Jul 30, 2009

Join Sue Myrick on Facebook


If you want to learn more about what my boss lady, Sue Myrick is all about, friend her on her Facebook page: www.facebook.com/suemyricknc
I provide the link above, because Sue Myrick's page is located in the public official page section of Facebook and a lot of people have a hard time finding it.

Jul 29, 2009

Job Leads in Washington, DC


Here are the latest job leads I have for those of you looking to work in a Republican office on Capitol Hill. Good luck.


July 23, 2009
Legislative Assistant - The Office of Congressman Michael C. Burgess, MD (R-TX) is seeking a Legislative Assistant whose primary focus will be the Energy and Environment Subcommittee on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Responsibilities of this position will include writing legislative mail, briefing the Congressman on relevant policy developments, formulating legislative proposals, interacting with federal agencies, and staffing the Member on all of the responsibilities related to the E&E Subcommittee. Strong writing and interpersonal skills are a must. The ideal candidate will have several years of Hill experience and a proven record of implementing legislative initiatives and building coalitions. Please email resume, cover letter, and a writing sample letter to burgessjobs@mail.house.gov with subject line: Attn: LA Position. No calls, drop-ins, or faxes, please.
Unpaid Interns - Howard "Buck" McKeon (CA 25), Ranking Republican member of the House Armed Services Committee, is seeking unpaid interns to for the fall/winter semester. Main responsibilities include answering phones, processing mail, drafting constituent correspondence letters, researching legislative issues, attending meetings/hearings as needed. There will also be opportunities to attend receptions and seminars that interest you. Candidates should be self motivated, enthusiastic, flexible, and computer-literate. This is a great opportunity for college students seeking academic credit. Applicants must be able to make a minimum commitment of four days a week. California ties a plus. Please e-mail your cover letter and resume to Mimma Faudale at mimma.faudale@mail.house.gov
Paid Intern – Congressman Devin Nunes (R-CA) is seeking paid interns to start mid-August through the Fall. Intern responsibilities include assisting staff with office support services, logging and drafting constituent correspondence, researching legislation, attending hearings/meetings on an as-needed basis, and leading tours of the United States Capitol building. California ties a plus, but not mandatory. Applicants should be enthusiastic, hard-working, and computer-literate. Send a resume and cover letter to Becki Herbert at becki.herbert@mail.house.gov.
July 20, 2009
Scheduler - Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) seeks an experienced scheduler for DC office. The ideal candidate will have previous scheduling experience in a congressional office and Pennsylvania ties. Excellent organizational and time-management skills. Send resumes to susan.mosychuk@mail.house.gov. No calls please.
Unpaid interns - Congressman Ted Poe (TX-02) seeks unpaid interns for Fall 2009 in his Washington, DC office. Duties include conducting Capitol tours, entering data, greeting visitors, addressing constituent concerns, as well as assisting with administrative and legislative tasks. Applicants should be energetic, hard working self-starters, that are detail oriented, can multi-task, and have a good sense of humor. This is a great opportunity for those seeking Capitol Hill experience. Texas ties are preferred, but not necessary. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to Anne Marie Malecha at anne_marie.malecha@mail.house.gov with “Internship” in the subject line. No phone calls please.
July 16, 2009
Staff Assistant - Congressman Tim Murphy (PA-18) has an opening for a Staff Assistant in the Washington, DC office. Responsibilities include project assistance, managing office functions, maintaining office equipment, furniture, and supplies, preparation of briefing materials and general office duties. Processes tour and flag requests; staffs the front reception area, greets visitors and answers telephones; oversees Intern and Page program. Previous Hill experience is preferred and Pennsylvania ties are a plus. Applicant must be extremely organized, a proficient writer, able to multi-task and be self-motivated. Knowledge of IQ system preferred. Email your resume to Rebecca.Oliver@mail.house.gov. No phone calls please.
Military Legislative Assistant - Republican Member of the House Armed Service Committee seeks a Military Legislative Assistant to handle his military issues. Primary responsibilities include preparing member for Committee hearings/briefings/mark ups and floor activities, developing and managing legislative initiatives, tracking legislation, writing briefing materials, constituent correspondence, and representing the Member in meetings with interested parties. Candidate must be a team player and a self-starter willing to work in a fast-paced environment. Requirements: Must have substantial understanding of the military and prior Hill experience is helpful. Maryland ties a plus. Applicant Instructions: Please e-mail resume, references and cover letter to Bud.Otis@mail.house.gov.
Interns - Republican Congressman John C. Fleming, M.D. seeks qualified, intelligent, conservative minded individuals to intern in his Washington D.C. office starting as soon as but not limited to August 10th, 2009 until Christmas Break. Duties include answering phones, sorting mail, data entry, and attending briefings. Applicants should be proficient on Microsoft Word and Excel and have a strong work ethic. Applicants with at least introductory knowledge of the legislative process are preferred. Internships are a great learning opportunity; however, all intern positions are unpaid. Class credit is available. If interested, please contact Meghan Marino in my Washington office at 202.225.2777 or email her at meghan.marino@mail.house.gov. Please visit Congressman Fleming's website at http://www.fleming.house.gov/ for more information.
