McNerney Leads Pombo In Latest Poll, Race Upgraded to "Toss-Up"

"Majority Watch is reporting the results of its independent polling in CA-11. Jerry McNerney leads Richard Pombo 48-46 with a MoE of 3.1%. The survey of 983 voters was conducted October 24-26. " (source)

DailyKos: Cook's Political Report Upgrade's CD-11 Race to "Toss-Up"

"With the election just eight days away, there are no signs that this wave is abating. Barring a dramatic event, we are looking at the prospect of GOP losses in the House of at least 20 to 35 seats, possibly more, and at least four in the Senate, with five or six most likely.

If independents vote in fairly low numbers, as is customary in midterm elections, losses in the House will be on the lower end of that range. But if they turn out at a higher than normal level, their strong preference for Democrats in most races would likely push the GOP House losses to or above the upper levels." (source)

"Cook changes the following seats to toss-ups: AZ 05 (Hayworth), CA 11 (Pombo), CO 04 (Musgrave), CO 05 (Open, KS 02 (Ryun), MN 01 (Gutknecht), NH 02 (Bass), OH O2 (Schmidt), WY Al (Cubin). CA 50 (Bilbray) and NE 03 (Open) have been downgraded to "Lean Republican." and IA 01 has been rated "Lean Democrat."" (source)

GET OUT THE VOTE!

McNerney for Congress: GET OUT THE VOTE for Jerry!

"To defeat Richard Pombo, Jerry needs you to take direct action for your democracy. Can you "GOTV for Jerry"?

As you read this text, voters are casting ballots across the 11th Congressional District. To make sure McNerney voters turn in their ballots and get to the polls on November 7, we need you to knock on doors, distribute door-hangers and call voters right up to 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Where can you get involved? From Manteca to Morgan Hill and Stockton to Pleasanton, there are multiple opportunities to GOTV for Jerry from now to Election Day." (source)

Click Here to Get Out The Vote for Jerry!

Phone From Home!

"We know Jerry McNerney’s supporters are enthusiastic about helping to get Jerry elected, but they also have families, careers, and other obligations. A lot of folks just can’t find the time to volunteer. But they still want to help Jerry win.

So, by popular demand, we’re offering you the option to talk with voters from the comfort of your couch and Phone From Home! This is a fun, simple, and convenient way to let voters know about Jerry McNerney." (source)

Click Here to Phone From Home for Jerry!

Crunch Time.

Jerry's Blog: It's crunch time. Get your boots on the ground now...

"Let me be clear. We will not win this race without a massive volunteer effort. We need to get your boots on the ground. Now.

There are several opportunities THIS WEEKEND to help Jerry win on November 7.

Please don't wait until the weekend before the election to get involved. We need you now more than ever.

Please join us in Stockton, Tracy, Dublin, Morgan Hill, Manteca, Brentwood, and Lodi on Saturday and Sunday as we spend just a few hours taking direct action for our democracy. You can click on any of the links below to find out more information!" (source)

SUNDAY: Join Jerry and Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher in San Ramon

From Jerry: The Final Push...

Senator Dianne Feinstein endorses Jerry McNerney for Congress

""Jerry McNerney is not a politician," said Feinstein. "He is an expert on clean energy and that's just what we need in Washington – clean energy."

"One of the most important things we can do to protect our national security is to reduce our dependence on Middle East oil," continued Feinstein. "Jerry knows that global warming is a serious threat to California. He also knows that wind and solar energy are a big part of the solution. I am pleased to give my support to Jerry McNerney for Congress."" (source)

DCCC adds Jerry McNerney to "Red to Blue" program!

"The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee today added Jerry McNerney to its prestigious Red to Blue program. McNerney's campaign was recognized for generating grassroots interest and exceeding fundraising expectations. Red to Blue highlights the premier Democratic campaigns across the country, and offers financial, communications and strategic support.

"There is a very clear choice in this race between the new energy and new direction being offered by Jerry McNerney and more of the same failed Washington policies from a divisive, partisan politician like Richard Pombo," said DCCC communications director Bill Burton. "Jerry McNerney has been added to the Red to Blue program because his campaign for change has energized voters across the district who are going to cast their ballots for a new direction this November."

"It is an honor and a privilege to be honored for my supporters' hard work and dedication," said McNerney. "Each day, my campaign welcomes new volunteers who are excited about the opportunity to restore ethics and integrity to Congress. Richard Pombo is a corrupt and radical Republican who rubber stamps George Bush's foreign policy failures. With the DCCC's help, I look forward to taking America in a new direction and changing our course in Iraq."" (source)

Contribute to Jerry McNerney for Congress.

Volunteer.

Write a Letter to the Editor.

Phone From Home.

Attend an Upcoming Event!

Pombo: Too Close To Jack Abramoff (Marianas)

(Campaign Money Watch Ad)

Press Release

10/26/2006

Rep. Pombo's Refusal to Investigate Jack Abramoff Exposed in Hard-Hitting, But Humorous, Television Ad

One Of The 13 Most Corrupt Members Of Congress, Pombo Took Thousands In Campaign Donations From Convicted Lobbyist And His Clients

"Rep. Richard Pombo's refusal to investigate convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff's lobbying on behalf of clients from the Northern Mariana Islands is the subject of one of the most creative and compelling television ads of the fall in the northern California district.

Entitled "Baker's Dozen," the ad begins by mentioning that Pombo has been named one of the thirteen most corrupt members of Congress by an independent watchdog group. Then it shows Pombo receiving campaign donations from Abramoff as a voice-over describes the human rights abuses widely reported on in the Northern Mariana Islands, over which Pombo's committee has jurisdiction. Both Pombo's and Abramoff's faces appear on animated muffins in the ad. It ends by demanding that Pombo launch an investigation.

The ad is being run by Campaign Money Watch, a campaign reform group that holds politicians accountable. It is slated to air for 12 days starting today in the 11th Congressional District.

"Pombo took thousands of dollars from Abramoff and his Mariana Islands clients," intones the announcer in the ad. "Then, when Pombo was asked to investigate child prostitution and forced abortions on the islands, Pombo refused."

"Richard Pombo needs to be held accountable for his inaction on serious human rights abuses, in apparent payback to lobbyists and campaign donors," commented David Donnelly, director of Campaign Money Watch. "Despite mounting evidence, he's refused to investigate anything to do with convicted lobbyist Jack Abramoff. Money may not buy everything, but perhaps it buys blinders for Pombo."

The ad can be viewed at http://www.campaignmoney.org/mariana_islands.

The group is spending approximately $125,000 to pay for and run the advertising.

-----

Campaign Money Watch is a project of Public Campaign Action Fund, a national watchdog organization that holds politicians accountable for the favors they give to wealthy campaign donors and fights to pass comprehensive campaign finance reform. Campaign Money Watch led voter education efforts in Tom DeLay's home district as well as Ralph Reed's unsuccessful run for Lieutenant Governor in Georgia." (source)

Call on Pombo to investigate Jack Abramoff’s sleazy deals on the Marianas.

"Despite widespread reports of human rights and labor law violations on the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. commonwealth, Rep. Richard Pombo repeatedly refused to investigate the abuses. According to an Interior Department report and major news stories, these abuses included child prostitution and forced abortion.

Why wouldn’t Pombo’s House Committee on Resources, which had jurisdiction, investigate these charges? Perhaps because convicted llobbyist Jack Abramoff and his Mariana clients gave Pombo thousands in campaign donations.

