Bob Schwartz, Republican seeking the 5th Congressional District seat.

The following questionnaire has been submitted to each candidate running in the Republican primary seeking the nomination for Republican candidate for Tennessee's 5th Congressional District. This seat is now held by Democratic Congressman Jim Cooper. Whoever wins the primary on August 5 will most likely face Cooper in November.

Tell me about yourself. Where are you from, what to you do for a living, what is your educational background, your political experience?

I'm a fighter who's ready to join the brave band of fiscal conservatives battling Jim Cooper, Barney Frank and rest of the Nancy Pelosi crowd in Congress.

I am fighting to restore freedom and opportunity to the people of America. I am ready to take on Jim Cooper and his big-government, big-deficit gang when I get to Congress by virtue of my executive experience in the healthcare industry and, also, by my pick and shovel political track record.

On the recent political front, I was named a Delegate from Tennessee to the Republican National Convention in 2008 and was also one of two Tennessee members of the Platform Committee where my language on home-schooling and health promotion was added to the Republican Platform.

I'm currently serving on the Executive Committee of the Davidson County Republican Party which is building an extraordinary grassroots structure to fight the battle on the local level.

On the job front, I've been a healthcare executive for many years. I understand the problems in that area and am prepared to offer free market solutions that will help, rather than corrupt the process. This nation needs healthcare reform, but ObamaCare is a hideous creation of bureaucrats who have no experience or understanding about healthcare delivering. I pledge to tie up ObamaCare in committee and to defund it through the appropriations process until the Courts rule that it is, in fact, inconsistent with the Constitution.

On the most basic personal level, it's important that readers know that I am a committed Christian. Jesus Christ is my rock and my salvation. My current political effort is in His hands.

Why are you running for this office?

I'm running for Congress to be part of the team that stops the madness! (i) Spending is out of control. (ii) Debt to foreign countries threatens the national security. (iii) New federal healthcare legislation includes provisions forcing American citizens to purchase government OK'ed plans. (iv) The military is stretched to the breaking point in foreign entanglements. (v) Small businesses suffer under high tax rates and crushing regulations while the federal government subsidizes the auto industry and Wall Street. (vi) We do not optimize use of our own natural resources while we pour money into countries housing our deadliest enemies.

In the most general terms, we can simply and cleanly address many of the problems above by drastically cutting the budget of the Federal government.

What do you see as the primary issue is this race?

As radio commentator Ralph Bristol puts it so clearly and so succinctly:

"It's the spending, Stupid, and it's the stupid spending."

Government borrowing is now so high that, for the first time in our history, the government is competing with the private sector for funds. These are the funds needed to create jobs! So, not only is government spending threatening the financial future of the younger generation, it is killing job growth right now in the private sector.

In addition, decreasing Federal spending will decrease the power of special interest groups. Recent Supreme Court rulings and freedoms guaranteed under the Bill of Rights make it unlikely that federal controls or legislation can decrease the power of lobbyists. Just as sure as the day follows the night, however, lobbyists will diminish if the Federal government has less money and less power.

If you are successful in wining the Republican nomination and you are successful in defeating Jim Cooper, when serving in the US Congress what issue will be your primary focus? What will be your priorities?

(1) Slash spending. I support Marsha Blackburn's call for an immediate five percent reduction in all non-military spending and will support a Constitutional amendment requiring a Federal balanced budget.

(2) Create an Environment for Private Sector Job Growth. I will work to create jobs in the private sector by decreasing small business taxes and eliminating confusing and unnecessary regulations.

(3) Reform Congress. A number of immediate actions can be taken in response to Congress' over-blown and over-reaching actions, including: (i) Single Subject bills should be required rather than omnibus bills that "sneak" non-related actions into major legislation. (ii) An immediate five percent reduction should be put in place in all non-military budgets. (iii) No monies should be authorized for new federal programs until the budget moves to balance. (iv) Legislation requiring that the Federal budget be in balance by 2020 should be passed. (v) Finally, I will make a personal commitment to remain in Congress for no more than three terms.

When I make my decision who I will vote for for this office, not only do I want to vote for someone who has solid conservative values and who I think would make a good Congressman, but I want to vote for someone who I think can beat Jim Cooper. Best person and electability may not necessarily be the same thing. I have heard that it will take anywhere from $500,000 to $2 million dollars to mount a successful campaign. Do you have the support, the time and resources to conduct a wining campaign?