District Interns (Louisiana) - Congressman John C. Fleming, M.D. seeks qualified, intelligent, conservative minded individuals to intern in his District offices in Shreveport, Bossier City, or Leesville, Louisiana starting as soon as but not limited to August 10th, 2009 until Christmas Break. Duties include answering phones, sorting mail, data entry, and attending briefings. Applicants should be proficient on Microsoft Word and Excel and have a strong work ethic. Applicants with at least introductory knowledge of the legislative process are preferred. Internships are a great learning opportunity; however, all intern positions are unpaid. Class credit is available. If interested, please contact Meghan Marino in my Washington office at 202.225.2777 or email her at meghan.marino@mail.house.gov. Please visit Congressman Fleming's website at http://www.fleming.house.gov/ for more information.
Communications Assistant - Congressman Randy Neugebauer seeks a proactive Communications Assistant. Candidates should have an understanding of social networking sites and experience working with new media tools. Responsibilities include working with Communications Director to implement new media strategy and draft some press releases and op-eds. Position will also require implementation of a proactive, targeted constituent communication strategy using email and mail. Ideal candidates will have excellent writing skills, a strong ability to use and adapt to emerging technologies and Texas ties. Please send resumes to tx19jobs@mail.house.gov. No drop-ins or calls please.
Unpaid internship - Congressman Thomas Rooney (R-FL) is seeking unpaid interns for the Fall of 2009. Interns responsibilities include: aiding staff and the Congressman, answering phone calls, processing constituent mail, giving tours, attending hearings and performing other general office duties. Applicants should be enthusiastic, reliable, and hard-working. Please only apply if you are available to work a full time position M-F from 9:00am-5:00pm. Interested candidates should request an application from Michelle.Hawks@mail.house.gov.
July 13, 2009
Legislative Assistant - Congressman Scott Garrett has an opening for a Legislative Assistant handling a variety of issues including Foreign Affairs, Environment and Energy. A successful candidate will have a strong conservative philosophy, be a self-starter, able to manage multiple projects at the same time and perform well under tight deadlines. Strong writing and analytical skills are a must. Please email a cover letter, writing sample and resume to NJ05jobs@mail.house.gov.
Legislative Correspondent - The office of Congressman Connie Mack (R-FL) has an opening for a legislative correspondent (LC) in his Washington office. The LC will be responsible for researching, drafting, and processing constituent mail and assisting with other constituent contact projects. The ideal candidate must have strong research, writing, and organizational skills and previous hill experience with significant knowledge of IQ. Interested applicants should email a resume and a cover letter to sarah.krug@mail.house.gov. Please no phone calls, faxes, or drop-ins.
July 9, 2009
Unpaid Interns - Congressman James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) is currently seeking unpaid fall interns with conservative values, who are available to start in late August or early September. Interns will be responsible for maintaining general front office duties including answering phones, conducting and scheduling tours, logging and writing office correspondence, and a variety of other administrative tasks. Applicants should be detail oriented, punctual, and have excellent communication skills. Wisconsin ties are preferred. Interested candidates should direct their cover letter and resume to Joseph Zapf at joseph.zapf@mail.house.gov. No phone calls please.
Unpaid Intern - Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX) seeks qualified, motivated, and intelligent individuals to serve as interns in his Washington, D.C. office for the fall semester. The position will involve numerous and varied tasks ranging from guiding constituents on tours of the Capitol, answering the telephones, organizing and inputting mail, and drafting letters. Interns are additionally encouraged to further their own education by attending hearings, briefings, and other thought-provoking activities. Texas ties are encouraged, but not required. Qualified individuals should have at least some college background, a record of leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities, a strong writing ability, and a pervasive interest in the way our government operates. Interested individuals should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to Katie.Weiss@mail.house.gov.
Fall Internship - Congresswoman Mary Fallin (R-OK) is currently seeking fall interns. Interns will be responsible for maintaining general front office duties including answering phones, conducting and scheduling tours of the Capitol, logging and writing office correspondence, and a variety of other administrative assistant tasks. Applicants should be detail oriented, have excellent communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Oklahoma ties are preferred but not required. Interested candidates should direct their cover letter and resume to Leslie Anderson at leslie.anderson@mail.house.gov.
July 6, 2009
Communications Director - Congressman Jeb Hensarling is searching for an experienced Communications Director. The ideal candidate for this Washington, DC,-based position is a conservative who possesses strategic messaging and management skills, a strong grasp of financial services issues, solid writing credentials, new media experience and national media contacts. This position is considered a senior member of Congressman Hensarling's management team. Pay is commensurate with experience. Please send resume and brief cover letter to tx05jobs@mail.house.gov. No faxes or drop-offs please. July 2, 2009Communications Director - Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16) is looking for a Press Secretary in his Washington office. Candidates must be committed to social and economic conservatism. Candidates must have exceptional verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated political acumen. Academic achievement, experience, and residence in the 16th Congressional District of Pennsylvania will also be given great weight. Primary duty is to devise and implement a strategy for promoting the work of the Congressman. Tasks include communicating with the media, website management, new media management, and writing speeches, op-eds, and press releases. Resumes and cover letters should be sent to pa16jobs@gmail.com. No faxes or phone calls, please.
