Political Hay
Marco Gets It
Anti-socialist warrior and Charlie Crist opponent Marco Rubio talks about himself and his Senate campaign.
(Page 2 of 2)
TAS: Now that you have some money, you have a lot of national attention, and you're closing the gap between you and Charlie Crist, are there going to be new wrinkles in your campaign?
Rubio: We'll get busier; it will get more intense. Obviously there will be some new things, hopefully some debates as soon as possible so people can actually see first-hand the choice they have in this election. But our message isn't going to change. I know who I am and why I'm running. I'm running because America is the greatest country in the history of the world. And I believe that everything that has made America great is now being challenged. We need to send people to Washington who'll stand up to this administration and the direction it's taking our country. I don't believe there's any other candidate in this race who will do that. That's why I'm running.
TAS: Couldn't Charlie Crist do that?
Rubio: When you're just a few months removed from standing on a stage in Florida and supporting $800 billion in deficit spending, it's hard to envision that person going to Washington and being a counterbalance to that. The stimulus money isn't our tax money. Our tax money is spent years ago. The stimulus money is borrowed money from the Chinese and printed money from the Federal Reserve. I believe what Charlie Crist stands for and has supported is incompatible with the mainstream of the Republican Party. And this campaign is about giving Republican voters a choice.
TAS: You've just finished a good fund-raising quarter with more than a million dollars collected. Is the money still coming in?
Rubio: Yes. About 98 percent of our contributors can continue to give because they haven't maxed out. Our average contribution is barely over a hundred dollars. That means our contributors can continue to donate over and over again. Our plan is to build a consistent finance base that will every month contribute to our campaign and that's how it's working. I'm very optimistic about it.
TAS: Any plans to hold a fundraiser in the Hamptons (as Crist has)?
Rubio: No (laugh).
TAS: You've clearly gotten Charlie Crist nervous.
Rubio: If I were running in a Republican primary after supporting cap and trade, the stimulus package, amnesty for illegal aliens, and the ACORN plan to restore the rights of felons to vote automatically, I'd be nervous too.
TAS: Florida, with almost 20 million people and 10 media markets, is supposed to be too big for a candidate to make a difference by retail campaigning, but you seem to be doing it. What's that like?
Rubio: I'm excited about the direction things are going. It's all positive. It's hard work. We have to work 10 times as hard to raise a tenth of the money. When it's 11:30 at night and there's two hours left on the drive home, sometimes it's difficult. My daughter is a cheerleader. She's only nine, but she's got a game tonight where's she's cheerleading and I'm going to miss that game. Those are tough times. But I remind myself that I'm running to be a voice for her and for her generation.
That's what this campaign is about. If we continue down this path, theirs will be the first generation in our history to inherit a diminished country, one worse than their parents had. They deserve better. I want to be in the Senate because I think that's the ideal place to stand up to this agenda that is radically redefining the relationship between the government and the American people, and the American economy. If we continue down this line, if we accept this radical definition of the American government, we will never again be the prosperous and free people we've been for the last hundred and some-odd years. I have an opportunity to be a voice in hopes of enlisting as many of my fellow Americans as possible to the idea that this great and prosperous and exceptional nation can continue.
About the Author
Larry Thornberry is a writer in Tampa.
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drudge ette obama| 10.26.09 @ 6:37AM
Rubio got my $25 this week. Help the guy out. Think how good it will feel when he wins.
cindy | 10.26.09 @ 6:56PM
I am on the REC and a conservative in Florida. Our 9/12teapartycommittee has submited question to Mr. Rubio 3 times and we are still waiting for a response.In his book 100 Ideas for Florida he supports public/private partnerships we would like a clear answer to why? Also does he reject sustainable development policy/ UN Agenda 21 to manage Earths people. He also has not been clear on open borders Jeb Bush supports him and is pushing for Amnesty. Will anyone ask these tough questions?
PCP Smoker| 10.26.09 @ 10:28PM
Cindy
you are a stupid bitch. Quit trashing the one guy who can defeat this cretin Crist. God gave you a brain, use it!
Dan| 10.27.09 @ 6:06AM
Cindy,
As an informed REC member, I too had concerns. However, I have attended his speaches and read his published Flyer. They directly deal with Open Borders, Amnesty, Global Governance and leading under the restrictions limited by Article 1 section 8 of the Constitution. I would suggest attending one of his events. Questionaires are usually written to find 1 thing to disagree with, so where is the advantage in answering them.
RCGOPfan| 10.30.09 @ 10:14AM
cindy
I do not know Mr. Rubio's position on these issues, but I suspect they are probably in line with yours. I do know Senator Bob Smith's positions, especially when it comes to amnesty which is No, No and Hell No! Sen Smith has a 100% voting record against amnesty during his 20 years serving in Washington. All his views and votes are listed on his website. Senator Smith was also I believe the first 9-12 candidate in Florida. His website is www.friendsofsenatorbobsmith.com
Hope this helps.