I'm electable because I offer a proven track record of creating budgets and organizations that accomplish their mission in the private sector. I'm now turning those skills toward building a political organization through which my rock-solid conservative beliefs can be heard and felt first by Jim Cooper and then by entire Nancy Pelosi gang in Congress.

People know they can trust me. I've walked the walk not just talked the talk! Conservative principals and the free market are not simply abstract philisophical or political constructs for me. They exist, as stated in the Constitution, to guard the people's rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. More opportunity. More jobs. Better schools. Freedom to live as we see fit.

The structure I am building in the 5th District will more than match Jim Cooper's top heavy machine. I promise! I've put together budgets and strategic plans over the course of my business career. For this political battle, I am creating a grassroots structure in every precinct in the 5th District that will form the girders and beams of my campaign. In addition, I am naming heads to 15 'affinity' groups to communicate, educate and motivate special interest voters.

In terms of fund-raising, the structure I am building is creating the credibility to produce donations. People are already giving generously because they see that a winning team is being built. I am budgeting $125,000 for the primary efforts and in the neighborhood of $1,000,000 for the entire campaign.

If one wants to know more about your campaign or contact you how to they do that?

I welcome direct contact from voters at 615-419-9615. My two campaign web-sites will be complete in early May:

www.ElectBobSchwartz.com
www.BeatJimCooper.com

If we act bravely and as a well-administered fighting force, we will win Tennessee's Fifth Congressional Distrct! Middle Tennessee will join the efforts of valiant citizens all around the country who are working to save America from irresponsible leaders whose actions and attitudes reflect neither the principals on which this country was founded nor the beliefs of the vast majority of her citizens. This is a fight worth fighting. This is a fight that must be won!

ONWARD!
Bob Schwartz
Candidate for the Republican Nomination
Fifth Congressional District
Tennessee

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There will never be enough boats

By Jeff Hartline

Jeff Harline is a Republican seaking the 5th Congressional District seat.

During the recent massive flooding in Nashville, Tennessee, the rain was so heavy and the rising waters so fast that many residents and tourists were trapped in their homes and hotels. As First Responders both on and off duty mobilized and scattered to the most dangerous places in the area, thousands of people remained trapped by the rising waters.

At first, lone citizens began to arrive at these locations to ferry trapped tourists and residents to higher ground. As these courageous citizens continued their efforts, the call went out to the community to send boats to certain areas. Individuals showed up and worked tirelessly, using their own time, assets and fuel to play a vital role in thousands of rescues. These were not citizens “mobilized” by some order from the State or City. They were individuals making a difference in the lives of their neighbors.

But their care for their neighbors is not the only story here. Neither is the heroism of First Responders in Middle Tennessee. Their efforts are still drawing praise from all over the region. This tragedy highlights the reality of government’s inability to solve every problem. It was never designed to do so. You see, during the flooding the government did not have enough boats. Truth is, government never has enough of anything to take care of everybody. It cannot and never will.

Whether we talk about water rescues, health care, retirement planning, product regulation, border security, community peace, hunger, child care, etc., government does not have the resources to solve every problem. A citizenry that expects such will be sorely disappointed. A citizenry that believes this myth to be true, or maintains that it is true for others only perpetuates a belief that cannot be substantiated by reality. There is not enough tax revenue, not enough fees, not enough tariffs, not enough anything to provide the be-all end-all for all who expect to line up at the federal trough to be cared for for their entire lives.

The Founders expected individuals to be connected within their individual communities through neighborhoods, churches, or other organizations in order to encourage good citizenship and dependence upon others. Such a paradigm requires a certain expectation of individuals to behave in a way that does not alienate them from their neighbors. The Founders never intended for the Federal Government to provide one single solitary thing for any individual. The Enumerated Powers expressed dealt with regulating a level playing field for individual rights and for the ability of commerce to flourish. They would have bristled at the thought of a powerful federal entity picking winners and losers either through the tax system or through entitlements to certain individuals or groups. These powers were reserved to the States and to the People individually.

Enough boats in a water rescue come from boat owners. Enough health care comes from a bustling health industry, enough retirement comes from responsible, accountable citizens saving their money. Depend on government and you will eventually be stranded. Whatever we allow or expect government to give, government can take away. Build your own boat and look out for your neighbors. If you do not have your own boat, be enough of a neighbor that your neighbor with a boat looks out for you in time of need.

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CeCe Heil, Lex Luger & Nikita Koloff Host Time of Prayer

NASHVILLE, TN – Fifth District Congressional Candidate CeCe Heil announced today her campaign will be commemorating the National Day of Prayer at her headquarters.