June 29, 2009
Communications Director - Congressman Phil Gingrey (GA-11) seeks an aggressive Communications Director with significant press and speech writing experience. Responsibilities will include developing and executing the communications strategy as well as writing speeches, press releases, and op-eds. The ideal candidate will have significant Capitol Hill experience and established media contacts, as well as strong writing, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Georgia ties are a plus, but not required. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples to David.Sours@mail.house.gov. Please no phone calls, faxes, or drop-ins.
Unpaid interns - The office of Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA) is seeking unpaid interns for the Fall of 2009. Candidates must be conservative Republicans. Interns will have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and briefings for staff members, assist in the constituent correspondence process, as well as with other constituent services. Responsibilities include: taking phone calls, processing constituent mail, and performing other general office duties. Applicants should be interested in the legislative process, enthusiastic, reliable, and hard-working. Full or part time internships with flexible schedules are available. Interested candidates should fax their resume and cover letter to (202) 225-4382 or email tom.crosson@mail.house.gov.
Internships - The Office of Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH) is seeking bold, energetic, conservative individuals for paid/unpaid Fall Internships, beginning around Labor Day. During your time with our office, you will be given the opportunity to develop leadership, management, and policy experience. Duties include everything from answering phones and mail, conducting tours of the U.S. Capitol, to assisting staff members and Congressman Jordan with achieving our legislative goals and constituent outreach. You will be challenged and will be given practical tools for career and academic success. Applicants should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, be self-motivated, and able to work as part of a professional team. Fourth District/Ohio ties are a plus. Applicant Instructions: All interested persons should contact Kevin Kichinger, Internship Coordinator for Congressman Jim Jordan, at 202-225-2676 or kevin.eichinger@mail.house.gov. Please have cover letter, resume, references, and a writing sample available.
June 25, 2009
Scheduler - Congressman Patrick McHenry seeks experienced scheduler for DC office. The ideal candidate will have Hill experience, North Carolina ties, and excellent organizational and time-management skills. Send resumes to parker.poling@mail.house.gov. No calls please.Internship - The office of Congressman Zach Wamp (R-TN) is seeking qualified interns to fill full and part-time positions for the fall semester. Work for an energetic, results-oriented Republican and gain invaluable, career-building experience on Capitol Hill by assisting in daily Congressional office duties, helping with incoming constituent communication, and aiding legislative staff and communications director on special projects. This internship is unpaid and requires a minimum time-commitment of three half-working days per week (15 hours). To apply, please fill out the application listed on our website and send it, along with a resume to the attention of Intern Coordinator (preferably in Word format) by email to ehall@mail.house.gov or fax to: 202-225-3494.
June 15, 2009
Chief Economist - Committee on Energy and Commerce Republican staff seeks economist to provide policy advice on climate change and health policy, particularly insurance, price transparency and entitlement reform. Economist will work to analyze and develop legislative policy and engage in oversight of the private sector and the Executive Branch. The economist will also work with CBO and will develop cost estimates for legislative proposals. PhD in economics preferred. Hill, agency or Executive Branch experience helpful. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send a resume and references to Ms. Lynn Walker, linda.walker@mail.house.gov.
Communications Director - Congressman John Shadegg seeks a proactive Communications Director with significant Capitol Hill experience. Candidates should have an established relationship with the press and working familiarity with issues such as health care, energy and national security. Responsibilities include developing and implementing an overall communications strategy, managing the DC press team, writing press releases, statements, op-eds, and developing new media opportunities. Ideal candidates will have impeccable writing skills and a strong ability to maintain and develop media contacts. This is not a junior position. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Please send resumes to arizona03@gmail.com.
June 11, 2009
Legislative Assistant - Congressman Doc Hastings seeks proactive legislative staffer to take lead responsibility for multiple issues. A minimum of 2 years experience as a Legislative Assistant on the Hill is required. Qualified applicants will have experience in more than one of the following areas: nuclear waste cleanup, DOE laboratories, science, health care, tax policy, and defense. Candidates must demonstrate solid communication skills and attention to detail. Please email resume and cover letter to: resumesWA04@mail.house.gov. No calls please.