Call on Pombo to investigate Jack Abramoff’s sleazy deals on the Marianas." (source & petition)

http://ga3.org/campaign/marianaislands_abramoff

CA-11 Blog & News Round-Up

(DCCC Ad)

McNerney

From Jerry: The Final Push...

SUNDAY: Join Jerry and Congresswoman Ellen Tauscher in San Ramon

Congressional Candidate McNerney Stumps for Stem Cells

Kid Oakland/DailyKos: martha

Interview With Jerry McNerney

Pombo

SNTP: Watch Out! Pombo’s Coming After Your Social Security

CA 11 Blog: Abramoff scandal not over for Pombo

MoJo: Pombo Supporters Digging For Deeper Pockets

NYTimes: Incumbents on the Ropes Over Ties to Abramoff

L.O.E./Daily Kos: CA-11: Who's the scum?

CA-11 Campaign News

New DCCC Ad: A Better Choice Than Richard Pombo

Grist: Pom and Jerry - McNerney is giving Pombo a run for his money

SNTP: Tauscher: Use It Or Lose It

DailyKos: 6 Reasons to Help Jerry McNerney Beat Pombo

Rep. John Conyers: Now Is the Time to Dig Deeper

SNTP: NRCC Brings Guns To The DCCC’s Knife Fight

Bring Back Bush: McNerney outraises Pombo, asks President to again help

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2006

BRING BACK BUSH
McNerney outraises Pombo, asks President to again help "desperate" incumbent

"Jerry McNerney today called on President George Bush to return to California and campaign on Richard Pombo's behalf. According to fundraising reports filed today with the Federal Election Commission, McNerney outraised Pombo during the first 18 days of October. McNerney collected more than $416,000, boosting his election cycle total to nearly $1.6 million. Pombo raised about $343,000 for the period, more than $50,000 less than he had purportedly received from an early October fundraiser with President Bush alone.

"Jerry McNerney is proud that small, individual contributions have helped his people-powered campaign outraise Richard Pombo's lobbyists and President Bush's friends," said McNerney communications director Yoni Cohen. "The latest fundraising reports and campaign emails show that Pombo desperately needs more of George Bush's help. Jerry McNerney hopes the President returns to California and reminds voters that both Bush and Pombo are satisfied with the lack of ethics and integrity in Congress, and with the directions in which America and Iraq are headed."

Pombo this week sent an email noting he "desperately" needs assistance. McNerney's campaign continues to build momentum and has nearly $330,000 on hand.

In October's first 18 days:

• 2606 people contributed to Jerry McNerney's campaign• 98% percent of contributions came from individuals• The average contribution was $139.15

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children." (source)

SSP: "CA-11: Jerry McNerney (D) - $417k raised, $330k CoH; Richard Pombo (R) - $351k raised, $1.05m CoH" (source)

From Jerry: The Final Push...

FACT CHECK: McNerney, Pombo on Domestic Spying

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2006

FACT CHECK: MCNERNEY ON DOMESTIC SPYING
Pombo was against it before he was for it

"The Jerry McNerney for Congress campaign today responded to a desperate incumbent's slanderous television advertisement. Attempting to avoid being held accountable for flip-flopping on warrantless wiretapping, Pombo is misrepresenting McNerney's position in a new television ad.

"In May, Pombo agreed with McNerney that current law provides law enforcement with the tools necessary to monitor terrorist communications and prevent future attacks," said McNerney communications director Yoni Cohen. "Pombo also agreed with McNerney that the government should not spy on American citizens without first obtaining a warrant. But in September, Pombo flip-flopped, embracing President Bush's unconstitutional attack on American liberties. California residents can't trust Pombo to keep his word. Why should they trust him with their vote?"

CLAIM: Pombo's vote for the Electronic Surveillance Modernization Act in September is consistent with his statement at a Republican forum in May. (Tracy Press, 10/12/06).

FACT: Pombo initially said law enforcement should monitor phone calls between suspected terrorists only after getting a warrant. In May, Pombo proclaimed: "I believe that when monitoring phone calls or amassing a list of where people call, even though it is specifically targeted at people that are believed to be associated with terrorist groups, that it does have to go through the normal process, that [intelligence officers] do have to get a warrant issued before they take advantage of having that opportunity." (Tracy Press, 10/12/06).

Four months later, Pombo voted to allow the government to spy on American citizens before obtaining a warrant. Pombo voted for the Electronic Surveillance Modernization Act, which in many circumstances would allow law enforcement to eavesdrop without a warrant for 90 days. In other circumstances, the legislation would enable the President to authorize electronic surveillance for up to one year without a court order.

CLAIM: "According to his own published answers to Vote Smart, McNerney would stop law enforcement from monitoring terrorist phone calls." (Pombo TV Ad, "Our Time")

FACT: McNerney would encourage law enforcement to monitor terrorist phone calls in a manner consistent with the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. Thirty years ago, Congress enacted FISA to allow the government to conduct necessary surveillance of terrorists while protecting the Fourth Amendment right of ordinary Americans to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. The government has submitted thousands of requests to the FISA court, virtually all of which have been expeditiously approved.

McNerney's position is consistent with his response(s) to an online questionnaire. McNerney had expressed opposition to "granting law enforcement agencies greater discretion to tap phones." This is consistent with his support for surveillance through the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, which already allows law enforcement to monitor phone calls after obtaining a warrant. (The statute also provides a number of exceptions which permit the government to conduct surveillance without a warrant in emergency circumstances and to inform the court within several days of the fact).

Notably, Project Vote Smart prohibits the use of its name or survey in any negative partisan activity, including advertising. According to the organization's website, "Project Vote Smart does not permit the use of its name or programs in any negative campaign activity, including advertising, debates, and speeches" (Associated Press, 10/24/06).

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children." (source)

Pombo: "I will continue to oppose stem cell research"

Pombo: "I will continue to oppose stem cell research"

Bush & Pombo Failed to Prevent North Korea From Developing Nuclear Weapons

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2006

FACT CHECK: MCNERNEY ON NORTH KOREA

Bush, Pombo Failed to Prevent Nuclear Weapons Development

"The Jerry McNerney for Congress campaign today responded to a corrupt incumbent's desperate and dishonest television advertisement. Afraid to defend the Bush/Pombo record on North Korea, Pombo is distorting McNerney's comments in a new television ad.

"For years, Richard Pombo ignored North Korea's nuclear weapons program." said McNerney communications director Yoni Cohen. "Pombo made time to visit the Northern Mariana Islands, but did not consider it important to go on Congressional fact-finding missions to the Korean Peninsula. On Pombo's watch, North Korea developed and tested a nuclear weapon. Unlike Pombo, Jerry McNerney will put America's national security interests ahead of lobbyists' travel requests."

CLAIM: "Jerry McNerney wanted our military to look the other way while North Korea developed nuclear weapons." (Pombo TV Ad, "Veterans").

FACT: George Bush and Richard Pombo looked the other way while North Korea developed and tested a nuclear weapon. The diplomatic, economic and military actions Bush and Pombo took failed to prevent North Korea from ejecting IAEA inspectors, withdrawing from the NPT, or producing enough plutonium to build four to six additional nuclear weapons.

Jerry McNerney believes North Korea is a dangerous threat and opposes North Korea's nuclear weapons program. McNerney wants the United States to "contain North Korea's nuclear program with diplomacy and economic sanctions, [but] would not rule out military options." (Tracy Press, 10/17/06).