Hosting this event will be World famous wrestlers, Lex Luger & Nikita Koloff. Lex Luger is a three-time World Champion having held two WCW Championships and the WWA Heavyweight Championship. Recently, Luger has been giving his testimony about becoming a Christian and the changes in his life. Nikita Koloff is a story of welfare to world wide fame as a champion wrestler, who only found fulfillment when he became a Christian.

“Defending the American Dream begins with defending our right to come together to pray,” Heil said. “With the recent tragedy that has struck all of Middle Tennessee there has been no better time to pray for our community and give thanks for what is truly important, our lives, our families, our friends and our freedoms. The freedom to come together and pray is the foundation of what makes America great.”

“Middle Tennessee has proven it is a shining city on a hill. In this time of tragedy Tennesseans have come together helping each other instead of focusing on what the Government is not doing or what they are entitled to…we see neighbor helping neighbor and stranger helping stranger. I am so proud of Tennessee and am asking CeCe For Congress volunteers to take time off our campaign to reach out to their communities and help where they can. America is still great and Tennessee is proving that! I am honored that Lex and Nikita would lend their time to give voice to the ideals our nation represents at this event.”

Supporters of freedom are asked to come together and unite as citizens empowered by prayers for our community. Heil invited Middle Tennesseans to bring the family, drop by after work - come meet with CeCe and her guests this Thursday, May 6th from 4:30 pm – 7:00 pm at her headquarters at 2817 Erica Place in Berry Hill.

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“Big Brother is Watching You”

Americans for Limited Government has undertaken an analysis of the Dodd financial sector takeover bill, S. 3217, know as the "Restoring American Financial Stability Act of 2010." This bill would establish an Office of Financial Research and give the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau the authority to “collect, validate, and maintain all data necessary” to maintain the financial stability of the United States.

In essence, the government would have the right to routinely look at your bank account without a search warrant. It is undeniable that this bill gives the government that authority. This is a major departure from the constitutional right to be secure in our " persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures."

This is truly alarming. Daily we see our liberties slip away. Unfortunately, while liberals are willing to give up the right to have a private bank account in the name of financial security and willing to give the government the power to force you to buy health insurance against your will in the name of health care; conservatives are willing to give up the right to be free from the police demanding that you "show us your papers" in the name of catching illegal immigrants and willing to surrender other liberties in the name of national security. Few are consistent advocates for limited government and too few seem concerned.

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Are Republicans Stepping on a Land Mine?

by by Mona Charen

[Excerpt] a 2006 survey by Latino Coalition found that 34.2 percent of Hispanic voters considered themselves conservative, while only 25.8 called themselves liberals. More than 53 percent agreed that it was more important for Hispanics to become integrated into American society than to preserve their native cultures. Offered a choice between higher taxes and more government spending or lower taxes and less government spending, 61.2 percent favored the latter. Moreover, like other Americans, Hispanics tend to vote more Republican as they age.

[Excerpt] Republicans who favor strong measures to limit illegal immigration should not sacrifice their principles to truckle for votes. But neither should they blindly blunder into a political wilderness for lack of finesse. (link)

Comment:
Republicans would be wise to heed the advice of Mona Charin. By 2042 white Americans will be in the minority in this country. The Republican Party can not be a viable party and be the party of only white people.

Republicans have already lost the Black vote. Despite the fact that it was Democrats who stood in the school doors and blocked integration and it was Republican votes in Congress that passed the important civil rights legislation, Republicans get almost no Black votes. Having gone door to door campaigning for election in Black communities, I know that many Blacks are conservative, especially on taxes, on social issues, and eminent domain. On simple ideology, there is no reason Republicans should not be able to compete for black votes. Unfortunately, for whatever reason, we can’t.

Republicans had better be careful or we will permanently alienate the Hispanic vote. In 2004, Bush got 40% of the Hispanic vote. Now, it looks like we are determined to throw that away. If our anti-illegal immigrant position gets translated as hostility to people of Hispanic heritage and disregard for the rights of Hispanic citizens we will drive Hispanic voters into the arms of the Democrats and they may stay there.

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Hartline Statement on Nashville Flood Disaster

NASHVILLE – The historic and terrible flooding affecting Nashville and many surrounding communities is a tragedy for thousands of people - and an opportunity for hundreds of thousands of Nashvillians, congressional candidate Jeff Hartline said today.

