Dispatch from Concord

Door to door in Ward 5 this morning, with a stop this afternoon on WTPL's "Against the Grain" with Gardner Goldsmith.

This afternoon, we'll be touring the Boys and Girls Club of Concord. Last week, I bid on the chance to throw out a ceremonial first pitch at the game between the Fisher Cats and Sea Dogs, with the benefits going to the Boys and Girls Club.

I wanted to get a closer look at what they do here in Concord before tonight's game.

50 Days, 50 Ways: Trade Promotion

Here's some more information from the Congressional Budget Office on the Commerce Department's corporate welfare program, providing business advice to private firms. In 2007, CBO estimated that eliminating this unnecessary program would save taxpayers $305 million a year:

Eliminate the International Trade Administration's Trade Promotion Activities or Charge the Beneficiaries

The International Trade Administration (ITA) of the Department of Commerce runs a trade development program that assesses the competitiveness of U.S. industries and promotes exports. The ITA also operates the U.S. and foreign commercial services, which counsel U.S. businesses on issues related to exporting. The agency charges some fees for those services, but the fees do not cover the costs of all such activities.

This option includes two alternatives: Eliminate the ITA's trade promotion activities or charge the beneficiaries for those services. Either change would save $305 million in outlays in 2008 and a total of about $2.0 billion through 2012.

The principal rationale for this option is that business activities such as trade promotion are usually better left to the firms and industries that stand to benefit from those activities rather than to a government agency. Having the government engage in such activities (without charging the beneficiaries for their full cost) is an expensive means of helping the firms and industries because the benefits are partially passed on to foreigners in the form of lower prices for U.S. exports. Moreover, the lower prices could result in some products' being sold abroad for less than the cost of production and sales and, thus, could lower U.S. economic well-being. Further, in the most recent Program Assessment Rating Tool evaluation, the Office of Management and Budget concluded that businesses can obtain services similar to those of ITA's foreign commercial services from state, local, and private-sector entities.

An argument against eliminating the ITA's trade promotion activities is that such activities are subject to some economies of scale, so having one entity (the federal government) counsel exporters about foreign legal and other requirements, disseminate information about foreign markets, and promote U.S. products abroad might make sense. An alternative way to reduce net federal spending but continue the ITA's activities would be to charge the beneficiaries for their full costs. Fully funding the ITA's trade promotion activities through voluntary charges, however, could prove difficult or impossible. For example, in many cases, it would not be possible to promote the products of selected firms that were willing to pay for such promotion without also promoting the products of other firms in the same industry. In those circumstances, firms would have an incentive not to purchase such services because they would be likely to receive the benefits regardless of whether they paid for them. Consequently, if the federal government wanted to charge beneficiaries for the ITA's services, it might have to require that all firms in an industry (or the industry's national trade group) decide collectively whether to buy the services. If the firms opted to purchase the services, all firms in the industry would be required to pay according to some equitable formula.

Running total, 11 days, $8,046,6000 in annual savings to taxpayers.

Video Diary: 50 Days, 50 Ways

Here's the video from Grant's launch of 50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending.


Listen for more details on today's way to cut spending on WTPL's "Against the Grain" with Gardner Goldsmith today at 2:30. Listen live.

Campaigning in a new century: 400 Posts

This is our 400th post at the Bosse for Congress Blog over the past six months. That's part of the reason Granite Grok has endorsed Grant Bosse for Congress:

We just feel that Grant epitomizes the philosophy, the work ethic, and the knowledge of the Internet that tomorrow's candidates will need - but he is doing it today!

But using new media in a campaign means more than blogging. It means using the internet to communicate more information to voters than could otherwise be sent using traditional media. That means:

A Comprehensive Energy Plan

A Comprehensive Health Care Plan

Real reform to prevent abuse of the Franking Privilege

Complete stump speeches

Video from candidate forums and debates.

and 50 ways to cut federal spending in 50 days.

This campaign has come a long way, and we've got a long way to go until the September 9th primary. Keep working hard.

Granite Grok Endorses Grant Bosse!

New Hampshire's leading conservative website, Granite Grok this morning endorsed Grant Bosse for Congress!

Blog co-founder Skip Murphy explains how Grant has earned their support:

If you feel that government is more often the problem rather than a solution, that it costs more than it should, that government is slowly taking your freedom away via taxes, regulations, and laws - then HE'S YOUR GUY!

Murphy is also impressed with Grant's conservative, grassroots campaign, and his use of new media to reach voters across New Hampshire:

We just feel that Grant epitomizes the philosophy, the work ethic, and the knowledge of the Internet that tomorrow's candidates will need - but he is doing it today!

Grant is honored to have earned the support of Granite Grok:

Granite Grok has quickly become one of New Hampshire's leading voices for lower spending, personal responsibility, and open government. I'm thrilled to have earned their endorsement. Of course, endorsements can't replace hard work and a strong, conservative message. I'm going to keep outworking the competition, and proposing a new spending cut in the federal budget every single day.

Grant has launched "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending", an innovative initiative that proposes a new spending cut every day until the September 9th Republican Primary.

To read the complete Granite Grok endorsement, click here.

Note: Corrected to show Skip Murphy is the "CO-founder" of Granite Grok, along with the indispensible Doug Lambert. Sorry, Doug!

50 Days, 50 Ways: Peanut Subsidies

Every year, American taxpayers spend $140 million, and get peanuts. Literally. That's how much the 85 years old peanut subsidy now costs us. Here's more information that you ever thought you'd learn about peanut farming from Citizens Against Government Waste:

Established in 1933 as part of the Agricultural Adjustment Act, the peanut subsidy program was designed to stabilize peanut production income through price supports and production control. Administered by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the peanut program controls the domestic supply of peanuts through a poundage quota system. This Soviet-style regulatory approach sets limits on production and specifies who is permitted to produce specified amounts. Also, by restraining the domestic supply through the quota system, the government sets a minimum selling price for all domestic peanut sales.

The Federal Agriculture Improvement and Reform (FAIR) Act of 1996 eliminated supply control programs, deficiency payments and marketing loans, replacing them with transition payments for virtually all farm commodities. As a result, farmers now have the freedom to farm almost everything, except peanuts. Only farmers who own or lease a production quota can legally grow peanuts to be sold for edible use. The FAIR Act continued the peanut program without real reform. The only modest reform in the peanut program was a 10 percent reduction in the price-support level.

With a government-guaranteed support price of $610 per ton, domestic prices are 74.3 percent higher than the average world market price of $350 per ton. This imposes a hidden peanut tax of as much as $500 million annually on U.S. consumers. As taxpayers, Americans are hit again each year for millions of dollars that the federal government pays in inflated peanut prices for government feeding programs.

Seventy percent of quota holders make their profits (more than $200 million annually) by renting their peanut-growing privileges to other farmers, who pay exorbitant rates for those rights. Currently, 80 percent of the peanut quota is owned by 20 percent of the growers, denying many prospective peanut farmers access to a potentially lucrative U.S. market.