Jul 26, 2009

Nostalgia by Hal Weatherman: Thad Eure


In 1986, while serving as a Governor's Page for then Governor Jim Martin, I found myself in Raleigh fast food restaurant bathroom, side by side with the late great Secretary of State Thad Eure (1899-1993).

You might remember Thad, as at the time he was the longest serving elected official at any level in the United States. He was North Carolina's Secretary of State from 1936 until 1989 and was known for his trademark bow tie and vintage 1920's era straw hat, you know the type, the one with red, white and blue bunting wrapped around the base.

At any rate, I was a big fan, and at 16 years old, I had not yet been in the personal presence of such a political heavy weight.

So here I am urinal to urinal with Thad Eure, who was probably in his late 80's by this point in his life.

We both looked straight ahead as we took care of mother nature's business, I finishing before he did. As I zipped up, I realized who he was and not thinking I stuck out my hand and blurted out: "Your Thad Eure!"

Obviously, now was not the time to shake hands, but I was star struck and naive.

Calmly and quietly, without missing a beat, Mr. Eure glanced my way and smiled, and while still taking care of his business he simply said: "Yes... Yes I am, and I'd shake your hand now, but mine is busy."

Oh the memories.

Jul 24, 2009

Fighting Illegal Immigration


This week, Sue Myrick signed onto the Secure America Through Verification and Enforcement Act of 2009 (SAVE). Sue supported it last session of Congress too, but the bill died in committee awaiting action.

The bill's lead sponsor is Heath Shuler, which goes to show that fighting illegal immigration does not have to be a partisan battle. We are proud to support Heath in this effort.

Here are some of the highlights of the bill:

- Increases border patrol agents by 6,000.

- Creates a pilot program to increase aerial surveillance, satellite, and equipment sharing between the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Defense.

- Expands the E-verify program and makes it mandatory for all employers.

- Requires notification of individuals whose SSN numbers may have been stolen and are being fraudulently used.

- Expedites the processing and removal of illegal aliens by expanding detention capacity and increasing the number of Immigration Judges.

Will keep you posted on this bill as it moves through the House.

Jul 23, 2009

287g Statistics for Charlotte-Mecklenburg


Due to my recent blogging about the 287g program in Charlotte being in jeopardy, I thought it would be beneficial to give you the statistics for the program and let you decide if we would be better off with or without the program in place.

Since 2006 inception of the 287g program:

Total number of inmates charged and brought into the local jail that were non US born: 11,162

Inmates processed for deportation: 6,914

Of those processed for deportation, number that had previously been deported: 544

Of those processed for deportation, number that had outstanding warrants for removal: 491

Note: Of the 6,914 processed for removal, 1654 were arrested for DWI

I Will Gladly Repay You Wednesday for a Trillion Dollars Today


Did you know, that as of June 30th, our national debt stood at $11,545,275,346,431?


Did you know we pay $600 million a day in interest payments on our debt?


Did you know at the end of April, the US government owed China $763.5 Billion


Did you know we owe Japan $685.9 Billion?


Did you know we owe Saudi Arabia,Venezuela, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain and Kuwait a combined $189.5 billion?


Now you know.

Sue Myrick Video Against Universal Health Care


Sue Myrick released the following video today voicing her opposition to the Universal Healthcare Plan. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCvnS5urECU

Jul 22, 2009

Hal Weatherman Speaking Tour


If you like to talk a little politics, come out and hear me speak at any one of the following upcoming venues:

August 3: Top of the Morning Rotary Club, 7:30 am, Dunhill Hotel, Downtown Charlotte.

August 4: Charlotte Jaycees, 7:00 pm Holiday Inn Downtown Charlotte

August 13: Gaston County Young Republican Club, 6:30 pm, location: TBD
September 21: Charlotte North Rotary Club, Noon -1:30, Byron's Catering, Charlotte

287g Program in Charlotte In Jeopardy

If you read the Observer today, specifically the article by Franco Ordonez ( http://www.charlotteobserver.com/local/story/845945.html#Comments_Container) you got a watered down version of the upcoming changes to the 287 g program currently utilized at the Mecklenburg County jail.

Franco did not present the severity of the changes coming down the pike and the article left the impression that the changes were no real big deal.

Wrong.

Sue Myrick was interviewed for the article and we offered some of our objections, but none of them made it into print.

So allow me to present two objections here.

As a reminder, the 287g program is offered by the Department of Homeland Security and utilized by the Mecklenburg and Gaston County Sheriff's offices. When an inmate is checked into the respective jail, they are run through the DHS databases and positively identified as being in the country legally or not.

If the inmate is an illegal alien, after he has served the time for the local offense he committed, he is then turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation.

If our jail did not have 287g, then that person would be released back into the general public. This was the case for many years.

Now thanks to the 287g program, Mecklenburg County has caught and started deportation proceedings on over 7,000 illegal aliens since the programs inception in 2006.

This past week, the Mecklenburg 287g program and all other similar programs nationwide were presented with a revised Memorandum of Agreement by the Obama Administration.

The MOA says that local 287g programs like Mecklenburg and Gaston are no longer to turn over to ICE "minor offenders" who happen to be illegal. Specifically, the MOA says that no illegal alien without a prior criminal conviction will be deported. The key words here are "prior criminal conviction."

So what does this mean?

It means if you are an illegal alien and you are convicted of a first offense DUI, you will serve local time for the crime, but upon completion of your sentence you will be released back into our country. You will NOT be deported.

Under the current 287g plan, this illegal alien would be deported.

Under the new plan, the illegal alien will be set free!

We have had several of our constituents killed by illegal aliens drinking and driving over the past few years. The most notable was Scott Gardner from Gaston County.

Why would we give an illegal alien more than once chance to kill us on the road? Once is enough.

Today's Observer article did not deal with this issue. Why?

Second, under the new 287g plan, only a conviction of a Tier I crime will lead to deportation. Tier II and Tier III crimes will not.

Our courts are overloaded. Prosecutors will plea people down to get some form of conviction to free up the court's space for harsher crimes. Well guess what? Those pleas are now going to result in the catch and release of illegal aliens. The illegal community will quickly learn the rule and exploit it. They will cop a plea to avoid deportation. And we in the community will be stuck with law breakers who were smart enough to exploit our own laws.