"Most everyone in Nashville has either been hurt by the disaster or will know someone - a relative, a friend, a co-worker or colleague - who has been directly impacted by the flood," Hartline said. "We have been given an awesome opportunity for public service of the personal kind - service to our fellow man.

"Insurance policies call natural disasters 'Acts of God,' but the real acts of God in the days ahead will be the countless acts of generosity and service, of people helping people with the immense work of recovery from the flood and to rebuild their homes, their businesses and their lives," Hartline said. "I look forward to doing my part."

Hartline for Congress urges you to volunteer via Hands on Nashville (www.hon.org) or through a local church or non-profit, and to contribute financially via the American Red Cross or other trustworthy organizations - or directly to someone you know who needs your help."

Learn more about Jeff by visiting his campaign website, HartlineForCongress.com, and his blog, www.signersandframers.com.

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Marco Rubio has concerns about Arizona's new law

Marco Rubio is the former speaker of the Florida House who has taken on the Republican establishment of Florida and pulled ahead of Florida Governor Charlie Crist in the Republican primary campaign for the Senate in 2010. After Rubio pulled ahead of Crist in the polls, Crist withdrew from the race as a Republican and is running as an independent.

While it looks like Rubio could have won the race handidly in a two-man race, with the vote split three ways, the future of this contest is in doubt. Rubio has had wide support from the tea party movement.

For those who tend to believe everything they hear from Limbaugh, Levine, Beck or our own Steve Gill, please consider what Marco Rubio has to say about the new Arizona immigration bill.

Our legal immigration system must continue to welcome those who seek to embrace America’s blessings and abide by the legal and orderly system that is in place. The American people have every right to expect the federal government to secure our borders and prevent illegal immigration. It has become all too easy for some in Washington to ignore the desperation and urgency of those like the citizens of Arizona who are disproportionately wrestling with this problem as well as the violence, drug trafficking and lawlessness that spills over from across the border.

States certainly have the right to enact policies to protect their citizens, but Arizona’s policy shows the difficulty and limitations of states trying to act piecemeal to solve what is a serious federal problem. From what I have read in news reports, I do have concerns about this legislation. While I don’t believe Arizona’s policy was based on anything other than trying to get a handle on our broken borders, I think aspects of the law, especially that dealing with ‘reasonable suspicion,’ are going to put our law enforcement officers in an incredibly difficult position. It could also unreasonably single out people who are here legally, including many American citizens. Throughout American history and throughout this administration we have seen that when government is given an inch it takes a mile.

I hope Congress and the Obama Administration will use the Arizona legislation not as an excuse to try and jam through amnesty legislation, but to finally act on border states’ requests for help with security and fix the things about our immigration system that can be fixed right now – securing the border, reforming the visa and entry process, and cracking down on employers who exploit illegal immigrants.

Will movement conservatives now turn on Rubio and denounce him as a RINO? Please consider that there are valid reasons to have concerns about this bill. I want someone like Rubio in the Senate who has solid conservative values and who is a thoughtful person and who does not approve of laws that would allow the government to trample the rights of citizens. He is the kind of person I think we need in the U. S. Congress. I just sent him a contribution. Click here to contribute to the Rubio campaign.

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Hartline Responds to Rep. Jim Cooper’s Latest Op-Ed Pretending to Be a Fiscal Conservative

NASHVILLE – Jeff Hartline, the leading candidate for the Republican nomination in Tennessee’s 5th Congressional District, has issued the following statement in response to the editorial by Rep. Jim Cooper published in The Tennessean this week in which the long-time incumbent attempts to explain how we should “Slice Government, Close Loopholes.” (Link: http://www.tennessean.com/article/20100428/OPINION01/4280353/1007)

Rep. Cooper, I must say I was surprised by the content of your editorial. You succeed in bashing former President Reagan for raising spending, yet our current spending level is 1.2% higher (based on GDP) today than it was during Reagan’s Presidency, as evidenced by your editorial. You say the key is to find balance in government. This probably sounds great to most of the folks living in the Fifth District. However, I believe you miss the point entirely.

The key to our success as a nation does not rest within finding an acceptable level of size for our federal government. They key rests within the people, working hard, paying their bills, operating their homes within a reasonable budget, and making tough choices. The key is reducing our government to a size that pales in comparison to its current size. Our government is working to maintain its size, thanks partially to your voting record. Although your words express a desire to see a smaller government, your votes say otherwise.

Rep. Cooper, you talk of the budget as though you are an outside observer and are merely commenting on it and then tell us you are fighting for resolution. You are sorely out of touch; your record proves it. You voted for these incredibly expensive programs: Health care reform, bailouts for US Automakers and Wall Street Investment companies chosen by the government, the Cap and Trade energy bill, TARP bailouts, Cash for Clunkers, increasing the available debt limit an additional 2.1 trillion dollars, and Stimulus packages 1 and 2.

Not only were you a participant, but a generally silent participant in these votes. You are complicit in the very spending you despise. Your benchmark for federal spending is based upon the outrageous spending of an ineffective and wasteful Congress. I believe we can do far better than the 20.0% of GDP you suggest in the editorial.

In all fairness, it’s nice to know you want to change your tune. However, the song you are singing does not match the music. You are way off-key. You say, “Greatness does not come cheap.” I say that Liberty comes with a price. The spending you continue to support in Washington is the biggest threat to our liberties in this nation. You say that reducing taxes on Americans will not build a stronger America. Are you suggesting that taking more money from tax-paying citizens WILL create a stronger nation? I certainly don’t believe that to be the case.

Fundamental tax reform cannot take place as long as representatives like you remain in office. It will require a new breed of Congressman to see to it that our future is secured, especially our economic future. After all, Reagan did understand that a smaller federal government is directly correlated with economic security, something you and the current leadership continue to ignore. Instead of solely reducing federal spending, why not reduce the tax burden on productive Americans? That’s a slice we would be happy with.

Jeff Hartline, a former medical practice management consultant and business owner, is a leading candidate for the Republican nomination to challenge Cooper in the November election. Hartline’s campaign, which raised more money from individual donors than any other candidate in the GOP primary, in the first quarter, announced on Tuesday that prominent healthcare business executive and venture capitalist Andy Miller will serve as the campaign’s finance chair.

Learn more about Jeff by visiting his campaign website, HartlineForCongress.com.

Link to Jeff's blog: http://jeffhartline.wordpress.com/2010/04/29/a-response-to-rep-coopers-slice-government-editorial/

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Candidate Bob Schwartz's Reponse to Jim Cooper's OpEd

Bob SchwartzJim Cooper's OpEd yesterday hurts, not helps the budget situation. The truth of the matter is that Congress --- where Mr. Cooper has languished for 16 years --- is largely responsible for federal appropriations. Instead of look at his and his Congressional peers' performance, Mr. Cooper blathers about the good old days under Pres. Clinton and the bad old days under Pres. Reagan. This is much easier than rolling up his sleeves and digging into tough questions like entitlement spending and foreign aid.

Why isn't Jim Cooper on the new federal commission on budget and debt? That's where the real work is being done. Mr. Cooper thinks that voters in the Fifth District will mistake his OpEd piece for real work toward real solutions. Come November, he is going to be surprised!

ONWARD!
Bob Schwartz
Republican Primary Candidate,
robertrschwartz@yahoo.com

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The Arizona Law has its Conservative Critics.

While the bombastic, loud-mouthed, angry, radio conservative entertainers have been very vocal and enthusiastic in support of Arizona’s new immigration law, some of the more thoughtful conservative commentators say the law is flawed and goes too far.

I heard Mark Levine today and I think he was foaming at the mouth. I thought he was going to blow a casket. He argued we have a right to protect our borders and this new law is the way to go about it. He was very hostile to critics of the law and belittled and attacked David Brooks and Jeb Bush who have been critical of the new law. Several of the other talk show conservative have been equally supportive of the law and critical of the laws critics.

Fred Barnes of the Weekly Standard and Charles Krauthammer of the Washington Post both disapprove of the bill. Barnes says the bill goes "way too far" and calls it "draconian." Krauthammer agrees with those who argue the bill could create civil rights abuses. David Brooks says the law is "terrible" and "an invitation to abuse."


Jeb Bush, former Florida governor has said, "I think it creates unintended consequences." "It's difficult for me to imagine how you're going to enforce this law. It places a significant burden on local law enforcement and you have civil liberties issues that are significant as well."

Actually the new law, while bad, may not be quite as draconian as I first thought. The law may not amount to much. The text of the bill, “Requires officials and agencies to reasonably attempt to determine the immigration status of a person involved in a lawful contact where reasonable suspicion exists regarding the immigration status of the person, except if the determination may hinder or obstruct an investigation.”