Pingback| 10.26.09 @ 7:45AM
Twitter Trackbacks for The American Spectator : Marco Gets It [spectator.org] on Top links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Robert Rosencrans| 10.26.09 @ 7:46AM
God Bless Him!
digitalis| 10.26.09 @ 8:27AM
Sent in $50 to Rubio although I have never lived nor care to live in Florida. I think we should be using the internet like the lefties to raise cash from all over the place. When I heard Crist thought he could steamroll another one I also thought it's time someone put the brakes on the RINOS. We have two parties in America now: the Democrats and the Totalitarians on the Left. Conservatives and true Republicans never really have true representation. We have not had a president since Reagan. Bush II and well as his father were hawkish dems. Period. I like the fact that Rubio is Cuban. The Cubans in Florida are an incredible group of people who lived through terror/tyranny and know it when they see it: Obama.
ame| 10.26.09 @ 8:53AM
I also sent Rubio some money. Republicans must take back our Party and our country and we can start that if we fight for those who ARE Republicans and slam RINOS, such as Gingrich, McCain, Graham, Snowe, Collins, Crist - they are just as dangerous as Obama and his Marxist punk Chicago thug ideologues. THROW THE BUMS AND THE BIMBO OUT.
Lullaby's, Legends and Lies| 10.26.09 @ 10:17AM
I just sent in a $200 donation to MR Rubio too, because I’m very concerned about what’s happening in the “Great” State of Florida.
You see, last year in November, on the way to visit my folks there, I had just crossed over the Stateline and my car started pulling very hard to the “Left”, and I almost crashed. So I figure, this donation is actually more of an investment on my car's next alignment, then it is on the future of Florida, but who knows, maybe it’ll help both.
Vote out the Liberals!! Vote out the Rinos!!
Ken (Old Texican)| 10.26.09 @ 12:12PM
Good for you, guys!
We at Team America are contributing to his campaign, and we are contacting teaparty groups in FL. to see how we can help them as "outside agitators" (smile).
Rubio is one of those key "sail setters" just like Hoffman in New York. If we can put these guys over the top, a lot of good things can start to happen all over the country: Good candidates, good platforms, good solid lessons to wavering Republican incumbents...
Lots of good stuff. http://judgeroy.wordpress.com
Lullaby's, Legends and Lies| 10.26.09 @ 12:38PM
Ken (OT): I’ve already signed up at your Team America website too, but I’m surprised, that you forgot to mention, that the sign up fee has been waved. http://judgeroy.wordpress.com I’m just looking out for you.
I’m also willing to be an outside agitator too, in the current New York, Virginia, and Florida races. From now on, I’m going to refer to myself as, the I-95 Rabble-Rouser!! But I’ve got an even better idea; I think I’m going to sic my folks on their retirement park in Florida, to get them fired up about the Rubio campaign too. You do not want to want to slam your door in my Mom’s face, because she will keep politely knocking, until you finally listen to her, tell you all about the candidate that she’s supporting (she’s ruthlessly nice!!).
Ken (Old Texican)| 10.26.09 @ 1:57PM
Hi Lulaby's
Please , identify yourself with TEAM AMERICA as you contact local people in these races. Give 'em the judgeroy blog-site as a reference to enter www.myteamusa.org
I promise, you can get to whoever you want, either in a campaign, or in a Republican headquarters.
Often times, local tea partiers are limited in the pressure they can exert...(they gotta' live there.)
Conversely, you...or I... can tear them up with reality. Shoot me an e-mail at kbjudgeroybean06@gmail.com with something interesting and I will follow on with a direct phonecall...and I can get in...you betcha!
Joe | 10.26.09 @ 1:13PM
I agree we need more Reps. That is why I sent $25 already and am sending more in November.
Oldefarte| 10.26.09 @ 2:02PM
My advice to Marco Rubio is to NEVER, EVER CHANGE his philosophy [even if he's defeated] because this country will change due to the current radical-socialist politicians now running our government. I'd advise any/all conservatives in Florida to support and vote for Marco, if they truly want to save our country from this liberal madness in DC. If not in this race, the Rubio's and the Hoffmann's of this country will eventually lead our country back to sanity and greatness!!!!!!
Grace| 10.26.09 @ 2:10PM
I am a supporter of Marco Rubio. I really like what he says. I believe he has the conservative message people want to hear. Crist is a Dem in disguise. Keep you eyes on this young man.
Grace| 10.26.09 @ 2:12PM
We need true conservatives not just candidates with an R behind their names. I'm sick of the RINO's we have on the Hill now.