Again, a point not made in today's Observer story. Shocker.

The changes in the 287g program and the Observer article this morning are aimed at gutting the 287g program but doing so in a way that looks like we are still tough on illegal immigration.

America needs to wake up.

Sue Myrick vs. the rest of Congress


Ever wondered how Conservative or Liberal your Member of Congress really is when compared to other Members of Congress? Ever quantified that feeling with statistical proof? Check out the following political spectrum chart compiled by the good people at GovTrack.us and decide for yourself. The Myrick on the right of the chart is our own Sue Myrick. http://www.govtrack.us/congress/spectrum.xpd

Jul 20, 2009

Summer Reading List: Health Care Text?


Need a little light reading recommendation? Kick back, relax and read this book . It's titled H.R. 3200 (the Health Care Bill) and the co-authors are Nancy Pelosi and Barak Obama. It's a real thriller, and at over 1,000 pages in length, it has twists and turns you never expected. Trust me, you will not be able to put it down. It retails for free, but for those of you who earn living there is a surcharge attached. Enjoy.

To receive your copy click here now. First 100 customers get a bonus tax on what little health benefits they currently enjoy.

Gaston County Building




As many of you know, we have Congressional offices in DC, Charlotte and Gastonia. I periodically work out of the Gaston office, and last week was one of those weeks.

I love our Gaston office and thought I would blog about it's coolness today. Our office is located on the corner of W. Main and South Street in downtown Gastonia. We are the one and only tenant in a six story building (tallest structure in Gastonia) and therefore, we technically have access to the entire building... basement to roof.

The building is known as "The Commercial Building" and it was built in 1923. Old timers will remember banking in the building or shopping in what is now our office lobby and foyer, back when it was Sidney's clothing (a woman's retail store).
The basement of the building is creepy... right out of an old black and white movie and includes a boiler room with vintage equipment and an antique bank vault.

When we approached the building's owner about renting the space, the area we took as an office was abandoned and dilapidated.

Today, it is restored to its 1923 luster and even includes a fully functional vintage 1923 elevator that is licensed for operation by the state of North Carolina. It has to be one of the oldest operational elevators in the state
If ever in downtown Gaston County stop by and visit.

Health Care Made Simple?

In order to simplify things, the Joint Economic Committee in Washington this week released a health care flow chart that will be in place should the current public health plan become law.
I hope this clarifies why we oppose the bill.




Q and A: Jim Pendergraph


I caught up recently with former Mecklenburg County Sheriff Jim Pendergraph. Here is the interview:

1. Do you miss being Sheriff?
Yes, I miss the opportunities to meet people and deal with problems. I certainly do not miss the budget issues facing everyone right now. This is a tough time to be Sheriff. I probably would not have been as agreeable to cut my budget without some guarantee that there would be less crime and fewer inmates to deal with. That is a guarantee that no sane person could or would make.

2. What do you think was your biggest accomplishment in your law enforcement career?
I am proud of my entire law enforcement career but especially proud of my years as Sheriff of Mecklenburg County. In 13 years, I turned the largest Sheriff's Office in NC 180 degrees from an embarrassment to one of the most professionally recognized law enforcement agencies in the United States.

3. What does your political future hold?
I don't know that it holds anything. I am enjoying retirement and will decide later on this Fall if I will get back into the political arena.

4. Who was / is your mentor in your career?
I don't know that I had a mentor. I watched some of the people in charge as I came up through the ranks and made my mind up that if I were ever in a position of authority that I would not treat my people like some of my supervisors treated us.

5. What do you think about the future of the Republican Party?
The Republican Party has great potential with the right leadership. The Republican Party needs to be recognized as a party that is more than against abortion, against gun control, against taxes, and against same sex marriage, etc. Even though these are important issues, Republicans need to be known for less government, national defense, how to operate government within our means, enforcing the laws, (all laws), and not worrying so much about what is 'politically correct' but what is best for our United States.

Jul 17, 2009

Put your Health Care Where Your Mouth Is


Sue Myrick: “If American’s Aren’t Going To Have A Choice on Health Care After This, Neither Should We”.


Sue Myrick will offer an amendment next week to the health care reform bill currently being marked-up in the Energy and Commerce Committee.

The amendment will require the President, Vice President and all Members of Congress to enroll to in the public health care plan created by HR 3200, the America’s Affordable Health Choice Act. Sue will offer this amendment with Reps. Roy Blunt, Phil Gingrey and Lee Terry.

“I think it’s only fair,” said Rep. Myrick. “If this plan is truly the best option for the American public, it stands to reason that it’s the best option for federal officials. If Americans aren’t going to have a choice on health care after this, neither should we”.

New Poll Released

Public Opinion Strategies released a poll this week that I find very interesting.

Key Points:

31% of Americans say the country is headed in the right direction.
55% say we are on the wrong track.

President Obama's approval has dropped nine points, and is below 50% with Independents.

Speaker Pelosi's support has dropped to where only 27% of voters think of her in favorable terms, and 47% view her unfavorably.

Hal Weatherman Video Series


Starting next week, The Weathervane will launch an issue video series on issues of the day. These short videos will take complex political topics and boil them down to easy to understand levels ideal for dissemination through the web. Check back and give me your input.