Ironically, neither George Bush nor Richard Pombo supports the measure Pombo has criticized McNerney for supposedly opposing in an Internet questionnaire. Neither Bush nor Pombo is currently pressing for the United States to "use military force to dismantle the North Korea nuclear weapons program."

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children." (source)

POMBO BREAKS THE LAW

MEDIA ADVISORY
MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2006

POMBO BREAKS THE LAW

McNerney files legal challenge; Misleading Pombo ad lacks necessary disclaimer

Jerry McNerney today challenged the legality of Richard Pombo's deceptive and desperate television advertisement. McNerney filed a formal complaint with the Federal Election Commission and advised each of the stations running the new advertisement that Pombo must now be charged the same rate as are non-political advertisers for the duration of the campaign.

Pombo's advertisement violates federal law. As recently amended by Congress, the Communications Act of 1934 requires a federal candidate who wishes to broadcast a television ad making a direct reference to another candidate for the same office to include at the end of the ad, for at least four seconds, an image of himself or herself. The ad must simultaneously provide a clearly readable printed statement identifying the candidate and stating that the candidate approved the ad and that his or her authorized committee paid for its broadcast. Pombo's image appears at the beginning of the ad, which does not include a printed statement that Pombo approved the ad.

"Richard Pombo believes he is above the law," said McNerney press secretary Yoni Cohen. "Pombo billed taxpayers for his family's vacation and performed legislative favors for Jack Abramoff in return for campaign contributions. Pombo gets the big things wrong. Is it any surprise he can't get the little things right?"

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children. (source)

*Updated

Hat Tip to SNTP:

Here's The Ad.

SNTP: Pombo Blows Off The FEC Laws (source)

SNTP: "If you would like to register a complaint with any of the television stations in Sacramento which have aired this commercial, please feel free to contact them:

KOVR, TV13, CBS (916) 374-1313

KTXL, TV40, FOX (916) 454-4422

KCRA, TV3, NBC (916) 446-3333

KXTV, TV10, ABC (916) 441-2345

KMAX, TV31, CW (916) 374-1313

KQCA, TV58 (916) 447-5858" (source)

Pombo Is Also Avoiding Reporters

MCNERNEY TO PROMOTE STEM CELL RESEARCH

MEDIA ADVISORY

MCNERNEY TO PROMOTE STEM CELL RESEARCH
Advocate, expert, and victim to join challenger at press conference

DUBLIN, CA – Don Reed of Californians for Cures, Dr. Colleen Hogan of the San Ramon Valley Primary Care Medical Group, and Danville resident Pam Nett will join Jerry McNerney, Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, at a Tuesday morning press conference.

Reed, whose son was paralyzed in a football injury, successfully lobbied for the first state-funded embryonic stem cell research program in the country. Nett's daughter has cystic fibrosis. Hogan and McNerney support life-saving federal research, whereas Rep. Richard Pombo and President George Bush have worked to disallow such funding, which medical researchers believe has the potential to cure spinal cord injuries and diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, diabetes, and epilepsy. Voters in the 11th Congressional District strongly supported Proposition 71, the Stem Cell Research and Cures Initiative.

WHO: Don Reed, Californians for Cures
Pam Nett, Danville resident and mother of a four-year old with cystic fibrosis
Jerry McNerney, Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District
Dr. Colleen Hogan, San Ramon Valley Primary Care Medical Group

WHAT: Stem Cell Research Press Conference

WHERE: Bollinger Canyon Road Playground
Corner of Talavera Drive and Bollinger Canyon Road
Two blocks west of Highway 680
San Ramon, CA

WHEN: Tuesday, October 24, 2006
10:30 a.m.

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children. (source)

More Local Paper Endorsements For McNerney

"Republicans and Democrats in the Tri-Valley should be embarrassed to be represented in Washington by a congressman with Pombo's values, ethics and political positions.

The better choice is Jerry McNerney, 55, a Pleasanton resident who has attracted bipartisan support in his effort to unseat Pombo. An engineer, McNerney has devoted the last 20 years of his career to the development of viable wind energy technology and is currently CEO of a start-up company that will manufacture wind turbines.

Far from being a political ideologue, McNerney represents the kind of citizen activist who wants to work on solving important problems, not use those problems to curry favor with special interests and as a way to raise campaign contributions." (source)

More McNerney Momentum -- Sacramento Bee endorses Jerry!

More "Newspapers for McNerney": Pleasanton Weekly & Danville Weekly endorse Jerry!


Recent Editorials & Endorsements

A must-read New York Times editorial: "Mr. Pombo's Map"

THE (SF) CHRONICLE RECOMMENDS: Replace Pombo with McNerney

BREAKING: San Jose Mercury News endorses Jerry McNerney!

L.A. Times editorial: Pombo a "Congressman We Could Do Without"

Modesto Bee endorses -- "Out with Pombo, in with McNerney"

The Independent endorses McNerney!

Esquire Endorses Jerry McNerney for Congress!

"Show Pombo you oppose sex trade"

CC Times/GUEST COMMENTARY: Show Pombo you oppose sex trade (source)

"IS THERE a connection between young women forced into the sex trade, forced to have abortions, working 12 to 14 hour days in sweatshops, and Rep. Richard Pombo's House chairmanship?

Any credence to the bipartisan outrage by Alaska's governor, conservative Republican Frank Murkowski, and House Democrat George Miller about this happening on American soil? Yes.

Has Miller asked Pombo to hold hearings on these conditions? Yes. Rebuffed? Yes." (more-at-source)

"Was an attempt to bring this issue to the floor of the House thwarted when Pombo refused to hold hearings? Yes." (more-at-source)

You can also show Pombo that you oppose corruption, the support he's getting from white supremacists & campaign contrubitions from other corrupt politician's like Tom Delay, Jack Abramoff, Duke Cunningham and now from Rep. Jim Kolbe; a member of Congress who is under Federal investigation for taking innapropriate trips with pages.

Pombo's Corruption Hurts Rancher

Pombo's Corruption Hurts Rancher

Veterans for McNerney: Jerry Will Fight For Us

McNerney to Pombo: You've got Mail

Citing Doolittle and Ney, McNerney calls on Pombo to make public all correspondence with Jack Abramoff

McNerney for Congress

"Citing recently released emails highlighting Julie Doolittle's interest in working for Jack Abramoff and Rep. Bob Ney's guilty plea on corruption charges, Jerry McNerney today called on Richard Pombo to make public all correspondence with Jack Abramoff. According to Marianas Variety News, Micronesia's leading newspaper, the Department of Justice has subpoenaed Pombo's email related to his relationship with Abramoff and the Northern Mariana Islands. Reviews of Abramoff emails to Pombo have identified at least five instances in which Abramoff provided Pombo staffers with complimentary tickets to the circus, a National Hockey League game, and several World Wrestling Federation events.

Abramoff and his clients also contributed more than $43,000 to Pombo in return for legislative action. In 2004, for example, Pombo ushered a bill through the Committee on Resources that helped an Abramoff client, the Mashpee Wampanoag Indians tribe, gain federal recognition and special benefits. On the same day Abramoff donated $5,000 to Pombo's political action committee, Rich PAC, six tribe members did the same, contributing a total of $12,000. To date, the tribe has contributed at least $20,000 to Pombo – none of which Pombo has returned or donated to charity.