On the air

Grant will be in studio Wednesday morning as a guest on "The Charlie Sherman Show" on WGIR. Call in with your questions at 8:10 AM, 645-6161.

GRANT BOSSE STATEMENT ON THE INDICTMENT OF SENATOR TED STEVENS

Senator Stevens has long been part of the problem with Federal spending, doling out millions in taxpayer dollars to his home state. Along with Robert Byrd, he is famous for and even proud of his pork-barrel spending and addiction to earmarks. He represents the Washington mindset that Congress can use the Treasury to help secure re-election. I've harshly criticized these practices. In fact, I called for the elimination of two of Stevens' pet projects just last week.

If true, the charges leveled against him today are a blatant breach of the public trust. Neither his past military service nor his seniority can possibly excuse using his office for personal or political gain, or of obstructing the public's right to know of possible conflicts of interest by our elected officials. I continue to be saddened but not surprised at the culture of political corruption in Alaska, and in Washington, D.C.

During the 109th Congress, Grant Bosse served as Staff Director of the National Ocean Policy Study, chaired by Sen. John Sununu. This was a subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee, which Stevens chaired.

GOP senator accused of not disclosing services

Bosse Puts Corporate Welfare on the Chopping Block

“50 Days, 50 Ways” Hits $8 Billion in Taxpayer Savings

(Hillsboro) Republican Grant Bosse’s 50-day quest to cut the federal budget targets three more corporate welfare programs, saving taxpayers $495 million a year that currently supports private businesses. So far, Bosse’s initiative has offered more than $8 billion in taxpayer savings.

“Yesterday, Paul Hodes said he wanted to spend an additional $8 billion to make up for slower than anticipated gas tax revenues, but he refused to say how he’s pay for it,” Bosse said. “In just 11 days, we’ve already found enough to completely replenish the Highway Trust Fund. Imagine how much more we’ll save over the next month.”

Bosse proposes eliminating the Clean Coal Technology Program, which underwrites $50 million each year for research that could be paid for by coal companies. Tomorrow, Bosse will call for scrapping the Peanut Subsidy first started in 1933, at an annual savings of $140 million. On Thursday, Bosse will target the International Trade Administration’s trade promotion activities, which spend $350 million annually to provide advice to American exporters already available in the private sector.

“We should find cleaner ways to burn coal. I like peanuts. And I want American companies to be able to export their products. But I don’t want taxpayers footing the bill for any of it,” Bosse added. “We need to end corporate welfare, reduce Congressional interference in the marketplace, and let American businesses flourish free from government intervention.”

Bosse has now proposed more than $8 billion is specific cuts to federal spending, and he plans to offer a new program to eliminate every day until the September 9th Republican Primary. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

On the Air

Meet the New Press. Definitely not the same as the old press.

Grant joins Doug and Skip of Granite Grok for Meet the New Press to discuss 50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending.

From the Berlin Daily Sun

Bosse hitting the streets, working towards primary victory

Craig Lyons
BERLIN — Republican Congressional candidate Grant Bosse promised to be here early and often during his campaign and has held true to that promise.
On Thursday, Bosse went door-to-door, around Berlin, to speak with voters and promote his candidacy. He has frequently swung through Berlin since launching his campaign in late February, stopping at events including Brewtopia, Drive Into the 50s and even stopping at the New Hampshire Chiefs of Police Association meeting at the Town and Country Motor Inn.
...
Before braving the rain, on Thursday, and knocking on doors, Bosse stopped at the "Berlin Daily Sun" for a short question and answer session.

How would you summarize the overall message of your campaign?

“Stop spending our money. Congress has got too much power over our daily lives and they spend too much of our money. I’m really focusing on finding specific ways to cut federal programs and lower the federal budget. That’s why we’re in the middle of ‘50 Days 50 Ways’ to cut federal spending. Every day I’m going to propose a federal program that I think we can do without.”

So what’s today’s program?

“Today’s program is the Community Services Block Grant. This is a political slush fund of about half a billion dollars a year. Congress hands this out to local political allies who can then hand out the money. It was founded as an antipoverty program but it has yet to demonstrate in 25 years that it helps to fix poverty. I’d rather we spend our resources on programs that can show results, and are accountable for how they spend our money The Community Services Block Grant, last year, spend $654 million and can’t show that it actually fought poverty.”
...
How are you distinguishing yourself from the other three Republican candidates?

“I think it’s the level of detail I’m providing. The willingness to provide real solutions more than campaign talking points. I’ve got a detailed energy plan, a detailed health care plan and while a lot of people complained about Paul Hodes abusing the franking privilege, I came up with a up with a way to prevent the franking privilege from ever being abused again. And I think that comes together in ‘50 Days 50 Ways.’ that I'm not just talking about cutting federal spending, I’m willing to show where we can save the tax payers money. And my opponents haven’t gotten beyond the campaign talking points.”

Video Diary: Hollis

Grant Bosse addresses the Hillsborough County Republican Committee in Hollis:

Taxpayers Buying Ticket to Nowhere

“50 Days, 50 Ways” Targets Amtrak Subsidies

(Hillsboro) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today called for an end to taxpayer subsidies for Amtrak’s money-losing long-distance routes. According to the Department of Transportation, taxpayers foot the bill for over $210 for every passenger mile on Amtrak, compared to just $6 in federal subsidy for passenger airlines. Bosse’s proposal would save taxpayers at least $484 million a year.

“In some parts of the country, trains are a great way to get around. In the Northeast Corridor, even Amtrak’s inefficient operations pay for themselves. But we shouldn’t be paying people hundreds of dollars to take cross-country train rides,” Bosse said. “By eliminating the subsidy for long-distance routes, we can reinvest nearly half a billion dollars a year in our transportation infrastructure, and return some of that money to taxpayers.”

Amtrak was created in 1972 with the goal of being self-sufficient. Over the past 35 years, it has received over $13 billion in federal subsidies and is farther than ever from paying its own way. In 2005, long-distance routes accounted for 80% of Amtrak’s operating deficit while carrying only 15% of passengers. Service from Los Angeles to Orlando loses over $400 per passenger. The trains running from New York to Florida lose nearly $150 per passenger.

“It would actually be cheaper to give away free plane tickets to every passenger on some of these routes, and no one would support that,” Bosse added. “Taxpayers are buying a Ticket to Nowhere, and it is time we let them off.”

Bosse has now proposed $7.5 billion is specific cuts to federal spending, and he plans to offer a new program to eliminate every day until the September 9th Republican Primary. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

“50 Days, 50 Ways” Heads West for the Weekend

Bosse Targets Pork in Alaska and Hawaii, passes $7 Billion

(Hillsboro) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today targeted pet projects of two of the most powerful members of the U.S. Senate, as he continued his 50 day quest to cut federal spending. Bosse called for the elimination of the Denali Commission, the Education for Native Hawaiians Program, and the Alaska Native Educational Equity Program, which would save taxpayers over $73 million annually. These pet projects have been shepherded through Congress by Alaska Republican Ted Stevens and Hawaii Democrat Daniel Inouye.

“I worked for both Senator Stevens and Senator Inouye on the Commerce Committee. I respect them greatly, but I can not support continued funding for these pet projects,” Bosse said. “These programs simply duplicate other federal assistance that is already available to the people of Alaska and Hawaii.”

Created in 1998, the Denali Commission is a federal program available only in Alaska. The economic and health care assistance provided under this program could easily be provided under other federal programs, without creating a separate annual appropriation. The Commission has seven members and over twenty paid staff, and an annual budget of $7 million. The Education for Native Hawaiians Program is designed to support supplemental education services to the Native Hawaiian population. The Alaska Native Educational Equity Program provides supplemental education programs and services to Alaska Natives. Similar assistance is available under Title I Grants and the Special Education State Grants Program. Each costs taxpayers $33.3 million annually.

“While I respect their years of service in the U.S. Senate, seniority alone should not mean special access to taxpayers’ wallets,” Bosse concluded. “It’s time we stood up to the leadership of both parties and demanded that they stop spending our money on their pet projects.”

Bosse has now proposed more than $7 billion is specific cuts to federal spending, and he plans to offer a new program to eliminate every day until the September 9th Republican Primary. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

This is what I'm talking about

When candidates make an effort to earn a vote, rather than buy a vote, voters respond. Pay Toomey makes that case in The Wall Street Journal:

The Club for Growth recently conducted a nationwide poll on government spending, and the results were exactly the opposite of what most politicians have been saying for years. Voters are fed up with Washington's out-of-control spending. Politicians aren't representing the will of the people when they bring home the bacon. They are really representing the will of their special-interest cronies. And it's not just conservative voters who feel that way. Voters across the board have finally found something they can agree on even if their elected officials can't: It's time to cut the fat, even if that means fewer projects for their own districts.

Conducted in late June, the poll surveyed 800 voters and had a margin of error of plus or minus 3.46%. Likely voters were asked the following question: "All things being equal, for whom would you be more likely to vote for the U.S. Congress: 1) A candidate who wants to cut overall federal spending, even if that includes cutting some money that would come to your district or 2) A candidate who wants to increase overall spending on federal programs, as long as more federal spending and projects come to your district?"

The results were unambiguous. Fifty-four percent of general election voters chose the frugal candidate, compared with only 29% who chose the profligate candidate. Republicans overwhelming favor less federal spending, 72% to 17%, with independents close behind at 61%. Only Democrats prefer more federal spending, but only by a plurality. Thirty-six percent of Democrats chose the more fiscally conservative candidate, with 42% choosing the alternative.

Now if only we had candidates willing to actually say which federal programs they want to cut.

My prayers are with the victims of today's storm.

We missed most of the big weather today in Coos County, but we're certainly thinking about those hit hardest in central New Hampshire. Stay safe.

Grant

Bosse Targets Political Slush Fund

“50 Days, 50 Ways” Approaches $7 Billion in Savings

(Berlin) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today called for the elimination of a Congressionally-supported slush fund that allows local politicians to pass out federal taxpayer dollars. Created in 1981 as an anti-poverty program, the Community Services Block Grant Program now serves as a way for Congress to hand out over half a billion dollars a year to local politicians and supporters, who can then take credit for “bringing home the bacon” in their districts.

“Many valuable projects have received funding through this program over the years, and many people have received help,” Bosse said. “But the price is too high. We can no longer support a corrupt system designed for politicians to buy our votes.”

CSBG projects are not competitively granted, recipients are not required to meet any performance or eligibility standards, and the program has failed to provide any evidence that it actually helps to alleviate poverty. Bosse would require a competitive grants process for anti-poverty programs, which would require them to demonstrate their effectiveness. Bosse would insist that Congressional funding be open and accountable. CSBG costs taxpayers $654 million a year.

“We should concentrate our resources where they’ve been shown to do some good, like Temporary Assistance to Needy Families and Food Stamps,” Bosse concluded. “This program may be popular, but it has more to do with buying votes than it does with fighting poverty.”

To date, Bosse has proposed just under $7 billion is specific cuts to federal spending, and he plans to offer a new program to eliminate every day until the September 9th Republican Primary. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

Campaign Snapshot

We've had such a busy week, we haven't had a chance to recap a very busy weekend. Grant marched in parades in Weare, Pittsfield and Swanzey. Grant also met with voters at the Concord Market Days. Stay tuned for more updates on where you can see Grant next.

50 Days, 50 Ways Goes Nuclear

Bosse Calls for more Nuclear Power Plants, Fewer Subsidies


(Nashua) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today called for an end to an unnecessary taxpayer subsidy for colleges that offer nuclear engineering programs, as well as removing the regulatory hurdles that have prevented the construction of a nuclear power plant in the United States for 25 years.

“The United States needs more nuclear power. It is a mature, safe, and clean source of electricity. What we don’t need is a taxpayer subsidy to colleges to offer programs they would offer without the subsidy,” Bosse said. “Instead, let’s remove the roadblocks that prevent construction of new nuclear power plants.”

The University Nuclear Education Program spends $15 million a year on public and private universities offering nuclear research and engineering programs. Over past ten years, enrollments in these programs have tripled, despite any evidence that the federal subsidy is responsible for the increase. Ending this subsidy would end duplication with the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy Research Initiative.

“$15 million a year isn’t a lot compared to our massive $3 trillion federal budget, but if we watch the pennies, the dollars will take care of themselves,” Bosse added. “Each and every outdated, wasteful, or duplicative program we cut leaves more money in the pockets of American taxpayers.”

To date, Bosse has proposed more than $6.3 billion in specific cuts to federal spending, and he plans to offer a new program to eliminate every day until the September 9th Republican Primary. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

"A departure from the usual campaign rhetoric"

Grant's unmatched commitment to cutting federal spending is gaining national appeal. Congressional Quarterly cites Grant's "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending".

The Nashua Telegraph reports that in a departure from the usual campaign rhetoric, Republican congressional candidate Grant Bosse says that “if elected, he would vote against aid for New Hampshire to curb federal spending if need be. ‘If voters want somebody to bring home the bacon, I am not their candidate,’ said Bosse, a former state and federal legislative aide” who is seeking the GOP nod to oppose freshman Rep. Paul Hodes, D-N.H.

A nice start

Let's see what this does to oil futures over the next few days:

The Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Land Management today published proposed regulations to establish a commercial oil shale program that could result in the addition of up to 800 billion barrels of recoverable oil from lands in the western United States.

New sources of energy increase supply and bring down prices. Amazing how some people can't acknowledge that. Using domestic reserves in Alaska, off our coasts, and in oil shale is a big part of my Comprehensive Energy Plan.

Hattip: Instapundit

Bosse Targets Corporate Welfare

Continues "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending"

(Hillsboro) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today called for an end to corporate welfare on Day 2 of his “50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending” Initiative. Bosse wants to end the Oil and Gas Research and Development Program, which funds research into new industry technology already undertaken by the private sector.

“Oil and gas companies have all the incentive in the world to improve their own technology,” Bosse said. “They don’t need taxpayers funding that research for them.”

Rather than fund corporate research, Bosse’s Energy Plan would open up American territory for more oil and gas exploration, as well as ending taxpayer subsidies for oil and gas companies. The Oil and Gas Research and Development Program provides taxpayer-funded research into close-to-market innovations like more efficient drill motors. The program costs taxpayers $25 million a year. Since this technology promises an immediate financial return, it should be paid for by the companies that would profit for these advances.

“A review of this program since 2003 failed to demonstrate any concrete results,” Bosse added. “Corporate welfare is wrong. Ineffective corporate welfare is inexcusable.”

Thus far, Bosse has proposed more than $6.3 Billion in specific spending cuts. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

From the Nashua Telegraph

Kevin Landrigan of the Nashua Telegraph highlights Grant's "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending".

CONCORD – Republican congressional candidate Grant Bosse, of Hillsborough, said if elected, he would vote against aid for New Hampshire to curb federal spending if need be.

"If voters want somebody to bring home the bacon, I am not their candidate,'' said Bosse, a former state and federal legislative aide.

Bosse targeted eliminating the federal subsidy for ethanol, a corn-based fuel, as the first of 50 spending cuts he would propose over the final seven weeks leading to the Sept. 9 primary.

"Our current ethanol policy drives up gas prices, drives up food prices, hurts the environment and taxpayers get to pay $6.3 billion a year for the privilege,'' Bosse said.

From the Concord Monitor

Melanie Asmar writes in this morning's Concord Monitor about Grant's first cut in his "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending" program.

Republican congressional candidate Grant Bosse said yesterday that he plans to name one program he'd cut from the federal budget on each of the 50 days remaining until the Sept. 9 primary.

First on Bosse's chopping block? The 51-cent-per-gallon subsidy for domestic ethanol production.

Eliminating the subsidy "would mean real savings for taxpayers and real savings for families at the grocery store," Bosse said. The subsidy drives up gas prices and hurts the environment, he said.

Bosse, of Hillsboro, is one of four Republicans vying for a chance to unseat Democratic Rep. Paul Hodes in the state's 2nd Congressional District. Bosse is a former radio reporter who worked on Craig Benson's 2002 gubernatorial campaign. He also served as a staff member for U.S. Sen. John Sununu.

Bosse said he'll propose more than $20 billion in hypothetical cuts to the federal budget in the coming weeks. He declined to give many specifics yesterday but said he'll take aim at "pork barrel spending" and may even "walk down Sesame Street." The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, which produces Sesame Street, receives a federal subsidy. Bosse said there are plenty of alternatives to the show.

Bosse said some of his cuts will be more politically popular than others, and he promised not to shy away from speaking out against programs he said are well-liked but wasteful.

If elected, he said he won't "bring home the bacon" and promised not to vote for earmarks, even if they benefit New Hampshire.

Check for campaign updates at bosse2008.blogspot.com.

50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending: Ethanol Subsidies

Bosse calls for abolishing the ethanol boondoggle

(Concord) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today launched “50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending” by proposing to eliminate taxpayer subsidies for ethanol production. Federal farm policy not only mandates the use of ethanol in gasoline, but provides a 51-cent per gallon subsidy for its production, and a 54-cent per gallon tariff on imported ethanol. Bosse would eliminate the program as the first of 50 proposed cuts to the federal budget.

“Our current ethanol policy drives up gas prices, drives up food prices, hurts the environment, and taxpayers get to pay $6.3 billion a year for the privilege,” Bosse said. “It’s time to end the ethanol boondoggle once and for all.”

With 50 days remaining until the September 9th Republican Congressional Primary, Bosse plans to announce a specific spending cut each and every day until the Election. Bosse has concentrated his grassroots campaign on smaller government and lower federal spending, and he is the first candidate in the race to propose such specific spending cuts.

“Voters are used to politicians talk about belt-tightening and fiscal discipline, but most candidates aren’t willing to tell us exactly what they would cut if elected,” Bosse added. “Between the waste, the pork, and the programs that simply can’t justify their own existence, I’ll share 50 ways we can cut the federal budget over the next 50 days.”

From the Union Leader

Tom Fahey of the Union Leader writes in this morning's State House Dome about Grant's "50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending" initiative, which begins tomorrow.

WHAT TO CUT: Republican congressional candidate Grant Bosse plans to start going through a list of 50 federal spending cuts tomorrow at a press conference. Yep, 50 -- one for each day until the primary elections, he said.

Bosse is in a five-way GOP primary to unseat Democrat Paul Hodes in the 2nd District. He says the only way to get taxpayers to know you're really on their side is to show them specific cuts.

First on Bosse's list: ethanol subsidies that push up the price of corn, food prices and gasoline.

From PolitickerNH.com

Brian Lawson from PolitickerNH.com writes about Grant's stern opposition to a new law proposed by Bob Clegg that will increase health insurance mandates, reduce consumer choice, and increase health care cost.

"He defends ever-increasing government regulation because private health insurance companies actually look to make a profit. But the micromanagement of Bob Clegg's Nanny State isn't about improving access; it's about having government make decisions best left to patients and doctors," Bosse said in a statement.

Supporting New Hampshire's returning troops

I'm not generally a fan of study committees and commissions. At the State House, and in Congress, I've seen study committees used as a way for elected officials to avoid voting up or down on bad ideas on sympathetic issues. Say a colleague wants to use tax dollars to buy every child in New Hampshire a puppy. Well, that's a bad idea, but who wants to go on record opposing kids having puppies. Instead, let's create a study committee or a Blue Ribbon Commission to look at the idea.

However, today we see the exception to that rule; a new Commission that is actually being formed to find some new information. This afternoon, Governor Lynch signs HB 1335 into law, creating a Commission to study the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injury suffered by New Hampshire soldiers and veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan.

Sadly, the Veterans Administration doesn't devote nearly enough to studying the unseen damage to our troops that doesn't show up on an MRI. Rather than concentrate on service-related injuries, the VA tries compete with private hospitals in providing general health care services, and fails. We shouldn't need a New Hampshire Commission to look into PTSD and traumatic brain injury, but we do.

Since I took Bob Clegg to task for his bad idea on health insurance this morning, it's only fair to give him credit here. He's a cosponsor of HB 1335. He, along with Senator Joe Kenney, and Representatives Sharon Carson, DJ Bettencourt, and Al Baldarsaro, should be thanked for their efforts. I look forward to seeing the Commission's recommendations in December.

Campaign Snapshot

Grant had a very busy Thursday evening. Grant stopped by Concord Market Days, speaking with former New Hampshire Senator Gordon Humphrey, as well as the Concord Republican City Committee. Grant then went to a NH Victory reception, where he met former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge. Grant then went back to Concord, addressing the Respect Life NH meeting.

Who Said It?

The health insurance industry is a regulated industry. As a for-profit business, its goal is to make money. That is why decades ago government began regulating it to ensure equity and fair access.

Paul Hodes?
Hugo Chavez?
Bob Clegg?

I'll never understand those who say that health care is too important to be left to the market, and then trust government to get it right. Mandates drive up costs, and drive out competition. This makes it harder for people to find affordable health care. We can not mandate our way to lower health care costs. Jeanne Shaheen tried and failed. John Lynch is trying, but this latest mandate was too much for even him to publicly support. Now Bob Clegg wants to micromanage your health care, and the results is going to be higher insurance premiums and fewer choices for New Hampshire families.

We have a clear choice on September 9th. My message of smaller government and more personal responsibility, or more of Bob Clegg's Nanny State.

You Must Be Friggin' Kidding Me!

The District of Columbia has denied Dick Heller's handgun application:

Dick Heller is the man who brought the lawsuit against the District's 32-year-old ban on handguns. He was among the first in line Thursday morning to apply for a handgun permit.

But when he tried to register his semi-automatic weapon, he says he was rejected. He says his gun has seven bullet clip. Heller says the City Council legislation allows weapons with fewer than eleven bullets in the clip. A spokesman for the DC Police says the gun was a bottom-loading weapon, and according to their interpretation, all bottom-loading guns are outlawed because they are grouped with machine guns.

Attention, District bureaucrats, Dick Heller has the right to keep and bear arms. He's always had it, but that right was recently affirmed by the Supreme Court, for crying out loud. He was the named plaintiff in the suit against you. He won. Approve the permit.

This is why gunowners need to keep fighting to restore our Second Amendment rights. Because the gun-grabbers in DC and elsewhere will try to thwart that right through bureaucracy when they failed to block it through legislation.

Hattip: Instapundit, of course.

From GraniteGrok

The guys at Granite Grok highlight Grant's innovative 50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending initiative.

It is no secret that the NH GOP is wanting for rising stars and new blood. Thankfully, it's not all gloom and doom, as demonstrated by this cycle's surprise upstart, Grant Bosse. Here is a press release announcing his latest move.

PSSST: HEY REPUBLICANS... WATCH HOW IT'S DONE!...

This is a great idea. For a preview of what he might be looking at, check out Grant's GraniteGrok Q & A Survey answers here, where we asked each candidate to name 5 Fed programs to cut. Apparently, Bosse is willing to carry it even further. That's what we like!!!

50 Days, 50 Ways to Cut Federal Spending

Bosse to propose specific spending cuts every day until Election


(Concord) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse announced today that he will propose a new way to cut federal spending every day for the last 50 days of the primary campaign. Beginning Monday, Grant will outline 50 cuts to federal spending that will reduce the burden on taxpayers and help pay down the national debt.

“Lots of candidates talk about cutting spending, but can’t back it up,” Bosse said. “The voters of New Hampshire deserve to know how Congress is wasting their money, and how their candidates will stop it.”

Bosse continues to lead the field in his willingness to propose specific solutions, and in his commitment to smaller, more accountable government. Bosse has already outlined comprehensive Energy and Health Care Plans, and has proposed a three-step plan to prevent continued abuse of taxpayer funded Congressional mail. Bosse is also the only candidate to take both the “No Earmarks” Pledge and the "Taxpayer Protection Pledge".

“Through bloated farm subsidies, pork-barrel projects, and temporary government programs that never die, Congress has wasted taxpayer dollars for too long,” Bosse added. “Over the next 50 days, we’re going to share 50 ways that taxpayers can start taking that money back.”

Bosse has scheduled a press conference for Monday, July 21st at 10AM, in the Legislative Office Building Lobby. To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive, grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

From the Union Leader

An editorial in this morning's Union Leader condemns a new law sponsored by Bob Clegg that will increase health insurance mandates, limit competition, and increase health insurance costs.

GOV. JOHN LYNCH knows he should have vetoed Sen. Bob Clegg's bariatric surgery bill. He understands that health insurance mandates raise the cost of health insurance. That's why he has said he opposes them. And yet he let Clegg's mandate bill become law anyway.

Granite Staters should not be surprised that Lynch ducked yet another tough issue. That's how he has maintained such high approval ratings. It's pretty easy to be popular when you never make a decision that could offend others.

However, Granite Staters should be offended by this one. Clegg's bill requires that any health insurer doing business in New Hampshire cover weight-loss surgery, which can cost $10,000 or more. Clegg claims that the surgery saves insurers money in the long run. Maybe that's so, but insurers pay people big bucks to figure those things out, and they have concluded otherwise.

And besides, that isn't the issue. The issue is whether the state should pass laws forcing insurers to offer whatever services legislators -- for political reasons -- would prefer they offer. Lynch knows that the answer is no. He has acknowledged that mandates mean insurers cannot offer people low-cost plans that fit their individual needs. Mandates compel everyone to buy insurance that covers, say, weight loss surgery, even if they know they will never need that service.

He knew he should have vetoed this bill. But he didn't. He let it become law without his signature. That was a copout. The people should be upset that the governor knowingly let a bad bill that will raise their health insurance rates become law. They should be doubly upset that he did it the cowardly way, hoping to dodge responsibility for it.

Hodes Energy Policy

This pretty much sums up Paul Hodes Energy Plan:

Hattip: Powerline

WMUR Survey

WMUR has asked for my thoughts on a number of top issues, and I'm glad to share my responses:

Fuel Prices
Congress has consistently stood in the way of expanding domestic fuel production, from Alaska to the Outer Continental Shelf, and now oil sands in the Western U.S. Congress has put burdensome regulations in the way of new oil refineries and nuclear power plants. And Congress has held back the development of advanced alternatives by wasting taxpayer dollars to subsidize ethanol and other favored industries. My Comprehensive Energy Plan would repeal subsidies for fossil fuels, open up American land for energy development, and level the playing field for alternative fuels. Congress can take the first step by lifting its moratorium on offshore oil exploration and opening the Alaska oil fields.
http://www.bosse2008.com/issues.html#energy

The War In Iraq
A narrow sect of Islam threatens to bring a new dark age on the world, and we need to win. Iraq is the central battleground in that global war. After too many years and too many lost soldiers, we have changed our tactics in Iraq to meet that threat, and we are winning. Paul Hodes and Barack Obama had one test of their foreign policy expertise, and they failed. They said the Surge couldn't work, and would have surrendered this central battleground to Islamic radicals. Paul Hodes has also played political games with troop funding, holding it hostage to pork-barrel spending, and opposing troop funding when the pork was removed. I promise to give our troops the support they need to complete their mission and come home, and will never let a disagreement over foreign policy endanger troops in the field.
http://www.bosse2008.com/issues.html

The Economy/Rising Cost Of Living
By running up deficit spending and an enormous national debt, Congress has put a tremendous strain on our national economy. By printing too much money and tinkering with interest rates, the Federal Reserve has devalued the dollar. Inflation is a silent tax on everything, and every American. We need a Congress to finally show some fiscal discipline, to stop funding earmarked projects in the dead of night, and to return control over our economic lives to the American people. The core of the American economy is still strong, if we can get Congress out of the way.
http://www.bosse2008.com/press.html

Health Care
America leads the world in the quality of health care, but that care is becoming increasingly hard for many Americans to afford. Rising costs and increased government interference are driving up health insurance premiums, and driving out consumer choice. My Comprehensive Health Care Plan would return control over health care decisions to doctors and patients, give consumers real choice between competing insurance plans, and improve access for veterans to any doctor or hospital they wish to use. While Paul Hodes votes to cut competition under Medicare, I will work to increase competition, reduce costs, and increase medical choice and accessibility for all Americans.
http://bosse2008.blogspot.com/2008/06/bosse-unveils-comprehensive-health-care.html

Mortgage Crisis
When responsible home owners and renters have trouble making their payments, there are consequences. When banks and irresponsible borrowers can't meet their commitments, they ask for a bailout, and too many Congressmen go along with it. Taxpayer bailouts of banks or irresponsible home buyers undermine the basic faith in contracts that are the strength of the American economy. By voting for a $300 Billion bailout, Paul Hodes has helped fuel the next housing bubble, and the next mortgage bailout.
http://www.bosse2008.com/press.html#407

From PolitickerNH.com

Brian Lawson from PolitickerNH.com writes about Bosse's Posse, Grant's group of grassroots volunteers.

"Grassroots still matter in New Hampshire, and grassroots campaigns still win," Bosse said in a press release. "I've run the most aggressive, grassroots campaign, and I'm reaching out to anyone who wants to return the Republican Party to its core principles to join Bosse's Posse."

From the Union Leader

Kevin Ellicott from West Lebanon declares his support for Grant's campaign in this morning's Union Leader:

Grant Bosse offers a refreshing choice

To the Editors: I'd like to thank Grant Bosse for his efforts to give us a choice in representatives in Washington.

Bosse has been direct and honest about where he stands on the issues, and I find myself in agreement with him on the bulk of those issues. I'd ask Republican primary voters to give him a chance to take on Rep. Paul Hodes this fall.

Bosse looks for sensible, free-market-oriented solutions to the problems we face. All we get from Hodes are Democratic National Committee talking points.

On one issue alone you can see the huge difference, Bosse recognizes that the answer to our energy problem is to increase production of all the sources we have at our disposal. His competitor falls behind the crowd that thinks the answers are to sue the Saudi Arabians, tax the oil companies and give away more public money as subsidies to inefficient energy producers (ethanol).

We need a candidate with independent common sense, not just another party politics parrot. Please take a close look at Grant Bosse and if you like what you see, give him your vote in the upcoming primary.

Kevin Ellicott
West Lebanon

“Clegg’s Law” Increases Health Insurance Mandates

Bosse calls for more competition in health care marketplace


(Concord) Hillsboro Republican Grant Bosse today criticized legislation sponsored by State Senator Bob Clegg and which Governor John Lynch will let become state law without his signature. The new bill mandates that every health insurance carrier in the state cover bariatric surgery, an expensive elective procedure designed to provide rapid weight loss.

“This new law will decrease competition, increase mandates, and increase costs for health insurance in New Hampshire,” Bosse said. “By allowing state bureaucrats to micromanage our health care, Bob Clegg’s big government solution will make it more expensive for New Hampshire families to get health insurance.”

Clegg’s push for more regulation and state mandates contrasts with Bosse’s comprehensive Health Care Plan, released last month. Bosse would open health insurance to competition by allowing consumers to purchase insurance plans across state lines. Bosse’s plan also provides veterans with greater access to private doctors and hospitals. Bosse testified against this bill before the House Commerce Committee in April.

“The way to bring down health care costs is more choice, not less. More competition, not more mandates,” Bosse continued. “Bob Clegg wants more government control over your health care decisions. I want Congress to get out of the way.”

To learn more about Bosse’s aggressive, grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

Bosse's Posse Hits the Campaign Trail

Republican Candidate Launches Grassroots Volunteer Organization


(Hillsboro) Republican Grant Bosse today launched “Bosse’s Posse”, a group of grassroots volunteers from across New Hampshire’s Second Congressional District.

“Grassroots still matter in New Hampshire, and grassroots campaigns still win,” Bosse said. “I've run the most aggressive, grassroots campaign, and I’m reaching out to anyone who wants to return the Republican Party to its core principles to join Bosse’s Posse.”

The Bosse campaign has attracted longtime Republican activists such as Jim Rubens, Walt Morse and Forrest McKerley, as well as political newcomers like State Representative candidates Dawn Lincoln, David Recupero and Larry Scott. Bosse's Posse recognizes Bosse as the only candidate to take both the "No Earmarks Pledge" and "Taxpayer Protection Pledge", the only candidate to call for reform of the franking privilege and promise not to send unsolicited mail, and the only candidate to release comprehensive plans to reform both the health care and energy markets.

BOSSE'S POSSE

Henry Ahern, Plymouth
Derek Birch, Plymouth
Sheridan Brown, Concord
Jim Carew, Hillsboro
Anne Cartwright, Alstead
Joseph Cartwright, Alstead
Karen Cervantes, Lebanon
Raul Cervantes, Lebanon
Terry Colls, New Ipswich
Anne Copp, Danbury
Ralph Doolan, Littleton
Cindy Downing, Plymouth
Theresa Drabinowicz, Nashua
Terri Dudley, Lebanon
Jim Durdan, Berlin
Clarissa Durdan, Berlin
Kevin Ellicott, Lebanon
Michael Flathers, Salem
Rich Florino, Windham
Bob Fredette, Antrim
Dave Fullerton, Hillsboro
Micah Haber, Nashua
Paul Haley, Hillsboro
Ryan Hansen, Milford
Jean Johnson, Lancaster
Robert Johnson, Lancaster
Don Keith, Bradford
Dawn Lincoln, Westmoreland
Tom Linehan,. Salem
Alan Lowe, Randolph
Greg Lull, Washington
Forrest McKerley, Loudon
Bonnie Morse, Hillsboro
Walt Morse, Hillsboro
Bob Pagano, Henniker
SuzAnne-Marie Rak, Nashua
Dave Recupero, Deering
Bill Regan, Claremont
Skip Reiley, Alexandria
Gloria Reopel, Hillsboro
Mike Reopel, Hillsboro
Mike Rogers, Hollis
Jim Rubens, Etna
Larry Scott, Tilton
Charlie Siggins, Whitefield
Linda Siwik, Amherst
Adele Smith, Charlestown
Steve Smith, Charlestown
Jack Spanos, Bennington
Frank Sterling, Jaffrey
Gary Vago, Nashua
Julie Vago, Nashua
Mary Ward, Newport
Rodd Ward, Newport
Aaron Zipper, Washington

Find more about Bosse’s aggressive, grassroots campaign at www.Bosse2008.com.

Obama Fails Foreign Policy Test

Barack Obama has had one test of his foreign policy judgement. Just one. And he failed. Not only that, he has failed to learn from his own failure. The guys at Powerline have the Report Card:

In short, Obama bet the farm on his prediction that General Petraeus and the American military would fail. He was as spectacularly wrong as John McCain was spectacularly right. But his op-ed somehow twists this history into vindication on the theory that Afghanistan has deteriorated, the Iraq war has been expensive, and Iraq's political leaders "have not reached the political accommodation that was the stated purpose of the surge."

Let's start with the last point. Obama completely fails to acknowledge the remarkable political progress that has resulted from the surge, as manifested by the fact that the country's largest Sunni bloc has rejoined the government, and the U.S. Embassy reports that 15 of the 18 benchmarks of political progress that were set by Congress are now being met. Those benchmarks were set precisely for the purpose of measuring the "political accommodation that was the stated purpose of the surge," yet Obama fails even to mention them.

Still more dishonest is Obama's failure to acknowledge what would have happened if his policy prescription, precipitate withdrawal regardless of military conditions, had been followed: chaos, sectarian violence, possibly genocide, a resurgent al Qaeda in control of part of Iraq, with Iran possibly in control of other areas of the country. This would have been a foreign policy disaster, yet Obama, with vague references to cost and Afghanistan, claims vindication!

By the way, Paul Hodes also said that the Surge was "too little, too late" and doomed to fail. He was wrong.

Bosse Joins "Divided We Fail"

Bipartisan effort tackles tough issues of health care and retirement

(Hillsboro) Republican Grant Bosse today proudly joined "Divided We Fail", a bipartisan group dedicated to improving access to affordable health care and strengthening Social Security. Bosse is the only candidate in the Second Congressional District to outline a comprehensive Health Care Plan, and has long advocated saving Social Security by reforming the program. State Senator Bob Clegg has previously signed on to the group's effort.

"While Bob Clegg and I have very different ideas on how to make health care more affordable, he's at least willing to tackle this tough issue," Bosse said. "Candidates for Congress can not be seriously considered unless they are willing to go beyond the shallow talking points of political convenience and tell the voters how they would address health care and retirement security."

Divided We Fail is cooperative venture of four diverse organizations, AARP, Business Roundtable, SEIU, and the National Federation of Independent Businesses, and does not endorse political candidates or any single approach to health care and retirement reform. However, it asks every candidate to specifically outline how they would tackle these tough issues.

"More choice, not less. More control over our own retirement, not less. More access for veterans to our health care system, not less. That's my approach," Bosse added. "I challenge my opponents in the Republican Primary to join Divided We Fail, and tell the voters of New Hampshire how they would address health care and retirement security."

For more information on Bosse's aggressive, grassroots campaign, go to www.Bosse2008.com.

Campaign Snapshot

Grant continues to be the hardest working candidate in the 2nd District race, as evidenced by another very busy weekend. On Saturday, Grant addressed the Sullivan County GOP breakfast in Sunapee, visited the New London Summer Fair, and attended the Ray Burton Annual in Bath. On Sunday, Grant was proud to march in his hometown parade as part of the Hillsboro Balloon Festival, receiving tremendous support from his fellow Hillsboro residents. Grant also addressed a group of Belknap County Republicans Sunday evening.

Sunday in Hillsboro

"What a thrill. Growing up in Hillsboro, I never thought I'd be walking in our annual parade as a candidate for Congress. But I got to do just that this afternoon at the Hillsboro Balloon Festival Parade. Thanks to everyone who marched with us from Hillsboro-Deering High School, past the house were I grew up, through the square in the center of town, and down to Grimes Field, where I hit my one and only homerun in high school.

Thanks to Mike Reopel from driving his 1931 Model A Ford, festooned with Bosse for Congress signs of course. The car had a little trouble starting as the parade kicked off, so we needed to give it a push. A special thank you to Bob Clegg and his guys from lending us a shoulder to the car moving. It was a kind and spontaneous gesture, and it was appreciated.

The Fireman's Muster is going on now, and if you're nearby, there's still time to get a sausage and peppers or a steak bomb before the Balloon Fest closes for another year. What a great day to be in Hillsboro." -Grant

From the Sunday papers

Lauren Dorgan of the Concord Monitor writes in this week's Capitol Beat about Grant's planned release of endorsements later this week.

The Bosse bunch

Grant Bosse, a Republican hoping to take on Hodes in the fall, will roll out new endorsements this week, topped by Milford Rep. Ryan Hansen and former Lebanon representative Terri Dudley.

Kevin Landrigan does the same in this morning's Nashua Telegraph:

Bosse releases new posse members

Republican congressional candidate Grant Bosse will release new GOP members of Bosse's Posse.

The list includes Milford State Rep. Ryan Hansen, former Lebanon Rep. Terri Dudley, and state representative candidates Tom Linehan, of Salem, Dawn Lincoln, of Westmoreland, and Anne Copp, of Danbury.

Tony Snow Dies at 53

A tough loss, as veteran Fox News anchor and former White House Press Secretary Tony Snow dies at age 53.

Tony Snow, the former White House press secretary and conservative pundit who bedeviled the press corps and charmed millions as a FOX News television and radio host, died Saturday after a long bout with cancer. He was 53.

A syndicated columnist, editor, TV anchor, radio show host and musician, Snow worked in nearly every medium in a career that spanned more than 30 years.

Snow was always a class act, and was an effective spokesman for a White House that has had trouble communicating with the American people. He will be missed.

Campaign Snapshot

Grant has recently spent a lot of time in Nashua. Grant addressed the Nashua Telegraph editorial board on Wednesday. On Thursday, Grant was at the Nashua Republican City Committee BBQ.

Embarrassed?

Barack Obama is embarrassed that Americans go to Europe, and that Europeans speak to us in English. Beyond fostering the "Ugly American" stereotype, Obama continues to show the contempt and elitism that typifies the modern liberal movement. They love America, they say. Just not the way we are now. They love the America we could be if we all lived their lives the way they want us to. I wonder if Paul Hodes shares his preferred candidate's embarrassment of the English language:

"Instead of worrying about whether immigrants can learn English — they'll learn English — you need to make sure your child can speak Spanish."

"You know, it's embarrassing when Europeans come over here, they all speak English, they speak French, they speak German. And then we go over to Europe, and all we can say (is), 'Merci beaucoup.' "

Paul Hodes claims to be an independent voice for New Hampshire, yet he refuses to stand up to Nancy Pelosi, and he refuses to denounce these continued insults from Barack Obama. What will it take for Paul Hodes to stand up against his Democratic Party bosses?

From the Nashua Telegraph

Albert McKeon gives a detailed profile of Grant in this morning's Nashua Telegraph. Grant discusses his unmatched commitment to abolishing earmarks, his comprehensive plans to get Congress out of the energy and health care markets, and returning Congress to its core responsibilities.

U.S. House candidate Grant Bosse would like to see Congress go back to basics.
The former legislative aide and radio news anchor wants Congress to retain a greater role in the use of military force, echoing the idea the Founding Fathers laid out in the Constitution.

Bosse also wants members of Congress to end their practice of earmarking federal money to projects back home and instead file legislation for such work, creating more transparency in the process, he said. Earmarking has been around as long as Washington and Jefferson, but only in the past decade has Congress expanded its use to nearly every member.

Video Diary: CNHT Picnic

Grant addresses the Coalition of New Hampshire Taxpayers Picnic in Hopkinton:

Hodes Part of Least Popular Congress in History

Bosse blames abysmal 9% approval rating on failed Hodes-Pelosi policies

(Hillsboro) Republican Grant Bosse today said the failed policies of Nancy Pelosi and Paul Hodes have dragged Congressional approval into single digits for the first time. Rasmussen Reports shows only nine percent of Americans believe Congress is doing a “good or excellent job”, while a record-high tying 52% believe Congress is doing a “poor job”. This marks the first time in Rasmussen’s history of polling that Congressional approval dipped below ten percent.

“The failed policies of Paul Hodes and Nancy Pelosi have made this Congress the least popular in American history,” said Bosse. “Paul Hodes has voted in lockstep with Democratic leadership, and against the people of New Hampshire.”

The following are some of the failed policies of the Pelosi-Hodes Congress:

· A record $683 Billion tax increase, part of a record-high $3 Trillion federal budget

· A $300 Billion Farm Bill that will raise food prices across the country

· Failed energy policies that have driven gas prices to record levels

· Playing political games with troop funding

· Allowing our terrorist surveillance programs to expire

· Failing to address illegal immigration

Bosse has been a leader in calling for a return to the Republican Party’s core priorities, such as protecting taxpayers, protecting gun owners, and protecting life. Find more about Bosse’s campaign at www.Bosse2008.com.

Nine percent

Rasmussen Reports shows that Congress now has an abysmal single-digit approval rating of nine percent. You can thank the failed policies of Nancy Pelosi and Paul Hodes for that.

Video Diary- Milford GOP

Grant was the guest speaker at the most recent Milford Republican Committee meeting:

Not seen on the CBS Evening News

The Times of London reports on the fight against Al Qaeda. We're winning:

American and Iraqi forces are driving Al-Qaeda in Iraq out of its last redoubt in the north of the country in the culmination of one of the most spectacular victories of the war on terror.

After being forced from its strongholds in the west and centre of Iraq in the past two years, Al-Qaeda’s dwindling band of fighters has made a defiant “last stand” in the northern city of Mosul.

A huge operation to crush the 1,200 fighters who remained from a terrorist force once estimated at more than 12,000 began on May 10.

Operation Lion’s Roar, in which the Iraqi army combined forces with the Americans’ 3rd Armoured Cavalry Regiment, has already resulted in the death of Abu Khalaf, the Al-Qaeda leader, and the capture of more than 1,000 suspects.

In Iraq, Al Qaeda is one enemy. Iraq is one battlefield. And the war against Islamic Fascism isn't yet won. But every victory like that in Mosul brings us a step closer to a safer world, and our troops a step closer to home.

To the Editor

A great way to help Grant's grassroots campaign is to show your support in a Letter to the Editor. Here are links to some of the daily newspapers covering the Second District:

Union Leader
Concord Monitor
Nashua Telegraph
Laconia Citizen
Berlin Daily Sun
Keene Sentinel
Eagle-Times
Valley News
Eagle-Tribune

Be sure to include your name, hometown, and phone number so that the paper can confirm that you are the person submitting the letter. Keep it short. Keep it civil. Tell everyone why you are supporting Grant Bosse for Congress.

From the Eagle-Tribune

This morning's Eagle Tribune highlights Grant's opposition of both Paul Hodes' latest election-year gimmick on gas prices, and an announced hike of electricity rates.

No sooner had Hodes announced his proposal than one of his opponents, Republican Grant Bosse, issued a statement calling it an "election-year gimmick." What Hodes should do, he said, is push for veterans to be able to use their benefits at any hospital they choose.

"If Paul Hodes were serious about fixing this problem, he would let veterans use the hospital closest to them," Bosse said. "Instead he keeps them trapped in a system that requires long commutes and fails to provide the best care."

Bosse, a former legislative assistant to U.S. Sen. John Sununu, is running against Steiner, Jennifer Horn and Bob Clegg in the Republican primary for a chance to face Hodes in the general election.

Candidate criticizes PSNH rate hike

Bosse also took issue with last week's announcement that Public Service of New Hampshire would be hiking its electric rates for residential customers.

"New Hampshire continues to pay the highest electric rates in the nation because failed government intervention has driven out market forces and driven up prices," he said in a statement. "By blocking nuclear power plants and putting hurdles in the way of new power lines, our government has forced families to pay more just to turn on the lights. It's time we get Congress out of our energy markets in order to bring down the price of gas, home heating oil, and electricity."

PSNH said rates for a customer consuming 500 kilowatt hours of power will increase $4.39 to $81.80, an increase of 5.7 percent.

From the Concord Monitor

The Concord Monitor's Lauren Dorgan writes in this morning's Capitol Beat about Grant's aggressive grassroots campaign across the district.

Bosse man

We've got to give Republican Grant Bosse credit: That guy's everywhere.

As you'll recall, Bosse woke up at 4:30 to be first in line when he signed up to run for Congress. Lately, whenever incumbent Democrat Paul Hodes had a press conference, Bosse is there with his own press releases and counter-spin. He did it Tuesday before zipping down to Manchester to attend the McCain campaign HQ.

Bosse, of Hillsboro, didn't make any bold predictions about what his upcoming fundraising report will show. His rivals will win that race. "I knew I was going to be out-raised, so I couldn't be outworked," he said.

Grant Bosse has been everywhere. Here's a look.

Campaign Snapshot - Independence Day Edition

Some highlights from a very busy 4th of July weekend on the campaign trail. Grant traveled across almost the entire district. Grant and the Bosse Posse were in Alexandria, Amherst, Bradford, Bristol, Brookline, Claremont, Hanover, Hebron, Hollis, Hopkinton, Lincoln, Milford, Newport, Sunapee, Waterville Valley, Wilton, and Woodstock. Highlights included the dedication for "The Wall That Heals" at Parlin Field in Newport, parades all across the state, and the Coalition of New Hampshire Taxpayers Picnic at the Hopkinton State Fairgrounds.

Happy Independence Day.

Happy Birthday, America

When in the course of human events...

Campaign Snapshot

Grant spent a busy morning in Concord and Newport. Grant was on the air with Peter St. James and Bob Lipman on the "New Hampshire Wake-Up Show" on WTPL 107.7 FM in Concord. Grant then helped prepare for the exhibit at "The Wall That Heals" in Newport, and met with the Ward family, proud members of Bosse's Posse.