Q and A with Jim Pendergraph


Coming to The Weathervane this weekend is my interview with former Mecklenburg Sheriff Jim Pendergraph. Hope you will check it out.


Check Back Later Today


Check back later today for photos from the Tea Party protest outside our offices. Don't know how large the group will be, but we hear that we will be protested from people who are not in favor of the Universal Health Care plan being debated in DC.

To be clear, Sue is going to vote against Universal Health Care, so not sure what they will be protesting at our office, but will take photos for you to see. Will try to post them this afternoon.

Jul 16, 2009

Sue Myrick Announces New Gang Unit for Charlotte

In case you missed it, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Sue Myrick today announced a new permanent gang task force unit has been assigned to Charlotte. Sue requested this unit several weeks ago, and ICE delivered!

See news coverage of the announcement here: http://www.wsoctv.com/video/20065926/index.html

Good News for Veterans

Good news for those of you who are veterans. Our staff attended a town hall meeting last night put on by the VA and learned that a major Veterans Health Care Center will open in Charlotte in 2013. They described the facility as 250,000 to 400,000 SQ FEET and would have even more expanded services than the present clinic. Good news.

Jul 14, 2009

Veterans Town Hall Meeting

For all you veterans, there will be a Veterans Town Hall Meeting on July 15th at 6:00 pm at the Charlotte VA Clinic, 8601 University East Drive. The event is sponsored by the VA Medical Center in Salisbury and the topic is "Improving Veteran's Access to Care." Our office will have a representative present at the event. For more information call 704-638-3343.

Link Sausage and Politics

This weekend I spoke to the Union County Republican Men's Club. We had a great turnout and a lively discussion. I thank Richard for inviting me. Link sausage and politics on a Saturday morning is hard to beat.

Jul 10, 2009

The Search for Stimulus Jobs

If you are looking for jobs created with stimulus money watch this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tl_q0afUl0E

Q & A with Meck Deck Blogger, Jeff Taylor


Following is my interview with Jeff Taylor, blogger for the Meck Deck blog ( http://charlotte.johnlocke.org/blog/) put out by the John Locke Foundation:

1. What's your background? Where are you from, your previous profession, eduction, etc.

Born in New Jersey, grew up outside of Akron, OH, joined the mass exodus from the Rust Belt to land in Charlotte in 1978. Graduated from Independence HS in 1983, from UNC in '87. Majored in philosophy, which means I am qualified to hold no specific job, but can tell you at great length why that is so. Fell into journalism, wound up in DC for 13 years, first working for the Evans-Novak Political Report, then as a Washington correspondent for Investor's Business Daily. Came to my senses, moved back to Charlotte in 2003. Slid into being a Charlotte presence for Carolina Journal and the John Locke Foundation. I think I first wrote for CJ in 1989, so that is also a full-circle deal. Latest piece was on Jim Black's oddly lop-sided fine settlement via scrub land.

2. How did you get involved in blogging?One of my steady freelance gigs was with Reason magazine, and I started blogging at Reason's Hit&Run blog from its inception in November 2002. Blogging, particularly short, link-heavy posts, just fits the way my brain works -- you know, like a ferret on crack. But at the same time, sometimes is harder to write short and make it meaningful. That's why I look to Nietzsche, Mencken, and Bierce as proto-bloggers.

3. How would you describe your political philosophy?

Government is a fire-axe. When you get it out and start swinging it around, you better have a damn good reason.

4. What trends in Charlotte-Mecklenburg politics most concern you?

Apathy. You do not have to look any further than the turnout in Republican precincts in November to see that. But I do see some spark in the Tea Party movement which, properly understood, is a protest movement against the local status quo leadership. Why someone in power has not embraced that message is baffling to me. It might cost a few mea culpas, but the alternative is to get rolled over by Democrats this fall. A close second is our county and city elected leaders being more or less completed controlled by professional staff, which in turn explains the out-of-control spending and debt levels.

5.Where do you get your news?

We still get the The Charlotte Observer delivered at home, although I sometimes wonder why. Too often there is no news in it. Case in point, and I emailed Rick Thames on this and have yet to hear anything back, is the lack of any July 1st these-laws-take-effect-today story. That is just a staple of covering local government. The N&O had one for the Triangle region, but Charlotte got zippy. Really hard to figure that one. I also rely on the world's greatest Web site, Fark.com and Bloomberg's business coverage. David Mildenburg covers banking and finance for Bloomberg from Charlotte and he is really required reading. Pretty much all of Bloomberg is, as they usually drill down better than other outlets. My home page is Google news, so a fair amount comes from there. Used to listen to talk radio, but I just wound up angry and depressed. Also I get ideas from Twitter and try to cruise by the local TV station sites everyday. TV news on a TV is almost uniformly unwatchable or simply too slow for me. Not their fault -- ferret crack-brain, remember.

Jul 9, 2009

Stimulus Update


In case you were wondering, as of today, only 8% of the stimulus money has been spent. If the goal was to rush the bill through Congress so that the $750 billion could be used to "prime the economy," then why has only 8% been spent to date? What was the hurry?


And how is it that they could even consider a second stimulus bill when 92% of the first one has not been spent?


The simple truth is that both the first stimulus and the proposed second one are just plain wrong.


You can't spend your way out of debt.


If my wife and I were holding $20,000 in credit card debt, how would it help us to spend $20,000 more?


It wouldn't. Neither will the so called Stimulus bill.

Job Leads in Washington, DC



For those of you looking for employment on The Hill, here are the latest job leads:


July 9, 2009
Unpaid Interns - Congressman James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) is currently seeking unpaid fall interns with conservative values, who are available to start in late August or early September. Interns will be responsible for maintaining general front office duties including answering phones, conducting and scheduling tours, logging and writing office correspondence, and a variety of other administrative tasks. Applicants should be detail oriented, punctual, and have excellent communication skills. Wisconsin ties are preferred. Interested candidates should direct their cover letter and resume to Joseph Zapf at joseph.zapf@mail.house.gov. No phone calls please.
Unpaid Intern - Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX) seeks qualified, motivated, and intelligent individuals to serve as interns in his Washington, D.C. office for the fall semester. The position will involve numerous and varied tasks ranging from guiding constituents on tours of the Capitol, answering the telephones, organizing and inputting mail, and drafting letters. Interns are additionally encouraged to further their own education by attending hearings, briefings, and other thought-provoking activities. Texas ties are encouraged, but not required. Qualified individuals should have at least some college background, a record of leadership and involvement in extracurricular activities, a strong writing ability, and a pervasive interest in the way our government operates. Interested individuals should submit a cover letter, resume, and references to Katie.Weiss@mail.house.gov.
Fall Internship – Congresswoman Mary Fallin (R-OK) is currently seeking fall interns. Interns will be responsible for maintaining general front office duties including answering phones, conducting and scheduling tours of the Capitol, logging and writing office correspondence, and a variety of other administrative assistant tasks. Applicants should be detail oriented, have excellent communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Oklahoma ties are preferred but not required. Interested candidates should direct their cover letter and resume to Leslie Anderson at leslie.anderson@mail.house.gov.
July 6, 2009
Communications Director - Congressman Jeb Hensarling is searching for an experienced Communications Director. The ideal candidate for this Washington, DC,-based position is a conservative who possesses strategic messaging and management skills, a strong grasp of financial services issues, solid writing credentials, new media experience and national media contacts. This position is considered a senior member of Congressman Hensarling’s management team. Pay is commensurate with experience. Please send resume and brief cover letter to tx05jobs@mail.house.gov. No faxes or drop-offs please.
Fall Intern - The office of Congressman Pete Olson (R-TX-22) is seeking interns for the Fall of 2009. Duties include answering phones, sorting correspondence, giving Capitol tours to constituents, assisting the Staff Assistant with other basic front office duties, and any other duties as requested by staff members. Candidates should have a strong work ethic, be highly organized and motivated, and have a “no task is too big or too small attitude”. This internship is unpaid. Qualified applicants should send a completed application, cover letter, and resume to the Intern Coordinator at Ademide@mail.house.gov . The deadline for submission is July 10, 2009. To request an application, e-mail Ademide Adedokun at Ademide@mail.house.gov.
July 2, 2009
Communications Director - Congressman Joe Pitts (R, PA-16) is looking for a Press Secretary in his Washington office. Candidates must be committed to social and economic conservatism. Candidates must have exceptional verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated political acumen. Academic achievement, experience, and residence in the 16th Congressional District of Pennsylvania will also be given great weight. Primary duty is to devise and implement a strategy for promoting the work of the Congressman. Tasks include communicating with the media, website management, new media management, and writing speeches, op-eds, and press releases. Resumes and cover letters should be sent to pa16jobs@gmail.com. No faxes or phone calls, please.
June 29, 2009
Communications Director - Congressman Phil Gingrey (GA-11) seeks an aggressive Communications Director with significant press and speech writing experience. Responsibilities will include developing and executing the communications strategy as well as writing speeches, press releases, and op-eds. The ideal candidate will have significant Capitol Hill experience and established media contacts, as well as strong writing, communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills. Georgia ties are a plus, but not required. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume, and two writing samples to David.Sours@mail.house.gov. Please no phone calls, faxes, or drop-ins.
Unpaid interns - The office of Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA) is seeking unpaid interns for the Fall of 2009. Candidates must be conservative Republicans. Interns will have the opportunity to attend committee hearings and briefings for staff members, assist in the constituent correspondence process, as well as with other constituent services. Responsibilities include: taking phone calls, processing constituent mail, and performing other general office duties. Applicants should be interested in the legislative process, enthusiastic, reliable, and hard-working. Full or part time internships with flexible schedules are available. Interested candidates should fax their resume and cover letter to (202) 225-4382 or email tom.crosson@mail.house.gov.
Internships - The Office of Congressman Jim Jordan (R-OH) is seeking bold, energetic, conservative individuals for paid/unpaid Fall Internships, beginning around Labor Day. During your time with our office, you will be given the opportunity to develop leadership, management, and policy experience. Duties include everything from answering phones and mail, conducting tours of the U.S. Capitol, to assisting staff members and Congressman Jordan with achieving our legislative goals and constituent outreach. You will be challenged and will be given practical tools for career and academic success. Applicants should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, be self-motivated, and able to work as part of a professional team. Fourth District/Ohio ties are a plus. Applicant Instructions: All interested persons should contact Kevin Kichinger, Internship Coordinator for Congressman Jim Jordan, at 202-225-2676 or kevin.eichinger@mail.house.gov . Please have cover letter, resume, references, and a writing sample available.
June 25, 2009
Scheduler - Congressman Patrick McHenry seeks experienced scheduler for DC office. The ideal candidate will have Hill experience, North Carolina ties, and excellent organizational and time-management skills. Send resumes to parker.poling@mail.house.gov. No calls please.
Internship – The office of Congressman Zach Wamp (R-TN) is seeking qualified interns to fill full and part-time positions for the fall semester. Work for an energetic, results-oriented Republican and gain invaluable, career-building experience on Capitol Hill by assisting in daily Congressional office duties, helping with incoming constituent communication, and aiding legislative staff and communications director on special projects. This internship is unpaid and requires a minimum time-commitment of three half-working days per week (15 hours). To apply, please fill out the application listed on our website and send it, along with a resume to the attention of Intern Coordinator (preferably in Word format) by email to ehall@mail.house.gov or fax to: 202-225-3494.
June 15, 2009
Chief Economist - Committee on Energy and Commerce Republican staff seeks economist to provide policy advice on climate change and health policy, particularly insurance, price transparency and entitlement reform. Economist will work to analyze and develop legislative policy and engage in oversight of the private sector and the Executive Branch. The economist will also work with CBO and will develop cost estimates for legislative proposals. PhD in economics preferred. Hill, agency or Executive Branch experience helpful. Salary commensurate with experience. Please send a resume and references to Ms. Lynn Walker, linda.walker@mail.house.gov.
Communications Director - Congressman John Shadegg seeks a proactive Communications Director with significant Capitol Hill experience. Candidates should have an established relationship with the press and working familiarity with issues such as health care, energy and national security. Responsibilities include developing and implementing an overall communications strategy, managing the DC press team, writing press releases, statements, op-eds, and developing new media opportunities. Ideal candidates will have impeccable writing skills and a strong ability to maintain and develop media contacts. This is not a junior position. Salary will be commensurate with experience. Please send resumes to arizona03@gmail.com
June 11, 2009
Legislative Assistant - Congressman Doc Hastings seeks proactive legislative staffer to take lead responsibility for multiple issues. A minimum of 2 years experience as a Legislative Assistant on the Hill is required. Qualified applicants will have experience in more than one of the following areas: nuclear waste cleanup, DOE laboratories, science, health care, tax policy, and defense. Candidates must demonstrate solid communication skills and attention to detail. Please email resume and cover letter to: resumesWA04@mail.house.gov. No calls please.