"I'm calling Richard Pombo's bluff," said McNerney. "Pombo has said he's 'not afraid' of addressing his relationship with disgraced Republican lobbyist Jack Abramoff. If so, Pombo should immediately come clean about his dealings with Abramoff and release any and all correspondence between Abramoff and his associates and Pombo and his staff. If Pombo has nothing to hide, he'll oblige and make public all communication. But if the truth won't set him free, Pombo will cut and run from his obligation to level with his constituents." (source)

Pombo Ditches Local Seniors for Fundraiser With Former Lobbyist

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WHERE'S POMBO? IN SAN DIEGO, NOT STOCKTON.WITH DONORS, NOT SENIORS.

Alliance for Retired Americans endorses McNerney; Pombo to skip AARP Forum

"Jerry McNerney today accepted the endorsement of the Alliance for Retired Americans and criticized Richard Pombo for selling out seniors. Pombo supports privatizing Social Security and opposes enabling the government to negotiate for lower prescription drug prices in the new Medicare prescription drug program. Afraid of answering questions about his anti-senior agenda, Pombo is expected to skip tonight's AARP candidates' forum in Stockton. However, Pombo will appear at a fundraiser tomorrow night with Congressman turned corporate lobbyist turned Congressman Brian Bilbray in San Diego.

"Richard Pombo always makes time for out-of-town lobbyists looking for legislative favors," said Jerry McNerney, nominee for Congress from California's 11th Congressional District. "But Pombo routinely votes against improving the quality of life of older Americans. Pombo's radical plan to privatize Social Security will eliminate the guaranteed retirement benefits on which millions of California's seniors depend. In Congress, I will fight to protect and preserve Social Security for future generations."

Said Nan Brasmer, Manteca resident and Alliance for Retired Americans Board Member, "Richard Pombo's opposition to allowing the government to negotiate for lower prescription drug prices is as callous as it is corrupt. Rather than vote to save seniors thousands of dollars, Pombo is helping the pharmaceutical industry to billions of dollars in taxpayer money. Jerry McNerney is an advocate for seniors who recognizes the need for a comprehensive prescription drug program under Medicare that benefits seniors – not insurance and drug companies."

###

Jerry McNerney is a nationally recognized expert in wind engineering and renewable energy, with a PhD in mathematics. During his career in wind energy, McNerney's work contributed to saving the equivalent of approximately 30 million barrels of oil, or 8.3 million tons of carbon dioxide – the main greenhouse gas – as well as other harmful pollutants. The Democratic nominee for California's 11th Congressional District, Jerry has been married for 29 years and has three grown children." (source)

Pombo Buses in Support from Out-Of-State Corporate Special Interests

Aside from Big Developer Money, Richard Pombo continues to rake in loads of special interest money from Big Oil, Big Business, Big Pharmaceuticals, the Chemical Industry, Corporate Lobbyists, & Tribal Gaming -according to his latest FEC filing.

Pombo raised 295287.88 from PAC's alone this period & 1324930.58 from PACs this cycle-to-date.

Richard Pombo is supposed to Represent the 11th C.D -California. So why are so many out-of-state special interest funding his reelection campaign?

Notable Contributions - From FEC Filing

Oil/Energy

Jeanne Mitchell (ExxonMobil Lobbyist) - 1000.00

ChevronTexaco Employees PAC - 10000.00

Lisa Barry (Md-ChevronTexaco-Exec.) - 2500.00

Dan Fager (Va-Chevron-Manager) - 500.00

Alliant Energy PAC (Wi) - 1000.00

Kerr-McGee Corp. PAC (Ok)- 5000.00

Chesapeake Energy Corp. Federal PAC - 1000.00

Independent Oil Producers' Agency PAC - 125.00

American Gas Assoc. PAC (DC) - 6000.00

David Parker (Va-American Gas Assoc.-Pres.) - 1000.00

Murray Energy PAC (Oh) - 5000.00

David Jamison - Murray Energy (Oh) - 300.00

Robert Murray - Murray Energy (Oh-Pres.) - 2100.00

Douglas Smith - (Ut-Utah American Energy -Exec.) - 300.00

PG&E Corp. Energy PAC - 8000.00

Valero Political Act (Tx) - 6500.00

Tesoro Petroleum Corp. PAC - 2000.00

General Electric Company PAC (DC) - 6000.00

William Whitsitt (Va) - Domestic Petroleum Council (Pres.) - 300.00

Big Business

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. PAC (Ak) - 3000.00

National Beer Wholesalers Assoc. PAC (Va) - 10000.00

Marathon Oil Company Employees PAC (Oh) - 5000.00

PAC for Employees of the Dow Chemical Co. - 4000.00

The GlaxoSmithKline PAC (Nc) - 2000.00

Interstate Natural Gas Assoc. of America PAC - 2000.00

Realtors PAC (Il) -10000.00

PAC for Employees of the Dow Chemical Co. (Mi) - 4000.00

RJReynolds P.A.C. (Nc) - 6000.00

Lyondell Chemical Co. PAC (DC) - 2000.00

Lobbyists

Peter Smith (Ct)- Rome Smith Assoc. - 1000.00

Richard Alcalde - Potomac Partners - 1000.00

Christopher Eckl - Sullivan & Worcester -250.00

W. Roger Gwinn (DC) - The Ferguson Group

Joseph L. Raeder (DC) - The Ferguson Group -2500.00

William Hanka (DC) - The Ferguson Group

William Jarrell (Va) - Preston Bates Ellis - 2000.00

Jeanne Mitchell (Va) - ExxonMobil Corp. - 1000.00

Paula Timmons (Va) - AT&T - 1000.00

Steven McKnight (Va) - The Rhoads Group -250.00

Thomas Pyle (DC) - The Rhoads Group - 2000.00

Colin Chapman (Va) - The Rhoads Group - 1000.00

Thomas P. Walters (Va) - Homberger and Walters - 1500.00

Tribal Gaming

The Mohegan Tribe (Ct) - 2100.00

Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla (Palm Springs) - 2000.00

Jamestown S'Kallam Tribe - 1000.00

Carolyn Medeiros (Wa-Cons.) - Cowlitz Indian Tribe - 4100.00

Carolee Morris (Wa-Admin.) - Cowlitz Indian Tribe - 2100.00

Nancy Osborne (Or-Secr.) - Cowlitz Indian Tribe - 2100.00

Tule River Tribal Council - 4100.00

Matthew Franklin (Ione Band of Miwok Indians-Chair) - 3100.00

The Ute Indian Tribe (Va) - 1500.00

Mitchell Etess (Ct) - Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority (CEO) - 1000.00

Marisa Hartmann (Ct) - Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority - 1000.00

Charles Bunnell (Ut) - The Mohegan Tribe (COS) -1384.11

Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Na - 1500.00

Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe (Or)- 1000.00

(source: FEC)

Other FEC Filing Suprises

*Pombo Recieved a $1,000 Contribution for Representative Jim Kolbe of Arizona. Back in 2000 Rep. Kolbe was warned of and saw first hand Mark Foley's predatory behavior. Kolbe like Hastert & Reynolds did nothing. As if that weren't enough, Rep. Kolbe is now under Federal investigation for a camping trip he took with pages back in 1996.

*Fishy Money - Pombo recieved lots of campaign contributions from Seafood, Fishery, & Fishing related industries - Contributors: Marcus Alden & F. Gregory Baker (Westward Seafoods), Michael Atterberry (Alaska Ocean Seafood), David Benson (Trident Seafoods ), John Bundy (Glacier Fish Co.), Craig Cross (Aleutian Spray Fisheries), William Dewey, William Taylor (Taylor Shellfish Farms ), Kevin Duffy (At-Sea Processors Assoc. ), Lance Farr & Kristian Poulsen (Alaska Crab Coalition), Ralph Hoard (Icile Seafoods ), Gordon Lindquist (Alaska General Seafoods ), Hua Ngo (H&N Fish ), Mark Palmer (Ocean Beauty Seafood ), Walter Pereyra (Fisheries ), Dennis Phelan (Pacific Seafood Processors Assoc.), Lori Swanson (Groundfish Forum ), William Taylor (Taylor Shellfish), Kristian Uri (Fishermen's Finest), F. Joseph Bersch, III (supreme alaska foods), Richard Martin (red chamber/fisheries) (Source)

*"Pombo’s wife, Annette, is still on the payroll, having received $9,000 during the reporting period." (source)

*"Some of you may remember reading about Steven Ding earlier this year when his dual political roles stirred up a controversy. Ding serves as the House Resources Committee Chief of Staff, for which the taxpayers pay him an annual salary of $150,000; simultaneously, Ding serves Richard Pombo’s Congressional Chief of Staff, where he is paid a nominal fee of $100/month plus travel expenses. The only problem is that Ding holds down these two high-profile Washington jobs (putting in 80-90 hour work weeks) while living in Stockton. He has spent the last three years commuting to DC at taxpayer expense ($87,000 over and above his base salary during the last three years).

Well, Ding must be one helluva multi-tasker because while doing all that, Pombo also just paid him $20,000 over a 30-day period for “political consulting.” Oh, and he threw down another $2,643.32 to Ding’s wife Shannon for travel and fundraising expenses. But, hey, that’s what friends are for, right?" (source)

Pombo Sells Out His Home Town of Tracy To Big Money Developers

Pombo took 50K from Developers and related interests for his reelection campaign according to just his latest FEC filing. Now he's returning the favor in his home town of Tracy by teaming up with the same developers to maintain the developer-driven status quo. Pombo is spending 25K to help Developers defeat a controlled-growth activist running for Mayor.

Tracy has become famous for out of control growth and massive traffic problems, in large part due to the developers, the Tracy City Council (to which Pombo once served), the town's Mayor and it's Congressman Richard Pombo.

The Pombo family also stands to gain from development and Pombo going to bat for Developers is only going to bring in more special interest money to his reelection campaign.

To Richard Pombo it's just another investment.

""A record $70,000 is flowing into the race that will determine Tracy's first new mayor in more than a decade, but it's not the mayoral candidates who are collecting or spending the cash.

Rep. Richard Pombo's political action committee; Manteca developer AKF Development; and PAQ Inc., the company that runs Food 4 Less in Northern California, have contributed at least $20,000 each to a political action committee opposing candidate Celeste Garamendi, who is running against Vice Mayor Brent Ives.

The independent committee, HAT PAC, has spent nearly $58,000 on television and radio advertising since Oct. 11, according to campaign finance records." (source)

"AKT wants to give the city money to build sports fields in exchange for the right to build homes in 2012, when the city’s quasi-building moratorium ends. AKT is owned by the Tsakopoulos family, and records show Katherine Tsakopoulos gave $2,100 to Pombo’s campaign in early July." (source)

"Pombo’s Rich PAC gave $25,000 three weeks ago to a group led by the campaign manager of Rep. John Doolittle, R-Rocklin, to run attack ads against Garamendi, a community activist who for years has defeated big developers on ballot-box initiatives." (source)

"Assessor maps show Pombo’s family owns about 800 acres of largely undeveloped land in Tracy’s sphere of influence, where a slow-growth law championed by Garamendi and passed by voters in 2000 dramatically slowed the number of new homes that can be built.

Garamendi previously vowed to do “everything legally possible” if elected mayor to block controversial deals that Ives, outgoing mayor Dan Bilbrey and incumbent council candidate Suzanne Tucker asked city employees to negotiate with The Surland Co. and AKT Development." (source)

Record: Money shapes race for Tracy mayor (source)

Tracy Press: Perfect plolitical storm (source)

Neither paper looked very deep into the money behind the move. Just look at Pombo's latest FEC filing. Pombo recieved 50K from developers and developer related interests just recently according to that filing. That includes some of those involved in purchasing Tracy & Pombo.

AKT/Tsakopoulos Money

George Tsakopoulos - Tsakopoulos Investments - 1500.00

Tsakopoulos Investments - 07/03/2006 - 2100.00

Katherine Tsakopoulos - Tsakopoulos Investments - 2100.00,

Drosoula Tsakopoulos - 1000.00

AKF

Michael Atherton - AKF Development - 1850.00

E. Kirk - AKF Development - 4200.00

Spanos

Alex Spanos - A.G. Spanos Co. (Pres.) - 3500.00

Helen Spanos - 3600.00

Michael Spanos - A. G. Spanos Co. (Exec.) - 3600.00

Dea Berberian - A. G. Spanos Co. (VP) - 3600.00
Ronald Berberian - A. G. Spanos Co. (Exec.) - 3600.00

Barry Ruhl - A.G. Spanos Co. (Exec.) - 1000.00
Alexis Ruhl - 3100.00

Art Perry - A G Enterprises (Partner) - 2500.00

Geremiah Murphy, Jr. - The Spanos Corp. (Exec.) - 500.00

Natalia Orfanos - A. G. Spanos Co. (PR) - 500.00

Jim Panagopoulos - A. G. Spanos Co. (Exec) - 500.00

More Developer Money

Sid Corrie, Jr. - Corrie Development - 1000.00

Jeff Holbrook - Developer - 2100.00

John D'Arcy - Mill Creek Development (Developer) - 1000.00

Susan Dell 'Osso - River Islands Development (Developer) - 3500.00

Jodi Westbrooks - Westbrooks & Johnson Developments - 2100.00

Richard Petersen - Brookfield Homes - 250.00

Joseph Keith - Cobblestone Homes - 2000.00

Merle Gilliland - Richland Development - 1000.00

BREAKING: THE CHRONICLE RECOMMENDS: Replace Pombo with McNerney, LA Times: Pombo a "Congressman We Could Do Without"

THE (SF) CHRONICLE RECOMMENDS: Replace Pombo with McNerney
"LINKS TO disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff, efforts to gut wildlife protections and sell off national parks, and a blessing to offshore oil drilling. That's the profile of U.S. Rep. Richard Pombo.

In seven prior elections, the Tracy Republican has had an easy time. He's run low-profile races in a GOP-leaning district that straddles the low hills separating the Bay Area and the San Joaquin Valley.

But this time his ethical stumbles and radical positions should catch up with him. His opponent, engineer Jerry McNerney brings a low-key probity that the district and House deserve.

---snip---

It's not just ideology that disqualifies Pombo. It's ethics too. He was jumped from junior member to chairman of the House Resources Committee at the behest of scandal-tainted Rep. Tom DeLay. Pombo's campaign donations included $7,500 from the disgraced Abramoff and another $30,000 from Abramoff clients. If you are judged in politics by the company you keep, Pombo fails the test." (more-at-source)

More Breaking & Recent Editorials & Endorsements

BREAKING: San Jose Mercury News endorses Jerry McNerney!

L.A. Times editorial: Pombo a "Congressman We Could Do Without"

Modesto Bee endorses -- "Out with Pombo, in with McNerney"

The Independent endorses McNerney!

Esquire Endorses Jerry McNerney for Congress!

Ca-11 News Update

Jerry McNerney

"In August and September, the National Republican Campaign Committee spent half a million dollars attacking Jerry McNerney. Richard Pombo added hundreds of thousands more in negative advertising. But it was McNerney, not Pombo, whose odds improved. In early October, all four of the nation's most respected nonpartisan political analysts, Charlie Cook, Chuck Todd, Stuart Rothenberg, and Larry Sabato, upgraded the likelihood of a McNerney victory. Public polls confirm the incumbent Republican is vulnerable, showing Pombo with high unfavorable and low reelect numbers. According to polls, McNerney has despite Republican spending caught Pombo and the two are now in a statistical dead heat.

On Sunday, McNerney filed a fundraising report with the Federal Elections Commission that demonstrated his continued strength as a fundraiser, bringing in more than $712,200 in the third quarter – a Democratic record for the district – without the help of a sitting President. At the end of September, McNerney had raised more than $1.16 million overall and had nearly $334,000 cash on hand. In the two weeks since, the campaign has brought in an additional $250,000, raising its sum total to more than $1.41 million.

• 98% percent of third quarter contributions came from individuals.

• 4558 people contributed to Jerry McNerney's campaign in the third quarter.

• The average third quarter contribution size was $129.52." (source)

PITY POMBO: MCNERNEY GAINS DESPITE REPUBLICAN SPENDING - McNerney tops all previous Pombo challengers in a single quarter, surpasses $1.4 million overall

Pombo's challenger steps up campaign - McNerney welcomes support from House Democrats, conservation groups

THE CHRONICLE RECOMMENDS Replace Pombo with McNerney

CA-11: Not Just Tilting at Windmills Anymore

Richard Pombo

"Newt nods. He shifts his gaze to Sen. Pete Domenici and Rep. Richard Pombo. They're dressed as giant oil drums, in homage to their chief benefactors -- and beneficiaries -- on Capitol Hill." (source)

"Richard W. Pombo (R-Tracy), a seven-term congressman who appears to have a vendetta against the environment, has tried repeatedly to eviscerate the Endangered Species Act. He has proposed selling federal wilderness for a pittance to mining interests. His latest bill wouldn't just open up vast stretches of the coast to drilling, it would slash the royalties that companies must pay for shale-oil leases, potentially costing taxpayers billions of dollars. And then there's his tarnished ethics record, which earned him a spot on a watchdog group's list of the 13 most corrupt members of Congress last year." (source)

Pombo transformed both his Campaign & House Resources Committeee Tax-Payer Funded Website Into Political Propaganda Pages just in time for the election.

Pombo bill could bring him benefits

L.A. Times editorial: Pombo a "Congressman We Could Do Without"

Nightmare on Pennsylvania Ave. Starring Richard Pombo

Pombo stymied over Species Act

Tales From The FEC Expense Records

CA-11: LTEs to Pombo's Hometown Paper

Action & Events

Contribute to Jerry McNerney for Congress!

Attend an Upcoming Event!

Help Jerry in By Phoning Voters From Home!

Write a Letter to the Editor!

Jerry McNerney & A Stronger, Safer America - Protecting Troops & Veterans

Jerry McNerney gets it when it comes to the need for Strong and Wise Foreign Policy & National Security. He'll Also Make Protecting America's Troops and Veterans a Priority 100% of the time, unlike Richard Pombo.

""To Jerry McNerney, when it comes to protecting soldiers and veterans who protect America, it's personal. Jerry's son Michael volunteered to serve in the military because of 9/11. Michael then challenged his dad to run for Congress and to give back to his country by protecting the veterans and soldiers who protect our security..."" (source)

Jerry McNerney: "I understand the threat of terrorism. I was on a hijacked airline in 1971, spending the night in the air, looking down the barrel of guns held by men who had no respect for human life. America must do everything necessary to defeat the terrorists. This means a tough and smart approach to fighting terrorism. It means using our military effectively. We can defeat (the terrorists), but only if we are smart." (source)

Rep. Jane Harman (Ranking Democrat on House Permanent Select Committee on Itelligence, also served Homeland Security Committee): "I traveled to Stockton to join Jerry at the University of the Pacific's School of International Studies not to discuss the environment, but national security policy. Here, too, on this extremely complex topic, Jerry can more than hold his own. Even though he hasn't yet been elected to Congress, he is more informed on security issues than many of my House colleagues." (more-at-source)

"McNerney has been endorsed by Wesley Clark, retired four-star general and supreme Allied commander of Europe, and retired Air Force Lt. Col. William Evans, who said, "Jerry is the kind of honest person who supports the needs of American veterans."" (source)

General Wes Clark: “Californians deserve a partner in Washington who values sustainable, clean energy, a sound national security and a robust economy,” General Clark said. “That partner is Jerry McNerney whose informed, honest approach to public service is needed in Washington now more than ever." (source)

"Veterans’ Vision is proud to endorse candidate Jerry McNerney for the U.S. House of Representatives. Mr. McNerney was inspired to run for Congress by his son Michael, who sought and received a commission in the Air Force after 9/11. If elected, Mr. McNerney will undoubtedly fight for veterans’ causes." (source)

Iraq Veterans for Progress: "While promoting Bush's foreign policy disaster in Iraq, Pombo voted to cut $1.8 billion in benefits to veterans. He also cast the deciding vote in the House against funding for prosthetics for wounded veterans -- including soldiers coming home from Iraq who have lost limbs caused by roadside bombs." (source)

"Dr. Robert Meaders, a former naval flight surgeon and ophthalmologist & Founder of "Operation Helmet": "Jerry: Thanks to your support, we received over $7,000 in contributions for the upgrade of combat helmets. The Marines, Air Force, Navy troops now have a better chance of coming home with their gourds intact and brains unscrambled because of you. Thanks from all of us to you and your constituents who gave so generously." (source)

Pombo Has Failed Veterans Too Many Times

"According to Disabled American Veterans, a non-partisan veterans' organization with more than 1.2 million members, Richard Pombo has voted against the interests of disabled veterans 92% of the time. Pombo voted to cut funding for veterans' health programs and against fully funding veterans' disability and retirement benefits. He also voted against extending health care coverage to National Guard and Reserve members and their families." (source)

Pete McCloskey (Ret. Us Marines): "Choosing not to serve in the armed services in his youth, RichardPombo's record with regards to Veterans Issues is less than notable.To his credit, Mr. Pombo has voted in favor of many of the large andpublicized Veterans Bills. However, support for our men and women whohave devoted themselves to serving the country should not just occurwhen doing so will score political points. Support means backing lesswell known bills and amendments simply because it is the right thingto do. The over 2.3 million veterans in California deserve better." (source)

"In the past year alone Mr. Pombo has voted:

• Rep. Pombo opposed amendments to HR1815 (roll call 221, 5/25/05).This Bill would have expanded the military's low-cost, andhigh-coverage TRICARE insurance program to all reservists, NationalGuard members as well as their families.

• Rep. Pombo voted against amendments to HR 2528 (roll call 224,5/26/05). Pombo voted against this bill that sought $30 million inVeterans health care benefits. Funding from this bill would go tosupport for returning wounded troops, though paying for addition staffto help process claims, provide funding for trauma care for returnedtroops, and funding prosthetic research. Pombo also voted againstamendments that would allocate $23 million to the approximately 4100spouses of service members who have died serving their country.

• Rep. Pombo opposed changes to HR 1268 (roll call 76, 3/16/05). Thesechanges to the budget would have increased funding for military healthcare by $100 million. Another $50 million would be allocated totransitional job training for vets, many of whom face un- orunder-employment when returning from active duty.

• Rep. Pombo voted against HR 27 (roll call 47, 3/2/05) that wouldhave provided job assistance to veterans returning from overseas. Fourof every ten National Guard and Reserve members face income loss uponreturn.

• The Government has stated that the VA Health Care system will beunder funded by nearly $3.7 Billion. Despite this, Rep. Pombo hasrepeatedly voted against efforts to increase VA Health Care funding by$2.5 billion dollars. (HR 1268, HR2528, HconRes95, HJRes107, AP6/28/05, Washington Post 6/24/05)

• The organization Disabled American Veterans cited Rep. Pombo asvoting for 0% of the bills they saw as supporting their interests in2003, 2004, 2005 (vote-smart.org, dva.org)

• Vietnam Veterans of America cited Rep. Pombo as supporting theirinterests only 38% in 2003-2004. (vote-smart.org, vva.org)" (source)

Related Links

Rep. Jane Harman/DailyKos: Thoughts from the Campaign Trail

Jerry McNerney: Tough On Terrorism

Veterans for McNerney - Video

Read Jerry McNerney's Positions on National Security, Foreign Policy, & America's Dangerous Dependence on Foreign Sources of Oil.

“How do I know Jerry McNerney Will Protect Our Veterans?”

"Lost Limbs": Watch Jerry’s new TV ad holding Pombo accountable for his treatment of veterans

General Wes Clark endorses Jerry McNerney!

Jerry McNerney & Supporters Work With "Operation Helmet" to Provide Kevlar Helmet Upgrades to Troops

Former Congressman McCloskey Calls Incumbent Richard Pombo's Statement On His Votes For Veterans A Fraud

Richard Pombo: Working Hard As Ever To Protect Record Oil Company Profits

Pombo Wants Taxpayers To Subsidize Big Oil While Already Paying Big At The Pump.


LA Times: Energy Bill Is a Boon to Oil Companies
Legislation OKd by the House would encourage extraction of oil shale in the Rockies by slashing royalties paid to the federal government. (source)

"Tucked into a massive energy bill that would open the outer continental shelf to oil drilling are provisions that would slash future royalties owed to the federal government by companies prospecting in Rocky Mountain oil shale deposits.

Sponsored by Rep. Richard W. Pombo (R-Tracy) and passed by the House earlier this year, the bill would amend an existing requirement that the federal government receive a "fair return" from oil companies that hold oil shale leases on public lands. Instead, Pombo's bill, modeled after a Canadian law, would reduce royalties from the customary 12.5% of annual revenue to 1%.

Further, the bill could cut the reduced rate by as much as 80% if the price of oil fell. Over many years of oil production, the royalty discounts could amount to tens of billions in lost federal receipts, said James T. Bartis, an analyst at the Rand Corp. who wrote a widely used study of the economic prospects of the developing oil shale industry. The provision would benefit the energy industry, which is a heavy contributor to Pombo's reelection campaign.

---clip---

Direct contributions from energy and natural resource companies account for about 10% of donations to Pombo's current reelection campaign...Exxon Mobil and Chevron have contributed $10,000 and $9,000, respectively, to Pombo's campaign." (more-at-source)

Richard Pombo (Exxon-Mobil): "We Have a Choice on Energy Independence"

Back on September 6th, Richard Pombo blogged at The Hill Blog that "We Have a Choice on Energy Independence."

Pombo Wrote:

"For far too long, Americans have been shackled to our dependence on foreign energy. This dependence has tethered our security to distant and unstable lands, like the Middle East. And, with every tug and pull at these chains of dependence from rogue nations and brazen terrorists, the effects are felt at gas stations in every hometown across America - and in every American's wallet."

Ok, so I agree with the Congressman so far. Let's see where he goes with this...

"But, we have a choice. Every link in this chain of dependence can be broken by developing America's known sources of energy - a critical first step in achieving long-term energy independence. Unfortunately, our dependence on foreign energy was chosen for us by liberal special interests who have said "No!" to a comprehensive domestic energy policy for more than 30 years. This so-called energy policy empowered other nations to fetter us to unpredictable foreign energy markets. As a result, America is less secure. Over the past year, gas prices have ballooned, and Americans have finally mustered up the strength to diversify their energy policy, and break out of the shackles of foreign energy dependence.

The recent oil find in the deep waters of the Gulf of Mexico exemplifies our country's immense domestic energy potential. One of the largest oil fields in American history may lie under the ocean. But we'll never know for sure unless these areas are explored."

Ooooooh. Now it makes sense.

The choice Pombo has proposed for "Energy Independence" (or more Energy Dependence) is more Oil Drilling.

This shouldn't be surprising coming from someone who's Funded By Big Oil and who's worked diligently to subsidize and to protect big oil's record profits. Richard Pombo and Big Oil both benefit from record oil company profits and record high gas prices at the pump.

Pombo was right about having a choice though.

The choice is between a corrupt Congressman who is funded by big oil and an Honest Renewable Energy Expert who actually has a plan to reduce our nations dangerous dependence on foreign oil.

When you go to the polls just "remember - an America independent of foreign energy is an America that is secure for every current and future citizen of this nation" as Pombo stated.

Then just think about the hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign contributions Richard Pombo has taken from just Big Oil and ask yourself who's interests he represents.

CA-11 Blog Round Up

Jerry's Blog: THIS WEEKEND: Get Out The >>ABSENTEE<<> (source)

Hank Shaw/Record: Tracy Press Talks Turkey (source)

Rep. Jane Harman/MYDD: CA-11: Thoughts from the Campaign Trail (source)

SNTP: More On McNerney/Pombo Polling (source)

Hank Shaw/Record: Pundits upgrade race (source)

Pombo Watch: Challenging the facts (source)

Pombo Watch: Fogliana or Johnson (source)

*Updated* Local Newspapers Rally Against Pombo, In Favor of McNerney

(Inside Bay Area)

"Even gerrymandering can't guarantee the re-election of California Republican Congressmen Richard Pombo and John Doolittle. Many voters have had it with their money-grubbing and their party's influence-peddling. It's about time." (source)

"Doolittle, who's seeking his ninth term, has had a safe seat in a majority Republican district running from the Oregon and Nevada borders to northeastern Sacramento. The same is true with Pombo, seeking his eighth term in a Central Valley district that reaches into Morgan Hill.

But not this year. Both have been singed by their association with convicted super-lobbyist Jack Abramoff and by their own fundraising and spending practices.

---clip---

Doolittle and Pombo rose to leadership positions under DeLay and have been enmeshed in the web of corporate lobbyist ties that he established.

Five years ago, Doolittle and Pombo interfered with an investigation by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. into a failed savings and loan owned by Texas businessman Charles Hurwitz, a major GOP donor. In what an FDIC spokesman called ``a seamy abuse of the legislative process,'' Doolittle and Pombo introduced sensitive documents into the Congressional Record to damage the government's case.

In a practice that Congress should ban, Pombo encourages industries that lobby his committee to pay staff junkets to places like Atlantic City. Those expenses totaled $197,000 between 2003 and 2005. More than 40 businesses and trade groups hosted a grand ``Pombo Palooza'' at the 2004 national GOP Convention." (source)

"Both Doolittle and Pombo also put relatives on campaign payrolls -- a practice that, while not illegal, should be discouraged. Pombo's brother Randall, his campaign's treasurer, has received an average of $43,000 a year since 1992. His wife, Annette, has been listed as a consultant since 2003, earning an average $48,000 a year." (source)

"Doolittle and Pombo embody Washington's incestuous political culture. By throwing them out, voters would signal the need for change." (source)

"During his 14 years in the House of Representatives, Richard Pombo ... has earned other types of support — significant contributions from development interests, Indian gaming tribes, oil companies, foreign mining concerns and some of the most corrupt people in Washington, D.C. To earn that support, Pombo has embraced potentially disastrous environmental policies; suggested selling off national parks; tried to engineer giveaways of natural resources, and embraced drilling for oil in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and off both coasts. The Resources Committee he chairs has made a few favored gaming tribes extraordinarily wealthy.

All have returned his support in the form of contributions. Various lists put contributions to Pombo at $7.3million during his congressional career — including mountains of money raised at lavish events hosted by lobbyists and those who have business with his committee. He has taken money from admitted political fixer Jack Abramoff, and he was a protégé of disgraced House Majority Leader Tom DeLay.

Their support has cost him ours. We can no longer embrace a politician who appears to put special interests ahead of the interests of his district. It's also troubling that one watchdog group listed Pombo among Washington's 20 most corrupt representatives.

Instead, The Bee endorses Democrat Jerry McNerney of Pleasanton. He is a political neophyte, a Ph.D. engineer who attended West Point, once worked at Sandia National Laboratories and now owns a windpower company. He wants to develop alternative energy to create power and jobs. Wonkish and facing a charisma deficit, he has so far eschewed big corporate contributions — meaning he will be thoroughly outspent.

This, like any election with an incumbent, is a referendum. While Pombo has been effective in a few high-profile issues — such as helping to broker a settlement on re-watering the San Joaquin River — he has worked even harder for a host of special interests. He is at the diseased heart of the quid-pro-quo process that defines Washington politics today. To send him back to the Capitol endorses a system we can no longer tolerate." (More-At-Source)

Modesto Bee: Out with Pombo,in with McNerney (source)

Mercury News: Pombo, Doolittle "deserve defeat Nov. 7" (source)

SFBG: Defeating Pombo (source)

Daily Review: Pombo faces area's only serious House race (source)

*Updated*

Jerry's Blog: BREAKING: The Independent endorses McNerney! (source)

Pombo's Fundraiser Cost Tax Payers Big Money

Record: "It's well-known that President Bush's appearance in Stockton last week helped Rep. Richard Pombo, R-Tracy, raise $400,000 for his re-election bid.

However, taxpayers also helped make the campaign stop possible.

That's because public funds were used to pay for some of the resources devoted to the highly orchestrated presidential visit, whether it was police on overtime designated for the president's visit or the school buses used as traffic barricades.

Take the Stockton Police Department, for instance. About 250 members of the force, from officers to supervisors to parking enforcement personnel, helped coordinate security for the president's motorcade, his speech at the Stockton Memorial Civic Auditorium and his stay at the Radisson Hotel. Over two days, police employees logged 900 hours of overtime at an estimated cost of $54,000, according to city and police officials.

What's less clear is whether tax dollars helped fuel Air Force One or clear out the top floor of the Radisson for Bush and his entourage..." (source)

"Including police, the city alone spent more than $70,000 providing assistance, city spokeswoman Connie Cochran said. For a roughly 20-hour trip, that comes out to about $3,500 an hour." (more-at-source)

You can read more about the costs of Richard Pombo's fundraiser to the tax payer Here.

Record: How much did Bush visit cost? (source)

(record)

Pombo Has A History of Misusing of Tax-Payer Funds whether it be for Campaign Mailers, his Luxury Car, Propaganda Websites, Family Vacation's, Paid Leave & Travel for Staff, Etc., Pombo's constituents pick up the tab.

Richard Pombo Lies, Lies Again, Flip Flop's, & 'Cut's and Run's' From Constituents

Richard Pombo Lied To Constituents About Jack Abramoff

Richard Pombo has once again 'Pulled a Pombo,' This time in the form of lying to his constituents about his relationship and interactions with convicted Republican lobbyist, Jack Abramoff. With a straight face, in his home town just over a week ago and in front of 300+ people and countless media; Richard Pombo denied having been lobbyed be Jack Abramoff. He Lied.

Richard Pombo (10/5/06): “I’ve seen myself described as one of (Jack Abramoff’s) closest allies in Congress. I met the guy two or three times in my whole life — he never once lobbied me on anything" (source)


YouTube: Pombo Denies Links To Abramoff (video)

"California Rep. Richard Pombo has insisted he was never lobbied by Jack Abramoff. Records show the disgraced lobbyist billed a client for at least two contacts with Pombo a decade ago.
The lobbying records released by the Northern Mariana Islands show that Abramoff billed once for calls to Pombo, chairman of the House Resources Committee, and a second time for a discussion with him, while lobbying in 1996.

On more than two dozen other occasions from 1996 through 2001, Abramoff associates called or met with members of Pombo's staff, including his chief of staff, the records indicate. As the contacts picked up, Pombo voted Abramoff's way on a bill important to Abramoff's clients." (source)

"ThinkProgress has obtained Abramoff’s billing records (HERE), which show that the lobbyist personally spoke with Pombo on Sept. 10, 1996 and Nov. 21, 1996. On 11 other occasions in 1996 and 1997, Abramoff’s staff met with either Pombo or his staff.

Two days after the first meeting on Sept. 10, Abramoff gave Pombo $500. The congressman eventually received a total of more than $35,000 from Abramoff and his Native American tribal clients. $27,000 of that money came from Abramoff’s client the Mashpee Wampanoag of Massachusetts, “which received federal recognition from a bill Pombo passed through the [House Resources] committee in 2004.”

Pombo’s spokesman is insisting that these billing records are “greatly inflated,” but they nevertheless indicate that Pombo’s office was contacted — and perhaps influenced — by Abramoff. Pombo’s committee, the House Resources Committee, had sole jurisidiction over the Mariana Islands, one of Abramoff’s client that he overcharged. Despite repeated requests from Rep. George Miller (D-CA) to investigate Abramoff’s dealings, Pombo has refused to do anything." (source)

---clip---

In December 1996, a Marianas newspaper reported that Pombo was among lawmakers who would be visiting the island later in the month. The trip was being arranged by Abramoff's firm..." (source)

Record: Pombo, Abramoff linked by records - Papers say workers for both met many times from 1996 to 2001 (source)

AP: Records suggest Abramoff, Pombo lobbying contacts (source)

Think Progress: Abramoff’s Billing Records Detail Repeated Contacts With Pombo (source)

Daily Kos: Richard Pombo Lied to His Constituents (source)

More Lies & Corruption

"Rep. Richard Pombo, R-Tracy, said at a May debate that intelligence agents should obtain surveillance warrants before monitoring phone calls. Less than five months later, he voted to allow warrantless wiretapping." (source)

SJ News Service: Pombo supported warrants before voting for warrantless wiretaps(source)

CBS 5 Video News Report - Pombo, McNerney Race Continues To Heat Up (source)

TPM: Pombo Ad: McNerney "Thinks War On Terror Is A Joke" (source)


SNTP has Video of Pombo getting 'Caught Red Handed,' Again denying constituents the same time he afforded Jack Abramoff to simply answer some questions. Click Here.

SNTP: Pombo accused of bribery in 1994 (source)

Global Exchange: Indigenous Leader Affected By Global Warming Confronts Pombo on his Oil Record; Pombo has Taken $117,340 from Oil and Gas Companies in ‘06 (source)

Ca 11 Blog: My Advice for Brian Kennedy (source)

Can you trust Richard Pombo?