That is nuanced. The police are required to enforce the law but yet still must make some judgment calls. The original police contact has to be “lawful.” I am not sure what a “lawful” police contact means and I am not sure what constitutes “reasonable suspicion.” I’m glad I am not a policeman. I suspect that the first time a Hispanic American citizen is thrown in jail for not having proof of citizenship the law will be challenged and we will find out what the law means.

While the law may not be quite as bad as I thought it was the first time I read it, it still is a transfer of power from the individual to the state. “Reasonable suspicion” following a “lawful contact” is no doubt a less stringent standard than “probable cause.” If it is not, then nothing really changes.

I find it disturbing that so many conservatives are ready to take the side of a lessening of the rights for the individual and a support more power for the state. Conservatives who generally profess love of the constitution and really like the 2nd Amendment and the 12th Amendment don’t seem equally as keen on the 6th Amendment. They don’t care for all that pansy-ass liberal stuff about “right of the people to be secure in their persons” and they don’t like all that stuff about “probably cause.”

And all that talk about “limited government?” Well, conservative want a government that is not powerful enough to force you to purchase health insurance but that doesn’t mean they want a government unable to throw you in jail if you are not carrying proof of citizenship.

Although they risk being labels “RINO,” or attacked as “elitist,” or labeled “inside the beltway,” or members of the "chattering class," I am glad that we have conservatives like Krauthammer, Barnes and Brooks who will do more than just feed people’s anger. I am glad that we have conservatives who will think and analyze. I am glad we have conservatives who will stand by their support of the constitution and stand for less government even when it is not the popular position to take.

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David Hall, Republican seeking the 5th Congressional District seat.

The following questionnaire has been submitted to each candidate running in the Republican primary seeking the nomination for Republican candidate for Tennessee's 5th Congressional District. This seat is now held by Democratic Congressman Jim Cooper. Whoever wins the primary on August 5 will most likely face Cooper in November.

Tell me about yourself. Where are you from, what to you do for a living, what is your educational background, your political experience?

I have been supporting my family as a small business owner since 1989. I am a licensed general contractor and electrician for the State of Tennessee. I own, manage and operate www.DavidHallHomes.com, in Nashville.

In 1985 I married my best friend, Michelle. She and our five children are my most dedicated, enthusiastic and supportive volunteers. We live in Goodlettsville, Tennessee on a small 5 acre farm with pet dogs, horses, chickens, ducks and a miniature donkey we call “Jim". We attend Hillview Baptist Church. I am an NRA member and I have a Right to Carry Permit.

In the early 1990's I began work with FEMA.Through my work, I've spent years traveling to Africa, Egypt, Honduras, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Scotland and many places in between. As great as many of these places are, they always remind me how great the United States is.

Why are you running for this office:

Michelle and I, our sons and daughters are very proud of America and Tennessee. We are thankful to live here. We believe in the same ideals that our government was founded on. When we committed to run in '08, we committed to more than that race. We will continue working as a team until the government is headed in a different direction. I ran against Haynes in '08 because his liberal record was so alarming and no one cared enough to try and shut him down. Dave is running in State House District 50 for the same reason.

If conservatism, liberty and constitutionalism offer the best road, we don’t understand why people abandon the road when limbs are down and it seems impassable. We should just clear the blockage and keep on moving. Michelle is running because for 36 years we haven’t had Davidson County Primaries. We always have a laundry list of races that allow Democrats to run unopposed. This year there is even a struggle to fill the need to have Republicans working the polls. We don’t have our Davidson County voting precincts organized with active, involved leaders willing to work their small area for candidates. Michelle's vision is to organize precincts, call primaries and recruit candidates. Davidson County will remain in the Democrats hands, at least until we run and support candidates against them.

As for the race against Cooper, the Halls discerned in ‘o8 that Cooper would be “salt in our wounds,” if America ended up with an Obama Administration. Turns out we were more painfully right than we ever dreamed. Even while running against Haynes, our campaign coordinated what resources we could spare with Gerard Donovan. Also, our oldest son, Dave, donated $1,000.00 to Donovan’s post primary campaign. All along our plan was to help Gerard's race in '10, but then he needed to pull out. We did what we could in '08, and we are still doing what we can, not because it is easy, not because it is likely, because it is necessary.

Our family isn't all that eager to spend limited donor dollars battling against other like minded Conservatives. We would much rather see those resources conserved for use in the general, where the democrat incumbents are so well funded. I know that the obvious question then is, "If that is true, why are you among the baker’s dozen of Republican Primary Candidates for Cooper's seat?" Well, just as in the 08 race against Haynes where the incumbent was so deeply entrenched and so well funded, Cooper’s general 2010 election challenger is going to face the same challenges that we faced in ’08, only on an even greater monumental scale.

The primary winner has to be someone who can have a wild card chance at beating Cooper. My race isn’t about defeating any one of those good men (or one good lady), it is about a last ditch effort to give Cooper’s seat to someone with the strength to vote on legislation using the sound voice of conservative wisdom. I feel that I am the only candidate, who is both wise enough to be that voice and, from a campaign strategy perspective, experienced enough to have even a snowball’s chance in the general race against Cooper.

We haven’t deceived ourselves. The reality for these primary candidates is that they are competing amongst themselves for the chance to stand alone after August 5th. While there may be more support from the party and from donors than Donovans’ bid for the same seat in ’08, it won’t be near enough for a candidate who lacks knowledge and experience in getting Moderates/Dems to vote Republican in Davidson Co. We are already aware of how hopeless the State Party thinks this race is. But they thought that about Joe’s seat too, and look how they almost had his seat handed to them. What worked for my Senate race in ’08 can work again in 2010. We would have had Joe’s seat in ’08 had it not been for the Obama Surge voters.

Voting patterns over the previous four elections told us that 60,000 votes were the most ever cast in that race – that includes the years the incumbent was challenged and unchallenged. We identified 31,000 voters and we worked our tails off, being outspent 7 to1, going after them. We ended up with 31,800 votes. In a normal year, that would have placed the Republican Candidate over the top. If you will remember, my race in '08 pulled more votes for the Republicans than any other election for that seat in history. The one piece of good news in this year’s election is that those surge voters will most likely not return to the polls.

What do you see as the primary issue is this race?

The state of our economy is on the minds of most Tennesseans, and rightly so. Headlines and household budgets remind us daily of the housing crunch, high energy prices, manic swings in the markets and the threat of inflation looms in the minds of most responsible consumers. America's working families are responding to these difficult times with frugal responsibility and our government should acknowledge their efforts. Our citizens are tightening their belts and streamlining their household budgets. Many middle-class families have shared with me how they no longer have land lines in their homes. To save money they have cut the expense of these non-essentials and informed family and friends that their cell numbers have replaced their home numbers. Why shouldn't taxpayers expect similar restraint from their Congress with our Nation’s budget?

If you are successful in wining the Republican nomination and you are successful in defeating Jim Cooper, when serving in the US Congress what issue will be your primary focus? What will be your priorities?

A Pandora's box, created by the fall out affects of the new health care bill, the weak economy and this accelerated government spending, awaits the next Congressman from Tennessee's 5th district. I will remain focused on legislation that gets our economy growing while protecting our children and grandchildren's futures from massive hyper government debt. Congress must consider proven measures that encourage job creation in the private sector, increase private investment and encourage consumer spending. These proven measures are not new ideas, they include immediate tax relieve, decreasing the capital gains tax, working families' income tax and small business tax.

2010 has brought health care to the forefront of our national attention. Too many are asking what is wrong with America’s health care. There is plenty wrong. However, first we should acknowledge what is right about America’s health care. We have the best health care delivery system in the world and our politicians should not be ashamed to admit that. The national health industries of pharmaceutical companies, professional providers, research and development programs, equipment producers and operators, work inside a system that is responsible for improving and extending lives far beyond what was possible just a generation ago. That is amazing and that is America!

Obviously, the escalating cost for health services and treatments is unacceptable. Creating the Government–run health care system, forcing 1/6th of our nation’s economy into the hands of bureaucrats and denying doctors and their patients the control of health care decisions is a foolish non-solution and threatens what is exceptional about our health care. The best solution is an American solution. Historically, it is competition that is known to bring down cost and improve service. Wise Benjamin Franklin knew that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So, let’s combine competition with an investment in wellness and prevention.

There are five, largely preventable, chronic diseases that cause two-thirds of American deaths and account for 75% of our nation’s annual health bill. Most grade school students can recognize the math in this equation requires eliminating the unnecessary expense of treating something that was less expensive to prevent. TORT reform is another common sense remedy necessary for an ailing health care industry.

When I make my decision who I will vote for for this office, not only do I want to vote for someone who has solid conservative values and who I think would make a good Congressman, but I want to vote for someone who I think can beat Jim Cooper. Best person and electability may not necessarily be the same thing. I have heard that it will take anywhere from $500,000 to $2 million dollars to mount a successful campaign. Do you have the support, the time and resources to conduct a wining campaign?

See # 2 above.

If one wants to know more about your campaign or contact you how to they do that?

www.DavidHallforCongress.com,
David@DavidHallforCongress.com

615.268.7555

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Jeff Hartline, Republican seeking the 5th Congressional District seat.

The following questionnaire has been submitted to each candidate running in the Republican primary seeking the nomination for Republican candidate for Tennessee's 5th Congressional District. This seat is now held by Democratic Congressman Jim Cooper. Whoever wins the primary on August 5 will most likely face Cooper in November.

Tell me about yourself. Where are you from, what do you do for a living, what is your educational background, your political experience?

I was born in Rome, GA in 1955. My father is a lifelong minister and my mother has been a medical transcriptionist for as long as I can remember. I went to Freed-Hardeman University and graduated with a degree in Biblical Studies in 1976. I completed my Masters of Arts in Biblical Studies at Lipscomb University in 1997. In the time between I started a family, a business, and homeschooled my three children alongside my wife, Melodie. We have been married for over 31 years.

My work background is varied; I have worked as a physician recruiter, a medical practice manager, a custom-cabinet maker, kitchen-designer, a teacher, a coach, a minister, and a small business owner. My experience in politics is limited to the votes I have cast in my life. I am no career politician.

Why are you running for this office?

In 1994, Newt Gingrich led the charge to take back Washington with the “Contract for America.” At the time I considered running for the office but chose to wait. At the time I had three young children and a small business to run. Sixteen years have passed since that time and now my children are grown. My daughter has three sons of her own. My youngest will graduate in May from Lipscomb University.

I want to make certain that my grandchildren have all the same opportunities my parents and grandparents worked hard to afford me. I have been blessed in my life to have the full support of my friends and family. Many have approached me in the past about a possible run for office and I believe that now, more than ever, I am ready to carry the flag for the people of this district.

What do you see as the primary issue is this race?

The singular issue in this race is determining which candidate can beat Jim Cooper. We all want to beat him, but we need to determine who can accomplish the goal. Each candidate is very similar in his/her beliefs and can represent the conservatives in this district. We must put forth the candidate most likely to send Cooper home. I believe that my experience, maturity, grasp of the issues affecting our nation, ability to easily articulate possible solutions, and my passion for our republic makes me the best candidate. Almost all of the problems in our country are a direct result of federal government that has grown outside of its constitutional boundaries. We must rein our government in.


If you are successful in winning the Republican nomination and you are successful in defeating Jim Cooper, when serving in the US Congress what issue will be your primary focus? What will be your priorities?

Reducing the scope, size and spending of the federal government will be my primary focus when elected. Eliminating federal government control over the lives of individual citizens will allow our economy to thrive once more. The individual states must assume the responsibilities guaranteed by the 10th amendment.

My priorities include balancing the federal budget, annual real decreases in federal spending, securing our federal borders, revamping the tax system, protecting against enemies both foreign and domestic and reforming the legislative process (including no omnibus bills, no earmarks and encouraging single-issue legislation). I also committed to restoring our national defense to an appropriate level, defending 2nd amendment rights, and defending innocent life.

When I make my decision who I will support for this office, not only do I want to vote for someone who has solid conservative values and who I think would make a good Congressman, but I want to vote for someone who I think can beat Jim Cooper. Best person and electability may not necessarily be the same thing. I have heard that it will take anywhere from $500,000 to $2 million dollars to mount a successful campaign. Do you have the support, the time and resources to conduct a wining campaign?

When I made the decision to pursue this seat, I chose to take a leave of absence from my job in order to give the campaign my full attention. I believe that is what this race requires from start to finish. I initially assembled a team to begin formulating a strategy for securing support, funding and votes. Since that time, we have added more people to our steering committee and built a finance committee of dedicated conservatives working hard to raise the necessary funds to challenge our incumbent. We believe that our first quarter numbers speak volumes about my electability and also our ability to raise funds. Historically, this district has been perceived as solidly liberal. We believe the people of this district have proven they are ready to support a conservative candidate for Congress.

If one wants to know more about your campaign or contact you how to they do that?

We have set up many ways for the constituents to get in touch with our campaign. The easiest way is to visit the website at www.hartlineforcongress.com. Here you can join our email list, sign up to volunteer, contribute financially and much more. I also keep a blog at www.signersandframers.com where I discuss current issues affecting America. We also keep active Facebook and Twitter profiles in order to maintain an effective online presence. My cellphone and email address are available as well for those that want to speak with me directly.

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