Cap and Trade Speech in Union County


If you are in Union County this weekend, feel free to come out and hear me speak out against the Cap and Trade tax scheme that Congress is currently debating. I will be speaking at the Union County Republican Men's Club Saturday morning at 8:30 am at the Golden Corral on 74 in Monroe. Hope to see you there.

Jul 8, 2009

Republicans and Unaffiliateds Out Registering Democrats


For those of you political junkies who stay up late watching C-Span while calculating CBO budget forecasting figures, you will appreciate that I monitor monthly voter registration figures. Well, to be honest, I don't monitor it, a group called Civitas Institute does and they publish their findings monthly in an email I receive.


Thought you would find it interesting that in the month of June, Republicans and Unaffiliated people out registered the Democrats. Of the 7,400 people who registered to vote statewide during the one month period of June, 825 were Dems, 1,394 were Republicans and 4,977 were Unaffiliated.


Wonder what this means?


Jul 4, 2009

July 4th Parade: Indian Trail and Unionville









Waxhaw July 4th Parade Photos

Sue with Union County Sheriff Eddie Cathey
Sue with Rev. Jimmy Bention and family members

Sue and Union County Commissioner Richard Stone


Sue and Mayor of Waxhaw Daune Gardner

Sue and Weddington Mayor Nancy Anderson

Sue Myrick and my son Hayes, waving to the people.


Sue, Hayes and me

Waxhaw July 4th Parade Photos II


Have a Great July 4th!

Later today, I'll post some cool pictures of our adventures this July 4th. Hayes gets to ride with us in parades in Waxhaw, Unionville and Indian Trail. Until then, Hayes wanted to recite the pledge of allegiance for everyone. Feel free to check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zr0ENraboyY

July 4th

The following is a poem sung at the dedication ceremony (1836) of the monument constructed in honor of the battle at Concord. It's one of my favorites and appropriate for today.

HYMN

By the rude bridge that arched the flood,
Their flat to April's breeze unfurled,
Here once the embattled farmers stood,
And fired the shot heard round the world.

The foe long since in silence slept;
Alike the conqueror silent sleeps;
And Time the ruined bridge has swept
Down the dark stream which seaward creeps.

On this green bank, by this soft stream,
We set to-day a votive stone;
That memory may their deed redeem,
When, like our sires, our sons are gone.

Spirit, that made those heroes dare
To die, or leave their children free,
Bid Time and Nature gently spare
The shaft we raise to them and thee.

Ralph Waldo Emerson