Pingback| 10.26.09 @ 2:26PM
The Coalition Of The Swilling » Quote(s) of the Day links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Pingback| 10.26.09 @ 4:20PM
Twitter Trackbacks for The American Spectator : Marco Gets It [spectator.org] on Top links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Pingback| 10.26.09 @ 6:58PM
IT Corner » Blog Archive » The American Spectator : Marco Gets It links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
TNGOP| 10.26.09 @ 7:05PM
Mr. Rubio is exciting. Mr. Rubio is the real deal and he (like Hoffman in NY-23) deserves support. I not only want him to win--in a state that I visit but would never desire to call home--I want him to be the model for other young, effective, articulate center-right Republicans who can do yeoman's work to rescue this country from the onslaught of Socialism that is upon us. We need "Marco" and his minions who know and respect the constitution to take BACK the America that Mr. Obama is so anxious to take away. I too am sending money!
MIFL Resident| 10.26.09 @ 8:04PM
I spend 6 months in MI and 6 months in FL. All is basically lost in Communist Michigan, the far left Dems have had control for too long. Don't let that happen to FL, support Marco with your dollars and your voice - I am.
FU*K OBAMA| 10.26.09 @ 8:46PM
SCREW the GOP leadership! The Bush's, McCain's, Colin's, Snowe's, Graham's,Steele's and anyother 'moderate'. We are in the fight for the soul of our country and our freedoms and liberty's.
I will never again give the GOP a red cent! I'm giving Marco the money! It's not much, but it is something that will help him stop the RINO from winning!
drudge ette obama| 10.27.09 @ 6:43AM
You are right to pinpoint your support to get the most bang for your buck.
As for the RNC, let them know that not one red cent to them if a penny goes to Snowe or Collins.
The best way to get the kid to eat vegetables is to feed him only vegetables.
REPUBLICAN VOTER| 10.27.09 @ 1:45AM
CINDY, WHY DONT YOU ASK MARCO YOUR SELF WHEN HE GOES TO SPEAK AT ANY OF THESE EVENTS! MARCO IS EVERYWHERE! AND MARCO HAS SAID HE IS AGAINST AMNESTY! FOR GOD SAKE JUST LISTEN! THIS IS THE ONLY MAN THAT COULD BEAT LIBERAL CRIST AND YOU WANT TO BASH HIM! WHY? JUST MAKE AN EFFORT TO SPEAK TO MARCO AT ANY OF HIS THOUSAND EVENTS! MARCO IS A TRUE CONSERVATIVE AND WILL FIGHT FOR US AND THIS GREAT COUNTRY OF OURS! GOD BLESS! GO RUBIO!!
Pingback| 10.27.09 @ 4:24AM
The American Spectator: Marco Gets It | HucksArmy | Grassroots for Gov. Mike Huckabe links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Pingback| 10.27.09 @ 9:20AM
The American Spectator : Marco Gets It | americantoday links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Pingback| 10.27.09 @ 10:55AM
Marco Gets It ! « What do I think? links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Pingback| 10.27.09 @ 2:10PM
Rubio to Crist: Jump the fence already, Democrat. | Babalú Blog: an island on the net links to this page. Here’s an excerpt:
Rick Schwag| 10.27.09 @ 11:15PM
Will someone ask Marco about all the Cuban "refugees" on welfare in Miami?
Tens of thousands of which who have never paid a nickle of taxes here.
Then ask him what he has done about the rampant medicare fraud that's going on in Miami.
Richard Baker| 10.28.09 @ 8:56AM
When Cindy, above, says that she's still waiting for information from Rubio, my response is that with all the sources of information available today, waiting at your mailbox to find out what he believes is childish and petulant. Do come into the 21st Century.
siggie| 10.28.09 @ 4:30PM
I've got a problem: I live in Florida and whole-heartedly support Marco Rubio. I've given him $200 so far and expect to continue giving $100 each month. The problem is that in order to vote in the Republican primary I need to be a registered Republican, but I am not a Republican, I am a Conservative. Unfortunately, these days there seem to be relatively few Republicans who are Conservatives, and I won't be identified as a Republican by registering as one. Any suggestions? For example, could we ask Marco to commit to running as a Conservative ala Hoffman in NY-23 even if he loses the Republican primary to Crist, or would that backfire with many Republicans?
fedupinflorida| 10.28.09 @ 6:27PM
siggie, I've seen other Conservatives, Independents, say they are changing their affiliation to Republican just so they can vote for Marco, and will then switch back. I'm a 35 yr registered Republican who was going to change my affiliation because I'm sick of the RINO's now supposedly representing the Republican party. Once I learned about Marco I decided to hold off on doing that so I can vote for him in 2010. If by then the GOP doesn't come up with someone who represents conservatives for the 2012 race, I'll leave the Republican party.
Pingback| 11.2.09 @ 8:53AM
TampaBLAB » Blog Archive » In the face of declining poll numbers, here’s what Crist c links to this page. Here’s an excerpt: