  Newly established democracy in Europe has been no guarantee of freedom. Even today in Europe the governing democratic nations have difficulty establishing and protecting religious liberty. France leads the way in religious persecution, with numerous laws on the books to limit expression, proving that freedom and democracy are not the same thing. In both Sweden and Canada people have been arrested for simply quoting the Bible.  Elected governments definitely have the ability to take away religious freedom.    The greatest enemies of our republic and of our freedoms have always been the nations where religious freedom does not exist. Our first two wars were against an England that repressed religious dissent.  In our third war we fought the Islamic pirates of the Barbary Coast who had terrorized Christians and Jews for centuries.  There was no religious freedom in Nazi Germany, and Japan was a near theocracy.   In Vietnam and Korea we fought those who killed Christians for sport.  During the cold war we faced nuclear annihilation at the hands of the godless dictators of the Soviet Union whose goal was to eradicate all religion.   Today our greatest enemies in the world are those who continue to repress religious freedom.  The atheists who rule China and North Korea continue to build their nuclear arsenals, and the mullahs who rule Iran are no less fascists than Hitler’s Nazis and seek the same nuclear weapons to destroy those whose religions they see as “apostate.”   Religious freedom means the end of Middle Eastern monarchies and dictatorships.  The resistance to freedom in Iraq and the willingness of men to die as suicide bombers from Baghdad to London illustrates the desperation of those who oppose religious freedom.  Totalitarian nations such as Iran, Syria and Saudi Arabia see the threat to themselves.  If religious freedom is successfully planted in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq, the fascist mullahs of Iran, the corrupt dictator of Syria and the perverted monarchs of Saudi Arabia will join Hitler, Stalin and Moa in the dust bin of history.   Nations with religious freedom -- with real freedom, will never be a military threat to America and it is for this reason that religious freedom has become a strategic goal of our nation.  The external threat to our religious freedom must be recognized and met – but – the battle must be fought properly and must be fought to win.   There is also an internal threat to our religious freedom that must be combated. The religious symbols of our heritage are being stripped from public view and the courts have tried to suppress our freedom of religious speech.   When a child cannot invite a classmate to his church or a teacher cannot wear ash on Ash Wednesday, does this not damage our underlying liberties?  How can we send good men and women to die in Afghanistan and Iraq to in an attempt to establish something that our courts are so willing to remove from us here?   President Thomas Jefferson warned of a judicial threat to our freedoms.  In a letter written in 1820 he said: “…to consider the judges as the ultimate arbiters of all constitutional questions [is] a very dangerous doctrine indeed, and one which would place us under the despotism of an oligarchy.  Our judges are as honest as other men, and not more so.  They have, with others, the same passions for party, for power, and the privilege of their corps.  Their maxim is ‘boni judicis est ainpliare jurisdictionem,’ [good judges have ample jurisdiction] and their power the more dangerous as they are in once for life (he continued). . . The constitution has erected no such single tribunal, knowing that to whatever hands confided, with the corruptions of time and party, its members would become despots.” The Supreme Court and its inferior courts have created new “rights” in the past few decades which they believe overrule those established by god and guaranteed by the founders. One of these supposed new rights is the right of an individual not to be offended by another individual.  Praying in public, wearing religious clothing or quoting the bible is now deemed unfit for elected public officials.   Pardon me, but freedom is about offending others.  If I am not allowed to offend someone today then I must not have freedom of speech.  No one can have an opinion without offending others.     It is this new “freedom” not to be offended that the courts would use to strip away the words “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag.  It is this new freedom that the courts would use to prohibit pastors from teaching that marriage between one man and one woman is god given.   In my book, The Pledge: One Nation Under God I quote president john Adams said, “We have no government armed with power capable of contending with human passions unbridled by morality and religion. Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate for the government of any other.”  Once all aspects of our Judeo-Christian faith are removed from government there will be no inherent reason to continue to defend religious liberty. We must resist the temptation of yielding to those who would vilify us for our beliefs, and we must continue the battle for our first liberty, our religious freedom. We must continue the battle for basic moral principles while, as Jefferson so elegantly stated, protecting the beliefs of all because to do otherwise would be “…a departure from the plan of the holy author of our religion.” We must be unified in raising our voices in defense of our rights to preach not only in the pulpit, but in every venue our nation has to offer. As Christians we must not allow ourselves to be prevented from applying our moral principles while participating in government. We and our religious leaders today have as much right to speak out in public and to participate in government as did those of previous generations, like Reverend John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg, Rev. John Brown and Rev. Martin Luther King.   In my work on Capitol Hill, I frequently visit the Capitol Building and there I find reminders of the men of God who battled to establish our republic. They stand out to me as a warning of how far secularists have carried us from the intentions of the founders.   In the small House Rotunda between the Main Rotunda and the old House Chamber, stands the statue of Reverend John Peter Muhlenberg who pastored two churches in Virginia in the early 1770’s, one an English speaking Episcopal church and the other a German speaking Lutheran church.   He was also a member of the Virginia legislature at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. After the British seized Virginia’s armory in Williamsburg, Pastor Muhlenberg forged a course of action.   On January 21, 1776 he stood at his pulpit and delivered a message from Ecclesiastes, Chapter 3 (“to every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven”). In that message he told his flock that the time was not one of peace, but of war.   At the conclusion of his sermon he took off his clerical robe to reveal his uniform as an officer of the Revolution.   Outside he rallied some 300 men from his congregations that day to join him.   This was the birth of the Eighth Virginia Regiment that fought throughout the war, including the last battle at Yorktown in which the British were defeated.   At Yorktown he protected Washington’s right flank with the First Brigade of Lafayette’s infantry. Without Pastor Muhlenberg the possibility exists that the British could have been victorious at Yorktown and the war lost.   Rev. John Peter Muhlenberg is not the only preacher, nor the only Muhlenberg, to be remembered in the art and statuary of the capitol.  His brother was revered Frederick Augustus Muhlenberg, a New York City pastor.   Originally critical of his brother for joining the war effort, Frederick himself joined the revolutionary movement after the British invaded New York City.   He was later elected to Congress and became a Speaker of the House and it is for that reason that his portrait hangs in the speaker’s lobby just outside the House chamber.   Officers in the Continental Army included pastors from the Baptist Church, the Episcopal Church, the Presbyterian Church, the German Reform Church and the Lutheran Church, and those are but the ones I have identified.  Presbyterian clergy accounted for two generals and at least five colonels in Washington’s army.   Clergy served not only on the battlefield.  Pastor Elisha Fish published a sermon entitled, The Art of War Lawful and Necessary for a Christian People, that was widely distributed.  Fish argued that free men bearing arms to defend liberty were the “true strength and safety of every commonwealth.”   A month before the battle of Lexington and Concord, Rev. William Emerson preached to the Concord militia.  During his sermon, he warned the British: “it will be to your unspeakable damage to meddle with us, for we have an unconquered leader that carries his people to victory and triumph.”  Five weeks later, the first man to muster at the North Bridge in Concord against the red coats was Reverend Emerson!  The pastors of New England used their pulpits to teach the colonists about the right to resist tyranny and to be willing to die to establish a new nation based upon religious freedom, limited government, and free speech!  The black regiment of pastors can be credited with inflaming patriotic passions against British tyranny.   The historical record is clear: from the beginning of this nation, civil leaders and pastors alike believed that America was founded “under god” and that our nation had a special calling from god to fulfill in history.   Patrick Henry affirmed this truth when he wrote in March 1775: “it cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity, and freedom of worship here.”  This is a heritage, a Christian heritage of our nation that our children have a right to hear in our classrooms rather than revisionism, the likes of which would make Joseph Stalin pale.  We have the right to protect our children from both the nonsense of the anarchist and the mind control of the secularist with the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  We must not retreat; we must not surrender religious liberty or our religious heritage, not today, not ever.  If we do surrender and accept that government is the new god and that legislators and judges are the new priests, it is not just Americans who will lose that first and most basic right of freedom of religion; it will be all of humanity.   As stated clearly by our Founders, our freedom as a nation is a gift from God, but we must also always remember that our spiritual freedom is gift from God through the death and resurrection of his only Begotten Son.   Dr. William J. MurrayFri, 16 Nov 2007 21:24:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3058http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3050/Really-Strange-Presidential-Endorsements.aspx#Comments1http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3050http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3050&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3050/Really-Strange-Presidential-Endorsements.aspx REALLY STRANGE PRESIDENTIAL ENDORSEMENTS by William J. Murray (Pictured with Gov. Mike Huckabee) Rev. Pat Robertson has endorsed pro-abortion, pro-gay presidential candidate Mayor Giuliani. Mayor Giuliani stands at the opposite end of everything Pat Robertson has claimed to work for all of his life. This strange endorsement has caused immediate problems inside the Christian Right. Randal Terry of Operation Rescue said, "I am literally sick to my stomach over Dr. Robertson's decision.”Reverend Wiley Drake, a former Second Vice President of the Southern Baptist Convention, called upon his church and all Christians to boycott CBN and the 700 Club as a result of Robertson’s endorsement of Giuliani. The next strangest development after Robertson’s backing of Giuliani is the National Right to Life Committee’s endorsement of Fred Thompson. As a politician, Fred Thompson never received a 100% rating from the National Right to Life Committee. On the other hand presidential candidates Rep. Duncan Hunter, Rep. Tom Tancredo, Senator Sam Brownback and Governor Mike Huckabee all have had 100% pro-life ratings. I believe the highest Senator Thompson ever achieved was 88% and it was far lower at times. Just prior to the National Right to Life Committee’s endorsement, conservative columnist Robert Novak had this to say about Senator Thompson: “Former Sen. Fred Thompson (R-Tenn.) may have seriously wounded himself with his handling of the abortion issue on Sunday's "Meet the Press." Thompson unequivocally stated he opposed a Human Life Amendment to the Constitution, which is a plank in the Republican platform. Without prompting, he then attacked the idea of "criminalizing" abortion and locking up mothers who procure abortions -- images that are used as scare tactics by the pro-choice lobby. Throughout the long discussion of the topic, Thompson was incoherent at best and thoroughly objectionable to his party's pro-life base at worst. He backed away from his firm opposition to the platform, but he never quite set himself right on the whole issue.” (Nov. 07,2007) Another pro-life leader, Paul Weyrich of the Free Congress Foundation then endorsed former liberal (now conservative) Governor Mitt Romney. When running for Governor of Massachusetts, Romney campaigned as “pro-choice,” pro-gay rights and anti-gun. In office he continued to promote the “pro-choice” and pro-gay agendas. Now running for President, he says he has had a change of heart and that he is anti-abortion and against gay-marriage. Another of Romney’s supporters is Rev. Lou Sheldon of the Traditional Values Coalition which fights against homosexual marriage. In the past Lou Sheldon has been critical of governors such as Romney who seemed to have pro-gay agendas. THE QUESTION Why is the social conservative movement in the United States committing suicide? The answer is power politics. Evangelical conservative leaders are backing candidates they think will win rather than those who have been consistent social conservatives with 100% pro-life records. Many other endorsements I will not mention here have surprised me, but all seem to have one theme: “We need someone who can beat Hillary.” The assumption is that the GOP must choose a “centrist” presidential candidate or Hillary will win. The logic goes, “We need a New York liberal to beat their New York liberal.” By that logic Ronald Reagan would not have gotten the GOP presidential nomination. Reagan was too conservative to be electable by the National Right to Life Committee standards and those of many other social conservative leaders today. Meanwhile the rank and file members of social conservative organizations are being turned off by their leadership. While National Right to Life has endorsed Fred Thompson, his numbers continue to fall in Iowa and New Hampshire while those of Governor Mike Huckabee continue to rise. Huckabee is now in a solid 2nd place in Iowa behind Governor Mitt Romney who has spent $21 million in that state alone. Huckabee has spent just $500,000 there and he has such momentum that he may well take first place on Election Day. Thompson is in fourth place in Iowa and fifth place in New Hampshire where Huckabee recently passed him. The national polls don’t matter at all because most of those folks will actually never vote in a primary. THE RESULT Regardless of who wins the GOP nomination the social conservative movement, and particularly evangelical leaders, lose. In an attempt to gain influence by backing pro-abortion and pro-gay candidates, evangelical leaders are losing their credibility. Had these leaders backed 100% pro-life social conservatives such as Mike Huckabee, Duncan Hunter, Sam Brownback or Tom Tancredo, their integrity would have remained intact and their word trusted when it counts next year. Unfortunately the desire of some evangelical leaders to walk with the seemingly powerful rather than with the righteous will discourage their base. In my opinion this loss of credibility of “religious right” leaders will actually boost the odds of a Hillary victory.   Continue this discussion in our GOD IN PUBLIC LIFE ISSUE AREA   Dr. Murray is chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition. Dr. William J. MurrayThu, 15 Nov 2007 16:57:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3050http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3049/Default.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3049http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3049&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3049/Default.aspx I am pleased to announce our new guest blogger, Dr. William J. Murray, the chairman of the Religious Freedom Coalition. Dr. Murray is the son of the former famed atheist, Madalyn Murray O'Hair and has been active on issues related to aiding Christians in Islamic and Communist nations. He has a new book, entitled, The Pledge: One Nation Under God. He is also head of the Government Is Not God - PAC and works to elect social conservative candidates to Congress. We hope to have many more posts from Dr. Murray going forward, and we would be pleased if you would join in the discussion with him in our God in Public Life issues area. Matt ScofieldThu, 15 Nov 2007 16:36:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3049http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3048/Tuesday-Update.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3048http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3048&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3048/Tuesday-Update.aspx Hello all, I hope the recent Veteran's Day weekend found you all in good spirits. We have news this week that Newt's speech clip "FedEx vs. Government Bureaucracy" on YouTube has passed over 1,200,000 hits -- all with no advertising.  Thanks to all our members who helped get the word out!  You can view the same clip on Newt.org here, in our Media Center section under Speech Clips. Also Newt's new book, "A Contract with the Earth", is getting some very interesting reviews in the press.  Perhaps the best line of the bunch is from the Palm Beach article below, "If Al Gore can win the Nobel Prize, why not Newt Gingrich?" Here is a list of recent must-reads covering the promotion of "green conservatism" by Newt: "Give Newt a chance" Salon.com "Challenges to Both Left and Right on Global Warming" New York Times (w/ video of Newt) "Climate Is a Risky Issue for Democrats" Washington Post "Red and Green" WNYC Radio/Brian Lehrer Show (w/ video of Newt)  "Zoo chief, Gingrich team on save-the-Earth book"  Palm Beach Post "Person of the Year."  Time magazine "Gingrich Unleashed" The Daily Green blog "An Inconvenient Newt" Slate.com Coming up, keep an eye out in this space for a surprise featured blogger this week!  As always, join me in checking out your fellow members blog posts, simply see the right panel for a list of all recent blog posts by our community. Matt ScofieldTue, 13 Nov 2007 17:37:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3048http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3046/Americas-Red-White-and-Blue-Platforms.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3046http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3046&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3046/Americas-Red-White-and-Blue-Platforms.aspx At a polling briefing at the National Press Club this week, Newt unveiled the data from American Solutions' six nationwide polls. The surveys were designed to capture the pulse of the American people, and the results were very compelling. The research shows that there are certain values that unite a large majority of Americans -- that we are in fact a Red, White and Blue country. You can download all this research data, including the handouts from Newt's presentation, at www.AmericanSolutions.com/Research.  Here's Newt describing the research: Watch Newt's entire webcast here. DanKotmanFri, 09 Nov 2007 20:38:27 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3046http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3043/Newt-promotes-Patientcentered-Medical-Homes.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3043http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3043&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3043/Newt-promotes-Patientcentered-Medical-Homes.aspxOn November 7th, the Patient-Centered Primary Care Collaborative, or PCPCC, held a health-care summit attended by Newt. During this summit it was announced that the PCPCC, a coalition representing some of the country's largest corporations, policy-makers, consumers and 330,000 primary care physicians, will seek to use a new voluntary designation program from the National Committee for Quality Assurance, or NCQA, to certify physician practices as patient-centered medical homes.These homes are a development designed to promote comprehensive and coordinated care. In his keynote address, Newt predicted this development would serve as one of the "major catalysts in driving profound and 'breathtaking' changes during the next several years, creating opportunities and challenges for primary care physicians." "Can you (primary care physicians) create a medical home? Can you get patients to buy into the medical home (concept)? Can primary care physicians invent a financing mechanism that minimizes acute care?Newt observed this process of finding the right model for health-care is an evolving process that can only be achieved through experimentation and continuous improvement. However this in itself is difficult because, as Newt notes, physicians deal with life and death issues which makes them inherently cautious. Get more information at the Center for Health Transformationnewt.orgThu, 08 Nov 2007 20:49:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:3043http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3033/Newts-on-XM-Satellite-Radio-today.aspx#Comments0http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=193&ModuleID=681&ArticleID=3033http://newt.org/DesktopModules/iBN%20News%20Articles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=3033&PortalID=0&TabID=193http://newt.org/EditNewt/FeaturedBloggersDB/tabid/193/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/3033/Newts-on-XM-Satellite-Radio-today.asp